Auli
Auli, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a popular hill station and a premier skiing destination. Nestled in the Himalayas, it offers stunning views, adventure activities, and natural beauty. Here are the top destinations and activities to explore in Auli:
Auli Ski Resort
Auli is one of India's best skiing destinations. It offers excellent slopes for skiing, with varying levels of difficulty, ideal for both beginners and professionals. Best Time: Winter months (December to February) when the snow conditions are perfect for skiing. Ski lifts, snow-capped peaks, and professional instructors available for ski training.
Gurso Bugyal
A picturesque meadow located at an altitude of 3,000 meters. It's an easy trek from Auli, about 3 km, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dron Parvat. It's especially beautiful in spring and summer when the meadows are lush and green.
Chattrakund
A small lake situated about 4 km from Auli. The lake is known for its clear blue water and peaceful surroundings. A serene spot, perfect for a quiet getaway, picnics, or a short trek.
Kwani Bugyal
A popular trekking destination located 12 km from Auli, Kwani Bugyal is a vast meadow at an altitude of 3,350 meters. It offers magnificent views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and trekkers. Best visited in the summer (June to September).
Artificial Lake
One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, this lake is situated near the Auli Ski Resort. The lake enhances the beauty of the surrounding landscape, and in winters, it helps create artificial snow for skiing. It’s a peaceful spot to relax.
Joshimath
Located about 16 km from Auli, Joshimath is a holy town and the base for those traveling to Auli. It is home to several temples, including the famous Narasimha Temple, and serves as the gateway to the Badrinath shrine. Joshimath is also a starting point for treks to the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib.
Ropeway Ride (Auli Cable Car)
The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli is one of the longest in Asia, spanning about 4 km. The ride offers spectacular aerial views of the snow-covered peaks and deep valleys. It’s an exciting experience for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Nanda Devi National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near Auli, this park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, and the majestic Nanda Devi Peak. It’s a paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot rare wildlife and explore scenic landscapes.
Chenab Lake
A lesser-known destination near Auli, this tranquil lake is located deep within the forested hills. It’s a great off-the-beaten-path spot for trekking, camping, and enjoying the natural serenity of the region.
Trishul Peak
Auli offers excellent views of the Trishul Peak, a group of three Himalayan mountain peaks. The peaks are a stunning backdrop for photography and trekking enthusiasts. You can view them from various spots in Auli, especially during clear weather.
Auli Chair Lift
In addition to the cable car, Auli also offers a chair lift ride, which is a fun and scenic way to travel around the ski slopes. It’s popular among skiers and tourists who want to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint
Auli offers one of the best viewpoints to see the majestic Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak. Photographers and nature lovers often visit to capture the beauty of this Himalayan giant, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Best Time to Visit:
Winter (December to February): For snow sports like skiing. Summer (March to June): Ideal for trekking, camping, and enjoying the pleasant weather and blooming meadows.
Auli is an excellent choice for adventure lovers and those seeking peace amidst nature. Would you like more information on how to get there or about accommodations?
Getting there
- Nearest Railway Station: In Auli, the nearest railway station is Rishikesh,which is about 250 kilometers away.
- Nearest Airport: The nearest major airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun Airport), approximately 270 kilometers from Auli.