Treks by
December to February for snow and skiing activities, March to June for scenic trekking and pleasant weather, September to November for crystal-clear mountain views and post-monsoon greenery.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~270 km). From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, then ride the Auli Ropeway or a shared jeep to Auli. By Rail: The closest major railway station is Rishikesh (~250 km). Continue via taxi or bus to Joshimath, then proceed to Auli. By Road: Auli is accessible via NH7 (Rishikesh–Joshimath route). Regular buses and taxis operate from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun to Joshimath. From Joshimath, the 14 km road to Auli can be covered by cab or ropeway (Asia’s second-longest).
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2800 meters
Auli is a picturesque hill station and renowned ski destination nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Perched at an elevation of approximately 2,800 meters (9,200 feet), Auli offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dunagiri
Skiing and Winter Sports: Auli is celebrated for its well-maintained skiing slopes, attracting both beginners and seasoned skiers. The region hosted the first South Asian Winter Games in 2011, underscoring its prominence in winter sports .
Auli Ropeway: Connecting Auli to Joshimath, this 4 km cable car is one of the longest in Asia. It offers panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains and dense forests .
Gorson Bugyal: A sprawling alpine meadow located about 3 km from Auli, Gorson Bugyal is a trekker's delight, especially during spring when it's adorned with lush greenery .
Artificial Lake: One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, it assists in providing artificial snow for skiing during less snowy periods .
Auli's historical importance lies in its strategic location near the Indo-Tibetan border. It served as a training ground for the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), who still use the slopes for skiing drills. The development of Auli as a tourist and ski destination began in the 1980s when the government promoted it as a winter sports hub. Proximity to the holy town of Joshimath, and its location on the Char Dham route, also gives Auli spiritual significance. Treks to Kuari Pass and Nanda Devi National Park further enrich its historic and ecological value.