When we first saw the snowy hills through the foggy glass of the cable car, we could already feel the chill creeping in. We knew we’d be freezing for days. For the next three days, we walked through the deep snow, tried skiing (and fell a million times), and found some amazing hidden spots on the way up. It was tough, but also kind of awesome!

Auli: in UttarakhandCoolest Place in Uttarakhand

Auli, tucked away in Uttarakhand, is one of India’s best ski spots and a dreamland for nature lovers. It’s famous for its breathtaking Himalayan views, perfect powdery snow, and vast stretches of oak, pine, and conifer forests. There’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site biosphere reserve nearby!

Winter Wonderland

In winter, visitors from all over India come to ski and enjoy the snow-covered beauty of this little town in the Garhwal Himalayas. But when spring and summer roll around, Auli transforms. The snow melts, and the meadows come alive with colorful flowers and wildlife. These seasons are perfect for trekking and camping, making every day an adventure!

Every winter, hundreds of tourists visit Uttarakhand’s charming ski resort, Auli, for a slice of its European-like magic. Sitting at an altitude of about 2,909 meters above sea level, Auli is surrounded by the majestic snowy peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dunagiri, creating a view that feels straight out of a postcard.

A week-long stay is just the right amount of time to soak in the town’s beauty. Most visitors begin with a night’s rest at Joshimath and then take a breathtaking cable car ride up to Auli the next morning—a refreshing and exciting start to their adventure!

Skiing

Skiing was the heart of every day. There wasn’t much else to do, so we spent hours on the slopes before heading back to the cabin, careful not to get caught outside once the snow turned into sharp, icy patches.

Dinner was simple but comforting, served in the cozy dining hall near our cottage. Through the glass windows, we could see the twinkling lights of the town, like a warm hug on those cold nights.

Out of our four days, we spent two skiing, one trekking through the snow, and the last one simply recovering. After sunset, there wasn’t much action in town.

All the shops and cafes were in Joshimath, so evenings meant staying indoors, chatting, or resting. Mornings, however, came with a challenge of their own—breaking the ice in the bucket just to brush your teeth. It was all part of the Auli experience!

Trekking

Trekking in Auli is an adventure you won’t forget. While the climb isn’t too challenging, having a professional guide is essential. It’s not a journey you’d want to take on your own. We started our trek around 10 in the morning and returned by early afternoon, just as the snow started to fall.

At the summit, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. You’re surrounded by towering deodars and oaks, their branches delicately coated with the night’s fresh snowfall.

Nestled in the Himalayan range, the vantage point offers a perfect glimpse of the surrounding peaks. I sat there for nearly twenty minutes, forgetting the biting sub-zero temperatures, completely mesmerized by the serene beauty.

One sight that stood out was Dunagiri Peak, directly visible from where we rested. I joked about the mythical healing herb said to grow there, and our guide’s earnest agreement left us speechless. It felt like a truly magical moment, one that words couldn’t fully capture.

The descent, however, was another story. As the snow began to harden, every step demanded caution. By the time we reached the base, it had already begun snowing again, making me question why I had agreed to trek in the first place. Still, the experience was worth every slippery step.

Ideal Months

When snow falls in Auli, it’s like a glittering storm, with the glacial wind brushing against your skin. January often brings blizzards, and I vividly remember the howling winds keeping me awake on my third night there. While snow blankets Auli all year round, the best months for skiing are between December and February.

Switzerland of India

On our last day, heavy snowfall made the cable car inoperable, leaving us with two choices: extend our stay or brave the road to Joshimath by car.

The drive was both challenging and beautiful, showcasing nature’s raw power. While many Indian hill towns claim the title of the Switzerland of India, Auli genuinely earns it. Its snowy charm and serene landscapes make you feel like you’ve stumbled into Santa’s village in Finland. The only thing that rivals Auli’s beauty is the warmth of its people.

Getting There

To reach Auli:

1. Fly directly to Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport, then continue by road.
2. Alternatively, take an overnight bus from Delhi to Rishikesh, and from there, hire a shared taxi to Joshimath. Finally, hop on the cable car to ascend the snowy peaks of Auli.

Day 1 Itinerary in Auli

Morning: Hiking to Gorson Bugyal

Kick off your day with a 6 km hike to the Gorson Bugyal meadows, perched at 3,049m above sea level. The trail takes you through enchanting alpine forests of oak and deodar, with panoramic views of the Himalayan giants—Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, and Trisul. As the morning light kisses the landscape, the beauty is nothing short of magical.

Don’t forget to visit Chattrakund Lake, located just 3 km from Gorson Bugyal. Its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery, make it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection and photography.

Afternoon: Visit Auli Lake

After a refreshing lunch, take some time to interact with the locals and soak in the tranquility of Auli. Then, head to Auli Lake, an artificial marvel used for snow-making. The serene surroundings make it ideal for a peaceful walk or some ice skating if the weather allows.

Evening: Stargazing in Auli

As night falls, set up camp and prepare for an unforgettable evening of stargazing. Auli’s altitude and remote location provide an incredible view of the star-filled sky, and if you’re lucky, you might even capture a star trail. Make sure you’re dressed warmly and equipped to handle the fluctuating temperatures of the Himalayan night.

Day 2 Itinerary in Auli

Morning: Exploring Sacred Sites in Joshimath

Start your day with a visit to Vishnuprayag, where the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers meet. This serene confluence is not only a natural wonder but also home to a Vishnu Temple, a sacred site steeped in history and spirituality.

Next, head to the Narsingh Temple, dedicated to Lord Narsingh, a half-lion, half-man avatar of Vishnu. Admire the unique idol and learn about the temple’s significance in local folklore.

Wrap up your morning at the Adi Shankaracharya Math (Jyotirmath), one of the four monasteries established by the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya. Explore the Laxmi Narayan Temple within its premises and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Afternoon: Kwani Bugyal Trek

Post-lunch, embark on the 12 km Kwani Bugyal trek, a beginner-friendly trail from Joshimath that takes around three hours. Climbing to an altitude of 3,380m, the trek offers stunning views of the Dunagiri peak, lush forested meadows, towering oak trees, and a vibrant array of birds. Take a break on the grassy slopes for a picnic and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Evening: Auli Ropeway Adventure

End your day with a ride on the Auli Ropeway, one of the longest in Asia, stretching four kilometers. The ride from Joshimath to Auli at 3,010m above sea level provides panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, Nilkantha, Hathi Parbat, and Kamet, along with sprawling oak forests. It’s the perfect way to marvel at the Himalayan grandeur and reflect on your day’s adventures.

Day 3 Itinerary in Auli

Morning: Nanda Devi National Park

Start your last morning with an early visit to Nanda Devi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its breathtaking meadows of alpine flowers and diverse wildlife.

This park is home to rare and endangered animals like the Asiatic black bear, snow leopard, brown bear, and blue sheep. The park lies between the Zanskar and Great Himalayas ranges, offering a dramatic landscape.

While in the park, make sure to take part in a birdwatching tour. You might spot native Himalayan birds like spotted nutcrackers, doves, Himalayan vultures, eagles, and more. Also, don’t miss the nearby Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site surrounded by towering mountains.

Afternoon: Relax in Auli & Shop in Joshimath

After your nature-filled morning, head back to Auli for some much-needed relaxation. Once you’ve recharged with lunch, explore the local markets of Auli, where you can find unique handicrafts, scarves, shawls, Himalayan tea, herbs, spices, and traditional jewelry. If the market in Auli doesn’t have what you’re looking for, head to Joshimath for a wider selection of souvenirs to bring home.

Evening: Sunset Views and Reflection

For your final evening, visit the Hanuman Temple viewpoint for an unforgettable sunset. From here, you’ll get a stunning view of the Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, bathed in the soft glow of twilight.

The sunset view from Auli Lake is equally mesmerizing. As you watch the sun dip behind the mountains, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences of the last three days. The beauty of Auli will surely call you back, especially in winter when it offers some of the best skiing in India.

Where to Stay

• High-end: The Cliff Top Club and Mountain Rover Resort offer luxurious stays.
• Budget-friendly: For a more affordable option, try Snow City Auli or The Royal Village.
• Backpacker-friendly: The Himalayan Country House and Auli Life Homestay are perfect for those on a budget.

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