Dhanaulti, perched at over 2,250m, is a tranquil Himalayan hamlet renowned for its thick deodar forests, cool breezes, Eco Parks, and panoramic snow-capped vistas—all just a short drive from Mussoorie. For those exploring the Garhwal hills, Dhanaulti often feels like “Mussoorie’s secret garden”: serene, less crowded, and irresistibly green in the monsoon and dazzling white in winter. If you’re starting from Mussoorie, here’s your comprehensive, actionable travel guide.
Distance from Mussoorie to Dhanaulti
- By Road: The direct distance is 25–31 km, depending on which part of Mussoorie you begin from and the precise route.
- Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours by car, taxi, or bus, depending on road and weather conditions.
- Elevation change: Mussoorie (~2,000m) to Dhanaulti (2,250m) with several gentle climbs and bends.
How to Reach Dhanaulti from Mussoorie
With no trains or airports up in the clouds, all travel is by scenic mountain road—making the journey itself part of the adventure.
1. By Road — Private Car, Taxi, or Self-Drive (Most Popular)
Route and Road Conditions
- Primary Route: Mussoorie → Landour → Buranskhanda → Dhanaulti (via Mussoorie-Dhanaulti Road, also marked as MDR 49 or Tehri Road)
- Distance: ~25–31 km, depending on your Mussoorie departure point (Library/King Craig/Landour)
- Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours (can be up to 2 hours in monsoon/winter or with sightseeing/photo halts)
- Road condition: Mostly well-paved, but winding with sharp bends and occasional narrow sections. Stunning mountain and valley views all the way, with dhabas and tea stalls en route.
Taxi/Car Fare (as of July 2025)
- Small private taxi (sedan): ₹1,400–₹2,200 one-way (return trip possible at similar rates, or better if you bargain for a half-day tour)
- SUVs/Tempo Traveller: ₹2,000–₹3,200 (great for groups/family or with extra luggage)
- Self-drive rentals: Available in Mussoorie/Dehradun for those comfortable with hill driving
Advantages
- Door-to-door comfort: Especially helpful for families, groups, or those with luggage.
- Flexible: Stop at Landour, Buranskhanda, or any viewpoint/café for photos, Maggi, tea, or short walk.
- Best for: Photographers, birders, family escapes, or slow travelers seeking spontaneous detours.
Tips
- Start early to enjoy clear views and avoid afternoon mist or summer holiday traffic.
- Refuel in Mussoorie or Landour—few pumps until Dhanaulti.
- In monsoon (July–September), check for landslide or weather advisories.
- Drive slowly on bends, and be prepared for foggy patches in winter or late evenings.
2. By Bus (Budget-Friendly & Social)
Public Buses
- Operator: Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private minibus services.
- Departure Points: Mussoorie Library Bus Stand (central town) and Landour Chowk.
- Frequency: 4–8 buses daily, mostly in morning/afternoon; check times at local stand or hotels.
- Journey Time: 1.5–2 hours, with regular stops at Kuari Pass, Buranskhanda, and village points en route.
- Fare: ₹55–₹120 (ordinary/state bus; no luxury or Volvo on this short route)
Pros & Cons
- Cheap and reliable: Used by locals and travelers alike.
- Chance to meet fellow tourists or locals.
- May not offer much room for big bags or luxury comfort.
- Buses can fill fast on weekends—arrive 15–30 min before departure for a seat.
Tips
- Confirm bus timings on arrival or with your hotel (times may change seasonally).
- For late afternoon/evening return to Mussoorie, check last-bus timing.
3. By Shared Jeep/Maxicab
- Shared jeeps and maxicabs run from Landour/Mussoorie market to Dhanaulti when full (8–10 passengers).
- Fare: ₹150–₹250 per seat.
- Great for solo/backpacker travelers or those who missed bus timings.
- Also available for hire as a private ride (fare similar to taxis above).
4. By Hired Scooter/Motorbike (Adventurous)
- Scooter/bike rentals available in Mussoorie/Landour.
- Fare: ₹700–₹1,200 per day, fuel extra.
- Ideal for: Solo/couple travelers who want an exhilarating, flexible day trip or stop at every viewpoint/café.
- Safety: Only for confident riders; helmets compulsory; avoid after dark or in fog.
Additional Route & Local Information
Best Time to Visit Dhanaulti
- March–June: Cool, breezy spring-early summers; rhododendron blooms, clear views.
- July–September: Lush monsoon greens; the road is beautiful but drive with caution.
- October–February: Misty autumn and bracing winter; chance of snow December–February.
What to Pack
- Summer: Light jacket, sunhat, sunglasses, sturdy walking shoes.
- Monsoon: Waterproof jackets, umbrella, shoes with grip.
- Winter: Heavy jackets, thermals, gloves, woolen cap/scarf.
Places to Stop En Route & in Dhanaulti
- Landour: Heritage walks, famed bakeries (e.g., Landour Bakehouse), and pine forests.
- Buranskhanda: Famous bend with dhabas, tea at the Himalayan viewpoint.
- Dhanaulti: Eco Park, Surkanda Devi Temple (3km further, involves a 2km trek), apple orchards.
Local & Safety Tips
- Book taxi in advance for holiday/peak weekends (May–June, New Year).
- Carry cash for small dhabas/market purchases.
- Buses and jeeps may be crowded on festival/weekends; for comfort, take an earlier bus or a taxi.
- Signal can be intermittent on hilly bends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I visit Dhanaulti as a day trip from Mussoorie?
A: Absolutely! Many do so—if you leave by 8–9am, you can see Dhanaulti, lunch at Eco Park, and return by 4–6pm.
Q: Are roads motorable all year round?
A: Yes, except for rare, heavy snow closures in Jan–Feb. In monsoon, travel slower due to possible landslides or fog.
Q: Is there a direct bus/micro to Dhanaulti from Dehradun?
A: Yes, but indirect from Mussoorie is much more convenient for local stays/tourists.
Q: Are taxis available for return as well?
A: Yes, most Mussoorie taxis offer roundtrip fare or wait for you in Dhanaulti for 2–3 hours for an extra charge.
Q: Is the route safe for self-drive?
A: Yes; well-paved, but go slow, mind hairpins, and avoid overtaking on bends.
Conclusion
Traveling from Mussoorie to Dhanaulti is a short, soul-refreshing journey: green valleys, pine forests, and panoramic bends lead you to a peaceful Garhwal retreat. Whether you choose a private taxi, group bus, shared jeep, or even a bike, you’re guaranteed a scenic ride. Book ahead in high season, pack for cool weather, and prepare for Dhanaulti’s quiet charm, hilltop parks, and iconic Himalayan views—all just over an hour away from Mussoorie’s bustle.
