Dhanaulti - The Paradise in Disguise

Dhanaulti is a small town, a beautiful hill station, just 24 km (15 mi) from the most famous hill station of Mussoorie and 31 km (19 mi) from Chamba, in Uttarakhand. The town is known for being situated amid lofty Himalayan peaks.

The region might not be a grand celebration of the hill station, but is a one-stop destination that gives you peace, solitude, harmony, and makes you feel close to nature. If you seek some privacy in the hills, then this is your place.

Dhanaulti has still not been urbanized and that’s what makes it a perfect spot to find the real self. No fancy hotels, least modern cafes or eateries is what makes Dhanaulti a genuine place for nature lovers.

This beautiful town specializes in its government maintained eco-parks, thick virgin forests of Deodars, Oaks, and Rhododendrons, green meadows, tall trees, and breathtaking views of Himalayas. Being in the midst of forests and mountains, Dhanaulti is also a perfect spot for nature and adventure/sports lovers.

Geography

Elevation: 2,286 m (7,500 ft)

Languages: Hindi (official), Pahari

Population: 100,000

How to reach?

By air: 

The nearest airport to Dhanaulti is Jolly Grant Airport (83 km away).

By rail: 

The nearest railway stations to Dhanaulti are Rishikesh Railway Station (83 km away) and Dehradun (60 km).

By road: 

Dhanaulti has a better road network with other popular hills stations. Being in the center of two hill stations, Dhanaulti is easy to reach via Rishikesh, Mussoorie, and Dehradun. You can take a private taxi from these places to reach Dhanaulti.

Best Time to Visit

Dhanaulti is a place that never fails to amaze visitors by its beauty. Although it’s majorly season affected but if reached at the right time, it can fill you up with lifelong memories. While winters and monsoons can be too risky to visit the hill station due to freezing temperatures, landslides, heavy rainfall, and snowfall. Thus, we’d recommend visiting Dhanaulti from March to June as these months give you clearer, pleasant, and heart-warming views.

Best Places to Visit in Dhanaulti

• Surkanda Devi temple
• Dashavatar Temple
• Deogarh Fort
• Eco Parks
• Potato Farm
• Camp Thangdhar
• Kanatal Adventure Camp
• Dhanaulti Adventure Park
• Matatila Dam
• Chanderi
• Apple Orchard Resort

What to Buy?

Dhanaulti is widely famous for beautiful hand-made woolen and pashmina shawls, scarves using only natural dyes, and fresh apples. You can buy souvenirs from the local's shops and get a chance to experience their hospitality. Visit Orchid Resort to get fresh juices and jams.

What to Eat?

Although there are not many options for eating in Dhanaulti, but you won’t regret opting to have a meal here. The fruits and vegetables have a natural and fresh taste as they are grown in the local farms only. You’ll get a lot of variety of dishes at a reasonable price like North Indian, Chinese, continental, and Garhwali delicacies.