Auli
The Soul-Stirring Himalayan Escape

Location & Approach

• Location – Nestled in the Garhwal range of Uttarakhand, India, Auli is a breathtaking Himalayan destination known for its pristine, snow-clad slopes and lush green meadows.

• Coordinates – 30.52892°N 79.57026°E.

 

Surrounding Region – Offers panoramic views of prominent peaks such as Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet. The nearby town of Joshimath serves as the primary gateway to Auli.

 

Approach into Auli

• By Air – Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the nearest airport.

• By Rail – Rishikesh or Haridwar are the main railway stations.

• By Road – Well-connected by road, though winter snow often necessitates taking the Auli Ropeway from Joshimath.

• Auli Ropeway – Asia's longest cable car connects Joshimath to Auli, providing a scenic and essential mode of transport, especially in winter.​

 

Weather & Best Time to Travel

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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 Travel

• 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

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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.