Auli, also known as the skiing paradise of India, is a scenic hill station in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 2,800 meters, Auli is famous for its snow-covered slopes, panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul, and year-round adventure activities.
Whether you’re visiting for skiing in winter, trekking in summer, or witnessing the Valley of Flowers in monsoon, Auli offers something for every traveler.
Is Auli worth visiting?
Yes, Auki is worth visiting. Here are the reasons:
• Winter sports: Auli offers exceptional opportunities for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding
• Longest ropeway: The rope here is the longest in India and the second longest in Asia
• Popular bugyals: Auli Bugyals are ideal for nature lovers and trekkers
• Lakes: Chattrakund Lake and Artificial Lake
• Mountains: It is surrounded by Nanda Devi Peak and Trishul Peak
• Camping: the best place for camping to relax in nature, away from crowded cities
Things to do in Auli
How to plan a perfect trip to Auli
Auli is located in the upper range of the Himalayas, and it is a very famous tourist place offering skiing, cable car rides, and more. A perfect plan is necessary. You can plan the Auli trip by considering the following points.
• Find the best time to visit
• Find how to reach by flight, train, and road
• Find the best accommodations for your stay – book in advance
• Activities to do- adventure
• Search for what to see and prepare an itinerary
Auli itinerary for 3 days
Day 1
Arrive in Auli via Joshimath, after checking hotel
Enjoy the world’s best skiing slopes and the mesmerising view of Auli
Enjoy Joshimath – Auli Ropeway
Visit the Artificial Lake
Return to the hotel and stay overnight
Day 2
Visit the meadow Gorson Bugyal
Chattrakund Lake
Relax in the hotel
Day 3
Visit the valley of Flowers national park
Departure
Tip – If you are adventure seekers, visit different peaks in Auli, then it will take more days.
Top Sightseeing Places in Auli
Here are the must-visit attractions when you’re in Auli:
1. Joshimath – Auli Ropeway
One of the highest and longest ropeways in Asia (after Gulmarg, Kashmir), the Joshimath–Auli Ropeway stretches 4.15 km and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Height: 3,016 meters above sea level
- Capacity: 25 passengers
- Timings: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Best Time: Winter, when roads close due to snow, and the ropeway becomes the only access.
- Track distance: 4.15 km
- Tickets: Available online via the official GMVN website.
2. Gorson Bugyal
A vast alpine meadow just 3 km from Auli, Gorson Bugyal is surrounded by oak and coniferous forests, offering panoramic Himalayan views.
- Altitude: 3,056 meters
- Trek Distance: 6 km round trip from Auli
- Temperature: 8°C to 20°C (summer), 0°C (December)
- Activities: Skiing in winter, trekking in summer.
3. Auli Artificial Lake
Known as Chenab Lake, this is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world. Built to create artificial snow for ski slopes, it is surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks and is a photographer’s delight.
- Distance from GMVN Auli: 1 km
- Best For: Photography, peaceful walks.
4. Ski Resorts in Auli
Auli is India’s top skiing destination, offering professional slopes and annual ski competitions. Popular ski resorts include:
- Ski & Snow Cliff Top Club Holiday Resort
- Auli Ski Adventure
- GMVN Ski Resort
- Auli Skiing
5. Valley of Flowers National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 87 sq km park is home to hundreds of flower species, changing colors every month.
- Best Time: July to mid-August
- Route: Auli → Joshimath → Govindghat → 13 km trek to the valley.
6. Nanda Devi National Park
Famous for its wilderness, Nanda Devi National Park surrounds India’s second-highest peak (7,815 m).
- Wildlife: Snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, bharal, musk deer.
- Trek Distance: 26 km circular trek from Joshimath.
7. Trishul Peak
A group of three peaks resembling Lord Shiva’s trident.
- Height: 7,120 meters
- Best Time: Jan–Mar and Jun–Dec
- Highlights: Golden glow at sunset, challenging trekking routes.
8. Chattrakund Lake
A small, crystal-clear lake located 4 km from Auli at an altitude of 3,300 meters. Surrounded by lush forests, it’s ideal for nature walks and photography.
9. Camping in Auli
Experience the Himalayas up close with camping options like:
- Auli Adventure Camp
- Chardham Camp Joshimath
- Himalayan Eco Lodge
- Auli Woods Luxury Camping
10. Joshimath
Also called Jyotirmath, Joshimath is the base for Badrinath pilgrimage, trekking routes, and skiing adventures. Founded by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century, it’s both a religious and adventure hub.
11. Kuari Pass Trek
Known as the Curzon Trail, this 33 km trek offers stunning views of Nanda Devi and passes through oak, rhododendron, and deodar forests.
- Altitude: 3,876 meters
- Base: Tapovan village near Joshimath.
Location of Auli
Auli lies on the road from Dehradun to Badrinath, close to Joshimath and Badrinath.
- Altitude: 2,800 meters
- State: Uttarakhand, India.
Weather in Auli
- Summer (Mar–Jun): 5°C to 20°C, pleasant and green.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): 8°C to 18°C, heavy rain, lush landscapes.
- Winter (Nov–Feb): -4°C to 10°C, heavy snowfall, perfect for skiing.
Best Time to Visit Auli
- November to February – Temperature ranges between -8o C to 10o C, which is ideal for skiing and other sports activities like snowboarding due to heavy snowfall.
- April to June: Ideal for trekking, other outdoor activities, and sightseeing, the temperature is warm and pleasant.
- July to October – Excellent time for those seeking a quieter experience amidst the serenity of nature, particularly for the Valley of Flowers
How to Reach Auli
- By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (286 km).
- By Train: Nearest stations – Haridwar (273 km) & Dehradun (285 km).
- By Road:
- Delhi to Auli – 520 km (overnight drive)
- Rishikesh to Auli – 263 km
- Joshimath to Auli – 2 km (via ropeway or road)
Ski & Snow Cliff Top Club Holiday Resort
A popular 3-star resort located 13 km from Joshimath.
- Specialty: Ski slopes, snowboarding facilities, scenic mountain views.
Final Words
From thrilling skiing slopes to tranquil alpine meadows, Auli is a year-round paradise. Whether you’re visiting for adventure or relaxation, this Himalayan gem promises an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
Q: Is it safe to travel to Auli by car?
The drive to Auli requires skill in hilly terrain. That road is typical of Mussoorie. If you have confidence and skill, you can drive to Auli in your car.
Q: How many days are enough for Auli?
2 -3 days are enough for Auli to explore attractions, ski, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you are interested in relaxed experiences and visiting nearby attractions, then 5 days are sufficient.
Q: Where to stay when visiting Auli?
Auli has a lot of hotels, resorts, homestays, villas, and farm stays for all types of budgets.
Q: What is the distance between Delhi and Auli?
The distance between Delhi and Auli is 36 km by road
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