Situated in the Chamoli district of the state of Uttarakhand, Auli is one of the most breathtaking hill stations in India. Renowned for its virgin snow-laden slopes, stunning Himalayan ranges, and international-class skiing facilities, Auli has been termed the skiing capital of India. Auli is encircled by peaks such as Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat , and Kamet, which makes this picturesque hill station the ideal combination of adventure, nature, and peace.
Uttarakhand Travel Guide -Best Time to Visit, Resorts, and Activities
Whether you’re a snow lover, adventure seeker, couple on your honeymoon, or someone in search of serenity in the mountains, Auli has something for you in each season.
Why Visit Auli?
Auli is known for its natural splendor and adventure activities. Unlike popular hill stations, Auli maintains its serenity and untouched naturalness. In winter, it is a snow wonderland, and during summer, it is full of green meadows and clear skies.
It is an ideal destination for:
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Nature photography
- Peaceful mountain retreats
- Affordable hill getaways
- Romantic getaways
Best Time to Visit Auli
When to visit Auli depends upon what experien ce you are seeking:
Winter (December, January, February)
This is the busiest season for tourists. Auli gets heavy snowfall, and it is an ideal destination for skiing, snow trekking, and photography. The snow-filled slopes are a magnet for skiing lovers.
Summer (March to June)
It is a good time for city sightseeing, cable car travel, and enjoying the nice weather. The climate is cool, and the melting snow reveals greenery.
Monsoon (July to September)
Even if the landscapes are quite lush and beautiful, there can be landslides that can impact your travel plans. This is definitely a season that you should avoid if you don’t like going to different places that are a
Top Places to Visit in Auli
Auli Ski Resort
The Auli Ski Resort is the heart of adventure activities in the region. Maintained by GMVN, it offers excellent skiing slopes suitable for beginners as well as professionals. Skiing courses and equipment rentals are easily available.
Auli Ropeway
One of the longest ropeways in Asia, the Auli Ropeway connects Joshimath to Auli. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains, dense forests, and deep valleys. It is a must-do experience for every visitor.
Gurso Bugyal
Gurso Bugyal is a beautiful meadow located a short trek from Auli. During winters, it is covered in snow, while in summers it blooms with green grass and wildflowers. The place offers stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
Chattrakund Lake
Chattrakund is a small, serene lake surrounded by thick forests. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers looking for peaceful surroundings away from crowds.
Joshimath
Joshimath serves as the base town for Auli. It is also an important pilgrimage center and a gateway to destinations like Badrinath and Valley of Flowers.
Adventure Activities in Auli
Skiing
Auli is India’s premier skiing destination. The ski slopes are well-maintained and handle amateurs as well as professionals. It frequently holds the National Skiing Championship.
Snowboarding
Apart from skiing, another adventure sport that is becoming popular in Auli is snowboarding.
Trekking
Auli treks range from easy to moderate and offer breathtaking sights of the Himalayan ranges. Treks to the Gurso Bugyal and surrounding meadows can be quite an experience.
Cable Car Ride
Even if adventure sports are not what you are interested in, the ropeway ride itself would be enough of a reason to visit Auli.
Local Food in Auli
The local dishes that represent the Auli cuisine are influenced by the Garhwali culture. Easy and mouthwatering meals are also available at local dhabas and hotels. These dishes are:
- Kafuli
- Phaanu
- Potato Ke Gutke
- Mandua Roti
Food is affordable, making Auli suitable for budget travelers.
Where to Stay in Auli travel guide
Auli provides accommodation facilities for each and every budget:
- GMVN Guest Houses
- Budget Hotels and Homestays
- Mid-range Mountain Resorts
Joshimath has some reasonable hotel options as well, in case one wants to cut back on expenses.
How to Reach Auli
By Flight: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 280 km)
Train: The closest train station is Rishikesh
By Road: Connected to Joshimath from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, etc.
Joshimath can be reached by either ropeway or road.
Budget Travel Tips for Auli
- Travel during shoulder seasons for reduced hotel rates
- Stay in Joshimath for budget Accommodations
- Take the ropeway instead of taxis
- Rent skiing equipment locally
- Pre-book hotel rooms in winter
Conclusion: Auli travel guide
Auli is one of those destinations that preserve the essence of the Himalayas perfectly. Starting from its snowy sloping plains and adventure activities to its meadow and majestic view of the Himalayas, Auli is one such destination that has something for every type of tourist. No matter whether you plan on visiting Auli or any other hill station for beauty, adventure, or peace, Auli is one destination that will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience.
