Dehradun, India | World’s Best Cities

Dehradun, India

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun offers its million-something residents cool mountain air, lush green surroundings and Top 25-ranked Tree Cover. The city’s pride as a livable sanctuary is reflected in its #29 ranking in our overall Livability index. Yes, the Rajaji National Park and Malsi Deer Park, along with other green spaces such as Gandhi Park, offer residents an outdoor lifestyle that is hard to rival in India. Recent urban development projects have enhanced this connection to nature by expanding green spaces and creating eco-friendly infrastructure, making Dehradun a haven for those who seek serenity alongside modern amenities. But it’s the city’s #19-ranked Price-to-Income Ratio, #22-ranked Healthcare System and #32-ranked Rent that truly deliver on its reputation as India’s hidden gem. Economic prosperity is also on its way, with connectivity and the planned Dehradun-Delhi Expressway significantly reducing the travel time between the two cities. Government officials increasingly tout Dehradun’s safety and attractiveness as an investment destination, with new investment proposals worth approximately US$2.4 billion prioritizing tourism, renewable energy and infrastructure development. Dehradun’s cultural and educational heritage is equally rich. Prestigious institutions like The Doon School and the Indian Military Academy continue to shape the city’s intellectual landscape.