The present invention provides an improved process for the preparation of 1 bromo 3 5 dimethyladamantane. The present invention also provides a process for preparing free flowing solid of 1 acetamido 3 5 dimethyladamantane. The present invention further provides a process for the preparation of memantine hydrochloride substantially free of 1 amino 3 5 7 trimethyladamantane hydrochloride and/or 1 amino 3 methyladamantane hydrochloride impurity.