Hidden high among the misty hills of Uttarakhand, Dhanaulti is where the ordinary world quietly recedes and nature’s serene rhythm takes over. A small, uncrowded hill station perched at 2,286 meters, Dhanaulti offers a breath of fresh, pine-scented air. A quaint hill station that makes for the perfect getaway for those seeking peaceful surroundings, breath-taking scenery, and a refreshing mountain-air embrace amidst the Garhwal Himalayas. Its quiet trails, deodar forests, and lofiy vistas offer a sanctuary for tourists who are in search of slow mornings and a taste of adventure.
Dhanaulti Weather: Nature’s Mood Board and Best Time to Visit
Blessed with cool and refreshing weather for the most part of a year, Dhanaulti in summer (April-June) is ideal with crisp, pleasant days and chilly nights with opportunities for sightseeing and hikes. Monsoon (July-September) cloaks the hills in mist and enhances the hues of green but the movement outside can be restricted due to unpredictable weather. Winter (October-February) is the season of snow; imagine fairy-tale forests and cozy nights by a bonfire. There’s always a chill in the air, so pack accordingly: shawls, light woollens, and sturdy shoes are essentials.
Getting to Dhanaulti: Just Beyond Mussoorie
One of Dhanaulti’s strengths is its easy accessibility. The scenic drive from Mussoorie to Dhanaulti distance covers roughly 30 km and takes around an hour, winding past steep hillsides, wildflowers, and distant mountain views. Dhanaulti is a convenient additional destination for travelers already visiting Mussoorie.
However, for direct plans to Dhanaulti, the nearest railway station is in Dehradun (about 60 km away), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. From Dehradun, you can hire a cab or hop on a bus. No matter the weather you choose to visit Dhanaulti, getting here is half the delight; the journey by road itself is a panoramic reward.
Things to Do in Dhanaulti
Here are a few must-haves on your itinerary:
- Dhanaulti Eco Park (Amber and Dhara): Two adjacent green havens called Amber and Dhara surrounded by dense deodar and cedar forests; Eco Park is the soul of Dhanaulti. Stroll the forested paths, soak in the natural beauty, enjoy a picnic, or just admire the expanse of scenic beauty. Planting a sapling for a lasting memory and contributing to the greenery is one way to leave your legacy behind. It is also a great place for adventure activities like zip lining, Burma bridge walks, and other sofi adventure activities that complement the panoramic Himalayan views.
- Surkanda Devi Temple: Not only does this ancient shrine offer spiritual shelter, it also sits surrounded by some of the valley’s best panoramas. Afier a moderate trek through oak and rhododendron forests, you reach the temple, perched at 2,750 meters. The walk is slightly challenging, and the reward is both devotional and visual, especially during Ganga Dussehra festival celebrations. A visit to this revered temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati is a must especially during festivals like Ganga Dussehra.
- Potato Farm (Aloo Khet): A different experience especially for city dwellers, visit the Potato Farms on the outskirts of the town. Run through the stepped green fields, learning about cultivation, and soaking up the sunset. These farms are touted as having some of the region’s most photogenic evening skies. Visiting the Potato Farms provides a glimpse into the region’s agricultural life and is a unique experience for families and visitors curious about local farming specialities.
- Apple Orchards: When in season, stroll through Dhanaulti’s apple orchards. The sight of fresh apples ready to be plucked is a treat in itself. You can even taste the fresh apples and chat with local farmers to understand farming closely.
- Deogarh Fort: Etched in history and legend, the ruins of Deogarh Fort offer a dash of local lore. This ancient fort offers a blend of history and panoramic views of the Himalayas, with murals and palace remnants that make it appealing to history enthusiasts and those seeking oЫeat explorations.
- Dashavatar Temple: Dashavatar Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, dazzles with its unique architecture and intricate stonework. It is a peaceful, tree-hemmed spot where time seems to slow down. This intricately carved Lord Vishnu temple represents ancient Gupta architecture and mythology, attracting those interested in art, architecture, and serene spiritual spaces.
- Thangdhar Camp & Dhanaulti Adventure Park: If you’re into more robust thrills, there’s quad biking, rock climbing, and camping under a sky frosted with stars. Adrenaline-seekers can indulge in ziplining, sky walking, rock climbing, and other thrilling activities, with the beautiful Dhanaulti landscape as a backdrop.
- Tehri Dam: Not far from Dhanaulti, Tehri Dam is a man-made marvel offering dramatic reservoir views and opportunities for water sports, ideal for those wishing to combine nature, engineering, and adventure day trips.
Dhanaulti’s Local Specialities: Food, Woolens, and Handcrafted Keepsakes
While Dhanaulti is best known for its views and valleys, the food here is also definitely worth exploring. Local eateries serve Garhwali cuisine which includes but is not limited to mandua ki roti (finger millet bread), chainsoo (a spicy lentil preparation), gahat soup, and delicate sweets like singhori, wrapped in fragrant mallu leaves.
Shopping in Dhanaulti is a low-key, rewarding affair. Seek out shops and stalls selling hand-woven shawls, stoles, and blankets made from Himalayan wool, which is sofi, warm, and is best to be taken home as a lasting souvenir. You’ll also find local jams, pickles, and rustic crafis that echo the region’s natural palette to take home as a fond memory.
Where to Stay: A Room with a (Stunning) View
Dhanaulti has places for every pocket and mood. Cozy homestays, boutique cottages, and cap sites offer personalized service, crackling fires, and home-cooked meals. Popular resorts and hotels in Dhanaulti include:
- Glamwood Resort Dhanaulti: Nestled near Eco Park, this serene hillside resort offers forest views and family-friendly amenities for a peaceful getaway.
- Apple Orchard Resort: Set amidst apple orchards with stunning Himalayan views, this tranquil resort boasts comfortable rooms and a unique glass house restaurant.
- Hotel Garden Cottage and Resort Dhanaulti: Surrounded by gardens, this cozy property features a relaxed atmosphere, easy access to Dhanaulti attractions, and courteous service.
- Whispering Pines Himalayan Retreat: An adventure-filled nature resort at over 8,300fi, ideal for travellers seeking high-altitude outdoor activities and spectacular sunrise views.
- Rock Resort Dhanaulti: Located conveniently near popular sites, this resort offers comfortable rooms, garden areas, and indoor games for families and groups.
- Himalayan Huts Dhanaulti: Rustic huts set amidst apple gardens and deodar forests, promising stunning views of Himalayan peaks for a simple and authentic mountain stay.
Always book in advance during holidays, as Dhanaulti’s limited size is part of its charm.
Special Touches That Make Dhanaulti Unique
Dhanaulti in Uttarakhand is one of the few places that offer the perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and authenticity. The absence of large crowds ensures that the misty forests are truly meditative. The scent of deodars on a chilly morning and the call of mountain thrushes at dusk are simple luxuries you won’t forget.
So, if you’re craving an escape, a space where you can unwind, walk beneath ancient trees, bask in sofi sun, and reconnect with nature’s unscripted wonders then Dhanaulti is waiting for you with open arms. This Garhwal gem proves that sometimes, less is truly more.
By: Anushka Singhal