🏔️ Auli – The Snowy Paradise of Uttarakhand
Auli is a scenic hill station located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an altitude of around 2,800 meters, it is famous for its snow-covered slopes, making it one of the best skiing destinations in the country. Auli offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul, and is also known for its long ropeway ride from Joshimath, which provides breathtaking views of the mountains. In winter, Auli becomes a hub for snow lovers and adventure seekers, while in summer, it turns into a peaceful spot for trekking and nature walks. Tourists can enjoy places like the Auli Artificial Lake, Gurso Bugyal, and nearby spiritual sites like Badrinath and Hemkund Sahib. With its natural beauty, adventure activities, and calm environment, Auli is a perfect getaway for both nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
📍 Location
Located in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
Around 2,800 meters above sea level
Close to Joshimath town (16 km away)
❄️ Why Auli is Special
Skiing: Auli is one of the top skiing destinations in India. Skiing is best from December to February.
Mountain Views: From Auli, you can see big and beautiful mountains like Nanda Devi, Trishul, Mana Parvat, and Hathi-Ghoda Parvat.
Clean & Quiet: Auli is less crowded and cleaner than other tourist places, making it perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.
🌿 Places to Visit in Auli
Auli Artificial Lake – A man-made lake used to make snow for skiing.
Gurso Bugyal – A green meadow surrounded by oak and conifer trees.
Chattrakund – A small blue lake, ideal for a short trek.
Kwani Bugyal – Another trekking spot with amazing views.
🛕 Nearby Attractions
Badrinath Temple – A holy Hindu shrine
Valley of Flowers – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Hemkund Sahib – A Sikh pilgrimage site
Tapovan – A hot water spring.
🏕️ What You Can Do in Auli
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding
Ride the ropeway
Go on treks to places like Gurso Bugyal and Chattrakund
Relax and enjoy nature and mountain views
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
December to February – For snow and skiing
March to June – Pleasant weather and greenery
July to September – Rainy season, best to avoid
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Auli
1. Where is Auli located?
Auli is a hill station in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is in the Garhwal Himalayas, near Joshimath.
2. What is Auli famous for?
Auli is famous for:
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Snow-covered mountains
- Scenic views of peaks like Nanda Devi
- Asia’s longest ropeway from Joshimath
3. When is the best time to visit Auli?
- Winter (Dec to Feb) – For snow and skiing
- Summer (Mar to Jun) – For trekking and sightseeing
- Avoid monsoon (Jul to Sep) due to landslides
4. How can I reach Auli?
- By air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun (280 km)
- By train: Nearest station is Rishikesh or Haridwar
- By road: Reach Joshimath, then take a taxi or ropeway to Auli
5. What are the top places to see in Auli?
- Auli Artificial Lake
- Gurso Bugyal
- Chattrakund
- Ropeway ride
- View of Himalayan peaks
6. Is Auli good for beginners in skiing?
Yes, Auli has ski training programs and is suitable for beginners, as well as advanced skiers.
7. Where can I stay in Auli?
You can stay at:
- GMVN guest houses
- Hotels and resorts
- Or in Joshimath and visit Auli for the day
8. Is Auli safe for tourists?
Yes, Auli is generally safe. Just carry warm clothes, and check weather and road conditions, especially in winter.
9. Can I visit Auli with family or kids?
Absolutely! Auli is a great place for families, couples, and kids, especially for snow fun and peaceful holidays.
10. Are there ATMs or mobile networks in Auli?
- ATMs and better network coverage are mostly in Joshimath
- Auli has limited mobile connectivity, especially in higher areas