A Detailed guide to visit Auli, Uttarakhand
Auli, Uttarakhand, is one of India’s most stunning winter destinations, known for its snow-covered slopes, lush meadows, and spectacular Himalayan views. If you’re planning a trip to Auli, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey.
1. Best Time to Visit Auli
- Winter (December to February): This is the peak season for skiing, as Auli transforms into a winter wonderland with heavy snowfall.
- Summer (March to June): Pleasant weather makes this a good time for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying clear views of the Himalayan peaks.
- Monsoon (July to September): Not ideal due to landslides and rain, but if you prefer lush landscapes and less crowd, it could be an option.
2. How to Reach Auli
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 279 km from Auli). You can take a taxi from Dehradun to Joshimath (the base town) or Auli.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar (approx. 273 km from Auli). From Haridwar, take a bus or taxi to reach Joshimath.
- By Road: Joshimath is well-connected by road from major Uttarakhand cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. Buses and taxis are available.
- Cable Car (Ropeway): From Joshimath, you can take a 4 km cable car ride, one of the highest in India, to reach Auli. It’s a scenic 20-25 minute ride offering panoramic views.
3. Where to Stay in Auli
- Hotels & Resorts in Auli: There are limited options, but you can find comfortable stays at GMVN Guest Houses, Auli Resort, and private resorts.
- Staying in Joshimath: Joshimath has more accommodation options and is just 15 km from Auli. Staying here offers easy access to both Auli and nearby sites.
- Camping: For adventure enthusiasts, camping is an option, especially in summer, offering a unique experience under the stars with mountain views.
4. Things to Do in Auli
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Auli is famous for its ski slopes. You can rent skiing gear locally and book lessons if you’re new to the sport.
- Auli Artificial Lake: One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, it provides snow even in the lean season and adds to Auli’s charm.
- Gorson Bugyal Trek: A day trek (3 km) from Auli leads to this beautiful alpine meadow, perfect for photography and scenic views.
- Cable Car Ride: The cable car offers stunning views of peaks like Nanda Devi and Hathi Parvat.
- Chattrakund: A small lake amidst a forest, about 3 km from Auli, known for its crystal-clear water and serene setting.
- Kwani Bugyal Trek: This 13 km trek is popular among seasoned trekkers for its scenic beauty, with close-up views of snow-capped peaks.
5. Essential Tips for Visiting Auli
- Permits: No specific permits are required for Auli, but if you plan to explore surrounding areas in Uttarakhand, check if any permits are needed.
- Altitude Sickness: Auli is at a high altitude, so take it easy the first day to acclimatize, especially if you’re coming from a lower altitude.
- Clothing: Bring winter wear, especially if visiting in winter. Layers, thermals, waterproof jackets, gloves, and warm caps are essentials.
- Cash: Auli and Joshimath have limited ATMs and banking facilities. It’s wise to carry cash, as not all places accept cards.
- Booking in Advance: During peak season (especially winter), it’s best to book accommodation and activities like skiing lessons well in advance to secure your spot.
6. Nearby Attractions
- Joshimath: Visit the ancient temples and monasteries here, including the Narasimha Temple and Shankaracharya Math.
- Badrinath Temple (45 km): One of the four sacred Char Dham sites, Badrinath can be visited if you’re in Auli during the non-winter season.
- Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib (near Joshimath): This UNESCO World Heritage site, open in summer, is a must-visit for its flora and serene beauty.
- Tapovan: A natural hot spring situated about 15 km from Joshimath, ideal for a relaxing experience.
7. Sample Itinerary for Auli
- Day 1: Arrive in Joshimath and explore the town. Check into your accommodation.
- Day 2: Take the cable car to Auli. Try skiing or snowboarding, explore Auli Lake, and enjoy scenic views.
- Day 3: Trek to Gorson Bugyal or explore other local treks and scenic spots.
- Day 4: Head back to Joshimath, explore the temples, or visit Tapovan if time allows.
- Day 5: Travel back or head to other destinations like Badrinath (seasonal).
8. Packing Checklist
- Winter Gear: Warm layers, thermals, waterproof outerwear, gloves, woolen socks, and a cap.
- Trekking Gear: Sturdy boots, water bottles, energy snacks, and trekking poles if planning hikes.
- Skiing Gear: You can rent it in Auli if you’re not bringing your own.
- Medical Kit: Basic medicines, altitude sickness tablets, and sunscreen (high-altitude sun can be intense).
- Others: Power bank, flashlight, ID proofs, camera, and map.
Auli Artificial Lake
The Auli Artificial Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake situated in Auli, Uttarakhand. Created by the government to provide a reliable source of snow for skiing, it’s one of the highest man-made lakes in the world. Its purpose is to support the Auli ski slopes, especially in seasons with less snowfall, ensuring consistent snow coverage for winter sports enthusiasts.
Key Highlights of Auli Artificial Lake
- Purpose: The lake helps maintain the ski slopes by providing snow-making capabilities. Snow is created from the lake’s waters and spread across the slopes to ensure an extended skiing season, which is especially valuable in warmer or low-snowfall years.
- Location: The lake is positioned at a high altitude, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks surrounding Auli, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat. The scenic location makes it a great spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.
- Accessibility: It’s easy to access the lake from the Auli Ropeway (cable car) terminal. The short walk around the lake is scenic and allows you to take in views of the mountains and the valley below.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Winter (December to February): During snowfall, the lake and the surrounding slopes are fully covered in snow, creating a winter wonderland.
- Summer (March to June): The lake remains, and the meadows around it become lush and green, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying clear mountain views.
- Activities Around the Lake:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: While skiing slopes are primarily near the lake, the presence of artificial snow enhances the skiing experience.
- Trekking: Treks to Gorson Bugyal and Chattrakund start near the lake, offering routes that pass through meadows, forests, and alpine landscapes.
- Photography: With stunning views of the surrounding peaks and reflections in the lake, it’s a favorite spot for photographers.
Tips for Visiting Auli Artificial Lake
- Wear Layers: Temperatures can drop quickly, especially in the evening.
- Snow Gear: If you’re planning to ski, you can rent snow gear in Auli.
- Altitude Acclimatization: Take it easy if you’re not accustomed to high altitudes to avoid any discomfort.
