Auli at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Famous For | Skiing, Himalayas, Winter Sports |
| Best Time to Visit | January to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Hindi, Garhwali, English |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 286km from Auli |
| Nearest Railway | Haridwar Junction (HW) |
| From Dehradun | 300 km · 9h 00m |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹500+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Auli: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Auli is a Himalayan ski resort located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its snow-capped peaks and pristine slopes, Auli offers breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi and other Himalayan ranges.
Auli is a great place to visit for skiing and snowboarding during winter. However, the accessibility can be challenging due to road conditions and limited transport options. The views and winter sports are worth it if you're prepared for a slightly difficult journey.
Auli: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joshimath | Open all day | Free | Any time of day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Auli: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
directions_car Driving to Auli: Road Routes & Highways
| From | Distance | Drive Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehradun | 300 km | 9h 00m | NH-107B, NH-7 |
train Train to Auli: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Haridwar Junction (HW) — Major railway station, well-connected to other cities
- From Delhi: 6-8 hours (₹500-₹1500)
- From Mumbai: 24-30 hours (₹1500-₹4000)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Auli: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 286km from Auli
- Delhi: 1 hour 15 minutes (₹3000-₹6000)
- Mumbai: 2 hours 45 minutes (₹6000-₹12000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹5000-₹7000
directions_bus Bus to Auli: Services & Timings
- From Haridwar: 10-12 hours (₹800-₹1500)
Trains more comfortable
Best Time to Visit Auli: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: January to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: January to March | -2 to 8 degrees C | Ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The slopes are well-maintained, and the views | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: April to June | 8 to 20 degrees C | Good for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty without the extreme cold. You' | Skiing is not possible during this |
| Avoid: July to September | 15 to 25 degrees C | Avoid due to the high risk of landslides and disruptions. Trekking and outdoor a | Some hotels and restaurants may be |
Peak season note: Expect higher prices for accommodation and activities. Book your travel and accommodation well in advance due to high demand.
2-Day Auli Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Auli Ski Resort
Auli Ski Resort is the main attraction, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities. It boasts well-maintained slopes and panor…
💡 Tip: Arrive early to avoid queues for the ski lifts.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Auli Artificial Lake
The Auli Artificial Lake was created to provide artificial snow during lean periods. It is one of the highest man-made lakes in th…
💡 Tip: Visit during sunset for stunning reflections on the lake.
📍 Joshimath
Joshimath is a town located near Auli, serving as a base for travelers. It is an important religious center and a gateway to sever…
💡 Tip: Try the local street food in Joshimath.
Day 2 — Nature & Local Culture
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
⛰️ Nanda Devi National Park
Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna. It is home to the majestic Nanda D…
💡 Book your permits and guides well in advance.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🏖️ Chenab Lake
Chenab Lake is a hidden gem located near Joshimath. This pristine lake offers tranquility away from the crowds.…
💡 Carry a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake.
Top Places to Visit in Auli: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Auli Ski Resort | ₹500-₹1000 (ski pass) | 1 day | 09:00-16:00 daily (winter only) |
| 2 | 🏖️ Auli Artificial Lake | Free | 1-2 hours | Open all day |
| 3 | 📍 Joshimath | Free | Half day | Open all day |
| 4 | ⛰️ Nanda Devi National Park | ₹150 (Indians), ₹750 (foreigners) | 1-2 days | 06:00-17:00 daily (permit required) |
| 5 | 🏖️ Chenab Lake | Free | 2-3 hours | Open all day |
| 6 | 📍 Gurso Bugyal | Free | 3-4 hours | Open all day |
| 7 | 🏖️ Chattrakund Lake | Free | 2 hours | Open all day |
📍 1. Auli Ski Resort
Auli Ski Resort is the main attraction, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities. It boasts well-maintained slopes and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Honest take: Worth it if you're a skiing enthusiast, otherwise skip.
📍 Getting there: Taxi from Joshimath, or cable car
🏖️ 2. Auli Artificial Lake
The Auli Artificial Lake was created to provide artificial snow during lean periods. It is one of the highest man-made lakes in the world.
Honest take: Worth visiting for the views and tranquility.
📍 Getting there: Walking distance from Auli
📍 3. Joshimath
Joshimath is a town located near Auli, serving as a base for travelers. It is an important religious center and a gateway to several Himalayan expeditions.
Honest take: Worth visiting if you're passing through, but not a destination in itself.
📍 Getting there: Road or cable car from Auli
Food & Restaurants in Auli: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Aloo ke Gutke, Kachmauli, Singal, Chainsoo
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Aloo Paratha | ₹/₹₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Auli |
| Indian and Continental dishes | ₹₹/₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Joshimath |
| Thalis | ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two) | Joshimath |
🛺 Street Food: Joshimath Market — Momos, Chowmein, Samosas (₹50-₹100 per person)
Auli Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹1000-₹2000/night | ₹3000-₹5000/night | ₹8000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Auli: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valley of Flowers National Park | 100 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | — |
| Badrinath | 50 km | ~1–1.5 hrs | Char Dham, Vishnu Temple, Himalayas |
Hotels in Auli: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Snow Crest
₹1000-₹2000/night
Joshimath
Kamet Hotel
₹1200-₹2500/night
Joshimath
🏨 Mid-Range
The Himalayan Abode
₹3000-₹5000/night
Auli
Auli Resort
₹3500-₹5500/night
Auli
⭐ Luxury
The Cliff Top Club
₹8000+/night
Auli
GMVN Auli
₹7000+/night
Auli
Auli Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Taxi overcharging: Negotiate the fare before starting the journey.
- ✓ Fake guides: Only hire guides from reputable agencies.
- ✓ Wear warm layers, including thermal wear, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket. Don't forget gloves, hats, and scarves.
- ✓ Limited availability in Auli, readily available in Joshimath
- ✓ Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Available at airports and major towns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Auli
How many days are enough for Auli?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Auli. Day 1 covers Auli Ski Resort and Auli Artificial Lake, while Day 2 explores Nanda Devi National Park and Chenab Lake.
What is Auli famous for?
Auli is famous for Skiing, Himalayas, Winter Sports.
What is the best time to visit Auli?
The best time to visit Auli is January to March. Cold and snowy, perfect for skiing. Expect heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
How do I reach Auli from Dehradun?
Auli is 300 km from Dehradun by road, approximately 9h 00m drive via NH-107B, NH-7. The nearest railway station is Haridwar Junction (HW). The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 286km from Auli.
Is Auli worth visiting?
Yes, Auli is worth visiting for Skiing, Himalayas, Winter Sports. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Valley of Flowers National Park.
What is the budget for a trip to Auli?
A 2-day trip to Auli costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹1000-₹2000/night per night.
What are the timings of Joshimath?
Joshimath is open Open all day. Best time to visit: Any time of day.
What is the entry fee for Joshimath?
Entry fee at Joshimath: Free.
What is the dress code for Joshimath?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Joshimath.