Is Auli Worth Visiting

Yes, Auli is a must-visit destination, particularly if you have a fondness for skiing and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, Auli is a renowned hill station and ski resort. It is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, snow-covered slopes, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat.

During the winter season, Auli transforms into a skier’s paradise with its well-maintained slopes and abundant opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. The ski season typically commences from late December and extends till March, attracting both novice and seasoned skiers.

In addition to skiing, Auli offers opportunities for trekking, camping, and immersing oneself in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding forests and meadows. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli is also a popular attraction, providing mesmerizing views of the snow-clad mountains.

All in all, Auli is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone seeking to embrace the allure of the Himalayas. It is important to note that the optimal time to visit Auli for skiing is during the winter months, while the summer months offer pleasant weather for engaging in other outdoor activities.

Auli is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy stunning mountain scenery, winter sports, and a peaceful atmosphere. Here’s why:

• Breathtaking Himalayan Views: Auli boasts some of the most incredible views of the Himalayas in all of India. The Nanda Devi peak, the second-highest mountain in India, is a particularly stunning sight.
• Winter Wonderland: Auli is a premier skiing destination in India. From December to February, the slopes are covered in snow, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. There are slopes for all ability levels.
• Summer Activities: Even in the summer, Auli offers beautiful scenery and pleasant weather. You can go for hikes, visit lakes, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
• Peaceful Escape: Auli is a relatively small and uncrowded destination, making it a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Auli Trip Overview

Auli is situated in the Chamoli district in the northern region of Uttarakhand. It is a picturesque mountainous area that forms a part of the Garhwal range. Auli is renowned worldwide for its skiing opportunities and is a popular destination for tourists in Uttarakhand. This stunning location is perched on a ridge at an elevation of 2800 meters above sea level. Auli is well-known for its steep hills covered with oak trees and lush green forests. According to some beliefs, the revered Hindu saint Guru Adi Shankaracharya visited this sacred place. Visitors can enjoy awe-inspiring views of the Nanda Devi, Kamat, and Mana Parvat mountain ranges that adorn the surroundings.

Places in Auli- Highlights

How to Reach the Places to Visit in Auli

Auli is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttarakhand. If you are coming from Haridwar/Rishikesh, you can board a state-run bus to Joshimath, from where you can either hire a cab or take the ropeway to reach Auli. Another option is to hire a cab to visit the nearby tourist attractions in Uttarakhand near Auli.

Jolly Grant Airport, situated 279 kilometers away from Auli, is the nearest airport accessible by taxi. The closest train station to Auli is Rishikesh Railway Station.

Best Time to Visit Auli

Auli can be visited all year round, with the majority of tourists choosing to come between November and February for optimal snow skiing conditions and cold weather. For the best climate, it is recommended to visit Auli between March and June, when the temperature is ideal for enjoying a trip with loved ones and sightseeing.

The best time to visit the Auli ski resort depends on your desired experience, as the weather in summer is also pleasant and ideal for enjoying the outdoors in Uttarakhand. This winter wonderland offers a delightful climate year-round, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.

What are the things to see and do in Auli? 

The Auli Artificial Lake was established by the government with the main purpose of providing artificial snow for the newly developed ski slopes during the months with low precipitation. In addition to that, visitors have the opportunity to go on a trek to Gorson Bugyal. Moreover, there are various nearby tourist attractions worth exploring such as Nandprayag, Mana Village, Joshimath, Badrinath, and many others. As a result, Auli offers a wide range of sights and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Places to visit in Auli

Auli is a popular hill station in the Himalayas, known for its scenic beauty and winter sports facilities. Here are some of the places you can visit in Auli:

• Auli Artificial Lake: This man-made lake is a popular spot for enjoying boat rides and scenic walks. In the winter, when the weather gets cold enough, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice skating.
• Trishul Peak: This majestic mountain peak offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas. While not recommended for the faint of heart, there’s a trekking trail that leads to the top. For those who prefer a less strenuous option, you can simply enjoy the views from a distance.
• Auli Ropeway: Take a ride on the Auli Ropeway for breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. The ropeway goes from Joshimath at a lower elevation to Auli.
• Gurso Bugyal: This scenic meadow is a great place for hiking and picnicking. During the summer months, the meadows are carpeted with wildflowers.
• Nanda Devi National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered snow leopard. While not directly in Auli, it’s a popular destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas
• Joshimath: A pilgrimage town located near Auli, Joshimath is known for its temples and monasteries. It’s a great place to learn about the Hindu and Buddhist cultures of the region
• Narsimha Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is a popular spot for pilgrims. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture

Is 2 days enough for Auli?

Two days in Auli can be enough for a good taste of what this beautiful Himalayan destination has to offer, especially if you’re focusing on the most popular activities. Here’s a breakdown:

Enough time for:

• Enjoying the scenic beauty: Take a ride on the Auli Ropeway for breathtaking views, explore the charm of Joshimath, and witness the serenity of the Auli Artificial Lake (activities within a day).
• Trying winter sports (if applicable): If you’re visiting during the winter season (December to February), you can spend a day skiing or ice skating on the frozen lake.
• Light exploration: You can dedicate a day for a moderate hike through Gurso Bugyal, known for its meadows and wildflowers (especially in summer).

Limited time for:

• In-depth exploration: A two-day trip wouldn’t allow enough time for a challenging trek to Trishul Peak or an extensive exploration of Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overall, while 2 days can be a good starting point, a longer stay would allow for a more relaxed and comprehensive experience.

Which month is best to visit Auli?
The majority of tourists tend to visit between November and February, the peak season for snow skiing in Auli when the weather is cold. In terms of climate, the best time to visit Auli is from March to June.