Mumbai: Auli boasts some of the most picturesque slopes in the Himalayan range, offering excellent opportunities for trekking enthusiasts. With peaks ranging from approximately 2500 to 3000 meters in altitude, Auli features well-defined trekking routes that cater to varying skill levels.
Trekking from Auli provides access to renowned Himalayan peaks such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Joshimath. Additionally, there are several smaller trekking ranges in the vicinity, including Gorson, Tali, Kuari Pass, Khulara, and Tapovan. Joshimath serves as a prominent base camp for many of these treks, offering convenient access to the surrounding wilderness and mountainous terrain.
The breathtaking vistas in Auli are truly awe-inspiring, with their surroundings dominated by towering peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi (7817 m).
Here are places to visit in Auli, Auli’s distance from Delhi and Rishikesh and a complete Auli guide to help you plan your next trip to beautiful and mesmerising Auli in Uttarakhand.
Places to visit in Auli
Auli Ropeway: ‘Cable Chair‘ here is the longest ropeway in Asia. It is a 4 km long journey which takes around 25 minutes of thrilling ride. (Getty Images)
Locally referred to as the Gondola, the Auli cable car links Auli with Joshimath. Positioned at an elevation of 3010 meters above sea level, Auli is renowned as India’s best destination for skiing and paragliding, attracting a significant influx of tourists.
2. Auli Artificial Lake: The Auli Artificial Lake is a serene body of water situated at a remarkable altitude, ranking among the highest man-made lakes globally. Constructed by the government to ensure artificial snow coverage on the ski slopes during periods of limited rainfall, this lake serves a crucial role in maintaining ideal skiing conditions.
3. Auli Chair Lift: The Auli Chair Lift is an essential connection between Auli and its skiing slopes, offering convenient access for visitors.
4. The Hanuman Temple: The Hanuman Temple holds significant mythological importance, believed to be the spot where Hanuman rested during his journey to the Himalayas to fetch Sanjivani to save Laxman, Lord Rama’s younger brother. Visitors to the temple can also experience a scenic ride on a cable car, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Aerial view of mountain in the Himalayan range at Auli (Getty Images)
5. Gurson Bugyal and Kwani Bugyal: Gurson Bugyal, also known as Gorso Bugyal, sits at an elevation of 3056 meters, merely a 3-kilometre trek from Auli. It unfolds as an expansive expanse of verdant meadows encircled by dense coniferous forests and oak groves.
Kwani Bugyal, located 12 kilometres from Gurso Bugyal at an elevation of 3380 meters above sea level, stands as a beloved destination among trekkers. With its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi and Dunagiri, it has become a favourite spot for camping enthusiasts. The best time to explore Kwani Bugyal is from June to September when the weather is favourable.
6. Chattrakund: Chattrakund, a serene lake with pristine freshwater, lies close to Auli in Joshimath. Positioned at an altitude of approximately 3300 meters above sea level, this enchanting lake is embraced by dense, verdant forests. Chattrakund is situated about 4 kilometres from Auli and 3 kilometres from Gurso Bugyal, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s splendour.
7. Trishul Peak: The Trishul Peak, with an impressive height of 7120 meters, is formed by three Himalayan mountain peaks located in western Kumaun. For those seeking to admire the majestic Trishul peak, the best vantage points include Kausani, a charming hill station known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas, or during the Roopkund Trek, a popular trekking route that offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, including Trishul.
8. Joshimath: Joshimath, nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, exudes a celestial aura that permeates the entire Garhwal region. Also known as Jyotirmath, it holds significance as the winter abode of Lord Badri, whose idol is brought down from the Badrinath temple to the Vasudeva temple in Joshimath. This sacred town attracts Hindu pilgrims due to its pivotal role as an important pilgrimage centre.
The town’s main attraction is the Joshimath temple, which reinforces faith in divine energy. Built in the 8th century, it is one of the four monasteries established by Adi Guru Shankaracharya. Visitors can also explore other notable Hindu shrines in the city, including temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha, Lord Hanuman, Gaurishankar, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Naudevi, as well as Lord Surya.
Joshimath transforms into a major winter travel destination during the colder months, as it hosts the idol of Lord Badri and serves as the starting point for the winter Char Dham Yatra. Situated at an elevation of 1,890 meters above sea level, it offers stunning views of the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers at Vishnuprayag, as well as the majestic Hathi Parvat and other Himalayan peaks.
The town is also a popular hill station and serves as a gateway to various Himalayan expeditions, trekking trails, camping spots, and pilgrimage sites. Adventurous activities such as trekking, skiing in Auli, and camping under the starry sky are favoured by tourists.
Joshimath provides easy access to attractions such as the Valley of Flowers, Malari and Niti Valley, and the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences amidst stunning natural beauty.
9. Narsingh Temple: Narsingh Temple in Joshimath serves as the winter sanctuary for Badrivishal. During the winter months, the idol from Badrinath temple is brought down to Narsingh Temple by the priests, where it is placed alongside the Narsingh idol.
According to a prophecy associated with Narsingh Badri Temple, a catastrophic landslide is predicted to occur in the region at the end of Kal Yug, obstructing the path to Badrinath. This event is said to coincide with the falling of the right arm of the Narsingh idol in the temple.
Legends suggest that the Narsingh idol is gradually diminishing in size, a phenomenon supported by scientific observations indicating the susceptibility of the Joshimath area to landslides. It is prophesied that after Kal Yug, in Satyug, Badrinath will relocate to Bhavishya Badri, situated 20 kilometres from Joshimath.
10. Chenab Lake: It is nestled near Joshimath, and is a charming body of crystalline water. Despite the lack of developed pathways, its untouched and unexplored beauty draws numerous tourists. To reach Chenab Lake, one must traverse through the Dang village of Joshimath.
Chenab Lake, tucked away in Uttarakhand, offers a mesmerising trekking experience amidst spectacular natural surroundings. Despite being artificial, the lake exudes a charming allure that captivates visitors.
Situated 28 kilometres from Joshimath, reaching Chenab Lake requires embarking on a trekking journey, which is particularly suitable for beginners due to its manageable difficulty level.
Must-do activities in Auli
1. Skiing in Auli: Skiing in Auli provides breathtaking views of majestic peaks such as Mt. Nanda Devi Kamet, Mana Parwat, Dunagiri, Beethartoli, Nilkanth, Hathi Parbat, Ghori Parbat, and Nar Parbat. Situated at an altitude of 2000 to 3000 meters above sea level, the snow-clad hill station of Auli is adorned with evergreen conifers and oak forests, making it an idyllic destination for skiing in India.
Exploring the Gorson Reserve forest, a part of the Nanda Devi National Park, while skiing in Auli offers encounters with some of the rarest Himalayan wildlife. Among the inhabitants of this reserve are the elusive snow leopard, musk deer, wild boar, wild cat, wild rabbit, jackal, fox, hyena, and bear.
2. Trekking in Auli: Auli presents some of the most exquisite slopes in the Himalayan range, offering excellent opportunities for trekking enthusiasts. With peaks ranging from approximately 2500 to 3000 meters, Auli boasts well-defined trekking routes that cater to various skill levels.
Trekking aficionados can embark on journeys to Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Joshimath directly from Auli. Additionally, there are smaller trekking ranges such as Gorson, Tali, Kuari Pass, Khulara, and Tapovan, which offer captivating experiences amidst the scenic beauty of the region.
Joshimath serves as a convenient base camp for numerous treks, providing trekkers with easy access to various trails and facilitating exploration of the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Auli. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice adventurer, Auli offers a plethora of trekking options to suit every preference and skill level.
3. Camping in Auli: Camping ranks among the top activities sought after by visitors to Auli. It offers a unique experience of spending evenings around a bonfire, relaxing on camping chairs, engaging in fun activities and games, and relishing delicious food under the open sky. As night falls, campers retire to their tents, sleeping under the stars and waking up to breathtaking sunrise views.
Many campsites in Auli also offer adventure activities like trekking, hiking, and exploring the surrounding woods with the assistance of professional guides. These activities add an extra layer of excitement to the camping experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty of the region.
Most camps provide essential amenities such as comfortable tents, sleeping bags, and access to clean toilets. Additionally, in-house kitchens serve hot meals to campers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay amidst the picturesque landscapes of Auli.
Auli in June
In June, Auli has delightful weather and one can enjoy stunning scenery, and an array of outdoor activities here. June sees temperatures rising with highs reaching 20°C and lows around 9°C, along with 10 days of rain.
Auli temperature in Celsius
The average temperature from January to December months in Auli is recorded as follows:
In January, temperatures range from 5°C during the day to -4°C at night, accompanied by around 14 days of rainfall.
February sees slightly warmer temperatures, with highs around 8°C and lows around -3°C, along with 6 days of rain.
March brings a further increase in temperature, with highs reaching 9°C and lows around -1°C, along with 16 days of rainfall.
April experiences milder weather, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 2°C and approximately 14 days of rain.
May brings warmer temperatures, with highs around 18°C and lows around 5°C, accompanied by 5 days of rainfall.
June sees temperatures rising further, with highs reaching 20°C and lows around 9°C, along with 10 days of rain.
July and August remain relatively consistent, with highs around 19°C and lows ranging from 11°C to 12°C, accompanied by 24 and 25 days of rainfall, respectively.
September experiences similar temperatures to July and August, with highs around 19°C and lows around 10°C, along with 16 days of rain.
October brings slightly cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 5°C and only 3 days of rainfall.
In November, temperatures decrease further, with highs around 13°C and lows around 3°C, along with 8 days of rain.
December sees a significant drop in temperatures, with highs around 8°C and lows around -2°C, along with 6 days of rainfall.
Delhi to Auli distance
The driving distance from Delhi to Auli is 11 hours 52 mins which is 511.5 km via NH 7.
You can also reach Auli by bus. You can board an overnight bus from Delhi to Rishikesh. Upon arrival in Rishikesh, travellers have the option to either hire a private cab directly to Auli, which takes approximately 9 hours or opt for a shared taxi service to Joshimath, with a journey duration of around 8 hours.
Rishikesh to Auli
The driving distance from Rishikesh to Auli is 7 hours 10 min which is 254.8 km via NH 7. From Rishikesh, travellers have the choice of either hiring a private cab directly to Auli, which typically takes about 9 hours or opting for a shared taxi service to Joshimath, with a journey duration of around 8 hours.
An alternative much more enjoyable and scenic option is to take a shared cab to Joshimath and then embark on the cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Auli in Uttarakhand with our guide to the top places to visit, including mesmerising attractions like Auli Ropeway, Narsingh Temple, and Kwani Bugyal. Discover the distances from Delhi and Rishikesh and other essential details to plan your unforgettable trip to this enchanting Himalayan destination. Travel Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
