This was August 2011 when we planned to go to Dhanaulti and Kanataal in our own car and it was pre decided to go with out crossing the mussoorie. The road and Route from Mussorie to Dhanaulti was extremely awesome and Dhanaulti was much colder than Mussorie which is about 35 KM from their. There were not so much option to stay hence we pre booked our room in GMVN Dhanaulti where staying in top most rooms is an better option as you can enjoy the nature and Eco park which are situated in front of hotel only. Food was good (Especially break fast) and staff was cooperative.
There are not so much tourist spot except Two temples (One on some height and another on the way, two eco parks as picnic spot parks, site scenes, Blue point (By using horse riding) and close to nature and peace full. Market is not there to shop except some local restaurant where you may get snacks like pakoday, maggi, tea etc. (which is actually an symbol of hill station). While returning from Dhanaulti staying for one day/ night at Kanataal which is 12 KM away from there is an advisable option by staying in Tent / Camps of Camp Carnival to have some change. Which are little costly and do provide some indoor and out door playing/ activities facility with fire bone facility in nights.
They do provide all meals free of cost having quality was OK, else kanataal is also does not have any picnic spot / tourist spot except some site scenes of natures/ hills etc. Any way it is an good place for those who are interested to have peace, close to nature and interested to walk, walk and Walk in weekend. And not recommending for those they do not go in their own car.