Best Places to Visit in Dhanaluti for a Perfect Hill Getaway

Dhanaulti, situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, is a beautiful offbeat hill station with natural beauty, calm forests, and remarkable attractions such as Eco Park, Tehri Dam, and Surkandadevi Temple. It's a great escape for nature enthusiasts or adventure seekers. 

An untouched, quaint little town located in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Dhanaulti is an offbeat destination. The hilly town is enveloped by the deodar, oaks, and rhododendrons, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers. It has treasures waiting at every turn with a wide array of places to visit in Dhanaulti, like Deogarh Fort, Surkanda Devi Temple, Eco Park, Their Dam, and more. Not everyone’s heard of Dhanaulti, and maybe that’s a good thing. It’s not like Mussoorie, which is usually packed; Dhanaulti tourist attractions are quieter and slower. Walk through the tall, silent forests, soak in the stillness, and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains. There’s a bit of everything—greenery, old structures, cool air, even a little adventure if you’re up for it. Skip the usual tourist spots and enjoy the fresh air and views that linger long after the journey ends.

Here’s a list of sightseeing places in Dhanaulti that will make your trip unforgettable.

• Eco Park 
• Tehri Dam 
• Surkanda Devi Temple 
• Kanatal Adventure Camp  
• Camp Thangdhar  
• Aloo Khet  

 Eco Park

Eco Park is one of the most popular Dhanaulti tourist attractions and is spread out over 13 hectares and split into two sections—Amber and Dhara. Managed by the Forest Department, the whole area is surrounded by tall deodar and oak trees, giving it a really calm, green vibe. One of the best Dhanaulti places to visit for nature lovers.  If you’re into a bit of adventure, there’s a zone for that too, with stuff like the Burma Bridge, Flying Fox, and even a Sky Walk. One of the nicest touches? You can plant a little sapling as a memory of your visit.

• Opening Hours: 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.  
• Ticket Price: For adults ₹50 and ₹30 for children  
• Location: In main Dhanaulti, near main market, and the Forest rest-house   

 Tehri Dam  

About 35 km from Dhanaulti, Tehri Dam is another must-visit on your Dhanaulti sightseeing places and is worth the drive. It’s actually the tallest dam in India, built on the Bhagirathi River, using a rock and earth-fill structure. The massive reservoir it creates is pretty peaceful and offers some great views. People often come here for a quick day trip during their Uttarakhand holiday packages, whether it’s to enjoy the scenery or just take in the calm vibe by the water.

• Opening Hours:  9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. 
• Ticket Price: No entry fee 
• Location: Located in Old Theri, Koti Colony  

Surkanda Devi Temple 

One of the significant attractions in Dhanaulti, Sukranda Devi Temple is perched on a hill about 8 km from Dhanaulti, sitting at around 2,756 meters above sea level. The trek from Kaddukhal village is about 3 km and quite steep, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it. On a clear day, you can see the snow-covered Himalayas up north and catch glimpses of Dehradun and Rishikesh to the south. The surrounding forest gives the place a peaceful, spiritual vibe and defines why Dhanaulti hill station is so special.

• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM in Summer and 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. 
• Ticket Price: Free entry 
• Location: Kaddukhal, near Dhanaulti, Chamba-Mussorie Road, Sakalna Range 

Kanatal Adventure Camp  

About 15 km away from Dhanaulti, there’s a forest camp that’s perfect if you are looking for things to do in Dhanaulti. It’s surrounded by deodar, pine, and oak trees, and the view of the Himalayas is nothing short of amazing—nearly 180 degrees of snow-capped peaks on a clear day. You can try your hand at rappelling, rock climbing, valley crossing, and go on nearby treks. After a full day, evenings are all about bonfires and unwinding in comfy Swiss or safari tents. It is frequently included in Uttarakhand trip packages.

• Opening Hours:  Open 24 hours 
• Ticket Price: ₹ 2,000 per person and ₹1,500 per person for a group 
• Location: Mussoorie Chamba Road, Kanatal Thangdhar, Uttarakhand 

Camp Thangdhar  

Another one of the great places to visit in Dhanaulti is Camp Thangdhar. Tucked away in peaceful surroundings, it offers plenty of activities like trekking, rock climbing, and obstacle courses. The tents are comfortable, the food is homely, and bonfire nights make it one of the best places to visit in Dhanaulti. Whether you're with friends or family, it’s a fun place to just let loose and enjoy the outdoors.

• Opening Hours:  Open 24 hours 
• Ticket Price: ₹ 2,000 per person and ₹1,500 per person for a group of up to 20 passengers 
• Location: Village Thangdhar, Near Chamba, Kanatal, New Tehri

Aloo Khet  

Among famous places in Dhanaulti, Aloo Khet, or the Potato Farm run by the government, gives you a peek into how local farming works in the hills. The open fields stretch far and wide, and the mountain views in the background make it a lovely spot for quiet walks or some laid-back photography, truly representing the charm of Dhanaulti hill station.

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM 
• Ticket Price: Free Entry 
• Location: 1 km from the main market of Dhanaulti 

How to Reach Dhanaulti?  

The most famous places in Dhanaulti are easily accessible through various routes:

By Air 

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is located 82 km from Dhanaulti. You can hire a taxi or a bus to reach Dhanaulti. 

By Train 

The nearest railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, which is 60 km from Dhanaulti. Dehradun has regular trains from major cities such as Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. The station has taxi and bus services available readily. 

By Road 

• It is roughly 300 km by road from New Delhi. The route to Dhanaulti goes via Meerut, Muzzaffarnagar, Dehradun, and Mussoorie. 
• There are regular buses and private taxis from Dehradun, Mussoorie, Rishikesh and other towns nearby, which take less than a few hours to reach best places to visit in Dhanaulti.
• The roads are scenic but winding as you drive through the mountains, so do drive carefully, especially in the rainy monsoon months and winter.

What is the Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti? 

March to June 

An agreeable temperature for sightseeing, nature walks, and activities. The average temperature is about 15 °C to 25°C. 

September to November 

The skies become clear with no monsoon, so you get a great view of the Himalayas (especially at night with clear skies). It's a nice, tranquil time of the year with cold, crisp mountain air. 

December to February 

If you prefer snow, travelling here in winter is recommended. Dhanaulti is covered in a blanket of snow during the winter months. At that time, the temperature drops considerably.   

Try to avoid visiting Dhanaulti sightseeing places during the peak monsoon (approximately July -August) since there is massive rainfall and the risk of landslides.

Nearby Attractions Around Dhanaulti  

While there are many places to visit in Dhanaulti, it also makes for an ideal starting point for additional exciting places to see in the Garhwal region. Here are some beautiful nearby Dhanaulti places to visit.

Mussoorie  

Mussoorie, about 24 km from Dhanaulti, is known as "Queen of the Hills" and has attractions such as Mall Road, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill and Camel's Back Road. A good choice if you want to enjoy the peacefulness of Dhanaulti and mix in some shopping, cafes and busy tourist spots.  

Chamba  

Only about 30 km away, Chamba has beautiful and panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and is known for its beauty and tranquility. It does not feel like a crowded hill station and is quiet, a good choice to add to your Uttarakhand honeymoon packages.  

New Tehri  

New Tehri, about 45 km from Dhanaulti, is famous for the large Tehri Dam and the beautiful Tehri Lake. There are many activities to enjoy, including boating, jet skiing, and other water sports. Experience the mountains mirror the serene lake waters. 

Rishikesh 

About 100 km from Dhanaulti, Rishikesh is known for yoga, the Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, river rafting, and iconic suspension bridges like Laxman Jhula. It's an excellent option if you want to combine a peaceful hill stay with both spiritual and adventure activities. 

Tucked away in the hills of Uttarakhand, Dhanaulti is peaceful and beautiful in a way that feels real, not staged. With varied Dhanaulti tourist attractions, you can walk under tall deodar trees, try out something adventurous at one of the camps, or just sit at a quiet temple on a hill, there’s a kind of calm here that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s the kind of spot where you actually feel the clean air, and the views — well, they stay with you long after you’ve left. So, pack your bags and discover the tranquil allure of the best places to visit in Dhanaulti for your next perfect hill getaway.

FAQs  

Q1. Are there any local markets or unique experiences to check out in Dhanaulti? 

Dhanaulti might not have bustling shopping streets like Mussoorie, but it has its own rustic charm, especially if you're looking to experience local culture. The area is known for its apple orchards, and depending on the season, you can visit these orchards for a taste of freshly plucked apples or apple cider. Local markets often sell handmade woollens, organic honey, jams, and handicrafts, providing a more authentic, laid-back shopping experience. If you're into organic and fresh produce, look for small roadside stalls or family-run shops selling homemade items. Dhanaulti also has a few roadside eateries where you can try delicious local dishes, often cooked with organic ingredients, offering an insight into the region’s food culture. 

 Q2. What off-the-beaten-path places near Dhanaulti are worth visiting? 

While Dhanaulti itself is a peaceful retreat, the surrounding areas offer a wealth of hidden gems that are worth exploring. A visit to Khatta Village, just 6 km from Dhanaulti, lets you experience rural life in its most serene form. This quiet village is surrounded by terraced fields and offers spectacular views of the valley. Another hidden treasure is Berinag, around 20 km from Dhanaulti, known for its secluded temples and untouched natural beauty. It’s perfect if you want to escape further from the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in tranquility. Chamba, a hill station about 45 minutes from Dhanaulti, offers panoramic views of the Gangotri Range and is a great place for a quiet picnic or nature walk. Each of these spots provides a slice of authentic, untouched Uttarakhand away from the usual tourist hustle. 

 Q3. What are the best trekking routes in Dhanaulti for nature lovers? 

Dhanaulti is a great base for trekkers looking to explore its lush landscapes and serene hilltops. One of the most popular treks is the route to Surkhanda Devi Temple, a moderate 2-3 hour hike offering stunning views of the surrounding valley, forests, and distant snow-capped peaks. It's a peaceful trek, and the temple at the top offers a sense of tranquility. Another great option is the Eco Park trek, where you can enjoy easy to moderate walks through dense oak and deodar forests. If you’re looking for something more offbeat, consider trekking to Chamba or exploring hidden paths in the Khatta Village area, where you’ll be surrounded by beautiful terraced fields and untouched nature. 

 Q4. What are the must-try food experiences in Dhanaulti? 

Though small, Dhanaulti offers a range of local and organic food that perfectly complements the region’s rustic vibe. One of the best things to try in this part of Uttarakhand is aloo ke parathe (potato-filled flatbreads), often served with yoghurt and pickles at local dhabas. Don’t miss out on pahadi (hill-region) cuisine like mandua roti (made from a local millet flour) and kafuli (a thick spinach-based curry). You’ll also find plenty of apple-based products here—fresh apples during the harvest season, or apple cider and apple jam in local shops. If you’re staying in a homestay, chances are you’ll be treated to home-cooked meals that make use of locally sourced ingredients like organic vegetables, honey, and fresh herbs. For a simple and fresh experience, try a local tea shop where you can sip on freshly brewed herbal teas while enjoying the views. 

 Q5. What type of packing should I do for a trip to Dhanaulti? 

Packing for Dhanaulti largely depends on the season you’re visiting. For spring and autumn, light woollens or a jacket should suffice during the evening, while daytime temperatures remain mild. In winter, you’ll need to bring heavier woollens, including thermal wear, as the temperature can drop significantly, especially at night. Waterproof shoes are a must if you're visiting during the monsoon season, as the trails can get slippery. Additionally, pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the strong sun during the day, and a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes. If you’re planning to go trekking or camping, make sure to pack appropriate gear, including sturdy shoes, a backpack, and water bottles.