Auli Travel Guide | Best Time, Places to Visit & Stay

Auli – Hill Station & Ski Destination, Uttarakhand

Auli is a high-altitude hill station in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, perched above the town of Joshimath. It is widely regarded as India’s premier skiing destination and is equally popular for its alpine meadows, ropeway rides, and panoramic Himalayan views.

In winter, Auli is covered in snow and attracts skiers and snow lovers. During spring and summer, it transforms into a peaceful mountain retreat with lush green slopes and clear skies.

Best For: Snowfall, skiing, mountain views, meadows, short treks
Ideal Duration: 2–4 days
Altitude: ~2,800 meters

Why Visit Auli

• One of the best skiing locations in India

• Scenic Auli Ropeway and chairlift rides

• Wide Himalayan views on clear days

• Calm, uncrowded atmosphere compared to Mussoorie or Nainital

• Easy to combine with Joshimath, Kuari Pass, and Badrinath route

Best Time to Visit

• December – March: Snowfall season; skiing and snow activities (very cold)

• April – June: Pleasant weather, green meadows, best overall season

• July – September: Monsoon; landslides and poor visibility (not recommended)

• October – November: Clear skies, crisp air, pre-winter views

Snowfall timing varies every year; keep buffer days if snow is the priority.

How to Reach Auli

By Air

Nearest airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
From Dehradun, travel by road to Joshimath and onward to Auli.

By Train

Nearest major railway stations:

• Haridwar

• Rishikesh

From either station, continue by road to Joshimath.

By Road

Auli is accessed via Rishikesh → Joshimath → Auli.
Road conditions depend on weather, especially in winter and monsoon.

Places to Visit in & Around Auli

Auli Ski Slopes

The main attraction of Auli, used for skiing and snow activities during winter.

Auli Ropeway

One of the longest ropeways in Asia, offering stunning views of surrounding peaks and valleys.

Gurso Bugyal

A beautiful alpine meadow reachable by a short hike or chairlift route.

Auli Lake

A small scenic lake ideal for peaceful walks and photography.

Joshimath

The base town for Auli with temples, markets, and most accommodation options.

Kuari Pass Route

A famous trekking route that starts near Joshimath, popular with hikers.

Things to Do in Auli

Winter Activities

• Skiing and snowboarding

• Snow walks and snow play

• Chairlift and ropeway rides

• Winter photography

Summer & Shoulder Season Activities

• Meadow walks and easy hikes

• Nature photography

• Sunset and sunrise viewpoints

• Relaxed mountain stays

Suggested Auli Itinerary (4 Days)

Day 1:
Arrive at Joshimath → Drive to Auli → Evening rest and acclimatisation

Day 2:
Skiing or snow activities → Ropeway ride → Sunset viewpoints

Day 3:
Visit Gurso Bugyal → Auli Lake → Leisure evening

Day 4:
Explore Joshimath → Return journey

Where to Stay in Auli

Budget

• Homestays and guesthouses in Joshimath

• Basic hotels near the market area

Mid-Range

• Hotels and resorts in Auli with valley views

• Comfortable family stays

Premium

• Ski-side resorts

• Properties with heated rooms during winter

Food & Dining

Auli has limited standalone cafés. Most meals are served at hotels and resorts.
Joshimath has small restaurants and dhabas offering simple North Indian food.

Travel Tips

• Carry heavy woollens, gloves, and waterproof shoes in winter

• Weather changes quickly; keep buffer days

• Check ropeway and road status locally before planning activities

• Start days early for clear mountain views

• Carry some cash; connectivity can be unreliable

Who Should Visit Auli

• Snow and skiing enthusiasts

• Couples looking for quiet mountain views

• Families wanting a clean, calm hill station

• Photographers and nature lovers

• Travelers planning treks around Joshimath

Himtrip specialises in premium Himalayan experiences, including skiing holidays, hill station retreats, and trek combinations. Contact us to customise your Auli journey.