Auli

Auli – Ashu Tour & Travels

Auli is a picturesque hill station and skiing destination located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of around 2,500 meters to 3,050 meters (8,200 feet to 10,000 feet) above sea level, Auli offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and terraced fields. It is known as a popular winter sports destination, especially for skiing enthusiasts, but it also offers beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather throughout the year.

Key Features of Auli

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Auli is one of India’s top skiing destinations, known for its long ski slopes and excellent snow conditions from December to March. The well-maintained slopes offer challenges for both beginners and advanced skiers. The region is also a hub for snowboarding and other winter sports, making it a popular choice for adventure lovers.
2. Auli Artificial Lake: The Auli Artificial Lake, located near the Auli Ski Resort, is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world. This lake plays a crucial role in generating artificial snow during the winter season to maintain the skiing slopes. The scenic beauty of the lake surrounded by mountains adds to Auli’s charm.
3. Viewpoints and Scenic Views: Auli offers breathtaking views of several snow-capped peaks, including Nanda Devi (the second-highest peak in India), Mana Peak, Kamet, and Dunagiri. The panoramic vistas from Auli are a major attraction for visitors, particularly from the Gurso Bugyal meadow, which is a short trek from Auli.
4. Auli Ropeway: The Auli Ropeway is one of the longest cable cars in Asia, stretching over 4 kilometers. It offers stunning views of the valley, mountains, and the landscape below. The ropeway connects Auli to Joshimath, and the ride is a must-do experience for tourists, providing an excellent aerial view of the region.
5. Trekking and Nature Trails: Auli is not only known for skiing but also for its trekking opportunities. The Gurso Bugyal trek and the Chattarkund trek are popular among nature lovers and trekkers. These treks offer a glimpse of the beautiful meadows, dense forests, and the towering Himalayan peaks.
6. Nanda Devi National Park: Auli is located near the Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park is home to diverse flora and fauna and is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers. The park is famous for its high-altitude meadows and alpine vegetation.
7. Pilgrimage Sites: Auli is close to Badrinath, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, making it a convenient stop for pilgrims. Joshimath, the base town for Auli, is also a significant religious center with temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and other deities.

Best Time to Visit Auli

• Winter (December to March): The winter season is the best time to visit Auli for snow sports and skiing. The region is covered in a thick layer of snow, and temperatures can drop below freezing, creating ideal conditions for winter sports. It’s also the perfect time for snow lovers and those seeking a winter wonderland experience.
• Summer (April to June): Summer is a great time for those looking to explore Auli’s scenic beauty and enjoy pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 20°C. It’s the perfect time for trekking, nature walks, and exploring the lush meadows.
• Monsoon (July to September): Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and disruptions in travel. It is not advisable to visit Auli during this period due to the potential for hazardous conditions.
• Autumn (October to November): Autumn is another good time to visit Auli. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the scenic views.

How to Reach Auli

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 280 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Auli, which takes around 8-10 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 500 km away, and then travel by road.
2. By Train: The nearest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh Railway Station (approximately 250 km away) and Haridwar Railway Station (approximately 270 km away). Both stations are well connected to major cities in India. From Rishikesh or Haridwar, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Auli.
3. By Road: Auli is well connected by road to major towns in Uttarakhand. The nearest town is Joshimath, which is about 16 km away from Auli. From Joshimath, you can take a taxi or the Auli Ropeway to reach Auli. Regular buses run from cities like Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Joshimath, and from there, you can continue your journey to Auli.
4. By Ropeway: The Auli Ropeway, as mentioned earlier, connects Auli to Joshimath and provides a scenic and convenient mode of transport to reach Auli.

Travel Tips for Auli

• Altitude Awareness: Auli’s high altitude can cause altitude sickness in some visitors, especially if they are not acclimatized. It’s essential to take it easy during the initial days, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities on the first day.
• Clothing: If visiting in winter, pack warm clothing, including thermal wear, gloves, hats, and jackets. In summer, lightweight clothing is ideal, but still carry some warm clothes for cooler evenings.
• Book in Advance: Auli is a popular destination for skiing during the winter season. If visiting during this time, it’s advisable to book accommodation and skiing equipment in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Safety During Skiing: If you plan to ski or snowboard, ensure you have proper training or are accompanied by an instructor, as the slopes can be challenging.

Auli is a beautiful and serene destination offering a perfect mix of adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility. Whether you are a skiing enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a peaceful getaway, Auli has something special to offer.