5-Day Auli and Chopta Tour

• Haridwar to Auli distance: 300 km, approx. 10–11 hours by road
• Auli to Chopta distance: 130 km, around 5–6 hours by road
• Altitude range: 2,600 to 2,800 meters
• Best travel season: December to June 
• Climate: Auli (winter: -5°C to 5°C, summer: 7°C to 20°C), Chopta (winter: -8°C to 10°C, summer: 8°C to 20°C)

Why Choose Auli and Chopta Tour from Haridwar?

Starting this trip from Haridwar makes the journey easier and less tiring, especially for those traveling from Delhi or other plains. Haridwar is just a 5–6 hour train ride from Delhi and is well connected by road. Once you’re in Haridwar, you can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to Joshimath (base town for Auli), and then on to Chopta.

• Time-saving route compared to Delhi–Auli direct road trip (which is ~500 km)
• Multiple train and bus options to Haridwar
• Access to quality hotels and travel assistance in Haridwar
• Ideal base point for Garhwal region trips
• Fewer travel breaks mean more time in Auli and Chopta

Best Time to Visit Auli and Chopta

The best time to visit Auli and Chopta depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you love snow and want to try skiing, the winter months from December to February are ideal. Auli turns into a snowy wonderland with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C, while Chopta stays cold with snow in higher areas, and temperatures between -8°C and 8°C. For trekking, scenic mountain views, and pleasant weather, the March to June period is best. During these months, Auli sees daytime temperatures between 7°C to 18°C, and Chopta stays cool and green with temperatures from 8°C to 20°C — perfect for the Tungnath and Chandrashila treks.

Seasonal Overview:

December to February: Snowfall, skiing in Auli, cold weather
March to June: Best for trekking and sightseeing, clear skies
July to August: Avoid due to heavy rain and landslides
September to November: Crisp air, clear views, fewer crowds

Auli and Chopta Tour Package for Families

This trip is highly suitable for families with children or elderly members. The drives are long but safe, and there are frequent breaks with scenic views and food options. Hotels in Auli and Chopta offer clean, basic, and sometimes luxury accommodations. If you’re not into trekking, you can still enjoy forest walks and mountain views.

• Auli ropeway is a hit among kids and elders alike
• Comfortable cabs and shorter hikes suitable for all age groups
• Moderate altitude helps avoid altitude sickness
• Easy access to medical shops in Joshimath (near Auli)
• Approximate family tour cost (for 4): ₹20,000–₹28,000 (mid-range stay)

Auli and Chopta Tour for Senior Citizens

If you or someone you’re traveling with is a senior citizen, this tour can be a peaceful and health-friendly retreat. With the right planning (comfortable stays, short walks, minimal trekking), it’s totally doable. Skip the Tungnath trek if mobility is limited, but don’t miss the meadow views and serene ambiance.

• Stay in hotels or resorts close to road access
• Ropeway to Auli (Joshimath to Auli) avoids rough terrain
• Keep one day for full rest during the tour
• Avoid late-night travel in hilly roads
• Carry essentials: walking stick, regular medicines, ORS, and warm clothing

Auli and Chopta Tour for Couples

If you’re planning a romantic escape or a short honeymoon, Auli and Chopta are perfect. Auli’s snow-covered landscapes and Chopta’s pine forests create a cozy and scenic vibe. Choose a wooden cabin or a luxury camp, and enjoy peaceful time together. Add in some sunrise views and quiet forest walks, and you have the ideal mountain getaway.

• Romantic stays available in Auli with valley views
• Bonfire and candlelight dinners possible in resorts
• Walk together on the Gorson Bugyal trail (Auli)
• Watch sunrise from Chandrashila if you’re up for a short trek
• Sunset viewpoint near Chopta is great for peaceful evenings

Top Things to Do in Auli

While Auli is mostly known for skiing, there’s more to do depending on the season. Winter brings thick snow, while summers offer views of Nanda Devi and other peaks. The Auli Ropeway is one of the longest (4.15 km) in Asia and takes about 25 minutes to reach Auli from Joshimath.

Skiing: December to February, starts at ₹1,500 for beginners
Auli Ropeway: ₹1,000 approx. for round trip
Gorson Bugyal Trek: Easy 3–4 km trek, 2–3 hours
Artificial Lake: Small but scenic, great for sunrise/sunset
Chairlift ride: Another fun way to enjoy the slopes

Must-Visit Places in Chopta

Chopta is all about simplicity and untouched natural beauty. It’s also the starting point for the trek to Tungnath Mahadev Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, at about 3,680 meters. The temple opens around May and closes around October, depending on the snowfall. Just 1 km ahead is Chandrashila, a summit point with 270-degree views of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Kedarnath Dome.

Tungnath Trek: 3.5 km one way; moderate difficulty; opens May–Oct
Chandrashila Summit: Another 1 km; reach here before noon for best views
Deoriatal Lake: 2.5 km trek from Sari Village; reflection of Chaukhamba in clear water
Local campsites: Budget and eco-stay options with basic facilities
Forest trails: Best explored in early morning or evening

Accessibility and Travel Tips

Though remote, Auli and Chopta are reachable with good planning. Roads from Haridwar to Joshimath are broad and maintained. From Joshimath, you take a short ropeway ride or drive up to Auli. Chopta’s last stretch is narrow and may require a smaller vehicle in case of snow or monsoon season.

Haridwar to Auli: 10–11 hours by car, take NH7 via Rudraprayag and Joshimath
Auli to Chopta: 5–6 hours by road via Gopeshwar
Avoid self-driving if you’re not used to hill roads
Book stays and permits (if any) in advance during peak season
Airtel and Jio work best; avoid Airtel/Vodafone in remote spots

What to Pack for the Auli and Chopta Tour

Weather changes quickly, especially from late afternoon onward. Wear layers and keep emergency basics in your daypack. If you plan to trek, don’t forget a torch, trekking shoes, and an extra pair of socks. It’s better to overpack than miss something important.

• Layered winter wear, rain jacket if traveling during shoulder season
• Gloves, mufflers, thermal innerwear
• Trekking shoes, water bottle, sunscreen
• Head torch or flashlight
• Basic medicines and ID proof

Local Food and Cultural Experience

In Auli and Chopta, expect home-style vegetarian meals. Dhabas serve local Garhwali dishes, especially in Chopta. You won’t find big cafes or restaurants, but the food is fresh and tasty. Also, locals are humble and welcoming — respecting them goes a long way in getting a great experience.

• Try Aloo Ke Gutke, Mandua Roti, and Jhangora Kheer
• Tea stalls with mountain views are common on the roadsides
• Bonfire evenings with stories from locals or fellow travelers
• Most meals cost ₹100–₹200 per person
• Carry some ready-to-eat food/snacks if traveling with kids or elders

Offbeat Insights and Pro Tips

To get the most out of your Auli and Chopta tour, here are a few more things most travelers miss but locals swear by:

Badrinath Darshan: Just 50 km from Auli; can be added as a day trip if temple is open (May–Oct)
Snowfall alert: For fresh snowfall in Auli, visit between Jan 10–Feb 10
Travel light but warm: Don’t carry trolleys; use backpacks, especially in Chopta where some stays are walkable
Electricity cuts: Carry power banks and flashlights; some Chopta camps run on solar power
Responsible tourism: Carry reusable bottles, avoid plastic, and support local homestays