Foreigners in Dehradun- Read Before You Come!

A survival guide for foreigners moving to Dehradun

UPDATED JUNE 2023

There are a thousand reasons to fall in love with Dehradun and India. The food, the mountains, and the people usually top the list. But for people who struggle to enjoy life in Dehradun, the culprit is almost always the same: unreasonable expectations and an inability to adjust.

In this survival guide, you’ll learn how to navigate the “organized chaos” of India, what you should be doing to prepare, and what you can expect upon arrival.

The transition to life in India is much easier with a friend to guide you, and Destinations Doon’s writers have gone through the process of arriving as a foreigner and starting a new life. We want to help ensure your transition is a successful one.

Congratulations- you just got your first two friends in India! Now lets get started!

A Foreigner’s Survival Guide To Dehradun

Table of Contents

1. Before You Leave: 10 things to consider before you come

2. Packing: 7 things to bring, 4 to leave behind

3. Crime and Safety: Staying safe in Dehradun

4. Navigating The City: 6 Ways to get around

5. Buying a SIM Card: 5 Things Foreigners Need To Know

6. Finding A Place To Live I & II: Considering the options | Understanding the process

7. Learn the Language: Where to study Hindi

8. Finances: 5 Keys To Managing Money As A Foreigner

ABOUT CARLTON
Carlton moved to Dehradun in 2017 where he fell in love with the Himalayan mountains. He especially enjoys riding motorcycles and hiking in the mornings with his dog, Malay.

Carlton is the Director of the top school for foreigners learning Hindi in Dehradun. Students learn from Indian teachers and help support young people beginning their professional careers while getting the best Hindi instruction in the city. To learn more about Heritage Institute of Languages click here.

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