Auli Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in India’s Skiing Capital

Plan your perfect trip to Auli, the skiing capital of India. Discover top attractions, a day-by-day itinerary, and travel tips. Book with Sort My Trip today!

Auli Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in India’s Skiing Capital

Have you ever dreamed of sliding down snow-covered mountain slopes? Auli is a gorgeous Himalayan hill station located in Uttarakhand. It is proudly known as the skiing capital of India.

Surrounded by massive oak forests, Auli offers panoramic views of grand peaks. You can easily view Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat from here. It is a dream destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Planning a high-altitude snow vacation can be a bit challenging. Let Sort My Trip plan your entire winter getaway smoothly. Let Sort My Trip help you with this curated package to enjoy a magical and hassle-free snow adventure.

Auli Travel Facts at a Glance

How to Reach Auli

By Air

The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is located roughly 286 kilometers away from Joshimath. The airport connects well with all metro cities in India. You can book a comfortable private AC cab through Sort My Trip directly from Dehradun.

By Train

Yog Nagari Rishikesh and Haridwar are the closest major railway stations. Rishikesh sits about 260 kilometers away from the base town of Joshimath. From there, traveling through winding mountain roads requires expert driving. Sort My Trip can arrange a mountain-certified driver for your safety.

By Road

Auli is well connected by road up to Joshimath via National Highway 7. You can easily drive down from major nearby hubs:

• Rishikesh: 260 kilometers

• Haridwar: 280 kilometers

• Dehradun: 295 kilometers

From Joshimath, you can take a 15-kilometer mountain road drive. Alternatively, you can take the famous scenic ropeway to reach Auli directly.

Top Things to Do in Auli

1. Experience Professional Skiing

Auli features world-class skiing slopes managed by the tourism department. The snow-covered stretches are perfect for both beginners and professionals. Local skiing festivals and championships are held here every winter.

2. Ride the Iconic Auli Ropeway

This is one of the longest and highest ropeways in all of Asia. It connects the base town of Joshimath directly to Auli. The 4-kilometer cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the deep valleys and snow peaks below.

3. Visit the Auli Artificial Lake

This is a stunning man-made lake located at a very high altitude. The government created it to produce artificial snow during lean winter months. The clear blue water reflects the majestic Nanda Devi peak beautifully.

4. Trek Up to Gorson Bugyal

For trekking enthusiasts, this is an easy and beautiful 3-kilometer trail starting from Auli. It takes you through thick alpine forests to sprawling green meadows. In winters, these green meadows transform into a massive white wonderland.

A Detailed 4-Day Auli Winter Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Rishikesh to Joshimath

Your exciting mountain holiday begins today. A comfortable private vehicle booked through Sort My Trip will pick you up early.

• Morning: Begin your scenic 260-kilometer road journey into the Himalayas.

• En Route: Watch the beautiful river confluences at Prayags along the route.

• Evening: Arrive at Joshimath. Check into your cozy mountain hotel and relax for the night.

Day 2: Ropeway Ride and Exploring Auli

Get ready to enter the skiing capital today. Enjoy a delicious hot breakfast before heading out.

• Morning: Board the famous cable car from Joshimath to reach Auli.

• Afternoon: Check into your premium snow resort. Take a peaceful walk around the high-altitude Auli Artificial Lake.

• Evening: Watch a spectacular golden sunset over the Nanda Devi peak. Enjoy local Garhwali dinner by a cozy bonfire.

Want to book a premium valley-view resort without any hassle? Let Sort My Trip help you with this curated package and secure the best stays for your holiday.

Day 3: Skiing Lessons and Gorson Bugyal Trek

Today is fully dedicated to adventure sports and high-altitude trekking.

• Morning: Hire a professional instructor through Sort My Trip. Enjoy your very first exciting skiing lesson on the soft powdery snow.

• Afternoon: Begin your scenic 3-kilometer snow trek up to the beautiful Gorson Bugyal meadows.

• Evening: Head back to your resort. Sip on hot masala chai while enjoying the freezing mountain air.

Day 4: Return Journey to Rishikesh and Departure

Your memorable snow vacation comes to an end today.

• Morning: Take the morning ropeway back down to Joshimath. Check out of your mountain base.

• Afternoon: Begin your road journey back down toward the plains of Rishikesh.

• Evening: Your driver from Sort My Trip will drop you safely at Rishikesh station or Dehradun airport for your journey home.

Best Time to Visit Auli

• December to February (Winter Peak): This is the best time for snow lovers. The skiing slopes are fully functional, and snow blankets the entire town.

• March to June (Summer Escape): The weather becomes highly pleasant. The snow melts to reveal lush green meadows, making it perfect for trekking.

• July to September (Monsoon Months): Landslides can cause frequent road blockages. Outdoor exploration becomes highly restricted during this time.

Practical Travel Tips for Auli

• Carry Layered Woolens: Temperatures can easily drop below 0°C in winter. Carry high-quality thermal layers, heavy jackets, and waterproof gloves.

• Rent Snow Gear: You can easily rent ski gear, heavy boots, and snow jackets in Joshimath or Auli. Your Sort My Trip guide can help you find verified rental shops.

• Keep Buffer Days: Mountain weather can change rapidly. It is wise to keep a buffer day in your travel itinerary in case of heavy snowfall blockages.

• Pre-Book Stays: Accommodations in Auli are limited and fill up months in advance during the peak winter skiing season.

Navigating steep snowy roads and organizing heavy sports gear on your own can get overwhelming. Let Sort My Trip help you with this curated package. We offer top-notch mountain transport, premium resort bookings, and certified local guides. Contact Sort My Trip today to sort your ultimate winter snow holiday!