Activities In Auli

Auli is one of the most beautiful places in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state with stunning landscape and interesting topography, Auli is a haven for nature and adventure lovers. Every year many tourists visit Auli. It is the best place to enjoy some winter sports in Uttarakhand

Auli at a Glance


LocationChamoli District, Uttarakhand
Altitude2,500–3,050 metres
Famous ForSkiing, Cable Car, Himalayan Views
Ideal Stay2–3 Days
Best Time to VisitYear-round (Winter for Snow)

Why Visit Auli?

  • India's premier skiing destination
  • Panoramic views of Nanda Devi and surrounding peaks
  • Asia's longest ropeway experiences
  • Beautiful meadows and forests
  • Excellent destination for families and couples
  • Gateway to several Himalayan treks

Best Experiences You Shouldn't Miss in Auli

Activities in Auli

Here we have listed various adventure activities and things to do when you are visiting Auli.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Auli

skiing at Auli

Skiing in Auli is one of the most sought-after winter activities tourists indulge in Auli. Only a handful of ski resorts exist in India and Auli is one of them, which offers various snow activities to tourists. Snowboarding is a much younger sport than skiing. You can also enjoy snowboarding in Auli is a fun activity. And also learn skiing and snowboarding in Auli. There are many instructors who provided you the Best Skiing and Snowboarding course in Auli.

Trekking In Auli

 Pixabay: 4314892
Tourist heading for skiing in Auli

There are numerous trekking options from Auli. Trekking is another option for tourists, as there are numerous trekking routes that commence from Auli. These treks take one through alluring meadows, green pastures, rivulets, and verdant valleys. Some treks are shorter while others take more than a week to complete. Here is the list of few treks that can be completed within a day: Auli - Gorson (7 km), Gorson - Tali (6 km), and Khulara - Tapovan (9 km).

Kuari pass trek

Kuari Pass Trek

Kuari pass trek has been attracting backpackers and trekkers around the world for decades. You can witness endless blankets of snow and come across the grand green forests. Abound with the dense mountain forests and meaningful interaction with the local tribes.

Gorson Bugyakl Trek

 Aman Rawat

Gorson Bugyal trek from Auli is one of the most beautiful treks in Uttarakhand. Gorson has many beautiful trees like Alpine, Deodar, and Oak that are decked with many beautiful wildflowers.

Cable car Ride and Chair Lift in Auli

View from Auli Ropeway Cabin during Spring

If you are planning to ski, you will have to take the cable car. Almost all ski destinations are connected by a cable car and that adds to the amazing experience of traveling in Auli. You will see outstanding views of Auli from the ropeway and enjoy your journey as you ride.

 Ajay Bhatt

Auli Chair Lift connects Auli to the Skiing slopes of Auli. One of the best ways to reach the skiing slopes if you are visiting Auli by your own car.

Best Activities by Season


SeasonRecommended Activities
Winter (Dec-Feb)Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Photography
Spring (Mar-Apr)Cable Car Ride, Nature Walks
Summer (May-Jun)Trekking, Camping, Sightseeing
Autumn (Sep-Nov)Photography, Ropeway Ride, Mountain Views

Helicopter Himalaya Darshan in Auli

To experience the Himalayas from a different angle, visitors can opt for seasonal helicopter sightseeing experiences operated in the Auli–Joshimath region. These 10-12 minutes Himalaya Darshan in Auli offer panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and surrounding valleys.

Such experiences are subject to weather conditions and availability, and are generally offered during peak tourist seasons as an optional premium activity.

Camping in Auli

Best camping location in Auli

Camping in Auli is the most lovable activity by tourists in Auli. Who would not love waking up with the most beautiful views of the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayan range, abundant greenery, and the fresh crisp of Auli.

Go Bird Watching

Auli is a popular destination for bird watching, especially around forested areas and nearby viewpoints. The region is home to several Himalayan bird species, including eagles, tits, woodpeckers, and sunbirds.

Summer is the best time for bird watching when the snow melts and visibility improves. Early mornings are perfect for spotting birds in their natural habitat amid calm surroundings and clear skies.

Shopping at the Local Joshimath Market

Auli, known as a snow ski destination, has several small shops that provide basic sell ski equipment and rental gear, particularly during the winter skiing season. Most visitors in Auli prefer renting equipment here for skiing and snow activities.

For a better shopping experience, you can visit Joshimath market, located about 13 km from Auli. It is the main shopping hub in the region where you can find useful winter essentials like woollen caps, warm jackets, shawls, and handmade local souvenirs.

Enjoy the Local Cuisine

While Auli has limited small local eateries, most travellers enjoy local food at hotels and resorts in Auli and nearby Joshimath, which offers a wider range of dining options.

Must-try Garhwali dishes include simple home-style dal, rice, and seasonal leafy vegetables, along with traditional specialties like Kachmauli (spiced stuffed goat). For local sweets, don’t miss Bal Mithai and Singhori, which are popular delicacies of the Uttarakhand region.

Adventure Activities near Auli

While Auli is best known for skiing and scenic Himalayan views, some adventure activities like zorbing, zip lining, paragliding, and ATV rides are usually operated in nearby areas such as Joshimath and designated adventure zones during peak travel seasons.

These activities are seasonal and depend on weather conditions and local operators. Travellers are advised to check availability in advance, especially during winter and monsoon months when operations may be limited. Among these, skiing remains the signature adventure experience in Auli, while other activities offer an added thrill for those exploring the wider region.

Explore Chattrakund Lake

Nestled amidst the scenic splendor of Auli, Chattrakund Lake emerges as a jewel of serenity and natural beauty. Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas, this alpine lake enchants visitors with its tranquil waters and captivating surroundings. The journey to Chattrakund unfolds a picturesque trek, leading adventurers through verdant meadows and dense coniferous forests, ultimately revealing the pristine charm of the lake.

As the crystal-clear waters mirror the towering Himalayan peaks, Chattrakund becomes a haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and those seeking a moment of respite in the lap of undisturbed wilderness. Embrace the symphony of nature at Chattrakund Lake, where each step brings you closer to the heart of Auli's breathtaking landscape.

Explore Chenab Lake

Chenab Lake, cradled within the verdant meadows of Auli, stands as a captivating retreat for those in pursuit of tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of lush oak and coniferous forests, the lake unfolds a serene ambiance, beckoning visitors to embrace the stillness of nature. It presents an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll, where each step is accompanied by the soothing rustle of leaves and the crisp mountain air.

Chenab Lake, surrounded by the gentle murmur of foliage, becomes an ideal spot for a quiet picnic, inviting moments of contemplation amidst the pristine surroundings. The mirror-like reflection of the towering mountains on the lake's surface adds a touch of enchantment to this hidden gem, making Chenab Lake a must-visit destination for those seeking solace in the heart of Auli's untouched landscapes.

Visit Auli Artificial Lake

Auli's Artificial Lake, a marvel of human ingenuity, stands as a crucial component in the winter enchantment of this Himalayan haven. Crafted with purpose, the lake serves as the primary reservoir for snow production, ensuring a pristine and snow-covered terrain for the region's renowned ski slopes during the winter season. Nestled amidst the towering peaks of Auli, the lake is not merely a visual spectacle, but a strategic masterpiece that contributes significantly to the region's allure. As the artificial lake glistens in the midst of the majestic landscape, it not only enhances the scenic charm of Auli but also plays a pivotal role in sustaining its reputation as a premier skiing destination.

The careful management of this water body transforms the slopes into a winter wonderland, drawing skiing enthusiasts from far and wide to experience the thrill of gliding down snow-covered hills. Auli's Artificial Lake, embodying the synergy between nature and human innovation, is a testament to the seamless integration of technology into the heart of the Himalayas, creating a harmonious balance between tradition and progress.

Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Auli

  1. Ride the Auli Ropeway
  2. Enjoy skiing during winter
  3. Watch sunrise over Nanda Devi
  4. Visit Auli Artificial Lake
  5. Trek to Gorson Bugyal

Suggested 2-Day Auli Itinerary

Day 1: Ropeway Ride, Auli Lake, Sunset Point

Day 2: Gorson Bugyal Trek, Skiing/Nature Walk, Local Sightseeing

Nearby Places to Visit from Auli


DestinationDistanceKnown For
Joshimath16 kmSpiritual & Adventure Hub
Gorson Bugyal3 km TrekMeadows & Views
Tapovan15 kmHot Springs
Badrinath60 kmChar Dham Pilgrimage

Who Should Visit Auli?

  • Skiing enthusiasts
  • Adventure travellers
  • Nature lovers
  • Families
  • Couples
  • Photographers

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