It is named after Guru Dronacharya - A great teacher in Mahabharat epic. The renowned religious town of Rishikesh, the queen of hills Mussoorie, the renowned sulphur springs at Sahastradhara and a part of Rajaji National Park, the quit Chakrata hills all lie in this district. Also visit the Chardhams.

• Sahastradhara (14 Kms.)
• Robbers Cave (8 Kms.)
• Forest Research Institute (5 Kms.)
• Tapkeshwar Temple (5.5 Kms.)
• Laxman Sidh (12 Kms.)
• Malsi Deer Park (9 Kms.)

Dehradun is the part of Garhwal Himalayan region, which was earlier known as Kedar Khand. Katyuris of Garhwal were the initial rulers of this region. Later, this stronghold of the Katyuri dynasty passed into the hands of the Sikhs and Mughals. The Gorkhas of Nepal also ruled here for a long time till the British came into the picture. Following a war between the Gorkhas and the British, the Treaty of Sugauli was signed in 1816. With this, the British established their hold over the entire Garhwal and Kumaon regions including Dehradun.

During the rule of the Mauryas also King Ashoka used this region. The Chinese Ambassador Hiuen-Tsang is also said to have visited this place. 

But now this Valley is literally barren. In the end of the 16th century and the beginning of the 17th century the Doon Valley was ruled by Maharani Karnvati. The Gurkhas defeated her and ruled from 1791 to 1803. In 1814, the British defeated the Gurkhas and established themselves here.

Money exchange to foreign currency can be performed at local banks in Rishikesh, but there may be difficulty changing travelers cheques in Rishikesh. The nearest bigger town (the County seat) is Dehradun, about an Hours drive from Rishikesh.