Want to go skiing this summer? But don’t want to go to some far off and expensive place like Switzerland? Fret not, pack your bags and head straight to Auli Hill Station – India’s own skiing destination. India is endowed with diverse landforms ranging from sandy sea beaches, isolated islands to the mighty Himalayas. It also has a fabulous skiing destination – Auli. Located in Uttarakhand in Chamoli district, Auli is at an elevation of 2500 -3050 feet above the sea level. Against the backdrop of snow-covered peaks of Himalayas, the coniferous forests and oak trees provide splendid views. Auli is a hidden gem for the adventure seekers. You can not only enjoy skiing but can also go for trekking and nature walks in the surrounding areas. Auli Uttarakhand is one of those rare places in India which provides perfect condition for skiing.
In Auli, lose yourself amidst the stunning views of the apple orchards and deodar trees. Auli means “meadow” in the native language. Apart from skiing, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat and Dunagiri ranges. Auli has also been used as training ground for skiing personnel as well as for Indo-Tibetan Police force.
Skiing in Auli Uttarakhand
Auli Uttarakhand is a haven for skiers. It 3 km long slopes are admired by amateurs as well as professional skiers. The oak and deodar forests reduce the velocity of the frosty winds. The ski resort is maintained by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited. Auli features Asia’s longest and world’s highest cable car gondola spread across 4 km. You can also enjoy a ride of the ski lift or chairlift. The cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli takes 25 minutes and costs about INR 500. If you prefer more luxury you can opt for the 800 mt. long chairlift forming a nexus between the ski slopes and upper regions. Enjoy the splendid views of the pristine mountain forms. The hydraulic and pneumatic braking system ensures that your cable car ride is safe even in the worst weather. There are snow beaters to ensure that you can enjoy skiing at all times. At Auli offers you a world class skiing experience. Auli has hosted in 2011first SAF Winter games. You can get training
There are 4 ski slopes in Auli which are as follows:
- Number slope (White)
- 8 Number track (Blue)
- Temple Track (Red) for novice
- Composite Track
Best Time to Visit Auli
Auli has a cool climate throughout the year. The best time to visit Auli depends on the purpose of your visit.
The winter lasts from November to March and is ideal for skiing. During this season the temperature often goes below zero and you can expect chilly weather. Do not forget to bring your woolen clothes, gloves, mufflers etc if you are traveling to Auli during this period.
The summer stretches from April to June. The temperature goes as high as 15. This time is ideal for visiting if you are into outdoor activities like trekking and nature walks.
The monsoon is from July to October. During this period there is scanty rainfall.
How to Reach Auli
By Air: The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport. Auli is easily accessible by roads from Jolly Grant Airport.
By Train: The nearest railway station from Auli is Rishikesh which is 246 km from Auli. Auli Uttaranchal is easily accessible by road from Rishikesh.
By Road: In spite of lying in a mountainous region, Auli is easily accessible by road from other parts of Uttarakhand. it is well connected to other cities like Rishikesh, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Delhi. The nearest place is Joshimath which is 16 km away.
Places To Visit in Auli
Gurso Bugyal
Auli Trekking is breathtaking
Go for this 3 km trek to Gurso Bugyal. From here you can catch breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Trishul Parvat, Dron Partvat, and Nanda Devi. This pasture land is covered under numerous layers of snow during winter.
Chattrakund
Chattrakund Lake with crystal Clear Water
Chattarakund is located near Gurso Bugyal. Visit this crystal clear lake and enjoy the beauty of nature in its pristine form.
Kwani Bugyal
Mesmerizing Kwani Bugyal
Kwani Bugyal is another thrilling trek for hikers. It is 11 Kms further from Gurso Bugyal. If you want to visit Kwani Bugyal then go during the period from June to September.
Chenab Lake
Chenab Lake is a hidden gem where you can enjoy nature in its pristine form. However, Chenab lake is not that easily accessible.
Joshimath
Joshimath, Auli, Uttarakhand
One of the four maths created by Adi Shankaracharya, Joshimath is a sacred place for Hindus. During winter, when Badrinath is covered in snow, Joshimath serves as the residence for Shree Badrinath.
skiing in Auli
Auli is a paradise for skiers. But it is not limited to providing you a world class skiing experience. Here you can also go for trekking, enjoy nature in its untouched form or visit the sacred places nearby.
(Pics from Google)
