Malsi Forest: daring trek in Dehradun’s secret haven

Have you ever felt a pull of an untouched forest far from the restless chirrups of city life? If yes, then head to Malsi Forest in Dehradun. It is where the hush of old trees and the thrill of secret trails deliver all of nature’s drama in one wild package. That’s exactly how my Sunday started. It was an adventure so immersive that it felt like stepping into a fairytale, except the jungle was no fable. It was alive and waiting just beyond the Pacific Hills at the Mussoorie diversion.

We assembled in the twilight before dawn, backpacks snug, spirits high, hearts beating with anticipation. The usual ‘Once upon a time’ introduction? Not needed. Kyonki yahan jungle aaj hai, abhi hai. And I knew I was about to discover why this patch of green is Dehradun’s most daring secret haven.

The Crack of Dawn: First Steps into Mystery

With city lights fading behind us and only birdcalls as company, we left the main road and entered the trail—a faint path, soft with leaves, utterly raw. Walking here, you feel time slowing. Every step was a new reveal, every breath a mix of dew and adventure.

Then came a right turn beneath a solitary tree, home to a very small, ancient temple. It stood quietly. It was like a guardian between the two worlds – bustling city and the wild unknown. Pausing here, I felt a strange comfort. The city noise was now just a distant memory.

Into the Depths: The Highs and Lows of Wilderness

As we moved past the temple, the trail was nearly invisible. It led us deep into the forest’s thick embrace. Sunrays struggled to break through the tangled canopy. As a result, there was a dim, mysterious world alive with rustling leaves and occasional animal calls. The path climbed steeply. With every step, my excitement wrestled with doubt. Was this going to be too tough? Was the trail even real?

That’s the magic of Malsi Forest—its psychological highs and lows are as real as its landscape. One moment awe sweeps over you—the sight of untouched wilderness, centuries old. Next, silence and the sheer scale of nature make you second-guess your courage. It was as if the forest itself was testing my resolve: “Are you ready to know my secrets?”

Slippery Trails and Heart-Thumping Wonder

The uphill scramble eventually mercifully faded into a downhill stretch. It was such a breather for tired legs and a treat for the uncertain spirit. But then came the twist. The trail levelled out to become slick and slippery, wet with monsoon moisture. We walked slowly, measuring each step. That’s when I realized how truly present a forest trek makes you. You stop worrying about the destination and live completely in the now.

The flat section offered little relief from any hurry. If anything, it invited the mind to wander and the senses to awaken. The quiet here wasn’t just the absence of sound. It was a feeling.

Sura Devi Temple: Sanctuary Amidst Sal Trees

When I describe what awaits us ahead, I’m not exaggerating—Sura Devi Temple is a secret jewel lost amidst a thick jungle of Sal trees. No crowds, no shops, only forest and silence. It’s the kind of place that absorbs the city-busy out of your system and replaces it with stillness.

Here, the psychological high hit its peak. Sitting on the cool stone floor, I closed my eyes. As I practiced breath work, the forest seemed to breathe with me. The leaves rustled in gentle applause. If meditation in nature is your medicine, there’s magic here. It’s one of the kind that lingers long after you leave.

The Return: Stories on the Trail Back

Our journey back took us through a flatter trail to Shehanshai Ashram, a less challenging but equally beautiful stretch where the forest slowly yielded to signs of civilization. The sense of accomplishment settled in—like finishing a chapter in a book and instantly wanting to reread it. By the time we reached the main road via Rajpur, all stories told, legs pleasantly sore, I was convinced: this forest is not just a trek, it’s a reset.

Why Malsi Forest is Every Trekker’s Secret Haven

If you think Dehradun is just about standard hill stations and well-known trails, you’re missing out. Malsi Forest combines excitement, peace, hidden history, and the chance to challenge yourself without ever leaving city limits. It’s daring—all right—but intensely rewarding.

Here you’ll find:

A raw, untouched wild track—sometimes even locals haven’t explored all the paths.

Solitude so deep you can meditate surrounded by history and jungle.

The thrill of discovery: forgotten temples, rare plants, and the music of birds.

Stories shared by hikers and locals: Each one adds richness to the forest’s legend.

The Emotional Rollercoaster: 

No trek delivers only highs. Malsi Forest lives and breathes through its contrasts:

The soreness of uphill climbs—the sense of “why did I sign up for this?” is real.

Moments of uncertainty on slippery, half-lost trails.

Exhilaration when the forest opens up to reveal hidden shrines and epic views.

Quiet pride as you recount your journey to friends, knowing you went further than most.

Every challenge here is matched with soothing rewards—a cool breeze, a sacred silence, or a gentle ray of sunlight through Sal leaves. That’s why trekkers come back.

Protecting Malsi Forest: Why It Matters

After the adventure, reflection. Malsi Forest isn’t just an escape. It is a living sanctuary. Forests like these stand between us and the full-on onslaught of urban sprawl. Every tree you meet is a silent warrior. They are fighting to keep the air clean, to give shelter to the wildlife, and to teach us patience, humility, and awe.

If you trek here, leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories. Talk about the forest, celebrate its gift, and be vocal against its destruction. Because jungles like these aren’t just adventure lands—they’re the lungs of our world.

Your Turn: Dare to Discover

Are you up for a daring trek in Dehradun’s secret haven? Pack your bags, tie your shoelaces, and head out for Malsi Forest. Remember that the best adventures don’t come with guarantees. They come with stories.

Share your questions, experiences, and hidden trail tips in the comments below. Have you found a secret spot in Malsi Forest, or meditated at Sura Devi Temple? Would you trek alone or join a group? Let’s make this section the wildest campfire chat Dehradun has ever seen!

Malsi Forest Trek Planner: Map, Guides, and Planning Resources

Here’s all you need to know about planning your adventure to Malsi Forest.

How to Access Malsi Forest for Trekking:

The trail to Sura Devi Temple begins just off the Mussoorie road near Pacific Hills and the Fairfield by Marriott hotel.

Take the small lane going down towards the forest outpost and government primary school (Malsi). Behind these buildings, you’ll spot the ridges of Malsi Forest with thick Sal tree cover.

Ask locals or forest personnel for route advice—they’re often familiar with hidden trails and can guide you.

For a straightforward map of Malsi Deer Park and surrounding forest trails, use this [Malsi Forest Map on Mappls]. Check for “Malsi Reserved Forest, Rajpur” listings for route networks.

Malsi Forest Trekking Route Highlights

Distance: About 3 km one way (Pacific Hills to Sura Devi Temple)

Trail Difficulty: Moderate (steep climbs, slippery sections, short flat stretches)

Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace and stops

Key Landmarks: Forest outpost, primary school, small temple under a tree, Sal forest stretch, Sura Devi Temple

Best Route: Pacific Hills → Malsi Primary School → Sal Forest → Sura Devi Temple → Return via Shehanshai Ashram.

Best Time to Visit Malsi Forest

Ideal Season: October to February — cool, dry, pleasant weather and lush greenery.

Spring Option: March to June also works, before monsoons set in.

Avoid: July to August (monsoon)—trails become slippery, the forest is dense and hard to navigate.

Trek Preparation Tips

Physical Prep:

Get comfortable with short hikes and stair climbs. Build stamina for the trek’s steep sections beforehand.

Mix cardio (walking, running, cycling) and strength training (squats, core) for 2–3 weeks before the trek.

Packing Essentials:

Good grip hiking shoes

Lightweight, dry-fit clothes. Layers for rapidly changing weather

Rain gear (poncho or waterproof jacket), especially outside winter/spring

Small backpack (water bottle, snacks, extra socks, basic first aid kit)

Power bank for phone, map/screenshot if offline

Sun cap, sunscreen, insect repellent

Safety & Comfort:

Trek with friend/s or a group, especially if attempting unmarked trails.

Tell friends or family about your route and estimated return time.

Carry a charged mobile with emergency contacts pre-saved.

Carry ID, some cash, and any necessary medication.

On the Trail:

Take frequent water breaks; stay hydrated.

Move slowly on slick rocks and wet leaves.

Practice Leave No Trace: pack out any rubbish, respect temples, and don’t disturb wildlife.

Always check the weather forecast before you leave.

Map & Route Directions

Use these links for walking routes, trail images, and planning your timing via Google Maps or Mappls. Local guides available near Pacific Hills or the primary school on weekends.

Final Pro Tips:

Weekdays offer more solitude if you seek uninterrupted meditation in the forest or temple.

Pack for every weather possibility and carry enough drinking water—streams here are often seasonal.

By combining the raw adventure of Malsi Forest with these practical guides and locally-updated map links, you can experience Dehradun’s secret haven, safely and memorably.

See you on the wild side of Dehradun!

Read about my other adventures in Dehradun –

Maldevta’s Secret Valley Trek: The ultimate adventure with nature’s surprises

Naag Devta Trek in Kimadi, Dehradun: Ultimate Guide

Bhadraj Temple Trek: How to Reach Mussoorie’s Little Badrinath