Temples in Dhanaulti
- 01
Chandrabadani Devi Temple
A Shakti Peeth on Chandrakoot mountain at about 2,277 metres, worshipped as a Shri-yantra rather than an idol. A long drive from Dhanaulti, best on an overnight route.
- Time needed
- Half to full day including the drive
- Walking
- Moderate
- Best time
- April to June and September to November; the April fair is very crowded
- Tickets
- No entry fee is known. Dress modestly, remove footwear and follow temple rules; the large April fair brings heavy crowds and traffic.
- 02
Surkanda Devi Temple
A hilltop Shakti Peeth dedicated to the goddess Surkanda Devi, at about 2,756 metres. Reached by a short, steep climb from Kaddukhal village, it gives the best views near Dhanaulti.
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours including the climb and the drive
- Walking
- Demanding
- Best time
- Early morning, March to June and September to November
- Tickets
- There is no entry fee as far as reported, but check locally. Dress modestly, remove footwear before the shrine and follow temple rules on photography; fairs around Ganga Dussehra and Navratri bring very large crowds.
Landmarks in Dhanaulti
- 03
Aaloo Khet (Potato Farm) Viewpoint
A government potato farm on the ridge above Dhanaulti that travellers use as a sunrise and sunset viewpoint. Nothing to buy, nothing to book; it is simply open slope and sky.
- Time needed
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Sunrise or late afternoon, September to November and March to May
- Tickets
- There is no known ticketing, but check whether the farm is open to visitors and follow any local signs. Do not walk through planted fields.
Day trips in Dhanaulti
- 04
Chamba (Tehri Garhwal)
A small hill town at a junction of roads from Mussoorie, Rishikesh and the Tehri side, known for views over the Tehri reservoir and an April fair.
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Clear mornings, March to June and September to November
- Tickets
- There is no entry ticket for the town. The annual fair in April brings crowds and road delays, so plan around it.
Gardens and parks in Dhanaulti
- 05
Dhanaulti Eco Park
A forest department park of deodar and oak, split into two sections called Amber and Dhara, a short walk apart. It is the easiest and most dependable stop in Dhanaulti.
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Morning, March to June and September to November
- Tickets
- A small entry fee is reported, with adult and child rates; sources give different amounts and hours, so check at the gate. Extra activities such as sky walk or flying fox, if running, are charged separately.
