Introduction to Auli Uttarakhand: A Hidden Gem in the Himalayas
Located at an amazing height of 8000 to 10,000 feet above sea level in the lap of the Himalaya, Auli is one of the most famous tourist destinations and a winter wonderland with a top choice for adventure lovers. It comes under the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Its wide, snow-covered mountain slopes make it an ideal destination for skiing and snowboarding. Not only idle for adventure lovers, but it is also perfect for lovers, as this is the best secret keeper and a perfect place to express your love in this serene environment. So Manchala Mushafir welcomes you to the most iconic tourist destination of India because it's not just a destination, it's an experience that you are going to cherish throughout your life. So, let's dive deep into the ocean of snow and make a virtual tour of Auli.
Skiing in Auli: Paradise for adventure lover
A perfect slope fully covered with snow, with towering peaks and serene environment makes Auli an undeniably a renowned skiing destinations in India. Often referred to as the “Switzerland of India,” it's a perfect place for adventure lover. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Auli provides a versatile and safe environment for all skill levels, making it a must-visit for anyone craving an adrenaline rush. Well-maintained slopes with varying levels of difficulty—ranging from gentle inclines for beginners to steep, thrilling descents for the more experienced are some of the reasons which attracts both domestic and international tourists. This place offers a offers a range of services, including ski equipment rentals, professional instructors, and guided tours to help you make the most of your experience. In addition to this Auli's modern infrastructure, including a cable car and chair lifts, ensures smooth access to the slopes and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. One of the most exciting aspects of skiing in Auli is the stunning backdrop of the Himalayan range. As you glide down the snow-covered slopes, the towering peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dunagiri emerge majestically in the distance. The panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and forests are an added bonus, making every ski run feel like an adventure in itself.
In addition to skiing, Auli is also a popular destination for snowboarding. With wide-open slopes and fresh powder snow, snowboarding enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom to explore the terrain and carve through the snow. For those looking for even more adventure, Auli offers other snow activities like snow trekking, tobogganing, and snowshoeing, giving you multiple ways to explore the winter landscape.
Auli: A perfect destination for lovers
In addition to the adventure hub, Auli also offers a romantic escape for couples who are willing to spend quality time in a serene environment. Lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and a peaceful environment make it an idyllic getaway for lovers seeking both adventure and serenity. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Auli's peaceful environment provides you the perfect setting to reconnect, relax, and express your love. Imagine walking hand-in-hand through dense oak and deodar forests or gazing at the distant snow-capped mountains—every moment in Auli feels intimate and special. Auli’s natural beauty changes with the seasons, making it an all-year-round destination for couples. One of the most romantic activities in Auli is the cable car ride. Known as one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, this unique experience offers couples panoramic views of the Himalayas, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see. The view from the top is something that will stay etched in your memory forever, as the mountains glow in the changing light of the day. The cable car ride isn’t just a mode of transportation—it's a chance to share a moment of wonder with your loved one as you take in one of the most mesmerizing landscapes in the world.
Best Time to Visit Auli
Auli is a year round paradise and you will witness a different colors in every season. Best time to visit Auli however depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. So here is a comprehensive guide explaining all the unique features you are going to witness at Auli in every season. So let’s start.
Winter wonderland (November to February)
If you are willing to witness live snowfall, snow-capped peaks, and winter sports, then November to February is the best time to visit to Auli. During this time, Auli will transform into a wintr wonderland with a thick sheet of snow all over the mountains, and powder snow on the slopes of the mountain will make it a perfect place to glide with your skis. The view of the snow-clad peaks, including Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat, adds to the charm, making winter the peak season for visitors to Auli.
Spring Season (March to April)
If you are allergic to chilling cold and wish to enjoy the pleasant weather with beautiful views all around then spring is the most idle time to visit Auli. It’s a time when snow will start to melt revelling the lush green mountain and vibrant colours all around the valley. It will get decorated with beautiful rhododendrons, oak trees, and alpine flowers, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or families looking to explore nature at its best. During this period, the weather in Auli is comfortable, with temperatures ranging between 7°C to 15°C, which is ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and exploring the region's scenic beauty. If you want to experience the beauty of Auli without the crowds then spring is the most idle time to visit.
Summer (May to June)
If you are looking for a relief from the extreme heat of plain area, and wish to spend your holidays in one of the most beautiful region, then Auli could be your faviourite destination. Temperature here will range between 15 degree celsius to 20 degree celsius making it a perfect place to chill out with your family or friends.The cool mountain breeze, the blue skies, and the lush green surroundings create a refreshing environment, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, nature walks, and photography.
Monsoon (July to September)
Monsoon is the most unfavourable time to visit to Auli as this region observes heavy rainfall during this time. Rain creates a possibility of landslide, road blockage, flood, Avalanche etc. So Manchala Mushafir recommends you to avoid this season to travel in this area.
Autumn(October)
Clear skies with pleasant weather and moderate temperatures make this season also an idle time to visit Auli. The temperature of this region will range between 10 to 20 degrees Celsius during this time with clear views of snow-capped mountains and lush green forests all around the valley. The landscape will be full of vibrant colors, making it an excellent time for trekking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Places to visit around Auli
Auli is located in very scenic location with thousands of places around where you can visit. Here we are going to mention some of the most beautiful places around Auli, which you can add in your itinerary for a fulfilling journey.
Joshimath:- One of the scenic town located just at a distance of 12 kms from Auli is Joshimath. It’s also a hill station but most prominently it is known for miraculous Narshimha temple and the starting point of many beautiful trekking destination.
Valley of Flowers:- If you are an adventure enthusiast and willing to experience something thrilling then you can also opt for Valley of flowers trek with a visit to Hemkund Sahib gurudwara. Valley of flowers is a UNESCO world heritage site with millions of species of flowers blooming around the valley while the Hemkund sahib is the highest gurudwara of India and one of the revered site for sikh community.
Do Dham Yatra:- One of the well known pilgrimage tour of this region is Do dham yatra which involves the visit to Kedarnath and Badrinath temple. Kedarnath temple is dedicated to lord Shiva while Badrinath temple is to lord Vishnu and also known as the door to heaven. It is widely believed that all those who undertake this yatra get rid of cycle of birth and death.
Chopta Tungnath Trek:- Being the part of panch kedar temples and one of the highest shiva temple on this earth, trekking to Tungnath temple is another adventure which should be there in your bucket list. Chopta which is the starting point of this trek is also known for it’s remarkable beauty and well known as the mini Switserland of India.
How to Reach Auli: A Journey to the Heart of the Himalayas
Auli is well-connected to major cities in India, getting there requires a bit of effort due to its remote location in the Himalayan foothills. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Auli, ensuring a smooth journey to this Himalayan paradise.
By Air:- Nearest airport to Auli is Jolly grant airport which is also known as Dehradun airport and is located at a distance of 280 kms. Almost all the major aviation companies have regular flight to this airport from all the major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore etc.
By Train:- Nearest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh railway station which is located at distance of 250 kms from Auli. If you don’t get direct train for this station, you can also book your train for Dehradun, Haridwar or Roorkee as all these station are in close vicinity.
By Road:- Auli is well connected by road to major cities of Uttarakhand and nearby states. It’s one of the most scenic road journey especially if you want to get yourself soaked in the beauty of nature. Cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh and Haridwar serves as the starting point of most of the trips to Auli.
What to Pack for Auli: Essentials for Your Winter Wonderland Adventure
As you know that Auli is a winter wonderland with harsh weather condition and challenging terrains, so you need to be prepared for all the challenges well in advance. Here we will provide you a comprehensive checklist of the things you need to carry before going there.
1. Warm Clothing (Essential for Winter)
Auli can get extremely cold, especially during the winter months (November to February). Make sure to pack layers of warm clothing, including:
Thermal innerwear
Woolen sweaters or fleece jackets
A heavy, insulated winter jacket
Woolen socks and gloves
A warm hat or beanie
A scarf to protect against the cold winds
Even during the summer months, temperatures can drop in the evening, so it's wise to carry some warm clothes.
2. Comfortable Footwear
Auli’s terrain requires a lot of walking, especially if you plan to explore on foot. Pack sturdy, comfortable footwear:
For winter: Waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry while walking on snow.
For summer: Comfortable trekking shoes or sturdy sneakers for easy hiking.
If you plan on skiing or snowboarding, you can rent specialized footwear at the ski resorts, but still bring comfortable shoes for walking around town.
3. Ski Gear (If Visiting in Winter)
Auli is famous for its skiing, and if you're an adventure lover, packing the right gear is crucial. While you can rent equipment at the Auli Ski Resort, it’s a good idea to bring:
Ski gloves
Goggles for snow glare protection
Ski jackets and pants (optional, but highly recommended for comfort)
4. Sunscreen & Lip Balm
The sun at high altitudes can be strong, even during the winter months. Be sure to pack:
A good sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
A lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from chapping
5. Camera & Accessories
Auli’s scenic beauty is breathtaking, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes. Consider bringing:
Extra camera batteries or a power bank
Memory cards
Waterproof phone cases if you plan to explore near snow or lakes
6. Personal Medications & Toiletries
Pack any personal medications you may need, as well as your standard toiletries. It's also advisable to bring:
A small first aid kit
Anti-nausea tablets or motion sickness medication (for the winding roads)
Moisturizer and hand cream (as the cold weather can dry out skin)
7. Backpack & Travel Essentials
A small, comfortable backpack is perfect for day trips and trekking around Auli. Some travel essentials to pack:
Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in the mountain air)
Sunglasses with UV protection
A hat or cap for sun protection
Snacks or energy bars for hiking
8. Identification & Cash
While Auli has some ATMs, it's a good idea to carry cash, as card payments may not always be accepted. Also, bring:
A copy of your ID and any necessary travel documents
A small amount of local currency
Safety Tips for Skiing and Snow Activities in Auli
Auli being one of the most faviourable destination for skiing and snowboarding. It provide the perfect environment both for first timers and professional skiers. Many organisationsa also provide trained instructors to ensure your safety. So if you want to experience this amazing sports like a pro then you should hire a trainer to guide you and ensure your safety.
Also before going for skiing, ensure wearing all the safety gears and that should be of good quality.
While it may be tempting to challenge yourself and try some more adventure but always be aware of your limits. If you are a beginner then start with the easiest slope and make the progress with time.
Stay Hydrated while doing skiing and take brakes at regular interval to maintain your energy level and excitement.
When using the ski lifts or cable cars, always follow the instructions of the lift operators. Sit calmly on the lift, keep your arms and legs inside, and make sure to exit properly at the top. Avoid sudden movements that could cause accidents or delays in the lift process.
In case of emergency contact the nearest skii petrol team or the medical camp located in the near vicinity. Also keep the emergency contact number handy.