Top 12 Things To Do In Roorkee: A Guide To Attractions And Activities

Exploring facts is one of the interesting things to do in Roorkee, Uttarakhand

The Indian state of Uttarakhand contains the city of Roorkee. Situated along the Ganga canal, Roorkee is one of India’s oldest cities. It is a well-connected area in Northern India, offering easy access to all of the country’s major cities and villages. There are numerous interesting things to do in Roorkee, offering memorable experiences on your trip. The main reason for Roorkee’s fame is its ancient cantonment, often known as the Roorkee Cantonment. The city is well known for its cantonments and IIT institute. Hundreds of students are drawn to world-class colleges. There are few things to do in Roorkee.

12 Exciting Things To Do In Roorkee

Explore some of the best things to do in Roorkee, suiting every kind of traveller, for a well-rounded trip to Uttarakhand.

1. Visit Amusement Park: The Crystal World

Cherishing your heart by visiting Crystal World, an enjoyable thing to do in Roorkee.

Photo: Michael Gray / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Over 18 acres make up this park, which includes the ‘Water World’ park and more than 39 water and thrill attractions at the amusement park. A food court featuring a range of cuisines and unique museums are also located within the complex. The attraction recently made its public debut and is a thing to do in Roorkee. If you’re wondering what to do in Roorkee for a fun-filled adventure, then this place is your go-to option. Families with kids will be captivated by the abundance of thrilling rides and water activities at this enormous amusement park.

Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
Cost/Person: ₹700 for adults and ₹600 for children

Suggested Read: Water Parks In Dehradun

2. Spend Time In Solani Aqueduct

Wondering about engineering of Solani Aqueduct, a magnificent thing to do in Roorkee

Photo: Kadyani / Wikimedia Commons

As a water management center, Roorkee is reflected in the Solani Aqueduct, a magnificent architectural feat. In order to guarantee the continuous flow of Gang Nahar canal water in Roorkee, the British rulers of the time constructed the Solani aqueduct in 1854. Its length allows one to stroll while taking in the surrounding nature and finely constructed structures.

Location: Upper Ganga Canal, Roorkee
Timings: 24*7

3. Explore The Geology And Geophysics Museum

Know about Earth's secret at IIT Roorkee, an exhilarating thing to do in Roorkee

Photo: Jaswantop / Wikimedia Commons

Visit the Geology and Geophysics Museum to discover Earth’s secret. With its remarkable collection of fossils, geological specimens, and other artifacts, this museum will transport you on an exhilarating journey through time. From the gleaming jewels to the ancient relics, every exhibit conveys a message from millions of years ago. Bending sandstone is one of the rarest rock samples in the exhibit.

Location: Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM

Suggested Read: Museums In Dehradun

4. Visit The Gurdwara Satsang Sabha

Memorizing a religious significance by visiting Gurudwara Nanak Sagar, Roorkee

Photo: Carolina Avinceta / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gurdwara Satsang Sabhais a serene location in Civil Lines that offers a chance to honour Sikhism. This Gurudwara, surrounded by peace and dressed in white, is a haven where people can get away from their daily problems. Spiritual experience is enhanced by the community kitchen offering langar and the uplifting hymns. As everyone reverently and fervently respects the holiness of the location, the volunteers’ service to the devotees and other guests is excellent, and the place is kept up, clean, and organized. Visiting this place is one of the religious things to do in Roorkee.

Location: Jadugar Road, Civil Lines, Roorkee
Timings: 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM

5. Explore The Mahatma Gandhi Central Library

This library has one of the finest collections of books in India

Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons

The Institute’s MGCL occupies a special position in the academic library landscape in this region of the world. It combines the traditional and the contemporary things to do in Roorkee. Having plenty of natural light for reading is the building’s main draw. The Central Library is situated opposite the well-known main structure. It draws onlookers’ attention because of its sheer magnificence. Its cutting-edge structure and first-class amenities, make it one of the best things to see in Roorkee.

Location: Library Rd, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit Near Roorkee

6. Visit Hazara One

Visiting Hazara One for antiques, an enjoyable thing to do in Roorkee

Photo: Ahmed3111 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

For those who enjoy retro art, there is Hazara One. Hazara One offers antiques and artifacts. Gifts, dining room accents, and lobby pieces that have been carefully chosen from throughout the globe. The store is well-maintained and offers a good selection of household goods and presents at affordable costs. Additionally, it offers services including in-store shopping, same-day delivery, NFC mobile payments, and credit card facilities.

Location: Colonels Enclave, Roorkee
Timings: 12 PM – 8 PM

7. Walk Around IIT Roorkee Campus

IIT Roorkee Campus offers colonial-era architecture and a glimpse into innovation.

Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons

A walk through IIT Roorkee offers a blend of history and innovation for visitors. With colonial-era buildings, wide green lawns, and peaceful walkways, the campus offers a refreshing break from city bustle. Visitors often admire the James Thomason Building and the main quadrangle. If you’re lucky, you might catch students practising music or sports. It’s one of the quiet and scenic places to visit in Uttarakhand, ideal for walking, photography, or simply soaking in the academic vibe.

Location: Roorkee-Haridwar Highway, Roorkee
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Saturdays and Sundays

Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Uttarakhand For A Perfect Vacation In Nature’s Abode

8. Browse Souvenirs At Civil Lines Market

Shopping for local items at Civil Lines Market is one of the best things to do in Roorkee.

Photo: Jennifer Yung / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Civil Lines Market is the heart of local shopping in Roorkee. From street food stalls and tea shops to trendy clothing stores and small gift shops, this lively market has something for everyone. Whether you’re hunting for inexpensive accessories, trying local snacks like chaat and kulfi, or just enjoying the crowd, exploring this market is one of the best things to do in Roorkee to experience the local vibe. Evening hours are especially vibrant with students and families out shopping or hanging out.

Location: Civil Lines Market Road, Civil Lines, Roorkee
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM

9. Experience Boating At Roorkee Boat Club

Boating at the boat club is one of the exciting things to do in Roorkee for nature lovers.

Photo: Olivier Gerbé / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located on the Solani River stretch, Roorkee Boat Club is a pleasant spot for a laid-back afternoon. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating on calm waters surrounded by greenery and open skies. The area is peaceful, making it a good place for families or couples looking to relax away from the busy streets. Kids especially love feeding fish or spotting birds nearby. It’s a simple but fun outdoor activity, especially during pleasant weather.

Location: Upper Ganga Canal Rd, Civil Lines, Roorkee
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Roorkee

10. Discover History At H.B. Medlicott Museum

Discover history at H.B. Medlicott Museum and learn about the history of the city.

Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located inside the Department of Earth Sciences, H.B. Medlicott Museum is a hidden gem in Roorkee. It showcases an interesting collection of geological samples, minerals, rock formations, and historical instruments used in geophysical studies. Science lovers, students, and even curious visitors will find it engaging. The museum highlights Roorkee’s deep roots in earth science and engineering. It’s educational and one of the offbeat places in Uttarakhand, ideal for those interested in natural history and scientific discovery.

Location: Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM; closed on Saturdays and Sundays

11. Explore The Roorkee Railway Heritage Gallery

Explore the Railway Heritage Gallery to learn about the city’s rail legacy and history.

Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons

This small gallery celebrates the city’s rail legacy and features vintage equipment, railway tools, old photographs, and models that trace Roorkee’s historic link to Indian Railways. Exploring this iconic place is one of the top things to do in Uttarakhand, perfect for railway enthusiasts or curious travellers. It offers a quick but nostalgic glimpse into how transport shaped the region. The heritage setup is simple but informative, and it’s worth stopping by if you enjoy old-world charm and mechanical history.

Location: Roorkee Railway Station, Roorkee
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM; closed on Sundays

Suggested Read: Less Crowded Hill Stations In Uttarakhand

12. Visit The Roorkee Cantonment War Memorial

Visiting the Catonment War Memorial is one of the interesting things to do in Roorkee.

Photo: Ministry of Defence / Wikipedia / Image For Representation Only

Located within the Bengal Engineer Group campus, the Roorkee Cantonment War Memorial stands as a tribute to the brave soldiers who served the nation. Surrounded by a peaceful and disciplined atmosphere, the memorial features engraved names and plaques that honour historical military contributions. Though entry may require prior permission, the site reflects Roorkee’s proud military heritage. It’s a significant stop for those interested in patriotism, history, and solemn reflection in a dignified setting.

Location: Lal Kurti Cantonment, Roorkee
Timings: 24*7

These lesser-known locations provide incentives for visitors to come and create a memorable experience in this serene environment. Roorkee is surrounded by the rich cultural legacy and natural splendor that permeate the entire town, and offers a lot of things to do in Roorkee. These less-traveled locations allow one to discover new things while traveling off the usual path in Roorkee City, which nevertheless has more to offer. Book a trip to Roorkee with TripXL which promises a great time.

Cover Photo: Shivansh Singh / Unspalsh

Frequently Asked Questions

Asia's first engineering institution, the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, was once known as Thomson institution of Civil Engineering.
Yes, Roorkee has a variety of dining options, including local eateries, cafes, and restaurants serving North Indian cuisine and street food.
Roorkee's handicrafts are well-known. Because of the strong cottage industry that exists here, it is one of the most prominent locations to find exclusive products.
Among the popular tourist destinations around Roorkee are Rajaji National Park, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
Yes, Roorkee offers vibrant local markets like the Roorkee Bazar, where you can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and delicious local snacks.
Roorkee is often called Mini London due to its colonial-era infrastructure, British-style planning, and being one of India’s earliest cities with modern engineering projects.
Absolutely! Civil Lines Market and nearby stalls offer delicious street food like chaat, poha, jalebi, and momos, popular among students and locals alike.
Yes, families can enjoy Crystal World amusement park, boating at Roorkee Boat Club, and quiet picnics by the Solani River or public parks.
Roorkee is known for its street food like poha, samosa, jalebi, kachori, and spicy chaat, especially popular around Civil Lines and local markets.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month