YH Apr - May Issue | Page 27

DHANAULTI BECOMING ONE WITH NATURE We kept moving as there was no point halting in no man's land. In an hour, we reached Chamba where we found samosas and tea. It was really cold. Full of green meadows, places like Chamba and Dhanaulti deserve a stay but keeping the weather conditions and Yoga festival itinerary in mind, we surged ahead towards Rishikesh. SURKANDA DEVI TEMPLE KANATAL CAMP Dhanaulti situated at an altitude of 2286m, and is known for its quiet environs amidst the alpine forests of Deodar, Rhododendron and Oak. There are very few hotels here in Dhanaulti and don't expect too many eateries. So whatever you find, go with it.We were in the hunt for samosas and found none, saw the Kanatal Camp from a distance which is famous for its adventure activities. It was really cold and also drizzling. In fact, when we got out of our car near the Eco Park, we found snow forming at the corners of the road.We snapped a few pictures but it had really got dark and the wind was blowing strong in the woods. Pankaj pressed the accelerator yet again and we drove towards Chamba. But the moment we came out in the open, we’re in the face of the storm.The wind was blowing heavily now. One of our friends was quite concerned actually but the rest of us kept a brave face just to boost his morale. A nd as our tyres kept splashing pools of water on the mountain way to Dhanaulti, there was a childlike excitement at everything we saw on the way – the Mussoorie forests with its langoors, the amazing array of mountains resting upon the bosom of mother earth, the Himalayan air pumping fresh energy into our system - the trip was in itself a paradise.The altitude soared higher and the driving got more slow and watchful as we approached Dhanaulti. It took us over an hour to reach the hamlet which is considered a tourist's paradise. Located at a pretty high altitude, Dhanaulti promises one of the most endearing and exotic panoramic views of the Himalayas. Dhanaulti is a small town near Mussoorie, beautifully nestled amid the lofty Himalayan peaks. It can be a destination in itself, but it’s more of a serene pit stop for travelers heading for longer journeys. Thus, places to visit in Dhanaulti are not any grand attractions, but small and beautiful places that offer solitude and peace, close to nature. 25