FRI-A CENTURY OLD LEGACY-( A Day Trip to Heritage of Uttarakhand)

Details for the Visitors in FRI

1. What is it famous for: Nature lovers, Environmentalists, Botanists, Students, Forestry Enthusiasts, Trekker, Architecture Enthusiasts

2. Entry-Rs 10 per head

3. Dslr charges-50

4. Visitor’s Time-9:30 am – 5 pm daily, closed on Mondays

The Forest Research Institute in Dehradun is a multi-purpose tourist spot set amidst the lush green serene mountains of the Shiwalik mountain range. The aura here explodes of authentic beauty and natural diversity. This premier research institute is also the only oldest research institute of the country. The place is dedicated for research and development of the plants animals, climate and terrain of the Himalayan forests. It is one of the top notch prestigious institutes of India and the primary one dedicated primarily to the field of forestry. Built on the concept of Greco-Roman architectural, this large around 5 km area campus is home to different varieties of trees, plants and animals – specially a wide range of migratory birds.

This architectural treasure chest dates back to the colonial era and has been established in 1906 by the British government. Keeping oneway the scenic beauty and architectural beauty houses huge amount of data and specimens pertaining to forestry and forest research. It ambits 6 different museums pertaining to the area of forest including the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and Indian Council of Forest Research. Its scenic beauty, natural vibe, rare specimen’s hilly region and architectural structure makes it a sought-after tourist destination in Dehradun.

5. Advice for Tourists:

Keep in mind that photography is strictly prohibited on the institute premises. So, keep your shutters restricted to the campus greens. There are different types of museum on the premise. Make sure you choose the right one according to your preference. Hence prioritize your time. However, don’t miss out a museum while you concentrate on another. Visit all of them. Make sure you explore the natural beauty of the place.

6. To-do List:

Visit all 6 museums – specially look for timbre, silvicultural, non- wood and entomology museum. The animals and birds in their natural habitat is the star attraction.

A 700-year-old cross section specimen of a deodar tree is yet another must see object. The depicting of the utility of various medicinal plants draws many people.

Walk through the lush green campus and enjoy the sight of exotic Himalayan birds and migratory birds.

Relish the vintage Greco-Roman Architecture. Pay a visit to the libraries and herbarium sections to gather knowledge. Take a click of the colonial building situated amongst the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas. You can also enjoy a small picnic on lush green campus at the picnic points.

7. Ideal periods to visit:

This hill station has eye pleasing and pleasant weather all throughout the year. Hence, it is a best place to visit in every season. However, summer time remains the ideal time to visit. The monsoon visit in every season. Primarily, summer time remains the ideal time to visit. The monsoon rain at Dehradun is beautiful as it wears a green coat. So, April to June are ideal to pay a visit here.

8. How to reach out:

The institute is located at a distance of 5 km from the main town area of Dehradun and is well connected by buses, taxis, cars and autos. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the place from the town area. The nearest railway station Dehradun is 6 km away and the Jolly Grant Airport lies at a distance of 30km

9. Amazing facts:

It was originally named as The Imperial Forest Research Institute given by the British Government. Although it was founded on 1906. It was constructed much later. It started in 1924 and ended in 1929. C.G. Bloomfield was the architect of this masterpiece. It is the oldest research institute of India.

It entails the headquarter of the Indian Council of Forest Research

With an area of 450 hectares, it has the largest campus in India even greater than the Buckingham Palace area.

The popular Bollywood film “Student of the Year” was shot here for some of it scenes.

“MTV Puncch Beat” TV series was shot in 2019.

10. Other Local Attractions:

The Clock tower of Dehradun town lies at a distance of 5 kms from this institute

Tapkeshwar temple at the Garhi Cantonment lies within 6 km radius of the institute.

Robber’s Cave at Guchchu Paani is within 8km of the institute.

Indian Military Academy and Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology lies within 2km from this place.

Tibetan Buddhist Temple is an interesting place to visit.

Mindrolling Monastery and Jhanda JI are other popular places.