Why Visit Auli?

Auli is one of the most sought-after hill stations in Uttarakhand, known for its incredible scenic beauty, adventure opportunities, and tranquil environment. Surrounded by majestic peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parbat, and Dunagiri, Auli provides spectacular panoramic views that leave every visitor mesmerized. Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a ski lover, or someone looking to rejuvenate amidst nature, Auli offers something special. The region is not only famous for skiing in winter but also boasts beautiful meadows, forests, and pristine lakes, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an escape from busy city life.

Places to Visit in Auli

 Auli is home to several must-visit places, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility. The Auli Artificial Lake is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world and offers a peaceful retreat. The Gurso Bugyal is a beautiful meadow that provides panoramic views of Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks. For an adventurous experience, you can trek to Chattarkund, a serene spot known for its freshwater lake. Don’t miss out on the spectacular views from the Auli Ropeway, which offers a bird’s eye view of the region.

• Auli Artificial Lake: Located at an altitude of 2,500 meters, this is one of the highest artificial lakes in the world. It is a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for unwinding or photography.
• Gurso Bugyal: Known for its lush meadows and spectacular views of Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, and Mana Parbat, Gurso Bugyal is a popular trekking destination. It is an ideal place for a picnic amidst nature.
• Auli Ropeway: The Auli Ropeway is one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, stretching over 4 km. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it a must-do activity.
• Chattarkund: A serene and picturesque lake, Chattarkund is located around 3 km from Auli and is a great spot for hiking and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by thick forests, offering a peaceful escape.
• Trekking Trails: For adventure enthusiasts, Auli provides trekking routes such as the Auli to Gurso Bugyal Trek, which offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks and lush meadows.

These places, along with the charming landscapes, make Auli an extraordinary destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for peace and serenity.

How to Reach Auli?

Getting to Auli involves a combination of road and air travel. The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), located about 280 km from Auli. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, the nearest town. The journey from Jolly Grant Airport to Joshimath typically takes about 8 to 10 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions.

From Joshimath, you can take a cab or the Auli Ropeway to reach Auli. The ropeway is a major attraction in itself, providing panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks and lush valleys.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling by train, Haridwar and Rishikesh are the nearest major railway stations, located about 280 km from Auli. After reaching Haridwar or Rishikesh, you can travel by road to Joshimath and then take a taxi to Auli.

For those who prefer a more adventurous route, trekking from Joshimath to Auli is a delightful option that lets you experience the region’s natural beauty up close.

Delhi to Auli Distance

The distance from Delhi to Auli is approximately 500 km, and travelers can choose from different modes of transport:

• By Road: A direct drive via NH7 takes around 10-12 hours, passing through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath before reaching Auli.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar (273 km) or Rishikesh (250 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Auli.
• By Air: The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (280 km). After landing, you can take a taxi or bus to Auli via Joshimath.
• By Ropeway: From Joshimath, the Auli Ropeway provides a scenic and convenient ride to Auli, especially during winter when roads might be blocked due to snowfall.

Best Time to Visit Auli

The best time to visit Auli depends on what you’re looking for. For skiing and snow activities, the winter months from December to March are perfect, as the region is covered in thick snow. If you’re planning a summer trip to enjoy the meadows and trekking, April to June offers pleasant weather and clear skies. For those who enjoy the monsoon season, July to September can be ideal for lush greenery, but it’s also the rainiest period, so trekking may be challenging.

• Winter (December to March): If you’re a skiing enthusiast or enjoy snow activities, winter is the ideal time to visit Auli. The snow-covered slopes, breathtaking views, and crisp air make it the perfect destination for winter sports. It is also the peak tourist season, with skiing festivals and events held regularly.
• Summer (April to June): For those who prefer pleasant weather and clear skies, the summer months offer ideal conditions for sightseeing, trekking, and nature walks. The meadows are lush, the temperature is comfortable, and the skies are clear, making it an excellent time to explore Auli.
• Monsoon (July to September): While monsoon season brings lush greenery to the region, it’s also the rainiest period, which can make trekking trails slippery and difficult. If you enjoy the monsoon atmosphere and don’t mind the rain, this season offers a quieter, more serene environment.
• Autumn (October to November): The autumn months offer clear skies, mild temperatures, and a less crowded atmosphere. This is another great time to visit Auli for a peaceful experience in nature.

Where to Stay in Auli

Accommodation in Auli varies from budget hotels to luxury resorts. For a cozy stay with great views, you can opt for eco-friendly camps or homestays in the nearby areas. Popular hotels and resorts like Auli Resort and The Tattva offer excellent amenities, including spacious rooms with breathtaking mountain views. For a more authentic experience, there are also charming guesthouses and lodges in Joshimath. Prices range from ₹1000 per night for budget stays to ₹5000+ for high-end resorts, depending on the season.

• Eco-Resorts: Many eco-resorts in Auli offer stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, along with eco-friendly amenities and activities such as nature walks, yoga sessions, and meditation. They provide a great balance of comfort and sustainability.
• Hotels: If you’re looking for more conventional accommodations, Auli has several mid-range hotels such as The Clifftop Club and Auli Resort, both of which offer spectacular views and all the basic amenities.
• Homestays and Camps: For a more rustic experience, homestays and camps around Auli offer a warm, personal experience with a chance to interact with locals. These can be very affordable, with prices starting around ₹1000-₹2000 per night.
• Guesthouses: There are also several guesthouses available for budget travelers in nearby towns like Joshimath, which offer easy access to Auli.

Hotels in Auli Uttarakhand

Auli offers a range of hotels suited for all kinds of travelers. The Auli Resort is a premium option, offering comfort and luxury with spacious rooms and views of the Himalayas. For budget travelers, GMVN Tourist Rest House provides clean and simple accommodations. Other mid-range options like Clifftop Club offer excellent amenities along with ski-in/ski-out access during the winter season. Prices for hotels in Auli Uttarakhand generally range from ₹6000 to ₹12000 per night, depending on the hotel and the season.

• The Auli Resort: Known for its luxury and comfort, The Auli Resort offers stunning views, modern amenities, and easy access to the Auli Ropeway. It is a great choice for those who want to enjoy a luxurious stay amidst nature.
• GMVN Tourist Rest House: The GMVN Tourist Rest House offers simple yet comfortable accommodation with a warm ambiance, located close to the skiing slopes and other attractions. It’s a budget-friendly option perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free stay.
• Clifftop Club: Located near the ski slopes, Clifftop Club offers a unique combination of convenience and comfort. It is one of the most popular mid-range options, with beautiful rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
• The Tattva: A luxury hotel offering spacious rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Prices for hotels in Auli Uttarakhand generally range from ₹5000 per night for budget stays to ₹10000+ per night for higher-end resorts and hotels.

Snow Skiing in Auli

 Auli is one of India’s premier destinations for snow skiing. With its vast, snow-covered slopes and perfect terrain, it attracts skiers from all around the world. The ski slopes in Auli are considered some of the best in Asia, with a variety of options for both beginners and experienced skiers.

The ski season in Auli typically runs from December to March, with clear weather and fresh snow providing ideal skiing conditions. The slopes here are well-maintained, and you can choose from a variety of skiing packages that include equipment rental and instructor-led lessons. The Auli Ski Resort offers skiing packages, ranging from ₹2500 to ₹6000 per day, depending on the type of skiing (beginners to advanced) and equipment rental.

In addition to skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are also popular activities, and the region has excellent facilities to support these sports. The charm of Auli lies in its untouched natural beauty and the opportunity to ski surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan views, making it an unforgettable experience for all winter sport lovers.

Joshimath to Auli Ropeway

The Joshimath to Auli Ropeway is one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, covering a distance of approximately 4 km.

• Ride Duration: 25 minutes of breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and lush forests.
• Features: Connects Joshimath to Auli, ensuring smooth access, especially during winter when roads might be blocked.

How Long is the Auli Ropeway?

• Distance: The Auli Ropeway covers 4 km, making it one of the longest cable cars in Asia.
• Duration: The ride takes about 25 minutes, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.

What is the Cost of the Auli Ropeway?

• Ticket Price: Approximately ₹1,000 per person for a round trip.
• Booking: Tickets can be purchased at the ropeway station, and it is advisable to check for any price changes before planning your trip.