Skiing Destination of India - Auli
Relevance and History
Auli is an important ski destination. Auli is located at an elevation of 2500 to 3050 meters above sea level. Auli lies on the way to Badrinath. Auli is surrounded by coniferous and oak forests, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the lofty peaks of the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas. The slopes here provide enough thrill to professional skier and novice as well. Auli also boasts the Asia's longest - 4 km - cable car (Gondola). It also has a Chair Lift and a Ski-Lift. Apart from Skiing there is an interesting trek route also. There is a training facility of Indo-Tibetan Border Police. A small temple having connection to great epic Ramayana is also present.The world's highest man-made lake is at Auli, right next to the private hotel, Clifftop Club. Auli is surrounded by high peaks like Mana, Kamet and tallest of all Nanda Devi. Apart from skiing there are some trek options available and below list is some of the trail normally completed in single day Auli - Gorson around 7 km Gorson - Tali Top around 6 km Tali Top- Kuari Pass around 11 km Kuari Pass - Khullar around 12 km Khullar - Tapovan around 9 km.
Best Time to Visit
Summers (March to June) are very pleasant with moderate climate, with average around 15°C and ideal for sight seeing. Monsoons (July to October) are rainy - temperature are around 12°C. Winters (November to February) are freezing with minimum temperatures below 0°C. Snowfall is very common and this time is ideal for skiing. May to November offers cool and pleasant climate and the right period to spend relaxing moments in the outdoors.
How to Reach
By Road
Although Auli is located in remote of the Garhwal Himalayas, a good network of roads cover the place. In fact the beast idea to reach Auli is by road from Joshimath from where Auli is only 13 kms drive. Other prominent cities in Uttaranchal and north India, such as: Rishikesh (253 kms), Haridwar (277 kms), Dehradun (298 kms) and Delhi (500 kms) lie in proximity to Auli and connected by drivable roads.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh which is situated around 300 Kms away. Rishikesh is well connected by railway networks with major destinations of India. From here one can reach Auli though bus or taxi.
By Air
Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport located at Dehradun, which is around 300 kms away. It is connected by direct flights to Delhi at regular intervals. The distance beyond this has to be covered by road either through bus or taxies.
By Cable Car
The most popular way to reach Auli is by cable car. The last 4 kms journey by the ropeway would drop you right in Auli. Apart from the convenience, the bird's eye view you get from the cable car is an irresistible charm.
Useful Information
Sanjay Gaur
A proud resident of Chamoli Garhwal, who wants our state to be famous throughout the world. Everyone should know the diversity in flora, fauna, tourism, mythology and it should become a tourist paradise and people instead of migrating away from it come back to it.