Auli Ski Slopes
India's leading ski destination, active roughly January to March.
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Offbeat Uttarakhand
Auli
Uttarakhand, India· Last updated
- Best time
- January–March
- Getting there
- Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approx. 280–300 km.
- Stays
- Negotiated for you
- Rate desk
- Reply in ~30 min
Peak ski season with reliable snow cover.
Nearest Airport
Auli is a high-altitude meadow and ski resort in the Garhwal Himalayas, set just above Joshimath at heights between 2,500 and 3,050 meters. Surrounded by coniferous forest and open slopes with direct views of Nanda Devi, it has developed into India's most prominent skiing destination, though it retains a quieter, less commercial character than international ski resorts of comparable scale. The approach itself — via one of Asia's longest cable cars, running the roughly 4 km from Joshimath — is part of the experience. Auli suits winter sports enthusiasts during the ski season and trekkers or photographers the rest of the year, when the same slopes turn green and offer walking routes with the same Himalayan backdrop. The Gorson Bugyal meadow above Auli extends the area's summer appeal, while the artificial lake used for snowmaking doubles as a scenic spot in its own right. Given its position on the route toward Badrinath, Auli also works well as a short detour for travelers already heading into the upper Garhwal region.
Nearby highlights
Auli Ropeway
One of Asia's longest cable cars, connecting Joshimath to Auli.
Gorson Bugyal
A high meadow above Auli, popular for summer treks.
Nanda Devi Viewpoint
Wide views of Nanda Devi and neighboring peaks from Auli's slopes.
Joshimath
The base town below Auli, a key stop on the Badrinath pilgrimage route.
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How to reach Auli
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, approx. 280–300 km. Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh, approx. 250–264 km; Haridwar, approx. 273–300 km. By Road & Ropeway: Drive to Joshimath via Rishikesh–Rudraprayag–Chamoli, then take the cable car or a 13 km road drive up to Auli; the ropeway is the more scenic and often faster option.
Best time to visit
January–March: Peak ski season with reliable snow cover. April–June: Green slopes, pleasant weather, good for trekking. July–September: Monsoon season, lush but with reduced visibility. October–December: Clear skies transitioning into early snowfall.
Where it is
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Auli?
2 days covers the ropeway ride, slopes or meadow walks, and viewpoints comfortably.
Is Auli suitable for families and couples?
Yes, skiing options range from beginner-friendly slopes to more advanced runs, and summer treks are gentle.
When is the best time to ski in Auli?
January to March offers the most reliable snow cover.
What are the must-visit places near Auli?
Gorson Bugyal, Joshimath, and the Auli artificial lake.
Packages that cover Auli
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