Dhanaulti Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive travel guide to Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand, India.


Introduction to Dhanaulti

If you’re looking for a peaceful hill station that provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, Dhanaulti is the perfect destination for you. Located in Garhwal, in the Himalayan North of India, in the beautiful state of Uttarakhand, Dhanaulti is one of the lesser-known hill stations but is equally beautiful.

Blessed with lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and tranquil surroundings, Dhanaulti provides a perfect escape from the chaos of city life. It’s an ideal getaway for travelers who value solitude and enjoy natural beauty.

In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Dhanaulti.

List of Places to Visit in Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti boasts various places that attract tourists from around the world. It has an abundance of natural beauty, as well as culturally important attractions. Here’s a list of some of the must-visit places in Dhanaulti:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eco-Park: Enjoy a picnic or just stroll around in this beautiful park that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.

  • Surkanda Devi Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, this ancient temple is perched atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the valleys below.

  • Dashavatar Temple: Located in nearby village Deogarh, this temple is famous for its ancient architecture and beautiful wood carvings.

Natural Attractions of Dhanaulti: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Deoban: At an elevation of around 2800 meters, Deoban is popular for its breathtaking vista of snow-capped mountains.

  • Mussoorie Adventure Park: Offering thrilling activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, rappelling, and more, this park is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts.

  • Kanatal: Located just a few kilometers away from Dhanaulti, this picturesque village provides the perfect opportunity for nature walks and treks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti has various trails that offer scenic views of the countryside, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Dhanaulti:

  • Dhanaulti to Surkanda Devi Trek: This trek passes through dense forests and takes you to the top of Surkanda Devi temple, which offers a stunning view of the valleys below.

  • Dhanaulti to Mussoorie Trek: This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature, leading you through lush green forests of oak and rhododendrons.

Best Things to Do in Dhanaulti: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural beauty and cultural attractions, Dhanaulti offers various activities to keep you engaged during your stay. Here are some of the activities you must experience:

  • Nature Walks: Take a walk through the dense forests of Dhanaulti to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature.

  • Campin g: Experience the thrill of camping under the stars amidst the beautiful valleys of Dhanaulti.

  • Adventure Activities: Go for trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, or zip-lining at Mussoorie Adventure Park for an adventure-filled day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dhanaulti

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Dhanaulti that includes the best places to visit and activities to experience during your stay:

Day 1: Arrive at Dhanaulti and visit the Eco-Park.

Day 2: Stop by at the Surkanda Devi Temple and enjoy the scenic beauty around it.

Day 3: Go hiking on the Dhanaulti to Surkanda Devi Trek.

Day 4: Take a tour of the Mussoorie Adventure Park and participate in some of the activities available.

Day 5: Visit the Kanatal Village and take a nature walk through its lush green surroundings.

Day 6: Relax and rejuvenate in the beautiful valleys of Dhanaulti.

Day 7: Explore the nearby village Deogarh and enjoy the wood carvings of the Dashavatar Temple.

Food and Drink Scene of Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti offers a few local dishes that you must try during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Aloo Tikki: Made with boiled potatoes and served with chutney, Aloo Tikki is a popular snack in Dhanaulti.

  • Momos: A popular and delicious Tibetan snack, Momos can be found at local street vendors.

Local Beverages

  • Chaang: A traditional drink of the Himalayan region, Chaang is made by fermenting rice and is worth trying.

  • Thukpa: A hot soup made with vegetables, noodles, and meat (optional), Thukpa is a perfect drink for a cold evening.

Where to Stay in Dhanaulti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dhanaulti offers various options for lodging, suiting every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Dhanaulti:

  • Camp Little Jaguar: A camping site that offers a unique camping experience with luxurious tents, hot water, and electricity.

  • Hotel Drive Inn: A hotel offering spacious rooms and stunning views of the valley.

  • The Apple Orchard Resort: A resort offering modern amenities amidst a picturesque apple orchard.

What to Buy in Dhanaulti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dhanaulti offers local handicrafts and souvenirs that are perfect to take back home. Here are some of the items you can find in Dhanaulti:

  • Handmade Woolen Shawls: Made by locals, these soft and cozy shawls are a perfect souvenir.

  • Wooden Handicrafts: The Dashavatar Temple and local shops offer beautifully carved wooden handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Dhanaulti

While visiting Dhanaulti, it’s important to respect the local customs and culture. Dhanaulti is primarily a Hindu region, and therefore it’s important to dress appropriately, and always remove footwear before entering a temple.

Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti

The best time to visit Dhanaulti is between March to June, and September to November. During the summer months, the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities, and during the winter months, the snow-capped mountains provide a surreal view.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dhanaulti

Here are some important things to remember while visiting Dhanaulti:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately and carry warm clothes during winters.

  • Carry sunscreen and sunglasses during summers.

Don’t:

  • Litter the environment.

  • Disturb the natural habitat of animals.

  • Consume alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s important to keep in mind the following safety precautions:

  • Do not venture off into unknown hiking trails alone.

  • Be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

  • Do not get too close to wild animals.

Health in Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti’s high altitude can cause altitude sickness, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and take precautions while hiking. It’s also important to carry necessary medication and consult a doctor if necessary.

Getting to Dhanaulti: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dhanaulti

The nearest airport to Dhanaulti is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 82 km away from Dhanaulti.

Bus Stations Near Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti is connected to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar by road. Direct buses are available from Delhi and Dehradun to Dhanaulti.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also readily available from Dehradun and other major towns to Dhanaulti.

How to Get Around in Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti is a small town, and most places can be covered on foot or by hiring a cab. Public transport is not very reliable, so hiring a taxi or private car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Dhanaulti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dhanaulti is an excellent base for exploring other popular hill stations like Mussoorie, Chamba, and Kaddukhal. You can also visit Rishikesh, the yoga capital of India, which is just a few hours away from Dhanaulti.

Conclusion

From serene surroundings and natural beauty to adventurous activities and cultural attractions, Dhanaulti has it all. This travel guide provides all the necessary information to plan your visit to Dhanaulti and make the most of your trip. So pack your bags and head out to Dhanaulti for an unforgettable experience amidst the beauty of the Himalayas.