Sept 18 – Sept 20 | Rishikesh: –
Day 4:
Explore Dhanaulti- On our way from Mussoorie to Rishikesh, we took a divergence at Dhanaulti. As suggested by the driver, we halted at a small kitchenette in the village area to savor aloo paratha for breakfast. Heading 30 km from Mussoorie, we reached a beautiful park carved out of Rajaji National Park, Dhanaulti Eco Park. Enjoyed the forest walk in the early morning breeze and planted a tree in our name.
Ahead 10 km, we reached Surkanda Devi Temple. A peaceful 1-hour trek uphill where we worshipped Durga Mata Avatar, Surkanda Devi with a beautiful view of Dehradun, Rishikesh, Chandrabadani, and Chakrata. It started raining heavily as we reached atop, so we spent some more time soaking the beauty of nature and once the rain subsided, it took us less than an hour to trek downhill.
Next on the way to Tehri Dam, the tallest dam in India, the car driver communicated that the dam took approx. 40 yearsfor completion but sadly made at the expense of displacing Chamba inhabitants. The crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains reminded me of my childhood drawing and coloring the tall mountain ranges with the sun peeking over & deep blue water flowing from one of the ranges. The Tehri Dam water comes from Gangotri and flows to Rishikesh. Must try is 10 mins Jet skiing to cruise on the lake and enjoy the beautiful view.
