Auli, Uttarakhand: Your Complete Guide to Skiing, Best Time to Visit & Trip Budget

Nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Auli is a hidden gem in the Indian Himalayas. Located at an altitude of around 2,500 to 3,050 meters, this small yet stunning hill station offers sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks, thick coniferous forests, and peaceful surroundings. Auli has become a top destination for adventure seekers, especially for skiing, thanks to its perfectly groomed slopes and clean mountain air.

But skiing is just one part of what makes Auli special. It’s a great place to unwind, breathe fresh air, and connect with nature. Whether you're planning a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a family holiday, Auli has something for everyone.

Why Auli Is Famous

Auli is often called the Skiing Capital of India, but its charm goes far beyond winter sports. The town is known for:

• World-class skiing slopes that attract both Indian and international tourists during the snow season.
• Panoramic views of Himalayan giants like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Hathi Parvat, Mana Parvat, and Dunagiri.
• Thick oak and conifer forests, which add to the natural beauty and offer trekking paths in warmer months.
• Less crowd and commercialisation compared to other hill stations, making it a peaceful retreat.

Auli is also rich in local Garhwali culture and history, adding depth to your travel experience.

Nanda Devi Peak

How to Reach Auli

Getting to Auli takes a little effort, but the journey is scenic and worth every bit of it. The main access point is Joshimath, from where you can continue to Auli by ropeway or road.

By Air:

• The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, which is around 270 km from Auli.
• From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, which takes around 8–10 hours.

By Train:

• The closest railway stations are Haridwar (290 km) and Rishikesh (255 km).
• From there, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to Joshimath.

By Road:

• Regular buses and shared jeeps run between Haridwar/Rishikesh and Joshimath.
• From Joshimath, Auli is 16 km uphill. You can either take a local cab or enjoy a ride on the Auli Ropeway, which offers stunning aerial views and takes about 25 minutes.

Best Time to Visit Auli

The best time to visit Auli depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. It’s a year-round destination, but each season has its own vibe.

December to March (Winter & Snow Season):

This is the peak skiing season. Auli receives heavy snowfall, and the slopes are perfect for both beginners and experts. The landscape turns into a white wonderland.

April to June (Spring/Summer):

Ideal for sightseeing, light trekking, and photography. Snow starts melting, revealing lush meadows and clear skies. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 7°C and 15°C.

July to September (Monsoon):

This is the least recommended time. Heavy rains may lead to landslides, and travel can become risky. However, the surroundings are lush and green.

October to November (Autumn):

A good time for peaceful travel, with fewer tourists. The air is crisp, and you can catch the early snowfall by late November.

Skiing in Auli: What You Need to Know

Skiing is the highlight of any winter trip to Auli. With powder-soft snow, gentle slopes, and scenic backdrops, it’s a perfect place to learn and enjoy this thrilling sport.

Courses & Training:

The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) offers certified skiing courses that range from beginner to advanced levels. You’ll get hands-on training from experienced instructors.

• Basic 7-day course: Focuses on fundamentals, including gear handling, stance, and movement.
• Advanced 14-day course: Suitable for those with previous experience, including slope techniques and racing drills.

Skiing Gear:

No need to buy your own equipment. Ski gear like boots, skis, poles, jackets, gloves, and helmets can be rented on-site from various vendors.

Estimated Cost:

• Gear Rental: ₹500–₹1,500/day
• Skiing Package (with instructor): ₹2,000–₹4,000/day
• 7-Day Course: ₹10,000–₹15,000 (includes gear, stay, and food)

Book in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (Jan–Feb).

Auli Trip Cost: 3–4 Day Budget

Here’s a breakdown of the average trip cost to help you plan better:

Expense Type Budget (₹) Mid-range (₹)

Travel (round trip) 2000–3000 4000–6000

Stay (per night) 800–1500 2500–5000

Food (per day) 300–600 800–1000

Skiing (1-2 days) 1500–4000 4000–8000

Local Travel/Misc 500–1000 1000–2000

Total (3–4 days ₹8000–12,000 ₹15,000–25,000

For budget travelers, staying in Joshimath and using public transport can help save costs.

Where to Stay in Auli

Accommodation in Auli ranges from simple guesthouses to premium resorts, catering to all budgets.

Budget Options:

• GMVN Tourist Rest House
• Local homestays in Joshimath

Mid-Range Options:

• Auli Eco Nature Resort
• Blue Poppy Resorts (offers beautiful views)

Luxury Options:

• Cliff Top Club Resort (ski-in/ski-out access)
• The Tattva Resort (Joshimath, premium service and ambiance)

Most properties get fully booked in the winter season, so advance booking is highly recommended.

What to Pack

The weather in Auli can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Pack smart to stay warm and comfortable.

• Warm layers: Thermals, down jackets, fleece
• Snow boots: Waterproof with grip
• Woolen accessories: Gloves, socks, mufflers
• Sunglasses: Essential to protect from snow glare
• Moisturizer & lip balm: Dry air can affect your skin
• First-aid kit: Basic medicines and personal prescriptions

Things to Do Besides Skiing

If skiing isn’t your cup of tea, Auli still has plenty to offer:

• Auli Ropeway Ride: A stunning cable car ride from Joshimath that offers breathtaking views.
• Gurso Bugyal: A 3 km trail leading to green meadows with views of Trishul and Dron Parvat.
• Auli Artificial Lake: One of the highest artificial lakes in the world, built for snowmaking during dry seasons.
• Photography & Stargazing: Clear skies make for great astrophotography.

It’s also a perfect place to relax, sip tea, and enjoy the serenity of the mountains.

More: Nearby Treks Worth Exploring

Gorson Bugyal Trek

Auli is also a fantastic base for treks of varying difficulty levels:

1. Kuari Pass Trek

• Duration: 4–6 days
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Highlights: Campsites in Bugyals (meadows), view of Nanda Devi and Dronagiri

2. Gorson Bugyal Trek

• Duration: 1 day
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Open meadows, oak forests, family-friendly

3. Valley of Flowers Trek

• Best Time: July–September
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Location: Starts from Govindghat, 1.5 hrs from Joshimath
• Highlights: UNESCO site, over 300 species of alpine flowers

4. Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Duration: 10+ days
• Highlights: One of India’s most iconic high-altitude treks

These treks make Auli a year-round destination, not just for winter sports.

Final Tips for a Perfect Trip

• Book early during winter to avoid last-minute rush.
• Stay in Joshimath if you're on a budget, and take the ropeway to Auli.
• Stay hydrated, even in cold weather.
• Carry cash, as digital payments don’t always work.
• Avoid plastic, and help keep the Himalayas clean.

Conclusion

Auli is more than just a place it’s an experience. Whether you're gliding on the slopes, trekking through alpine meadows, or just sitting by a bonfire under a starry sky, Auli gives you memories that last forever. With this guide, you now have all the information to plan a safe, budget-friendly, and exciting trip to one of India’s best winter destinations.