The Forest Research Institute is the one building in Dehradun that makes visitors stop and stare. A long, red-brick colonial building with arches, courtyards and a perfectly kept lawn in front, set inside a campus of about 2,000 acres of trees. If it looks familiar, that’s because you’ve probably seen it in films like Student of the Year and Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein.
It’s also one of the best places in the city for a quiet walk, and the museums inside are surprisingly interesting. Here’s how to plan a visit.
FRI Dehradun at a glance
| Location | Chakrata Road, about 5 km from central Dehradun |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1906, as the Imperial Forest Research Institute |
| Main building | Completed in 1929, designed by C.G. Blomfield |
| Campus | About 2,000 acres |
| Museums | Six forestry museums |
| Timings | About 9:00 am to 5:30 pm; closed on gazetted holidays |
| Entry fee | Around ₹20 per person for the campus; around ₹60 for the museums (less for children) |
| Time needed | 2 to 3 hours |
A little history
FRI started in 1906 as the Imperial Forest Research Institute, and it’s still one of India’s most important centres for forestry research and training. The main building was finished in 1929 and designed by the architect C.G. Blomfield in a Greco-Roman colonial style. It’s considered a heritage structure, and with the hills behind it on a clear day, it’s easily one of the most photographed buildings in Uttarakhand.
What to see at FRI
The main building
Walk the long corridors and arched verandas, look out over the courtyards, and take in the view of the building from the front lawn. It’s the image most people come for.
The six museums
The museums are the hidden gem of FRI. There are six of them, covering:
- Social forestry
- Pathology (tree diseases)
- Silviculture (how forests are grown and managed)
- Timber, including huge cross-sections of old trees
- Non-wood forest products
- Entomology, with collections of insects
They’re old-fashioned in style, but full of things you won’t see anywhere else. Kids usually love the giant tree sections and insect displays.
The campus walk
The campus is huge, green and calm. Early mornings are popular with walkers and joggers, and it’s a lovely place for a slow stroll under old trees.
How to reach FRI
- By scooty, bike or car: drive down Chakrata Road and turn in at the FRI gate. It’s about 5 km from the city centre.
- By auto or Vikram: shared Vikrams and autos run along Chakrata Road from the city.
- By cab: app cabs are easy to get.
- From the railway station: about 6 km.
- From Jolly Grant Airport: about 31 km.
Right opposite the FRI gate is Tavaasa Café, a good spot for brunch or coffee after your walk.
Tips for your visit
- Go in the morning for soft light and a quieter campus.
- Carry cash for entry tickets.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk a lot.
- Check photography rules. Photography is popular outside, but rules for commercial or professional shoots can be stricter.
- Avoid gazetted holidays, when the institute may be closed.
Combine it with nearby places
- Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple: a cave temple in Garhi Cantt.
- Robbers Cave: a stream-filled gorge, good on a warm day.
- Best cafes in Dehradun: for lunch afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
What are FRI Dehradun timings?
FRI is usually open from around 9:00 am to 5:30 pm and closed on gazetted holidays.
What is the entry fee for FRI Dehradun?
Campus entry is commonly listed at about ₹20 per person, and the museums at about ₹60 for adults. Vehicle charges are separate.
Which films were shot at FRI Dehradun?
FRI has appeared in films including Student of the Year, Student of the Year 2, Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein and Paan Singh Tomar.
How many museums are there at FRI?
There are six museums: social forestry, pathology, silviculture, timber, non-wood forest products and entomology.
How far is FRI from Dehradun railway station?
About 6 km, on Chakrata Road.
Last updated: October 2026. Visited recently? Let us know if fees or timings have changed.
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