Old Rajpur

Old Rajpur is a historic colonial locality in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, known for its British-era architecture and heritage bungalows. Once a quiet village on the outskirts of Dehradun, it served as a crucial stopover and gateway for travelers heading to Mussoorie via the Jharipani trail. The area features remnants of the 19th century, including old horse troughs, colonial homes, and significant spiritual sites like the Bengali Ashram.

Visitors can expect a nostalgic walk through tree-lined slopes dotted with weathered colonial bungalows, Mughal-inspired window frames, and historic structures. The area offers a serene atmosphere away from the main city bustle, with opportunities to observe Indo-Saracenic architecture and visit nearby spiritual sites. It is a popular spot for photography and heritage walks, though some structures are in disrepair.

Old Rajpur flourished in the 1830s-1870s as a major stopover for British officials and soldiers traveling to Mussoorie and Landour. It witnessed the Anglo-Gorkha war aftermath and became a hub for horse-drawn transport before the railway reached Dehradun in 1900. The area retains structures estimated to be over 270 years old.

The area reflects a blend of colonial, Tibetan, and local cultures. It is home to the Bengali Ashram, associated with Swami Vivekananda's brother-monk Swami Akhandananda, and has a significant Tibetan refugee community established after 1959.