Auli, a peaceful hill station in Uttarakhand, is famous for its snow-covered slopes and ropeway rides. It’s a popular skiing destination during winters and turns into a lush green meadow during summer. With amazing views of Nanda Devi and peaceful surroundings, Auli is perfect for both adventure lovers and families who want to relax in the mountains. Whether you’re planning a ski holiday, a cable car experience, or a short escape from city noise, this Auli Travel Guide covers everything you need.
Why Visit Auli?
Auli is known as one of the best skiing destinations in India, but there’s more to it than snow. The place offers stunning Himalayan views, peaceful vibes, fresh air, and a relaxing atmosphere. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli is a highlight, especially for families and kids. During summer, Auli becomes a green paradise with apple orchards and scenic trekking trails. If you want a short, peaceful vacation in nature, Auli is a great choice—ideal for honeymooners, nature lovers, and slow travelers.
How to Reach Auli
To reach Auli, first get to Joshimath, about 270 km from Rishikesh (8–9 hrs by road). The nearest airport is Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport), and the closest railway stations are Haridwar and Dehradun. From there, take a taxi to Joshimath. The final stretch to Auli is either a 16 km uphill drive or a 25-minute cable car ride. If the weather’s good, take the ropeway—it’s fast and has stunning views.
- By Road: You can drive or take a taxi till Joshimath via Rishikesh. Auli is about 270 km from Rishikesh (8–9 hours). Roads are good but winding.
- By Train: The nearest station is Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, you’ll need a cab to reach Joshimath.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), 280 km away. From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath.
From Joshimath, you can either take a 16 km road uphill to Auli or enjoy the cable car ride (approx. 25 minutes).
Best Time to Visit Auli
Visit Auli in January or February if you want snow and skiing. March to June is best for clear skies, cool weather, and green slopes—ideal for relaxing or short treks. October and November are quiet with chilly air and sharp mountain views. July to September sees light to moderate rain; fewer tourists, but roads may slow you down. Plan based on what kind of trip you want—snow, peace, or pleasant weather.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Perfect for skiing and snow activities. Expect snow, cold weather, and busy ski season.
- Spring/Summer (Mar–June): Great for peaceful stays, trekking, and cool weather. Meadows are green and blooming.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): Rainy season. Not recommended due to landslides and muddy roads.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): Cold begins, views are clear, and it’s less crowded—ideal for photography and peace seekers.
Places to Visit in Auli
Auli is small but packed with scenic spots. Visit the Auli Ropeway from Joshimath—it’s the top highlight. Stop by the Artificial Lake, especially during sunset. Take a short hike to Gorson Bugyal, a wide meadow with open views. Chattrakund Lake is another calm spot, just 1 km from Gorson. From most points in Auli, you’ll see Nanda Devi and Trishul Peaks—great for photography. Also explore Narsingh Temple and local markets in nearby Joshimath. All places are close, so you can cover them easily in 1–2 days.
- Auli Artificial Lake: One of the highest man-made lakes, it reflects the mountains beautifully. It’s peaceful and great for photography.
- Auli Ropeway: A 4.5 km cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli with epic views. It’s the second longest in Asia.
- Gorson Bugyal: A meadow at 3,000 m altitude. A short trek from Auli (3 km). Best in summer.
- Chattrakund Lake: A small, crystal-clear lake surrounded by forest—good for short hikes.
- Narsingh Temple (Joshimath): An old temple with links to the Badrinath story, located near Auli.
- Trishul Peak & Nanda Devi Viewpoints: Visible from many points in Auli, perfect for clicking photos.
Where to Stay in Auli
Auli has limited stay options, so book early—especially in winter. For budget travellers, GMVN guest houses and Zostel Auli are decent picks. For mid-range, check out The Tattva Resort or hotels in Joshimath with good views and food. If you want premium stay, go for Clifftop Club Auli—it’s right on the slope with panoramic views. Some tourists prefer staying in Joshimath and visiting Auli during the day, since it has more hotel choices. Always confirm heating and hot water in winter stays.
- Budget: GMVN Guest House, small homestays in Joshimath, Zostel Auli (hostel vibes).
- Deluxe: The Tattva Resort, Mount View Hotel – clean rooms with decent views.
- Premium: Cliff Top Club Auli – Ski-in-ski-out luxury with panoramic views. Auli D Resort also offers boutique mountain stays.
Book in advance for winter months as there are very few options, and prices go up quickly.
Where to Eat in Auli
Food options in Auli are limited but decent. Most hotels serve simple North Indian meals with a few local Garhwali dishes. The Ski Story Café at CASA Himalaya is popular for its cozy setup and good views—great for coffee, Maggi, or a light lunch. Oryza Restaurant offers local flavours like mandua roti and jhangora kheer. Premium hotels like Cliff Top Club serve buffet meals with Indian and continental options. For more variety, head to nearby Joshimath, where you’ll find small dhabas and cafés. Food is basic but satisfying—don’t expect big menus, just hot meals with a mountain view.
- At GMVN Auli: Offers basic but filling meals—dal, rice, sabzi, and paratha.
- Tattva Café (Joshimath): Famous for woodfire pizza, coffee, and mountain vibes.
- Small dhabas en route Auli: Hot maggi, chai, and aloo paratha are common.
- Luxury hotels: Serve multi-cuisine buffets or à la carte meals with good views.
Auli is more about food with views than fancy restaurants. Simplicity is the charm here.
How to Commute Within Auli
Auli is small and easy to get around. Most places are walkable if you’re staying near the GMVN area or ski point. To reach higher slopes, take the chair lift, which runs during the ski season. If you’re staying in Joshimath, use the Auli ropeway—a scenic 25-minute ride to the top. Local taxis are available but limited, and roads can be steep or slippery in winter. Wear good shoes, especially in snow. No autos or public transport here—just walking, ropeways, or short drives. Plan your stay location wisely to avoid too much uphill walking.
- Ropeway (Joshimath to Auli): Saves time and gives scenic views.
- Chair Lift (Ski Base to Tower 10): Operates during ski season (paid ride).
- Taxis from Joshimath: You can hire a local cab to move around, especially if staying downhill.
Wear good shoes, especially in winter. The place is hilly and may be slippery with snow.
Things to Do in Auli
Auli is all about relaxing in nature and enjoying the outdoors. In winter, skiing is the main activity—lessons and gear rentals are easily available. Don’t miss the Auli ropeway ride, one of the highest in India, with killer views. Take a short trek to Gorson Bugyal or just walk around the open meadows. If you’re into photos, the sunrise and sunset views over Nanda Devi are stunning. During summer, it’s quiet and green—perfect for reading, stargazing, or chilling with chai. It’s not a crowded tourist spot, so take it slow and soak in the peace.
- Skiing: The most popular activity. You can book ski lessons or packages through GMVN or private instructors.
- Cable Car Ride: Auli ropeway is a must-do. Go during clear weather.
- Trekking: Try the short trek to Gorson Bugyal or continue up to Kuari Pass (multi-day trek).
- Photography: Himalayan views are best during sunrise and sunset. Carry a zoom lens if you have one.
- Relaxing: Just sit back, sip chai, and enjoy the mountains. Auli is peaceful and healing.
Skiing in Auli
Skiing in Auli is the main winter highlight, especially from January to early March when the slopes are covered in fresh snow. Whether you’re a beginner or just trying it for fun, it’s easy to get started—gear rentals cost around ₹1,500 a day, and basic lessons start at ₹2,000. GMVN and private schools offer proper 7 to 14-day courses with instructors and stay options. Even if you’re not into full courses, a one-day ski session is totally worth it. The views, the snow, the vibe—Auli is where you’ll want to fall (and ski) again and again.
- Season: Mid-Dec to mid-March (depends on snowfall).
- Training: GMVN offers certified instructors and ski courses. You can also book short lessons (1–5 days).
- Gear: Available on rent at ski point. Includes skis, boots, helmet, gloves.
- Price Range: ₹1,500 to ₹4,500 per day depending on package.
- Tip: Pre-book during peak season. Beginners can also enjoy basic skiing for fun.
Travel Tips for Senior Citizens & Families
Auli is calm, clean, and peaceful—great for seniors and families if you plan smart. Stay close to the ski point or GMVN area to avoid too much walking. Use the ropeway from Joshimath instead of driving up—easier and scenic. Pack warm clothes, even in summer evenings it gets chilly. Carry basic medicines, especially for motion sickness, cold, or minor altitude discomfort. If travelling with kids, keep snacks, gloves, and proper shoes handy. Avoid monsoon season as roads can slow you down. Don’t rush—Auli is meant to be enjoyed slow, with tea, fresh air, and open views.
- Use the ropeway from Joshimath to avoid steep roads.
- Stay close to GMVN or ski point to reduce movement.
- Carry warm clothes—even in summer, evenings are cold.
- Keep basic medicines for motion sickness, cold, and altitude.
- If traveling with kids, plan rest days and keep them warm.
- Avoid visiting in monsoon or snowstorms—it can be risky.
Book hotels in advance and keep one day extra for delays. Internet is patchy, so download maps and bookings offline.
Nearby Places to Explore from Auli
If you’ve got an extra day or two, there are some great spots near Auli worth checking out. Joshimath is just 16 km away—visit Narsingh Temple or stroll through the local market. Tapovan is nearby, known for its hot springs and quiet vibe. Badrinath is around 55 km, doable in a day if roads are clear. In summer, plan a trek to Valley of Flowers or Hemkund Sahib via Govindghat. For serious trekkers, the Kuari Pass trail starts right from Auli. These places add more depth to your trip—spiritual, scenic, or just offbeat.
- Joshimath (10 km): Religious town, base for Auli and Badrinath. Visit temples, local market, and Kalpavriksha.
- Tapovan (15 km): Small village known for hot springs and peaceful walks.
- Badrinath (55 km): If open, this sacred temple town is a good addition.
- Valley of Flowers (only in summer): Accessible from Govindghat, not too far from Auli. Requires a 14 km trek.
- Kuari Pass Trek: Multi-day trekking route that starts from Auli and gives full Himalayan range views.
