Auli
Complete Travel Guide
Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is a serene hill station known for its snow-capped peaks, pristine slopes, and scenic meadows. Often dubbed as the Skiing Capital of India, tourism in Auli peaks during the winter season when adventure lovers from across the country arrive to ski against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas.
What sets Auli apart is its crystal-clear air, panoramic views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat, and its unique alpine beauty, which transforms the landscape into a snowy paradise in winter and a lush green haven in summer. The destination is perfect not just for adventure seekers but also for honeymooners and nature lovers.
From peaceful forest walks to cable car rides, Auli offers some of the best tourist places in Uttarakhand, including Auli Artificial Lake, Joshimath, and Gurso Bugyal. You can even witness spiritual charm at places like Narsingh Temple.
Whether you’re planning a winter escape or a quiet summer getaway, Auli promises unforgettable experiences. Among the top reasons to visit Auli are its pleasant climate, tranquil surroundings, adventure sports, and its status as a lesser-crowded, offbeat hill station.
Travel tips for Auli: Dress in layers during winters, pre-book your accommodation during ski season, and don’t miss the ropeway from Joshimath to Auli for stunning aerial views.
Ideal for skiing, relaxation, and scenic photography – Auli is a must-visit gem in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit Auli
The best time to visit Auli depends on what you’re looking for. For snow lovers and skiing enthusiasts, December to February is ideal. If you prefer pleasant weather and lush landscapes, March to June is great for sightseeing and trekking.
Auli Weather Guide
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy and cold (temp: -4°C to 7°C) – perfect for skiing.
Summer (Mar–Jun): Pleasant (temp: 10°C to 20°C) – ideal for nature walks and ropeway rides.
Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Rainy and less crowded – landslides possible, so travel with caution.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov): Cool and clear – good for photographers and offbeat travelers.
Festivals and Events to Experience
Auli Winter Carnival: Celebrated during peak snowfall, it features skiing competitions, local food, and folk performances.
Ganga Dussehra: Though celebrated more widely in nearby towns, you can feel the spiritual vibe in Joshimath close to Auli.
Best Places to Visit in Auli
Auli Artificial Lake
One of the must-visit places in Auli, this serene man-made lake is perched at a high altitude and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It’s especially famous during winter, when it supports snow-making for skiing.
Gurso Bugyal
Gurso Bugyal is a top tourist attraction in Auli for trekking and panoramic Himalayan views. This lush meadow transforms into a snowy wonderland in winter and is equally mesmerizing during spring with its blooming flora
Joshimath
Located just 12 km from Auli, Joshimath is a sacred town and a famous spot near Auli. It is the winter seat of Lord Badrinath and offers spiritual insights along with stunning mountain views.
Kwani Bugyal
Ideal for trekkers, Kwani Bugyal is a scenic meadow located around 12 km from Auli. It’s a popular day hike offering spectacular views of Nanda Devi and Dunagiri peaks – perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Ropeway from Joshimath to Auli
The Auli Ropeway is among the longest and highest in India and offers unmatched scenic views of the Garhwal Himalayas. This experience is a top thing to do in Auli, combining thrill and natural beauty.
Things to do in Auli
Skiing Adventures: One of the most unique experiences in Auli, skiing on snow-covered slopes is perfect for both beginners and pros during winter.
Auli Ropeway Ride: Enjoy a scenic ride on the Joshimath-Auli cable car, one of the longest in Asia—ideal for families and couples looking for a panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Trek to Gurso Bugyal: Wondering what to do in Auli beyond skiing? Try trekking to this lush meadow for spectacular mountain views.
Camping Under the Stars: Fun things to do with friends in Auli include night camping surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine forests.
Visit Auli Artificial Lake: A peaceful retreat offering romantic moments for couples and photography spots for all.
How to Reach Auli
By Air (Flights to Auli)
The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 270 km away. From the airport, taxis are available to reach Joshimath, followed by a cable car or road journey to Auli.
FAQ: Which is the nearest airport to Auli?
Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) is the closest, offering connections to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
By Train (Rail Connectivity)
The nearest railway station is Haridwar Railway Station, around 273 km from Auli. From Haridwar, travelers can hire a taxi or board a bus to Joshimath.
By Road (Bus/Taxi/Driving from Major Cities)
Auli is well-connected by road via Joshimath, with regular buses and taxis available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Self-driving is also an option for adventure lovers looking to enjoy the hilly terrain.
Places to Visit Near Auli
Weekend getaways from Auli offer serene landscapes, spiritual vibes, and adventurous trails.
Joshimath – Just 16 km away, this is the base for reaching Auli and a sacred town with ancient temples and trekking routes.
Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for nature lovers and monsoon travelers (accessible from July to September).
Badrinath – One of the Char Dhams, located about 60 km from Auli, ideal for a spiritual day trip
Hemkund Sahib – A revered Sikh pilgrimage site, best visited during summer months.
- Tapovan – Famous for its hot springs and panoramic Himalayan views.
FAQ about Auli
Auli is famous for its stunning ski slopes, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and serene natural beauty. It’s also known as one of the best skiing destinations in India.
The best time to witness snowfall in Auli is from December to February. This is ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
Pack heavy woolens, thermal wear, gloves, snow boots, and a waterproof jacket for protection against snow and cold winds.
Yes, Auli is considered better for skiing due to its well-maintained slopes, less crowd, and professional ski training facilities.
Yes, Auli has ski schools and trained instructors for beginners, with short-term courses and rental gear available.
Yes, Auli is a romantic getaway with snow-covered peaks, cozy resorts, and breathtaking views—perfect for honeymooners.