Auli is the pride of the Garhwal Himalayas and a perfect off-beat holiday destination for those who love the mountains. Famous for its snow-clad slopes, shimmering lakes, and breathtaking views of Nanda Devi, this hill town brings you the best of both worlds – adventure and tranquillity. We’ve rounded up the top places to visit in Auli so you can plan your trip better.

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Why is Auli the Most Loved Tourist Destination?

• A Snow Playground: In Auli, you get natural white carpets where skiing feels like exhilarating playtime.

• Meadows Made for Daydreaming: The sprawling green meadows are so picture-perfect, you’d never want to leave their cosy lap.

• Mountains that Stare Back: Peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul command attention like Himalayan celebrities on the red carpet.

• Cable car and adventure activities: Auli is known for its adventure activities and a stunning ropeway that takes you to the top of the world.

• Digital disconnect: Though there are internet sources in the hill station, you’d completely forget to check the notifications on your phone. The mountains will keep you captivated.

8 Best Places To Visit in Auli

These are eight spectacular places to visit in Auli, without which your trip will seem incomplete.

1 – Auli Artificial Lake

This sparkling man-made lake sits at a high altitude and is one of the main highlights of Auli. Towering peaks surround it, and it is also famous for being one of the world’s highest artificial lakes.

2 – Auli Ropeway

Often called the “Gondola of the Himalayas,” the Auli Ropeway connects Joshimath to Auli and offers unbeatable views of the Himalayan peaks. While suspended mid-air, it is like you’re gliding through the clouds while the mountains stand tall around you.

3 – Gorson Bugyal

Gorson Bugyal is a lush meadow that is green during summer and glistens with white snow in the winter. Gurson Bugyal offers a wide-open view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dron Parvat. It’s the kind of place where the sky feels much closer to you.

4. Chattrakund

Chattrakund is a small crystalline lake with water so clear it almost sparkles. It’s known for its quiet atmosphere and is often called the hidden gem of Auli. It is tucked away beautifully inside dense deodar and oak forests.

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5. Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint

From Auli, you get some of the best vantage points to admire Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak. Watching this mighty mountain bathed in golden sunlight is a sight that travellers remember for life.

6. Trishul Peak Viewpoint

Trishul Peak stands proudly at over 7,000 meters and looks mesmerising from Auli’s viewpoints. Its three towering summits dominate the skyline, making it a favourite backdrop for nature photographers.

7. Joshimath

Joshimath is Auli’s gateway town, which is about 11 km from the city centre. This town is known for the sacred Adi Shankaracharya Math and ancient temples. It has a noticeable, serene spiritual aura.

8. Local Markets of Joshimath

No trip feels complete without a stroll through Joshimath’s bustling local bazaars. You’ll also find cosy woollens, colourful caps, and handwoven shawls, wooden handicrafts, copper utensils, and tiny souvenirs carved by local artisans. Street-side stalls often sell regional spices and pickles.

Adventures and Activities to Explore in Auli

• Skiing – The snowy slopes of Auli Ski Resorts offer one of India’s best skiing experiences with breathtaking Himalayan backdrops.

• Ropeway Ride – The Joshimath – Auli cable car is one of Asia’s longest ropeways and takes you closer to the loft mountains.

• Trekking – Trails like Gurso Bugyal and Kwani Bugyal take you through alpine meadows with close encounters of Nanda Devi.

• Camping – The meadows near Auli are perfect for camping under starry skies. Sometimes, you can even see the Milky Way from here.

• Birdwatching – Auli’s forests are home to colourful Himalayan species, including the vibrant state bird, the Himalayan Monal.

What is the Best Time to Visit Auli?

In our opinion, Auli is an all-year-round tourist destination. If you love the snow, come here during the winter. If green canopies and vibrant meadows are your thing, summers are perfect. Most people avoid the monsoon months, but for a quiet resort getaway, the rainy season is great too!

How to Reach Auli?

• By Air: The closest airport is in Dehradun – Jolly Grant Airport (268 km). You can take a bus or hire a taxi from here to Joshimath and then head to Auli.

• By Rail: The nearest railway stations are Haridwar (273 km), Rishikesh (250 km), and Dehradun (293 km).

• By Road: Reach Dehradun, Rishikesh or Haridwar first and drive toward Joshimath and Auli via NH7.

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Interesting Festivals and Events in Auli

1. Mata Murti Ka Mela – August/September

This grand fair is celebrated at the Mata Murti Temple near Badrinath, close to Joshimath. It honours Mata Murti, the mother of Lord Badrinath, and attracts devotees from all over Garhwal.

2. Skiing Festival – January/February

This festival is a dream come true for snow and adventure lovers. It is organised by Uttarakhand Tourism and showcases the best of Auli’s slopes with cultural zest and local hospitality.

FAQs

UTTARAKHAND ESCAPES

Craving peace in the mountains?

Find your calm in Mussoorie, Nainital, Rishikesh and the Kumaon hills with scenic stays and slow-paced itineraries crafted for you.

Check out our Uttarakhand packages➜