Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is the state’s only ski destination, offering skiing during the winter. Auli is a major winter destination not only in Uttarakhand but throughout India, known for its skiing. This beautiful destination, nestled in the Himalayas, captivates every visitor with its stunning vistas. With Auli’s snow-capped slopes and Himalayan views, an Auli trip package will always be memorable. If you’re planning a trip to Auli with your partner, family, or friends, this guide will explain why Auli is the perfect destination for you and why it stands out!
Location:
Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is approximately 2,800 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parbat. It enjoys a unique location and is one of the few places in India where alpine winters can be enjoyed.
Auli boasts some of the most beautiful mountain views in the country, and its high altitude and natural slopes offer some of the best skiing and snow activities. Its proximity to towns such as Joshimath, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Delhi makes it easy for vacationers and weekend getaways.
Auli is perfect for those seeking a combination of adventure, tranquillity, and spectacular mountain views. For all these reasons, Auli is a beautiful winter destination. With its picturesque surroundings and easy access to Auli, the area is perfect for winter travel.
Auli in Winters:
As winter sets in between December and February, Auli transforms into a dreamlike wonderland. Thick blankets of snow cover the undulating meadows, while every pine and oak tree gleams beneath a silvery white layer of snow. The towering Himalayan mountains in the background—Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, and Hathi Parbat—create a breathtaking view that seems almost surreal.
What makes Auli truly magical is its serene charm. Unlike crowded hill stations, Auli offers a quiet, untouched beauty where travellers can immerse themselves in the peace of nature, broken only by the gentle crunch of snow underfoot. As the sun sets, golden hues dance across the snow-capped slopes, creating postcard-perfect moments for photographers and romantics.
Winter Adventure Activities in Auli:
1. Skiing and Snowboarding:
Auli’s natural slopes are perfect for skiing—smooth, wide, and surrounded by breathtaking views. At an altitude of 2,500 to 3,000 meters, Auli offers both beginner and professional skiing trails. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) organises certified skiing courses and provides gear rental, making it ideal for even first-time skiers. For adventure lovers, snowboarding on these pristine slopes is a pure adrenaline rush.
2. Auli Ropeway Ride:
The Joshimath-Auli Ropeway, one of Asia’s longest cable car rides, stretches over 4 km and offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Gliding over the white landscape is a memorable experience—perfect for both families and photographers.
3. Trekking and Camping:
There are excellent winter treks around Auli, such as the Auli-Gorsan Bugyal Trek and the Kuari Pass Trek. These routes offer spectacular views of the Himalayas, oak forests, and snowfields that seem like something out of a fairy tale. For those who love the outdoors, winter camping in Auli under starry skies and around a blazing bonfire is a unique experience.
4. Snow Play and Photography:
Even if you’re not a fan of extreme adventure, Auli’s snow-capped slopes are perfect for snow fights, sledging, or simply building snowmen. Every corner of Auli offers a picture-perfect view—making it one of India’s most photogenic winter destinations.
Perfect for Every Type of Traveller:
Auli is truly a special place with something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or simply a break from the busy city life, Auli is ready to welcome you with its snowy beauty.
For couples, Auli is a great place for a romantic trip—cosy retreats, foggy mornings, and the cosy glow of a bonfire under a starry sky create the perfect atmosphere for love. Families will also enjoy it, with safe places to play in the snow, cable-car rides, and scenic walks that even children can enjoy. For adventure seekers, there’s skiing, trekking, and snowboarding on some of India’s best slopes. At the same time, photographers and nature lovers will be mesmerised by the spectacular views of the vast meadows of Nanda Devi and Gorson Bugyal.
Top Places to Visit Around Auli:
Auli is a winter wonderland, but there are many wonderful places nearby that can make your trip even better. Just 16 km away is Joshimath, the starting point of the famous ropeway and a spiritual hub for many Himalayan trekkers. Just 3 km from Auli is the beautiful Gorson Bugyal, a large alpine meadow with spectacular views and a great place for a short hike.
If you’re looking for peace and tranquillity, Chenab Lake is a hidden treasure, full of natural beauty. The Narsingh Temple in Joshimath is a must-visit religious site. And if you’re there when the roads are open, be sure to visit Badrinath, one of India’s holiest places.
Best Places to Stay:
Auli offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. If you’re looking for something fancy, the Clifftop Club Auli and Blue Poppy Resort offer stunning views and comfortable rooms surrounded by snow-capped mountains. For those looking for a comfortable stay without spending a fortune, the GMVN Auli Tourist Bungalow is a great option, offering warmth and comfort at a reasonable price. If you’re on a budget or backpacking, you can find local camps, hostels, and homestays that will give you a true taste of Himalayan hospitality.
How to Reach:
By Road: Auli is easily accessible by road from Delhi, Haridwar, and Rishikesh, with Joshimath as the last point you can reach by road (about 500 km from Delhi).
By Train: The closest train stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh, where you can get a taxi or a bus to Joshimath.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 270 km away, with a 7–8 hour drive on twisty mountain roads.
From Joshimath, the famous Auli cable car gives you an amazing 4 km ride over snowy slopes — it’s something you have to try if you’re visiting Auli from Delhi or making an Auli road trip plan.