Dhanaulti,Uttarakhand

Dhanaulti is a quiet hill station in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, valued primarily for its natural importance: extensive deodar and oak forests, clean air, and panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges. It serves as a peaceful alternative to nearby Mussoorie and is part of the lesser-traveled Kumaon-Garhwal hill circuit, offering conservation-minded tourism (eco-parks and nature trails) rather than large commercial development.

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Places to visit

  • Dhanaulti Eco Park (Dhara and Amber parks) — tranquil trails, viewpoints and deodar groves
  • Surkanda Devi Temple (nearby Kaddukhal) — hilltop temple with wide Himalayan vistas
  • Peaceful forest walks and short treks around Deodar and Oak forests
  • Sunset and sunrise viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalaya
  • Camping sites and small adventure setups (zipline, rappelling at select operators)
  • Local village walks and small markets selling handicrafts and local produce

Unique Aspects

  • Dense deodar and oak forests with well-marked nature trails
  • Cleaner, less-crowded environment compared with major hill stations
  • Clear mountain views (often of peaks in the Garhwal range) and expansive Doon valley vistas
  • Opportunities for eco- and slow tourism, birdwatching and nature photography

Things to do

  • Nature walks and easy-to-moderate trekking
  • Birdwatching and wildlife spotting (including trail sightings of Himalayan species)
  • Camping, bonfires and stargazing
  • Visit to Surkanda Devi Temple and participation in local prayers/fairs
  • Photography of forests, sunrise/sunset and mountain panoramas
  • Short day trips to nearby attractions: Mussoorie (about 24 km), Kanatal, and Tehri

Festivals & Events

  • Local Garhwali seasonal festivals and fairs in nearby villages
  • Surkanda Devi fair and religious events (timings vary with the Hindu calendar, e.g., Navratri celebrations)
  • Occasional local eco-initiatives and guided nature walks organized by community groups or hotels

Best Time to Visit

March to June (pleasant summers) and September to November (clear post-monsoon skies). December to February is cold with possible snowfall—appealing if you want snow but expect chilly temperatures.

Weather Conditions

Summers: mild and pleasant (approx. 1022C). Winters: cold (can drop below freezing at night, roughly -28C to 8C). Monsoon: JulyAugust bring rain and occasional landslide risk—check road conditions.

Accessibility

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) — roughly 6080 km by road. Nearest major railhead: Dehradun Railway Station (similar distance). Dhanaulti is about 24 km from Mussoorie and is reached by road via Rishikesh/Dehradun–Mussoorie route. Regular taxis, private cars and some state/private buses connect to Mussoorie and Dehradun; roads are hilly—drive carefully in monsoon and winter.

Recommended Duration

13 days for a relaxed visit; 35 days if combining local treks, camping and nearby temples (Mussoorie/Surkanda Devi).

Clothing & Gear Tips

Warm layered clothing (especially for mornings/evenings), good walking shoes or light trekking boots, waterproof jacket in monsoon, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Basic first-aid and any required medicines.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try local Garhwali dishes (simple mountain cuisine, seasonal preparations), hot pakoras and roadside snacks. Buy local woolens, handicrafts, organic honey, jams and herbal teas as souvenirs.

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