From Christmas to New Year, many people plan vacations to relax and spend quality time with family and friends. Most travelers prefer hill destinations to witness snowfall and enjoy the beauty of snow-covered mountains. If you are also looking for such a place, Auli in Uttarakhand is an excellent choice. In January, the entire region is blanketed in snow, and if luck is on your side, you may even get to experience fresh snowfall. If you are planning a trip to Auli, this 3-day travel guide will be very useful.
How to Reach Auli
Auli is a famous hill station located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is well known for its ski resorts, skiing slopes, and breathtaking views of snow-clad mountains. During the winter season, the region receives heavy snowfall, attracting thousands of tourists every year.
If you are traveling from Delhi, the first step is to reach Rishikesh by bus or train. From Rishikesh, you can book a direct taxi to Auli for a more comfortable journey. Budget travelers can take a bus or shared taxi from Rishikesh to Joshimath and then hire a taxi to Auli.
The distance from Rishikesh to Auli is approximately 270 kilometers. Usually, travelers first reach Joshimath (around 260 km from Rishikesh), and from there Auli is just 13 kilometers away. For those traveling by train, Haridwar Railway Station (about 273 km) is the nearest major railhead. For air travelers, Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (around 280 km) is the closest airport.
Enjoy the Ropeway Ride
Auli can also be reached from Joshimath via a cable car (ropeway). This ride offers stunning views of snow-covered valleys and mountains, making the journey itself a memorable experience.
Adventure and Sightseeing in Auli
- Skiing – Auli is a paradise for adventure lovers. Every year, sports enthusiasts visit to enjoy skiing on its pristine snow slopes.
- Auli Lake – Surrounded by snow and mountains, Auli Lake offers a peaceful and scenic experience.
- Chattrakund – Located near Joshimath, this beautiful lake requires a trek of about 4 km to reach. However, visiting in winter can be challenging due to snow.
- Gurson Bugyal – Famous for its lush green meadows, Gurson Bugyal is best visited during summer. In winter, these meadows remain covered with snow.
- Narsingh Temple – A sacred temple in Joshimath, frequently visited by tourists traveling to Auli for blessings and spiritual peace.