Dhanaulti Hill Station Travel Guide 2026: How to Visit, Best Time, Places & Tips

Dhanaulti Hill Station is a quiet, scenic escape in Uttarakhand—perfect for travelers who want cool weather, Himalayan views, forests, and fewer crowds. Sitting high above Mussoorie, Dhanaulti feels like a hidden treasure, especially magical in winter when snow transforms the town into a white wonderland.

Where Is Dhanaulti?

Dhanaulti is a small hill station in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. It lies on the Mussoorie–Chamba road and is surrounded by dense deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests.

• Dhanaulti altitude: ~2,286 meters

• Dhanaulti height in feet: ~7,500 ft

Because of its elevation, Dhanaulti enjoys cool weather year-round and offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.

Overview: Dhanaulti Hill Station

Unlike busy hill stations, Dhanaulti is calm, clean, and uncrowded. It is close to popular destinations like Mussoorie, Kanatal, Tehri, and Chamba, making it ideal for short trips or weekend getaways.

In winter, snowfall turns Dhanaulti into a favorite destination for couples, families, and snow lovers looking for a peaceful alternative to Mussoorie.

Suggested Read:  Rishikesh to Dhanaulti: A Day Trip Back in Time

Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti Hill Station

Dhanaulti can be visited throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience:

🌸 Summer (April to June)

• Pleasant weather (10°C–25°C)

• Best for sightseeing, trekking, camping, and nature walks

• Ideal escape from plains’ heat

❄️ Winter (October to February)

• Cold weather with chances of snowfall (Dec–Jan)

• Best time for snow lovers and winter photography

• Carry warm clothing and check road conditions

🌧️ Monsoon (July to September)

• Lush greenery and fewer tourists

• Occasional landslides; travel cautiously

👉 Best overall time: April–June & October–February

---

How to Reach Dhanaulti Hill Station

✈️ By Air

• Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

• Distance: ~82 km

• From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Dhanaulti

🚆 By Train

• Nearest railway station: Dehradun Railway Station

• Distance: ~66 km

• Taxis and buses are easily available from Dehradun

🚗 By Road

Dhanaulti is well connected by mountain roads:

• Dehradun to Dhanaulti: ~65 km | 2.5–3 hours

• Mussoorie to Dhanaulti: ~32 km | ~1 hour

Road journeys are scenic, passing through forests and Himalayan viewpoints.

---

 

 

Suggested Read:  Landour in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand: Uncover the Monsoon’s Magic

Places to Visit in Dhanaulti Hill Station

🛕 Surkanda Devi Temple (Dhanaulti Temple)

Located at an altitude of 2,750 meters, Surkanda Devi Temple is a revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Sati. A short trek or ropeway ride leads to the temple, offering panoramic Himalayan views.

🌲 Eco Park (Dhanaulti Park)

Spread across 13 hectares, Eco Park is perfect for families and nature lovers. It features walking trails, birdlife, and peaceful forest surroundings.

🛕 Dashavatar Temple

An ancient temple on the Mussoorie–Dhanaulti road, known for its stone carvings and serene mountain backdrop.

🥔 Potato Farm

A scenic spot with rolling potato fields and hill views. Visitors can learn about local farming and enjoy photography.

🧗 Adventure Activities

Dhanaulti offers:

• Trekking & hiking

• Camping

• Rappelling & rock climbing

• Zip-lining at adventure parks

💧 Waterfalls Near Dhanaulti

• Kempty Falls

• Tiger Falls Both are popular day trips from Dhanaulti.

🛍️ Dhanaulti Market

Dhanaulti has small local shops, not a busy Mall Road like Mussoorie. For extensive shopping, Mussoorie is the best option.

Places to Stay in Dhanaulti

Dhanaulti offers accommodation for all budgets:

• Luxury & Premium: The Terraces, Club Mahindra Dhanaulti

• Mid-range: Apple Orchard Resort, Dhanaulti Heights

• Camps & Nature Stays: Camp Calista and eco camps

Dhanaulti in Winter & Snowfall

• Snowfall months: Late December to January

• Light to moderate snowfall is common

• Roads may close temporarily—check weather updates before travel

Is Dhanaulti Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! If you love peaceful hill stations, snow, forests, temples, and adventure, Dhanaulti is one of the best underrated destinations in Uttarakhand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Where is Dhanaulti located?
A. In Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, near Mussoorie.

Q. Does it snow in Dhanaulti?
A. Yes, snowfall usually occurs in December and January.

Q. How far is Dhanaulti from Dehradun?
A. Around 65 km by road.

Q. Is Dhanaulti good in winter?
A. Yes, it is one of the best places near Mussoorie for snowfall.

Q. Is Dhanaulti crowded like Mussoorie?
A. No, Dhanaulti is much quieter and less commercial.

Final Thoughts

Dhanaulti Hill Station is a perfect offbeat Himalayan escape in 2026. Whether you’re chasing snow, spiritual calm, forest walks, or adventure activities, Dhanaulti delivers a refreshing experience away from the crowds.

If you’re planning a peaceful mountain holiday in Uttarakhand—Dhanaulti should be on your list.