Auli, located in the northern Indian
state of Uttarakhand, is a pristine hill station renowned for its snow-covered
slopes, breathtaking mountain views, and adventure activities. Nestled at an
altitude of about 2,800 meters in the Chamoli district, Auli is often referred
to as the "Skiing Capital of India." This charming destination is a
haven for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and those looking for a peaceful
retreat amidst the majestic Himalayas.
THINGS TO DO IN AULI:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Auli is best known for its world-class skiing
opportunities. The snow-covered slopes offer ideal conditions for both
beginners and experienced skiers. From December to February, the area is
blanketed in snow, and there are ski courses available for first-timers.
The Auli Ski Resort and the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) offer skiing
gear rentals and training sessions.
- Auli Ropeway:
One of the longest and highest ropeways in India, the Auli cable car ride
is a must-do activity. Stretching over 4 km from Joshimath to Auli, the
ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan
peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests. It's a great way to enjoy the
region’s natural beauty without trekking.
- Trekking: Auli is surrounded by beautiful trekking trails that take you through dense oak and deodar forests. Popular treks include the Kuari Pass Trek and the Gorson Bugyal Trek. The Gorson Bugyal meadow, located just a few kilometers from Auli, is a picturesque spot with sweeping views of the Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks
- Nanda Devi Peak View:
Auli offers stunning views of the Nanda Devi, India's
second-highest peak. On clear days, you can also see other prominent
Himalayan peaks like Kamet, Mana Parvat, and Dunagiri. For photography
enthusiasts, Auli is a paradise with its breathtaking landscapes.
- Auli Artificial Lake:
One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, Auli Lake is a serene spot
surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It was built to provide artificial
snow for the slopes during the skiing season. The area around the lake is
ideal for a peaceful walk or a picnic while soaking in the stunning
scenery.
- Joshimath: A short distance from Auli, Joshimath is a spiritual town and a gateway to many important trekking routes. It is home to several temples, including the famous Shankaracharya Math, and is the winter seat of Lord Badrinath. The town is an excellent place to explore Uttarakhand’s religious and cultural heritage.
- Camping:
For adventure enthusiasts, camping in Auli is an exciting way to connect with
nature. The meadows and forested areas offer fantastic camping spots,
where you can enjoy starry skies, bonfires, and the peaceful atmosphere of
the mountains.
Best
Time to Visit:
- Winter (December to February): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the
snow-covered landscape.
- Summer (April to June): Perfect for trekking, camping, and sightseeing with
pleasant weather and clear skies.
- Monsoon (July to September): Though Auli receives moderate rainfall, the trails can
get slippery, making this a less popular time for trekking.
- Autumn (October to November): A quieter time to visit, with the region preparing for
winter, offering stunning views and fewer tourists.
How
to Get There:
- By Air:
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 280
km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Auli.
- By Train:
The nearest railway station is Haridwar or Rishikesh, both
about 270 km away from Auli. From the station, you can travel by road via
Joshimath.
- By Road:
Auli is well connected to major cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and
Dehradun by road. From Joshimath, you can reach Auli by cable car or by a
16 km scenic drive.
Where
to Stay:
Auli offers a range of accommodation
options, from luxury resorts to budget lodges. Many tourists prefer staying in Joshimath,
which has more facilities and then traveling to Auli for the day. However,
staying at resorts or camps in Auli itself allows you to experience the
snow-covered surroundings more intimately.
Adventure
Tips:
- If visiting in winter, ensure you carry warm, layered
clothing as temperatures can drop well below freezing.
- For skiing, pre-booking accommodation and ski courses
is recommended due to high demand during peak season.
- Trekking routes in and around Auli are generally safe,
but hiring a local guide is advisable, especially if you’re not familiar
with the terrain.
Auli is a perfect destination for
travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, and stunning Himalayan views. Whether
you're gliding down snowy slopes, trekking through pristine forests, or simply
soaking in the panoramic vistas, Auli promises an unforgettable travel
experience.
