Auli Tourism | Places to Visit | Things To Do

Auli, a charming hill station in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine environment, and exhilarating adventure sports. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli is often referred to as the 'Skiing Capital of India' and attracts tourists from around the world for its picturesque beauty and winter sports.

Being surrounded by all tallest peaks of Nanda Devi mountain Range, Auli will bestow the tourist with “Peace of Mind”. During sunset, the snow adorned peaks and slopes of the mountain range will keep changing into different shades and thus provide a feast for tourist’s eyes. Auli is surrounded by coniferous and oak forests, with a panoramic view of the lofty peaks of the Himalayas.

Scenic Beauty and Natural Attractions

The Majestic Himalayas

Auli is blessed with panoramic views of the mighty Himalayan range. Peaks such as Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamat Kamet dominate the skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop for visitors.

Auli Artificial Lake

One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, the Auli Artificial Lake is a serene spot that enhances the town’s charm. Created to provide artificial snow on the ski slopes during low snowfall, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil environment for visitors.

Gurso Bugyal

Gurso Bugyal is an expansive meadow located at an altitude of 3,056 meters. This lush green pasture turns into a snow-covered wonderland in winter, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and a perfect spot for trekking and nature walks.

Kwani Bugyal

Kwani Bugyal is a scenic alpine meadow near Joshimath, Uttarakhand, India. Situated in the Garhwal Himalayas, it offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi and Dronagiri. Accessible via trekking from Auli or Joshimath, Kwani Bugyal is known for its lush greenery in summer and snowy landscapes in winter, making it a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Winter Sports and Adventure Activities

Skiing in Auli

Auli is renowned for its well-maintained ski slopes that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers. The slopes are equipped with modern facilities and provide a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts. Auli is considered as best Ski destination in India by few experts. However, it is a less known ski destination compared to Shimla, Gulmarg, and Manali.

Snowboarding

Apart from skiing, Auli also offers excellent opportunities for snowboarding. The varied terrain and pristine snow conditions make it a favorite destination for snowboarders.

Auli Ropeway

The Auli Ropeway, one of the longest and highest cable cars in Asia, offers a spectacular aerial view of the Himalayan peaks and the lush valleys below. This 4-kilometer-long cable car ride is a must-experience for tourists, providing a unique perspective of the region's beauty.

Through this cable car one can reach the Joshimath, one of the oldest pith founded by Guru Sri Shankaracharya. Being located on the pathway to holy land of Hindu, Badrinath, and the tourists can also have some spiritual experience. Adventure seekers can luxuriate in Skiing and Trekking. Auli Skiing festival is organized every year in the month of February since 1987. Ski courses are available ranging in length from four to fourteen days. If you wish to ski, try to allow yourself a week. Some ski equipment can be rented. Auli co- hosted the 2011 South Asian Winter Games.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

Joshimath

Joshimath, located just a short distance from Auli, is an important pilgrimage site and a gateway to several trekking routes. The town is home to ancient temples like the Narasimha Temple and Shankaracharya Math, attracting spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.

Nanda Devi National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Nanda Devi National Park is known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park is home to several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Chenab Lake

Chenab Lake is an untouched and unexplored spot near Auli. The serene lake, surrounded by dense forests, offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist spots.

Trekking and Nature Walks

Kuari Pass Trek

The Kuari Pass Trek is one of the most popular trekking routes starting from Auli. This trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, including Nanda Devi, and takes trekkers through beautiful meadows, forests, and remote villages.

Auli to Gorson Bugyal Trek

This short trek from Auli to Gorson Bugyal is perfect for beginners and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail passes through dense oak and coniferous forests, providing a delightful experience for nature lovers.

Valley of Flowers Trek

The Valley of Flowers, located close to Auli, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse and colorful flora. This trek takes visitors through a vibrant valley filled with blooming flowers, making it a paradise for botanists and nature enthusiasts.

Accommodation Options in Auli

Tourists can have memorable moments while staying in Auli Royal Village resort and Cliff top Club. Devi Darshan Lodge near Helipad of Auli provides tourists a jaw-dropping experience. Tourists can also opt for hotels in Joshimath as there are very few hotels in Auli. Hotels in Joshimath also charges tourists fairly and provide wonderful service to them. Tourists can come across decent restaurants in various outlets and Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) agency.

Luxury Resorts

Auli offers several luxury resorts that provide top-notch amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. These resorts offer a blend of comfort and luxury, ensuring a memorable stay for visitors.

Mid-Range Hotels

For travelers seeking comfort without splurging, Auli has a range of mid-range hotels that offer cozy accommodations and essential amenities. These hotels provide a comfortable base for exploring the region.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Auli also caters to budget-conscious travelers with numerous guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels. These options offer basic accommodations at affordable prices, ensuring that every traveler can enjoy a stay in this beautiful hill station.

Auli, with its stunning landscapes, thrilling adventure activities, and rich cultural heritage, is a destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Auli promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to this enchanting hill station and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.

The beauty of Auli is that it is not commercialized yet, hence only has two hotels, one owned and operated by the government. Even after being a booming tourist destination in Uttrakand State, Auli doesn’t have interesting shopping places. However, tourists can pick up woolen clothes, little trinkets etc as a souvenir in Joshimath town.

Must Know Before You Travel to Auli

Best Time to Visit

Winter Wonderland (December to February)

Auli is most famous for its winter activities, especially skiing and snowboarding. The best time to visit for these activities is from December to February, when the region is covered in a thick blanket of snow. The Auli Winter Skiing Festival is also held during this period, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world.

Spring and Summer Delight (March to June)

For those who prefer milder weather and lush green landscapes, the spring and summer months from March to June are ideal. This is the perfect time for trekking, hiking, and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering stunning vistas.

Monsoon Season (July to October)

While Auli experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, it can be a great time to visit for those who enjoy a quieter, more serene environment. The landscape becomes incredibly lush and green, but it's essential to be cautious of slippery roads and possible landslides.

How to Reach Auli

By Air

The nearest airport to Auli is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 279 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Auli. The journey by road from Dehradun to Auli takes around 8-10 hours.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, located about 250 kilometers from Auli. From Rishikesh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Auli. The road journey takes approximately 8-9 hours, passing through scenic landscapes and winding mountain roads.

By Road

Auli is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states. You can drive to Auli or take a bus from cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Delhi. The road to Auli offers beautiful views of the mountains and forests, making the journey enjoyable.

Essential Travel Tips

Weather Conditions

Auli's weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter months. It's crucial to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Warm clothing, including thermal wear, jackets, gloves, and woolen caps, is essential for the winter season.

Altitude Sickness

Auli is situated at a high altitude, and some travelers might experience altitude sickness. It's advisable to take it easy on the first day, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities until your body acclimatizes to the altitude.

Travel Insurance

Given the adventure activities and high-altitude location, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and trip cancellations. This ensures peace of mind during your trip.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss out on trying the local cuisine in Auli. Traditional Garhwali dishes like Aloo Ke Gutke, Chainsoo, and Garhwal Ka Fannah are a must-try. There are several local eateries and restaurants where you can savor these delicacies.

Respect Local Culture

Auli is home to various indigenous communities with rich cultural heritage. Respect local customs, traditions, and the environment. Avoid littering and practice responsible tourism to preserve the natural beauty of the region.