The Archaeological Survey of India is a principal organization, under the Ministry of Culture formed with a purpose to conduct archaeological research and protect the cultural heritage of the nation. It aims at preserving the ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains. The ASI is divided into 24 circles and boasts a team of dedicated professionals including trained archaeologists, conservators, epigraphist and scientists for conducting the archaeological research projects through its Circles, Museums, Excavation Branch, Prehistory Branch, Epigraphy Branch, Science Branch, Horticulture Branch, Building Survey Project, Temple Survey Projects and Underwater Archaeology Wing.

Aims and Objectives of ASI

The main concern of the organization is to maintain the ancient monuments, archaeological sites and the remains of national importance. Apart from this, ASI keeps a check on all the archaeological activities in the country as per the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972.

ASI Dehradun Circle

The Dehradun Circle of the Archaeological Survey of India was established on June 16, 2003. Its head office is located at Tyagi road in Dehradun. There are over 42 protected monument/sites of national importance across the 13 districts of Uttarakhand which comprises of temples, forts, excavated sites, rock inscriptions, water structures, caves and cemeteries. Since Uttarakhand is bestowed with the title of “The Land of Gods” temple sites are to be found in abundance here. Out of 42 protected monuments, there are 30 temple sites of which 24 are open for the tourists.

Kashipur in Udham Singh Nagar, Jagatgram, Virbhadra in Dehradun and, Purola in Uttarakashi are the four excavated sites that are under the protection of Dehradun circle. Ashoka Rock Edict at Kalsi, a premier monument which is one of its kind in the entire central Himalayan region is under the control of Dehradun circle.

Sub Circles

To control the multi-dimensional activities of the archaeological department and for the proper management of centrally protected monuments, the work of ASI is divided into four sub-circles namely Dehradun Sub-Circle, Gopeshwar Sub-Circle, Almora Sub-Circle and Kashipur Sub-Circle. These four sub-circles are governed by the Senior Conservation Assistant/Conservation Assistant Grade-II/foreman under the direct supervision of Superintending Archaeologist.

How to reach Dehradun Circle, Archaeological Survey of India

The Dehradun Circle of Archaeological Survey of India is located at 4 Rest Camp, Tyagi Road in Dehradun. It is situated only 3 km away from the Clock Tower Dehradun and can be easily accessed by bus or auto. Dehradun railway station at 5 km away is the nearest railhead from ASI. Jolly Grant airport at 31 km is the closest air connectivity from here. Taxis to ASI, Dehradun Circle can be easily available from the airport.