Dhanaulti is a small, quiet hill station at about 2,286 m in Tehri Garhwal district, on the road from Mussoorie to Chamba. Unlike busy Mussoorie, about 25 km away, it is mostly forest: deodar, oak and rhododendron woods, two eco parks, apple orchards and wide views of the Garhwal Himalaya on clear days.
Being higher than Mussoorie, Dhanaulti gets snow more often in winter, which makes it a popular snow day trip from Dehradun and Mussoorie. The hilltop Surkanda Devi Temple, reached by a ropeway or a short climb, is close by.
Why go to Dhanaulti
Winter snow
Higher than Mussoorie, so snow is more likely between late December and February.
Forest eco parks
Amber and Dhara eco parks have walking trails through deodar forest, run by the forest department.
Surkanda Devi Temple
Hilltop shrine at about 2,700 m with wide Himalayan views, a short ropeway ride from Kaddukhal.
Things to do in Dhanaulti
Walk the eco parks
Amber eco park is just past the town towards Chamba; Dhara eco park is just before it, towards Mussoorie.
Surkanda Devi Temple
Drive about 8 km to Kaddukhal, then take the ropeway (about 10 minutes, open since 2022) or walk the steep 2 km path.
Snow play
After a fresh fall, the eco parks and forest roads turn white. Check road conditions first.
Kanatal
Another quiet hill area about 15 km further on the Chamba road, known for camps and views.
Distances from Dhanaulti
Before you go
- Facilities are limited: few ATMs, petrol pumps and medical shops. Carry cash and fill fuel in Mussoorie or Dehradun.
- After heavy snow, the Mussoorie-Dhanaulti road can close for a while; check before driving.
- Weather changes fast; carry a warm layer even in summer.
- In the monsoon, a few landslide-prone stretches lie between Mussoorie and Dhanaulti.
Dhanaulti FAQs
Does it snow in Dhanaulti?
Often, though not every winter. Snow is most likely between late December and February. Dhanaulti is higher than Mussoorie, so it gets snow more often.
Is Dhanaulti better than Mussoorie?
They suit different trips. Dhanaulti is quiet and forested with few shops; Mussoorie has Mall Road, more hotels and more to do. Many people stay in Mussoorie and visit Dhanaulti for the day.
How far is Surkanda Devi from Dhanaulti?
About 8 km by road to Kaddukhal, then a short ropeway ride or a steep 2 km walk to the temple.
