The route: Rishikesh → Narendranagar → Chamba → Kanatal → Dhanaulti is the direct hill road, about 100 km. The alternative is via Dehradun and Mussoorie, which is a little longer but has wider roads for much of the way. Distances quoted online vary between about 70 and 100 km depending on the route, so check the road you plan to use on a live map.
Realistic timing: 3.5 to 4.5 hours each way, because the hill road is slow. It is possible as a very long day, but a night in Dhanaulti makes it a pleasure. For a loop, ride up by the Chamba road and come back through Mussoorie and Dehradun, about 200 km in total over two days.
Which bike: a Classic 350, Hunter 350 or Himalayan. The roads are mostly good tarmac with long hairpins, and it gets cold at height, so you want something comfortable over several hours. We would not recommend the Activa for this distance.
Road conditions: generally good, narrow in places and slower than the distance suggests. Mornings can be foggy. Avoid riding hill roads after dark.
Permits: none. Our bikes carry commercial taxi-series plates and are approved for self-drive across Uttarakhand.
What to see: Dhanaulti sits in deodar and pine forest at roughly 2,300 m. The usual stops are the eco parks (small entry fees), the forest walks, and the Surkanda Devi temple, reached by a short climb from the road. It is quiet compared with Mussoorie.
Weather: it is much colder than Rishikesh, even in summer evenings. Carry a proper jacket, gloves and rain cover. In winter there can be snow, and road conditions can change quickly.
Fuel: fill up in Rishikesh. Pumps get sparse as you climb, so top up in Chamba or Mussoorie rather than assume.
Where to stay: Dhanaulti has camps, cottages and guesthouses. Book ahead for weekends and holidays.
Season: best from March to June and from October to November. December to February is cold with a chance of snow. July and August bring rain and fog.
Combine it: read our Mussoorie route guide for the town on the way, or see the Chopta ride if you want a longer trip.