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Auli
Location
Chamoli district in Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state, India.
Distance
National Capital Delhi: 500 km State Capital Dehradun: 292 km
Altitude
2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level.
Best Season To Visit
November to March and May to June
Facts About Auli
Auli, nestled in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is a picturesque hill station renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine slopes, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,800 to 3,050 meters (9,200 to 10,000 feet) above sea level, Auli is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and ski enthusiasts alike.
The town is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense coniferous forests, and lush meadows, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst the beauty of the Himalayas. Auli offers breathtaking views of iconic peaks such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat, which add to its scenic charm.
Auli is best known for its skiing slopes, which are considered among the best in Asia. The town's pristine slopes, with gradients ranging from gentle to steep, attract skiers and snowboarders from around the world, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The Auli Ski Resort offers facilities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, along with equipment rentals and ski instructors for beginners.
Apart from skiing, Auli offers a range of outdoor activities and adventure sports for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Trekking, camping, and nature walks are popular activities during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore the scenic beauty and biodiversity of the region. The Kuari Pass Trek, Valley of Flowers Trek, and Gorson Bugyal Trek are some of the popular trekking routes in the vicinity of Auli.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Auli offers opportunities for sightseeing and relaxation amidst nature. The Auli Artificial Lake, created for snowmaking purposes during the winter, offers boating and stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks during the summer months. The Hanuman Temple, located atop a hill overlooking Auli, offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and is a popular pilgrimage site.
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Auli :- Famous Visiting Places
1. Joshimath
Joshimath is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a significant pilgrimage center and a gateway to several important spiritual and adventure destinations. Situated at an altitude of about 1,875 meters, Joshimath is revered as one of the four 'Maths' (monastic establishments) founded by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century. The town is home to the sacred Narsingh Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, which is believed to be the winter seat of Lord Badrinath. Joshimath also serves as a base for the Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib, and the famous trekking routes like Kuari Pass. The town’s spiritual significance, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it a popular destination for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.
2. Auli Artificial Lake
Auli Artificial Lake is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world, located at an elevation of about 2,800 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas. The lake was created by the government to provide artificial snow on the ski slopes during less snowy periods, ensuring a longer skiing season. Surrounded by majestic peaks like Nanda Devi and Mana Parvat, the lake adds to the beauty of Auli and reflects the stunning landscapes around it. The lake not only supports the skiing infrastructure but also enhances the scenic appeal of Auli, making it a serene spot for tourists to relax and enjoy the panoramic views.
3. Gurso Bugyal
Gurso Bugyal is a picturesque meadow located just 3 kilometers from Auli, at an altitude of around 3,050 meters. The word 'Bugyal' means high-altitude meadow in the local language, and Gurso Bugyal perfectly embodies this, with its lush green pastures surrounded by dense forests of oak and conifer trees. The meadow offers breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dron Parvat peaks, making it a popular spot for trekkers and nature lovers. During the summer, the meadow is covered with vibrant wildflowers, while in winter, it transforms into a snow-covered wonderland. The serene environment and stunning vistas make Gurso Bugyal a must-visit destination for those exploring Auli.
4. Auli Ropeway
The Auli Ropeway, also known as the Auli Cable Car, is one of the highest and longest ropeways in Asia, connecting Joshimath to Auli. The 4.15-kilometer-long ropeway offers a thrilling ride with panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the lush valleys below. The cable car ride takes about 25 minutes and ascends from 1,900 meters to 3,050 meters, providing a bird’s-eye view of the picturesque landscapes. The Auli Ropeway is a major attraction for tourists, offering a unique experience that combines adventure with stunning natural beauty. It also serves as a convenient mode of transport for skiers and trekkers heading to Auli during the winter season.
5. Chenab Lake
Chenab Lake is a hidden gem located near Auli, known for its pristine beauty and tranquility. The lake is situated at an altitude of around 4,000 meters and is surrounded by dense forests and high mountain peaks. Despite its remote location and the challenging trek required to reach it, Chenab Lake attracts adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers looking for solitude and untouched natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding landscapes, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Chenab Lake is an ideal spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Himalayas, away from the more crowded tourist spots.
6. Auli Ski Resort
Auli Ski Resort is one of the premier ski destinations in India, known for its well-maintained slopes and modern facilities. Located at an altitude of 2,500 to 3,050 meters, the resort offers excellent skiing opportunities for both beginners and experienced skiers. The slopes are covered with fine powder snow during the winter months, making it a paradise for skiing enthusiasts. The resort is equipped with ski lifts, chair lifts, and a ski school, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. In addition to skiing, Auli Ski Resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat. The resort is also a hub for other winter sports like snowboarding and snow trekking.
7. Chattrakund
Chattrakund is a small, serene lake located about 4 kilometers from Auli, at an altitude of 3,300 meters. The lake is surrounded by dense forests of oak and pine, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. The crystal-clear waters of Chattrakund reflect the surrounding trees and the blue sky, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for a quiet picnic or a relaxing walk. The lake is accessible via a short trek from Auli, making it a popular spot for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Chattrakund’s tranquility and natural beauty make it a hidden gem in the Auli region.
8. Kwani Bugyal
Kwani Bugyal is a beautiful high-altitude meadow located about 12 kilometers from Auli, at an elevation of around 3,350 meters. The Bugyal offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, and Hathi Parvat. Kwani Bugyal is a popular destination for trekkers, especially during the summer months when the meadow is covered with lush green grass and vibrant wildflowers. The trek to Kwani Bugyal from Auli is relatively easy, making it accessible to trekkers of all levels. The serene environment, coupled with the breathtaking views, makes Kwani Bugyal an ideal spot for camping and nature photography.
9. Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, encompassing the Nanda Devi peak, the second-highest mountain in India. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, which include deep valleys, glaciers, and alpine meadows. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, and blue sheep. The park is also part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which includes the Valley of Flowers. The pristine environment and the dramatic scenery of Nanda Devi National Park make it a paradise for trekkers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
10. Narsingh Temple
Narsingh Temple is located in Joshimath, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Narsingh, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple holds great significance as it is believed to be the winter seat of Lord Badrinath when the Badrinath Temple remains closed during the winter months. The idol of Lord Narsingh in the temple is unique, with a lion’s head and a human body, symbolizing the dual nature of the deity. The temple is also associated with a prophecy that says when the idol’s left arm, which is gradually thinning, falls off completely, the road to Badrinath will be permanently closed, and the Lord will move to the Bhavishya Badri temple. The Narsingh Temple is an important pilgrimage site in Joshimath and attracts devotees from all over the region.
How to Reach
By Road
Auli is well connected by road network. Bus services are available from Delhi to Haridwar and Rishikesh and after that one can hire taxi and other public or private transport services.
By Train
Rishikesh is the nearest railway station. After reaching Rishikesh one can take bus, taxi and shared jeep services accordingly to Auli.
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Gangotri. Daily flight services are available from Delhi to Dehradun. After that one can pick bus or taxi services to Auli.
Climate & Weather
summer
Summer (April to June): Auli experiences a cool summer, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time for trekking and exploring the lush meadows. The clear skies offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
monsoon
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings moderate rainfall, with temperatures between 12°C and 18°C. The meadows turn green and vibrant, but the rains can make trekking trails slippery and challenging.
autumn
Autumn (October to November): Autumn is cool, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. The skies are clear, and the landscape is picturesque. This is a great time for photography and exploring the region before winter sets in.
winter
Winter (December to February): Winters in Auli are cold, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 10°C. The region receives heavy snowfall, making it a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports. Warm clothing is essential.
Hotels Around Auli
In Auli, there are several hotels, resorts, and guesthouses offering a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some notable options:
1. Clifftop Club Resort: Perched on the edge of a cliff, Clifftop Club Resort offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. The resort features comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines.
2. The Royal Village Resort: Located amidst picturesque surroundings, The Royal Village Resort offers cozy accommodations with views of the snow-capped peaks. The resort provides comfortable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and warm hospitality.
3. Auli Resort: Situated amidst pine forests, Auli Resort offers rustic accommodations with modern amenities. The resort features cozy cottages, a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
4. GMVN Auli Tourist Rest House: Operated by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), this guesthouse offers basic accommodations for travelers visiting Auli. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the guesthouse provides essential amenities for a pleasant stay.
5. The Tattva Resort: Nestled amidst apple orchards, The Tattva Resort offers luxury accommodations with modern amenities. The resort features spacious rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
6. Auli D Resort: Located near the Auli Ski Resort, Auli D Resort offers comfortable accommodations with views of the surrounding mountains. The resort provides cozy rooms, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and easy access to skiing and other outdoor activities.
7. Himalayan Abode Homestay: For a more intimate experience, Himalayan Abode Homestay offers cozy rooms in a family-run guesthouse. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals, warm hospitality, and personalized service in a serene setting.
These are just a few examples of the accommodations available in Auli. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, cozy guesthouses, or budget-friendly options, Auli has something to offer for every traveler. It's advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and the best possible experience.: