Dhanaulti: A Peaceful Hill Retreat in Uttarakhand

Dhanaulti is a serene and less-crowded hill station located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, about 60 km from Dehradun and 25 km from Mussoorie. Nestled at an altitude of around 2,286 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level, Dhanaulti is known for its tranquility, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

🌲 Why Visit Dhanaulti?

Unlike the bustling tourist spots like Mussoorie or Nainital, Dhanaulti offers peace and natural beauty with a touch of adventure. It’s perfect for people looking to unwind in a quiet, refreshing environment surrounded by pine, deodar, and rhododendron forests.

🏞️ Major Attractions in Dhanaulti

1. Eco Park

Dhanaulti has two well-maintained eco-parks: Amber and Dhara, developed by the Forest Department. These parks have:

• Tall trees and walking trails

• Scenic viewpoints

• Small playgrounds for children

• Tree-houses and sitting areas

2. Surkanda Devi Temple

Located about 8 km from Dhanaulti, this sacred temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. You need to trek around 1.5 km uphill to reach it. The view from the top is breathtaking—snow-covered Himalayan peaks on one side and deep valleys on the other.

3. Adventure Activities

• Ziplining

• Sky walking

• Camping

• Rock climbing There are several camps and adventure resorts offering safe activities for all age groups.

4. Apple Orchards

Some local farms near Dhanaulti offer apple orchard visits, especially during the harvest season. You can even buy fresh local jams and juices.

5. Potato Farm (Aloo Khet)

Run by the government, this large potato farm is a unique spot to visit. It also offers horse riding and panoramic views of the Doon Valley.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

• Summer (April to June): Pleasant and cool, perfect for escaping city heat.

• Monsoon (July to September): Lush greenery but occasional landslides.

• Winter (November to February): Cold and snowy—great for snow lovers!

🚗 How to Reach Dhanaulti

• By Road: Well-connected by road from Dehradun, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh.

• By Train: Nearest railway station is Dehradun (60 km away).

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (82 km).

🏕️ Where to Stay

Dhanaulti has a range of options from:

• Luxury camps and cottages

• Mid-range hotels

• Budget homestays You can also opt for forest guesthouses for a more immersive nature experience.

🧘‍♂️ Ideal For

• Nature lovers

• Couples and honeymooners

• Solo travelers

• Families

• Weekend getaways from Delhi/Dehradun

🌄 Conclusion

If you're looking for a quiet mountain escape with refreshing views, adventure, spirituality, and a calm vibe—Dhanaulti is the perfect spot. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with nature.