Robber's Cave (Guchhupani)

A walk up a stream

Robber's Cave, known locally as Guchhupani, is a narrow limestone gorge about 8 km north of Dehradun's centre, near Anarwala. It is not a closed cave. It is a cleft in the rock with high walls that nearly meet overhead, and a cold, clear stream runs along the floor. The only way through is to walk in the water. In places the stream disappears under the rocks and comes up again a little further on. The name comes from a story that robbers once hid their loot in the gorge.

What to expect

The walk up the gorge takes around an hour there and back at an easy pace. The water is usually ankle to knee deep, and cold all year. The stones are round and slippery, so go slowly and use your hands on the rock where needed. Near the end, a small waterfall drops into the gorge. Children enjoy it, but hold small hands in the deeper parts.

Rain and closures

This is a stream bed, and it floods fast. During and after heavy rain, usually in July and August, the site is often closed or restricted because the water rises and the current gets strong. On clear monsoon days it may open. Ask locally before you go in the rainy season, and turn back if the water turns brown or starts rising.

Practical notes

Weekends, school holidays and summer afternoons are very crowded, with loud groups splashing through. Weekday mornings are much calmer. Stalls at the entrance sell tea, snacks and usually cheap rubber slippers. There are basic changing areas, but bring a towel and dry clothes. Leave valuables in the car or keep them in a waterproof bag, as a fall in the water is common.