Dharasu is a peaceful hill town in Uttarkashi district, known for apple orchards, pine‑clad slopes and clear views of the higher Himalayas. It is an important halt on the Char Dham circuit, where roads from Yamunotri and Gangotri meet at the famous Dharasu Bend.
Tourism in Dharasu
Tourism in Dharasu is still low‑key and revolves around scenic drives, village walks and stopovers for Char Dham pilgrims. Travellers stay here to enjoy river views of the Bhagirathi, nearby dams and quiet countryside before heading towards Uttarkashi, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Tehri or Barkot.
Location
Dharasu lies about 32 km before Uttarkashi town, on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, at an elevation of roughly 1,340 metres. It sits where the roads from Barkot–Yamunotri join the Gangotri highway, making it a strategic junction on NH‑34 in the Garhwal Himalayas.
History
Historically, Dharasu grew as a small market and rest point on the pilgrimage and trade route linking Rishikesh, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The construction of the Dharasu Hydroelectric Power Station on the Bhagirathi further increased its regional importance by providing electricity and local employment.
Fairs and Festivals
Dharasu follows the wider Garhwali cultural calendar, celebrating Makar Sankranti, Harela, Holi and Diwali with village rituals, folk music and community feasts. During the Char Dham Yatra season, the town becomes livelier as shops and dhabas cater to pilgrims moving towards Gangotri and Yamunotri.
How to reach
Dharasu is reached mainly by road:
- From Rishikesh or Haridwar, drive on NH‑34 via Narendranagar and Tehri; the distance is about 140–165 km, taking 4–5 hours.
- From Dehradun, travel via Mussoorie and Chamba (around 115–120 km, about 4.5 hours).
There is no railway station or airport in Dharasu; the nearest rail hubs are Dehradun, Rishikesh and Haridwar, from where buses or shared jeeps continue to the town.
Tourist attractions
- Dharasu Bend & Bhagirathi Riverside: Scenic viewpoint where highways meet, with views of the river, surrounding hills and apple orchards.
- Dharasu Hydroelectric Power Station: Run‑of‑the‑river project on the Bhagirathi, interesting for engineering and landscape photography.
- Nearby Maneri Dam: A picturesque dam and reservoir about 40–45 km away, popular for short visits from Dharasu.
- Sangam Chatti & Dodital base, Barsu village, Nelong Valley and Uttarkashi town are accessible excursions for trekking, camping and cultural experiences.
Cuisine of Dharasu
Cuisine in Dharasu is simple and hearty, typical of Garhwal. Roadside dhabas and lodges serve aloo ke gutke, rajma‑chawal, dal, rotis, seasonal saag and plenty of chai to pilgrims and travellers. In season, fresh local apples and kidney beans (rajma) from nearby villages are common highlights of the local food scene.
