Situated in the northern region of Uttarakhand, Auli is widely recognized for its beautiful surroundings, grand Himalayan peaks, and outstanding skiing experiences. It has been created to help you navigate Auli's peaceful environments, fascinating local culture, and amazing outdoor activities.
Auli guarantees an amazing experience, whether you're an adventure seeker ready to hit the slopes, a nature lover searching peaceful mountain routes, or just someone hoping to enjoy themselves amid beautiful surroundings. Come with us as we explore the best routes, accommodations, and activities in this attractive Himalayan gem.
Best Time to Visit Auli
You can travel to Auli at any time of year. It is best to visit Auli in the winter, though, as it is a popular skiing resort and is known for its peaky snow mountains. Ask about the road conditions before heading here, as it might become challenging to reach here during the winter months due to blockages.
Here are the months below along with the kind of weather you can expect:
1. Summers: In Auli:
The summer months are March through June. But this is not the time of year to find snow. The peaks of the mountains will have a light covering of snow, giving them a brown hue due to their dryness. It stays around fifteen degrees, which is perfect for surviving the city's heat.
Thanks to the nice weather, you may go on lots of hikes and take advantage of the beautiful attractions.
2. Monsoon:
In Auli, the monsoon season lasts from July until October. The temperature drops significantly throughout this period and may even reach 10 degrees. Because mountains are at risk for landslides, be sure to check if any are occurring when you are there during this period.
I would advise you to avoid going to Auli during this time of year since it could get tough to explore the area and you might get locked in your hotel room due to the rain.
3. Winter:
Expect snowfall and a drop in temperature to minus 8 degrees from November to February. The most appropriate period for playing skiing sports is during this period. This is a popular season for travelers to visit because of the skiing conditions.
However, as before, be sure to check the weather before traveling, as Auli occasionally has snowfalls, which could again create problems for your visit.
Exploring the beauty of Auli
Auli has amazing views of the Himalayan Alps. From here, one can see Nanda Devi. At a height of 7,800 meters, stands the strong Nanda Devi. The snow-covered mountains are visible in the distance, and sipping tea while taking in this view is relaxing. At sunset, when the whole sky appears in a shade of pink, the colors become even more fascinating. It is at this point that you will experience "peace of mind."
All four corners offer views of the high peaks, and this expanding view will stay with you forever.
- Hanuman Temple
This is the location of the Hanuman temple. It is believed that Hanuman Ji rested here on the way to Laxman with Sanjivini. According to mythology, Laxman, Lord Rama's younger brother, got hurt during a battle in Sri Lanka. Only "Sanjivini," a herb found alone in the Himalayas, could have treated him. After taking the plant by air from Lanka, Hanuman Ji rested at the constructed temple of Auli.
This provides peace in the middle of the mountains and a spiritual experience for everyone who wishes to share a religious sense.
- Ropeway
Enjoy the cable car here as well. There are two cable cars, and from one of them, one may get a 360-degree view of the artificial lake.
Asia's longest ropeway is reputedly located in Auli. It starts and ends at Joshimath, covering a distance of around 4 km in just 25 minutes.
In reality, Auli features a cable car that connects its lower and top slopes, enabling visitors to get to the skiing area quickly—just ten minutes. If the cable chair wasn't there, visitors would have to hike to get there.
- Artificial Lake
Auli is well-known for both its highest man-made lake and its highest cable car. To provide artificial snow so that skiing may be enjoyed all year round, this lake was specifically constructed.
So the water from this lake is used to provide a suitable skiing surface during a season with little snowfall.
- Experience Sking in Auli
In Auli, skiing is a renowned activity. Skiing is the main reason many visitors come here. All year long, the man-made lake contributes to the production of snow. To choose to ski, one need not be in perfect physical shape or a skilled sport.
For the finest possible first-time skiing experience, you can choose to hire an hour-long skiing guide who will provide you with all the necessary equipment.
Do consider the weather, though, as there is a risk of snowfalls throughout the winter, which can be extremely distracting.
Trekking Routes that Start from Auli
Auli provides the base camp for many treks that begin there. Among these are the Gorson – Tali, Khulara – Kuari Pass, Khulara – Gorson, and Khulara – Tapovan trails.
The majority of treks, including those to the Valley of Flowers, Roopkund, Kuari Pass, etc., begin at Auli. Also, snow treks are available. Below, I will discuss the two main treks:
1) Gurson Meadows Trek
This hike passes through several beautiful towns and settlements in the middle of apple orchards. In Tapovan, you will also find hot springs.
On this path, hikers typically set up overnight next to the river streams. From this location, one can see many peaks, including Mt. Kamet and Neelkantha.
Along with these peaks, trekkers can see Lampak Massif, Dronagiri, and Nanda Devi.
2) Kuaari Pass Trek
The Kuari Trek lies on the edge of Nanda Devi and close to the Tibet border. Kuari, which refers to "doorway," is encircled by towering mountain ranges.
This is a short yet difficult trek that begins in the winter. You will pass across alpine streams and meadows on this hike. Also, you will see Mana, Kamet, and Abl on one side and the Chaukhamba Range on the other.
How to Reach Auli
Considering its hilltop location, Auli has excellent access to main transportation due to its world-class ski resort and beautiful scenery. The closest location to Auli which is connected by road and ropeway (cable cars) is Joshimath.
Traveling to Auli can be done by road, rail, or air, but nothing compares to the thrilling cable car trips.
1. By Air: The closest airport is located 149 km distant from Auli at the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From here, you can go to Joshimath by bus, coach, taxi, or car. From there, you can take a cable car or an empty path to get to Auli.
2. By Train: The closest train station to Auli is located 273 km away in Haridwar. Once more, you can hire a car or take one of the buses that run from Haridwar to Joshimath.
3. By Road: Regular buses are run from major Uttarakhand cities, such as Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, to Joshimath. Auli is only 10 kilometers far away, and you may get there by cable car or by renting a car from Joshimath.
Accommodations in Auli
In Auli, there are many hotels and guest houses. The Auli resort is among the most well-known. Also, you can travel to and from Joshimath while staying there. I highly recommend staying at Auli to truly appreciate the surroundings, even if Joshimath has a nice market with lots of accommodation options.
When compared to Joshimath, the cost of staying in Auli is rather higher. In comparison to other hotels, the "Manik Hotel," where I stayed, was less expensive.
It is best to reserve your accommodations in advance if you are visiting Auli during the most crowded period of the year. If the accommodations are not available, staying in Joshimath would be the best alternative.
Food in Auli
Rich Garhwali food, consisting of rice, leafy greens, and dals, is a source of pride for Auli. Kachmauli, goat-wrapped and cooked in mustard oil, is a specialty. Famous Garhwal sweets are also beneficial to the body in the dry, cold air. The region's most well-known sweetmeats are singhori and bal mithai.
You should also taste the Bhotiya, or green tea, which is made specifically in this Garhwal region. While it might not be easily available, many tea shops serve it upon request.
Conclusion
Auli, a place of amazing beauty with many pleasures, demonstrates the unique attraction of the Himalayas and offers a perfect balance of activity and relaxation, with everything from adventurous ski trips to peaceful hikes, and affordable accommodation to delicious local food. You'll take memories of snow-capped peaks, green grasslands, and the kind locals with you when you leave this beautiful hill station.
We hope you've gained all the knowledge and motivation from this guide to make your trip unforgettable. Irrespective of your level of experience, Auli's attraction is certain to make an everlasting mark on your heart. May your travels through Auli be as safe and enjoyable as the beautiful surroundings you will experience.
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