Dhanaulti is a quaint hill station in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It is located at an altitude of 2286 meters, about 60 km from the popular tourist destination of Mussoorie. Dhanaulti is known for its lush green slopes, scenic views, and pleasant climate. It is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature.
If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway in the mountains, Dhanaulti is the place for you. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Dhanaulti tourism, covering its attractions, activities, accommodation, transport, and more. We will also give you some tips and advice on how to make the most of your trip to Dhanaulti. So, let’s get started!
Why Visit Dhanaulti
There are many reasons why you should visit Dhanaulti. Here are some of them:
Natural Beauty: Dhanaulti is blessed with stunning natural beauty. It is surrounded by dense forests of deodar, pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. It offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. It has a refreshing and soothing atmosphere that rejuvenates your mind and body.
Tranquility: Dhanaulti is a perfect place to unwind and relax. It is away from the crowds and noise of other hill stations. It has minimal human intrusion and a dreamlike ambiance. You can enjoy the silence and serenity of nature in Dhanaulti.
Proximity: Dhanaulti is easily accessible from nearby cities and towns. It is close to other popular hill stations like Mussoorie, Dehradun, Rishikesh, etc. You can combine your trip to Dhanaulti with these places and explore more of Uttarakhand.
Eco-Friendly: Dhanaulti is an eco-friendly destination. It has several initiatives to preserve and protect its environment. For example, it has an Eco Park that showcases the biodiversity and culture of the region. It also has a ban on plastic bags and bottles. It encourages visitors to respect and conserve its natural resources.
Places to Visit in Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti has many places to visit that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. Here are some of the main tourist spots and attractions in Dhanaulti:
Surkanda Devi Temple: This is one of the most famous places to visit in Dhanaulti. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Surkanda Devi, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is located at an altitude of 3030 meters, about 8 km from Dhanaulti. It offers spectacular views of the Himalayan ranges and the Doon Valley. The temple can be reached by a 2 km trek from the road head or by a ropeway service.
Eco Park: This is another popular place to visit in Dhanaulti. It is a park that showcases the biodiversity and culture of the region. It has two sections - Amber and Dhara - that are maintained by the Forest Department and the local community respectively. The park has various attractions like herbal gardens, swings, viewpoints, picnic spots, etc. It also has some cottages and huts for accommodation.
Kanatal: This is a small village near Dhanaulti that is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. It is located at an altitude of 2590 meters, about 12 km from Dhanaulti. It has a serene and calm environment that attracts many visitors. It also has some camps and resorts that offer comfortable stay and exciting activities like camping, trekking, paragliding, skiing, etc.
Kaudia Forest: This is a dense forest area that lies between Dhanaulti and Kanatal. It is a perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It has a rich variety of flora and fauna, including some rare and endangered species. It also has some trails and paths that are ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Chamba: This is a picturesque town that is situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It is located at an altitude of 1676 meters, about 35 km from Dhanaulti. It is a historical and cultural hub that has many attractions like temples, palaces, museums, markets, etc. It also offers splendid views of the Himalayas and the river valley.
Things to Do in Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti has many things to do that will make your trip fun and adventurous. Here are some of the main activities and things to do in Dhanaulti:
Camping: This is one of the best things to do in Dhanaulti. It is a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature. You can pitch your tent in the midst of the forest or near the river and enjoy the starry night and the bonfire. You can also indulge in some games, music, dance, barbecue, etc. There are many camps and resorts that offer camping facilities and services in Dhanaulti.
Trekking: This is another exciting thing to do in Dhanaulti. It is a great way to explore the hidden gems and scenic spots of the region. You can trek to various places like Surkanda Devi Temple, Kanatal, Kaudia Forest, etc. You can also trek to some nearby hill stations like Mussoorie, Chakrata, etc. There are many trekking routes and trails that suit different levels of difficulty and duration.
Paragliding: This is a thrilling thing to do in Dhanaulti. It is a great way to experience the thrill of flying and the views of the mountains and valleys. You can paraglide from various locations like Kanatal, Mussoorie, etc. You can also choose from different types of paragliding like tandem, solo, acro, etc. There are many paragliding operators and instructors that offer paragliding services and training in Dhanaulti.
Skiing: This is a fun thing to do in Dhanaulti. It is a great way to enjoy the snow and the slopes of the region. You can ski on various slopes like Kanatal, Auli, etc. You can also choose from different types of skiing like alpine, cross-country, heli-skiing, etc. There are many skiing operators and trainers that offer skiing services and equipment in Dhanaulti.
Zip-Lining: This is an adventurous thing to do in Dhanaulti. It is a great way to experience the speed and the height of the region. You can zip-line across various locations like Eco Park, Kanatal Adventure Park, etc. You can also choose from different types of zip-lining like flying fox, giant swing, valley crossing, etc. There are many zip-lining operators and guides that offer zip-lining services and safety measures in Dhanaulti.
Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti
The best time to visit Dhanaulti depends on your weather and scenery preferences. Dhanaulti has a pleasant climate throughout the year, with moderate temperatures and rainfall. However, each season has its own charm and attractions.
Here are some details about the best time to visit Dhanaulti:
Summer (March to June): This is the peak season to visit Dhanaulti, as the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. This is the best time to enjoy the greenery and the flowers of the region. You can also indulge in some adventure activities like camping, trekking, paragliding, etc. However, this is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit Dhanaulti, so you may have to book your accommodation and transport in advance.
Monsoon (July to September): This is the off-season to visit Dhanaulti, as the weather is wet and humid, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the best time to witness the waterfalls and the rainbows of the region. You can also enjoy some discounts and deals on your accommodation and transport. However, this is also the most risky and inconvenient time to visit Dhanaulti, as the roads may be slippery and prone to landslides, and some activities may be closed or cancelled due to heavy rains.
Winter (October to February): This is the shoulder season to visit Dhanaulti, as the weather is cold and dry, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C. This is the best time to enjoy the snow and the views of the region. You can also indulge in some winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, etc. However, this is also the most challenging and demanding time to visit Dhanaulti, as you may have to face some harsh and unpredictable weather conditions, and carry some warm clothes and accessories.
Some tips and advice on how to prepare for the weather conditions and what to pack accordingly are:
1. For summer, pack light and comfortable clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, etc.
2. For monsoon, pack waterproof and quick-drying clothes, umbrellas, raincoats, boots, etc.
3. For winter, pack warm and woolen clothes, jackets, gloves, caps, etc.
How to Reach Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti is well-connected by road, rail, and air from various nearby cities and towns. Here are some details on how to reach Dhanaulti by different modes of transport:
By Road: Dhanaulti is about 300 km from Delhi, 60 km from Dehradun, 25 km from Mussoorie, 80 km from Rishikesh, etc. You can reach Dhanaulti by your own vehicle or by hiring a taxi or a cab. You can also take a bus from Delhi or Dehradun to Dhanaulti. The road journey may take about 7-8 hours from Delhi or 2-3 hours from Dehradun.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Dhanaulti is Dehradun Railway Station, which is about 60 km away. You can take a train from Delhi or other major cities to Dehradun Railway Station. The train journey may take about 5-6 hours from Delhi or less from other cities. From Dehradun Railway Station, you can take a taxi or a bus to Dhanaulti.
By Air: The nearest airport to Dhanaulti is Jolly Grant Airport, which is about 85 km away. You can take a flight from Delhi or other major cities to Jolly Grant Airport. The flight journey may take about an hour from Delhi or less from other cities. From Jolly Grant Airport, you can take a taxi or a cab to Dhanaulti.
Some tips and advice on how to choose the best mode of transport and what to expect along the way are:
For road travel, choose a comfortable and reliable vehicle that can handle the hilly terrain and the weather conditions. Avoid driving at night or in bad weather. Follow the traffic rules and regulations. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
For rail travel, choose a train that suits your budget and schedule. Book your tickets in advance to avoid any hassle. Carry your ID proof and other documents. Enjoy the facilities and services on board.
For air travel, choose a flight that suits your budget and schedule. Book your tickets in advance to get the best deals. Carry your ID proof and other documents. Enjoy the views of the mountains and valleys from above.
Where to Stay in Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti has a variety of accommodation options for visitors of different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the top hotels, resorts, camps, homestays, and cottages in Dhanaulti with their ratings, prices, amenities, locations, etc.
Hotel Drive Inn: This is a 3-star hotel that offers comfortable and spacious rooms with modern amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, heater, etc. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a conference hall, a gym, a spa, etc. It is located on the Mussoorie-Chamba Road, about 2 km from Dhanaulti. The price range is Rs 3000 - Rs 5000 per night.
Apple Orchard Resort: This is a 4-star resort that offers luxurious and cozy cottages with wooden interiors and balconies. It also has a restaurant, a cafe, a garden, a bonfire area, etc. It is located in the midst of an apple orchard, about 5 km from Dhanaulti. The price range is Rs 5000 - Rs 8000 per night.
Camp O Royale: This is a camp that offers adventurous and fun-filled stay in tents with basic amenities like bed, blanket, lantern, etc. It also has a dining area, a common washroom, a games zone, etc. It also organizes various activities like trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, etc. It is located near the Eco Park, about 1 km from Dhanaulti. The price range is Rs 1000 - Rs 2000 per night.
Whispering Pines Himalayan Retreat: This is a homestay that offers homely and comfortable stay in rooms with traditional decor and amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, geyser, etc. It also has a kitchen, a dining area, a library, a terrace, etc. It also offers some services like laundry, car rental, sightseeing, etc. It is located in the Kaudia Forest, about 10 km from Dhanaulti. The price range is Rs 2000 - Rs 4000 per night.
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Dhanaulti Travel Tips
Here are some useful advice and information for travelers planning to visit Dhanaulti:
Safety Precautions: Dhanaulti is generally a safe and peaceful place to visit. However, you should take some basic safety precautions like keeping your valuables secure, avoiding strangers or touts, following the local rules and regulations, etc. You should also be careful while driving or walking on the hilly roads or trails as they may be slippery or narrow. You should also carry some first aid kit and medicines in case of any emergency.
Local Customs: Dhanaulti is a place that respects and preserves its local customs and culture. You should be respectful and courteous to the local people and their beliefs. You should dress modestly and avoid any offensive or inappropriate behavior. You should also seek permission before taking photos or videos of any person or place. You should also avoid littering or damaging any natural or historical site.
Food Options: Dhanaulti has some food options that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find some restaurants and cafes that serve Indian, Chinese, Continental, etc. cuisines. You can also find some street food stalls that serve local delicacies like momos,maggi, aloo tikki, etc. You can also find some fresh fruits and vegetabl es that are grown in the region. You should try some local specialties like gahat ki dal, bhang ki chutney, mandua ki roti, etc. You should also drink plenty of water and avoid any unhygienic or spicy food.
Shopping Opportunities: Dhanaulti has some shopping opportunities that offer some souvenirs and handicrafts to take back home. You can find some shops and stalls that sell items like woolen shawls, caps, sweaters, etc. You can also find some items made of wood, bamboo, metal, etc. You should bargain well and compare prices before buying anything. You should also avoid buying any wildlife products or antiques that may be illegal or unethical.
Conclusion
Dhanaulti is a dreamlike hill station in Uttarakhand that offers a peaceful and relaxing getaway in the mountains. It has many attractions, activities, accommodation, transport, and more that cater to different tastes and preferences. It is a place that will make you fall in love with nature and yourself.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Dhanaulti today and experience the magic of this hill station. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and given you some useful information. If you have any questions or queries, feel free to contact us anytime. We are always happy to help you.