Auli Tourism

Auli is one of the less-explored hill stations in India. Auli, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, is a new entrant on the tourist map of India. Located in the cradle of snow-capped mountains, Auli is one of the very few places in India where skiing is a major pastime. Gradually, Auli is growing like other hill stations in India. The bitter cold winds, the vast snow-covered landscape, and the sylvan mountains all add up to make Auli a skier's paradise. Representing man's constant endeavor to triumph over nature, Auli proves to be an ideal locale for the daring.

The best places to visit in Auli include Auli Artificial Lake, Auli Ropeway, Joshimath, Gurso Bugyal, Nanda Devi Peak, Chattrakund, and many more. Some of the most scenic locations of the Himalayas, these tourist attractions in Auli are the best offbeat experience that one can have here in the deep reaches of Uttarakhand. Known to be the new emerging Skiing destination of the country, many other of Auli tourist places have found an immense amount of popularity among the many visitors who find their way to this snowy heaven every year.

Auli Tourism

Auli, a breathtaking hill station in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, is India’s premier skiing destination, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India.” Perched at 2,500–3,050 meters above sea level, Auli is surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Trishul, offering stunning views and a serene escape. Known for its oak forests, coniferous trees, and pristine slopes, Auli attracts adventure seekers, nature lovers, and spiritual travelers. Whether you’re gliding down ski slopes, trekking to Gurso Bugyal, or enjoying the Auli Ropeway, this hill station promises an unforgettable Auli tour. Just 16 km from Joshimath, Auli is perfect for weekend getaways from Delhi (500 km) or Dehradun (270 km). This guide covers Auli tourist places, adventure activities, best time to visit, hotels, and travel tips for your Auli adventure.

Why Visit Auli?

Auli is a unique hill station blending adventure, nature, and spirituality. Famous as India’s skiing capital, it offers world-class ski slopes managed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), hosting national and international skiing events. In winters, Auli transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summers bring lush meadows for trekking and sightseeing. The Auli Ropeway, Asia’s longest, offers panoramic Himalayan views, making it a highlight of Auli tourism. Spiritual sites like Narsingh Temple in Joshimath and nearby Badrinath add cultural depth. With its cool climate, Auli is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a mix of thrill and tranquility on an Auli tour.

Top Auli Tourist Places

Auli boasts a range of tourist places combining natural beauty, adventure, and heritage. Here are the must-visit attractions:

  1. Auli Ropeway (Auli) Asia’s longest cable car, stretching 4 km from Joshimath to Auli, offers jaw-dropping views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Hathi-Ghoda Parvat. The 20–25-minute ride costs around ₹400 and is a top Auli tourist place for all ages.

  2. Auli Artificial Lake (Auli) One of the world’s highest man-made lakes, built near Clifftop Club Resort, this lake supports skiing by providing water for artificial snow during low-snowfall periods. Its serene setting is perfect for photography, making it a key Auli tourist place.

  3. Gurso Bugyal (Auli) A 3-km trek from Auli, this meadow at 3,056 meters offers stunning views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dron peaks. Lush in summer and snowy in winter, it’s a favorite Auli tourist place for trekkers and nature lovers.

  4. Chattrakund Lake (Auli) A small, crystal-clear lake 4 km from Auli, surrounded by forests at 3,300 meters, Chattrakund is a peaceful spot for families and solo travelers. Its scenic beauty makes it a hidden gem among Auli tourist places.

  5. Nanda Devi National Park (Auli) A UNESCO World Heritage Site near Auli, this park features rare flora and fauna, with views of Nanda Devi (7,816 meters), India’s second-highest peak. It’s a must-visit for trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts among Auli tourist places.

  6. Joshimath (Near Auli) Located 16 km from Auli, Joshimath is a sacred town with the Narsingh Temple and Shankaracharya Math, founded by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. It’s the base for Auli and Badrinath visits, making it a key Auli tourist place.

  7. Trishul Peak (Auli) At 7,120 meters, this iconic peak resembling Lord Shiva’s trident is visible from Auli. Best viewed from Gurso Bugyal or the Auli Ropeway, it’s a breathtaking Auli tourist place for trekkers and photographers.

  8. Chenab Lake (Near Auli) A small artificial lake 2 km from GMVN guesthouse, Chenab Lake offers scenic views and a skiing area surrounded by pine trees. It’s an offbeat Auli tourist place for tranquility seekers.

Adventure Activities in Auli

Auli is a hub for adventure activities, offering thrills against its Himalayan backdrop:

  • Skiing: Auli’s world-class slopes (3 km, 500-meter drop) are perfect for beginners and pros. GMVN offers 7- or 15-day skiing courses from December to March.

  • Snowboarding: Enjoy snowboarding on Auli’s snowy slopes, with rentals and instructors available at Auli Ski Resort.

  • Trekking: Explore trails like Gurso Bugyal (3 km), Kuari Pass, or Kwani Bugyal (13 km) for panoramic Himalayan views, suitable for all levels.

  • Auli Ropeway Ride: Soar over oak forests and valleys on the 4-km gondola from Joshimath to Auli, a thrilling yet relaxing adventure activity.

  • Camping: Pitch tents at Gurso Bugyal or near Auli Artificial Lake for stargazing and a true hill station experience.

  • Snow Play: Build snowmen or enjoy snowball fights in winter, ideal for families visiting Auli tourist places.

These adventure activities make Auli a top destination for thrill-seekers.

Best Time to Visit Auli

The best time to visit Auli varies by activity:

  • November to March: Winters bring heavy snowfall (3 meters deep), with temperatures from -4°C to 7°C, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snow play. January is ideal for snowfall seekers.

  • March to June: Summers (7-20°C) offer pleasant weather for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying meadows like Gurso Bugyal. Ideal for families and honeymoons.

  • July to October: Monsoons bring lush greenery but heavy rain and landslides may disrupt travel. Check road conditions for a safe Auli tour.

November to March is the peak season for skiing, while March to June suits nature lovers.

How to Reach Auli

Auli is accessible from Delhi, Dehradun, and other cities, making it a great weekend getaway:

  • By Road: Auli is 500 km from Delhi (10-12 hours) via Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Joshimath (16 km from Auli). State buses or taxis from Dehradun (298 km) or Haridwar (277 km) reach Joshimath, followed by a 13-16 km drive or ropeway to Auli.

  • By Train: The nearest railway stations are Rishikesh (250 km) or Haridwar (273 km), with trains from Delhi. From there, take a bus or taxi to Joshimath, then to Auli.

  • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (270 km) is the closest, with daily flights from Delhi. Taxis or buses connect to Joshimath, then Auli.

  • By Ropeway: The Auli Ropeway from Joshimath (₹400) covers 4 km in 25 minutes, offering scenic access, especially in winter when roads may be snowy.

  • By Helicopter: A quick but costly option is a helicopter from Dehradun to Gauchar, followed by a 3-hour drive to Joshimath and Auli.

Auli Hotels and Travel Tips

Auli hotels include budget guesthouses, GMVN Skiing and Tourist Resort (from ₹1,200), and luxury options like Clifftop Club Resort (₹4,000+). Joshimath offers cheaper stays (from ₹1,800 for tents). Book early for winter (November-March). Travel tips include:

  • Pack heavy woolens for winters and light layers for summers; bring trekking shoes and rain gear for monsoons.

  • Carry cash, as ATMs are limited in Auli; the nearest is in Joshimath.

  • Acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness; stay hydrated and carry medications.

  • Try Garhwali dishes like Aloo ke Gutke, Chainsoo, and Bal Mithai at local eateries near Joshimath or Auli Ski Resort.

  • Use the Auli Ropeway or chair lift for easy access to ski slopes; check GMVN for skiing courses or rentals.

  • Avoid monsoons (July-October) due to landslide risks.

FAQ's: Auli Tourism

Why is Auli famous as a hill station?

Auli is known as India’s skiing capital, offering world-class ski slopes, Himalayan views of Nanda Devi, and adventure activities like trekking and ropeway rides.

What are the top Auli tourist places?

Must-visit Auli tourist places include Auli Ropeway, Auli Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund Lake, Nanda Devi National Park, Joshimath, Trishul Peak, and Chenab Lake.

When is the best time to visit Auli?

November to March for skiing and snowfall; March to June for trekking and pleasant weather. Monsoons (July-October) are risky due to landslides.

What adventure activities can I do in Auli?

Auli offers skiing, snowboarding, trekking to Gurso Bugyal, ropeway rides, camping, and snow play for families.

How do I reach Auli by road?

Drive 500 km from Delhi via Rishikesh and Joshimath (10-12 hours), or take buses/taxis from Dehradun (298 km) or Haridwar (277 km) to Joshimath, then Auli.

What’s the nearest railway station to Auli?

Rishikesh (250 km) or Haridwar (273 km), with buses or taxis to Joshimath, then Auli via road or ropeway.

How can I fly to Auli?

Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (270 km) is the nearest, with taxis or buses to Joshimath, then Auli. Delhi (480 km) is the closest international airport.

Does Auli have snowfall?

Yes, snowfall occurs from November to March, ideal for skiing and snowboarding, with slopes covered in 3 meters of snow.

Where can I stay in Auli?

Auli hotels include GMVN Skiing Resort, Clifftop Club, and budget options in Joshimath (tents from ₹1,800). Book early for winter.

What makes the Auli Ropeway special?

The 4-km ropeway from Joshimath to Auli is Asia’s longest, offering stunning Himalayan views and a thrilling ride for tourists.