Auli
The Soul-Stirring Himalayan Escape

India's premier skiing destination, offering majestic views, serene landscapes, and exhilarating experiences that promise to fill your soul with lifelong memories.

 

Location & Approach

Location – Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, in the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas. At ~2,909 meters (9,544 ft), Auli offers panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet.

Coordinates – 30.52892°N, 79.57026°E

Gateway – Joshimath (16 km away) serves as the primary base.

 

Accessibility

• Air – Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun).

• Rail – Rishikesh or Haridwar railway stations.

• Road – Well-connected, but winter snow may require using the Auli Ropeway.

• Auli Ropeway – Asia's longest (4 km) cable car from Joshimath to Auli, offering breathtaking views – an experience in itself! A chair lift further connects within Auli.

 

Weather & Best Time to Travel

 

Climate

• Winter (Dec-Mar) – Extremely cold, sub-zero temperatures, heavy snowfall – perfect for skiing.

• Summer (Mar-Jun) – Pleasant and comfortable; ideal for sightseeing and treks.

• Monsoon (Jul-Sep) – Moderate rainfall, can affect road conditions.

 

Best Time to Visit

• Dec-Mar – For thrilling snow sports and a winter wonderland experience.

• Apr-Jun – For pleasant weather, lush green meadows, trekking, and clear mountain views.

• Oct-Nov – For crisp air, clear skies, and vibrant autumn colors before winter sets in.

 

Best Things to See & Do

Adventure & Nature

• Skiing – Hit the pristine slopes! Auli is India's top skiing hub, offering certified courses and equipment for all levels.

• Trekking – Explore alpine meadows like Gurso Bugyal (3 km from Auli) and Kwani Bugyal, or embark on multi-day treks like the Kuari Pass Trek for unparalleled Himalayan vistas.

• Auli Artificial Lake – The world's highest man-made lake, a tranquil spot perfect for reflection and photography.

• Nanda Devi National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning biodiversity and majestic mountain views.

• Camping & Stargazing – Spend a night under a blanket of stars, surrounded by nature's tranquility.

 

Culture & Sacred

• Joshimath Exploration – Visit the sacred town, a hub for pilgrims, with ancient temples like Narsingh Temple and the revered Kalpavriksha tree.

• Local Festivals – Experience the vibrant Auli Skiing Festival (Feb/Mar), showcasing local culture, music, and cuisine alongside thrilling competitions.

• Saildhar Tapovan – Discover a village known for its natural hot springs and local handicrafts.

 

Informational & Unique Experiences –

• Ropeway Ride – The journey itself is an unforgettable experience, providing panoramic views that stretch for miles.

• Photography – Capture the dramatic sunrise and sunset over the snow-clad peaks, especially Nanda Devi.

• Bird Watching – Spot diverse avian species within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.

 

Accommodation & Local Flavors

• Clifftop Club Auli: A premium property located directly on the ski slopes, offering panoramic views. It is accessible only by cable car.

• The Tattva Resort: A pet-friendly, upscale retreat situated on the Badrinath road, known for its stylish accommodations.

• Blue Poppy Resort: Located near Hanuman Temple, this resort offers 180-degree views of the surrounding peaks.

• GMVN Auli: A government-run option that is a decent pick for budget travelers, though it requires climbing steps. GMVN also offers certified ski instructors and courses.

• Himalayan Abode Joshimath: A homestay option located in Joshimath, near Narasimha Temple and Nanda Devi National Park, providing cozy rooms with mountain views.

• Snow Mount Hotel Auli: Offers comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices.

• Casa Himalaya, Auli: Known for its 180-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• Aaryam Resort, Auli: Praised for its luxurious stays, breathtaking views, and delicious food.

 

Must-Try Local Dishes – Savor the Garhwali cuisine!

• Kafuli – A nutritious spinach and fenugreek curry.

• Aloo Ke Gutke – Flavorful potato dish, perfect for the cold.

• Chainsoo – A hearty black gram dal preparation.

• Jhangore Ki Kheer – A sweet delicacy made from local millet.

• Bal Mithai – A popular brown chocolate-like fudge, coated with white sugar balls.

 

Travel Tips

• Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples or heritage sites.

• Pack Warm Clothes: Even in summer, evenings can be chilly. For winter, be prepared for sub-zero temperatures.

• Stay Hydrated and Carry Sunscreen: Essential for high-altitude travel.

• Carry Basic Medicines: Especially for motion sickness, cold, or minor altitude discomfort.

• Book Accommodations in Advance: Particularly during peak season, as options are limited.

• Plan for Delays: Especially during monsoon or heavy snowfall, as roads can be affected.

• Internet Connectivity: Can be patchy, so it's advisable to download maps and bookings offline.

• Local Transport: Within Auli, walking is common. The ropeway and chair lift are fun alternatives for steep stretches. In winter, snowmobiles and horses are also used.

• Respect Local Customs: Especially during religious festivals.

• Don't Rush: Auli is best enjoyed at a slow pace, allowing you to soak in the peace and natural beauty.

• Cash: Carry cash for ropeway tickets if you plan to buy them at the counter.