Auli is a beautiful snow-covered hill station situated in Uttarakhand. Auli is also called the Skiing Capital of India. It is famous for its skiing, Auli Lake, snow-covered mountains, and cable car. Auli is in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 9000 feet, this beautiful hill station is quite popular among snow lovers.
Best time to visit Auli
Winter (December to February): If you love snow and winter sports, this is the best time to visit! Auli’s slopes are covered in thick, powdery snow, making it a paradise for skiing and adventure lovers.
Summer (March to June): Auli turns into a lush green wonderland with vibrant flowers and perfect weather. It’s the best time to go trekking, explore nature, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views.
Monsoon (July to September): The hills look fresh and beautiful, but the rain makes things a bit tricky. Slippery slopes and the risk of landslides mean it’s not the best time for outdoor fun.
How to reach
To come to Auli, you have to first reach Joshimath. The distance from Joshimath to Auli is 10 km. You can reach here by train, bus, air, or private vehicle.
By train
If you want to come here by train, then the nearest railway stations are Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh railway stations. The distance from Dehradun to Joshimath is 290 km, from Haridwar is 272 km, and from Rishikesh is 250 km. You can also travel by bus or taxi. You will get buses for Joshimath from the bus stands of Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, and you will reach Joshimath comfortably in 8 to 9 hours.
By air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 280 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Auli.
By Road
Auli is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Dehradun, and Rishikesh. The drive to Auli is scenic, with winding roads and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Top Attractions in Auli
Auli Artificial Lake
Auli Artificial Lake is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world. Built to provide artificial snow during skiing season, it enhances the beauty of Auli with its serene surroundings and crystal-clear water.
Gurso Bugyal
A trekker’s paradise, Gurso Bugyal is a beautiful meadow located 3 km from Auli. Surrounded by dense forests and offering mesmerizing views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dron Parvat, it is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Chattrakund Lake
Situated 4 km from Auli, Chattrakund Lake is known for its clear, sweet water. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, creating a picture-perfect landscape that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Joshimath
Joshimath serves as the base for many treks and religious pilgrimages, including Badrinath. It is also home to the ancient Narasimha Temple and the famous Kalpavriksha, a 1200-year-old tree.
Nanda Devi National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nanda Devi National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, a visit here is highly recommended.
Adventure Activities in Auli
Auli is known as the skiing capital of India. The well-groomed slopes, reliable snowfall, and world-class facilities make it one of the best places to ski. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) organizes skiing courses and training programs for beginners and professionals alike.
Trekking and Hiking
Auli offers numerous trekking trails, including:
Auli to Gurso Bugyal Trek: A short but scenic trek.
Auli to Kuari Pass Trek: A challenging trek with stunning mountain views.
Auli to Valley of Flowers: A longer trek that takes you to the world-famous Valley of Flowers.
Camping
Camping in Auli is a magical experience, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, star-lit skies, and fresh mountain air.
Cable Car Ride
The Auli Ropeway is one of the longest and highest cable cars in India, offering mesmerizing aerial views of the Himalayas.
Snowboarding and Other Winter Sports
Apart from skiing, you can enjoy snowboarding, sledging, and snow trekking in Auli during the winter months.
Essential Travel Tips for Auli
Pack Wisely: If traveling in winter, carry heavy woolens, gloves, and snow boots. In summer, pack light but keep a jacket for chilly evenings.
Book in Advance: Hotels and ski courses fill up quickly during peak season.
Stay Hydrated: The high altitude may cause dehydration and altitude sickness, so drink plenty of water.
Carry Cash: ATMs are limited, and digital payments may not always work.
Respect Nature: Avoid littering and respect the local culture.
Conclusion
Auli is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Whether you visit in winter for skiing or in summer for trekking, the breathtaking beauty of Auli will leave you spellbound. Its snow-covered peaks, lush meadows, and thrilling activities make it one of the best travel destinations in India. If you haven’t visited Auli yet, it’s time to pack your bags and experience this Himalayan wonderland.
