A little about my trip before actually visiting F.R.I.
I travelled via Dehradun to Dharali for a property shoot. The views before landing at the Jolly Grant airport itself made me feel so happy. I was very excited to be visiting Dehradun.
Tip : Take the Thano Village route to the city as it is scenic and might as well enjoy a few pitstops. This was suggested by my client and was totally worth it!
As this was my first time in the city, I wanted to make sure to spend at-least a day to explore around. The time was limited and so, I avoided any hectic plans. My clients family hosted me at their home for the night. Uncle-aunty were the sweetest and welcoming. They lovingly served me with delicious home cooked meals.
One must definitely try momos , stick jaws which are basically famous butter toffees made in Dehradun, and Milk Rusks.
Stick Jaws are a must to get from Dehradun (I will share a picture at the end of this blog). I visited Standard Bakes on Chakrata Road, and tasted the yummy delicacies. I couldn't resist to bring back milk rusks, stick jaws and my favourite atta biscuits along with me. I must say nothing was pricey and street food is great in Dehradun.
I am not sure if there is any specific shop that serves the best momos in Dehradun but I guess, in general I loved the momos here.
I had sometime before I departed from Dehradun, so I took my camera and visited F.R.I . I reached a little earlier than 9:00 AM so had to wait. Since it was sunny, I waited at the tea shop right opposite the gate, they serve yummy samosas paired with tea.
The timings are between 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM and the campus is closed on gazetted holidays.
There are 4 gates, I entered from Kaulagarh Gate, bought a ticket ( INR 15/person along with a INR 50 for camera), and walked towards the main building. It's a forest in the middle of the city, very beautiful and green. I spent nearly 1.5 hours just getting to the main building because I couldn't resist exploring the side streets and various departments scattered across the institute. The morning sun illuminated the entire campus, creating beautiful shadows and textures. With spring just beginning, colorful flowers adorned every corner, while butterflies and bees flitted about.
A little history;
I did hear that it is one of the oldest institutions of its kinds, which was clearly visible witnessing the architecture of the place. Apparently, as per the internet it was first founded in 1878 by the German Botanist Sir Dietrich Brandis as the British Imperial Forest School. In 1906, it was re-established as Imperial Forest Research Institute, under the British Imperial Forestry Service. Hence the main entrance gate is named as Brandis Gate. Now the building is also a National Heritage Site and is open to public for visiting.
When I finally got to the main building, I was blown away by the huge gardens around it. I really wanted to have a picnic under those big, beautiful trees.
Looking at the marvellous corridors, I was stunned as it was once a dream to visit here as a child. I remember seeing these rustic brick arched corridors in some movie and was intrigued to be here. I never knew it was this place until I was actually here.
As an architectural photographer and enthusiast, it was a pure joy to be here. The compound not only hosts this historic Greeko-Roman Architecture, but museums too. I loved the brick work around and long pillars that stood so powerful in appearance. I suppose there are 4-5 museums in the complex so do take some time in hand. People around were kind and helpful when I asked them about a few things. It felt so calm and quiet with birds chirping and students walking past. Due to lack of time, unfortunately I couldn't make it up to the museums but I am definitely coming back. Also, one needs to get a separate ticket for the museums.
It's a great place to walk around, especially during winters. t was a beautiful experience and as I said, I can't wait to be back here. This is surely a not to be missed place in Dehradun. I would really suggest a full day here, if not a full day, at least a half day trip to Forest Research Institute.
Entry Ticket - INR 15
Guide (if one wants to opt for) - INR 50
Entry Ticket to Museums - INR 40 (approx)
With love, Tanjul
