When the summer heat in the plains becomes unbearable or the call of the snowy peaks gets too loud to ignore, there is one destination that stands above the rest: Auli. Known as the "Skiing Capital of India," Auli is a pristine Himalayan meadow that transforms from a lush green carpet in the summer to a world-class skiing resort in the winter.
While there are many ways to reach this heaven, the Rishikesh to Auli route is the most popular and scenic. It takes you from the "Yoga Capital of the World" through the winding roads of the Garhwal Himalayas, following the holy Alaknanda River.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to plan your perfect trip, from distance and road conditions to choosing the best Auli tour package from Rishikesh or an Auli tour package from Delhi.
Rishikesh to Auli:
Auli is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. It is surrounded by coniferous and oak forests, offering panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat.
Why the Rishikesh to Auli Route?
Most travelers choose to start their journey from Rishikesh because it acts as the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas. It allows for better acclimatization and gives you a chance to witness the "Panch Prayag" (the five sacred river confluences) along the way.
Distance and Travel Time
The journey from Rishikesh to Auli is as much about the destination as it is about the drive.
|
Parameter |
Details |
|
Total Distance |
Approximately 250 km to 260 km |
|
Travel Time |
8 to 10 hours (depending on road conditions) |
|
Major Stopovers |
Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Joshimath |
|
Road Type |
Mountainous terrain (NH-7 / Badrinath Highway) |
Road Conditions: The roads are generally well-maintained as they form part of the Char Dham Yatra route. However, during the peak winter months (January–February), the final 10 km stretch from Joshimath to Auli may be covered in thick snow, requiring 4x4 vehicles or the ropeway.
How to Reach Auli from Rishikesh
1. By Road (The Most Popular Choice)
- Private Taxi: This is the most comfortable way to travel. You can hire a sedan or an SUV from Rishikesh. Prices typically range from ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 for a one-way drop.
- Buses: Daily HRTC (Uttarakhand State Transport) and private buses ply from Rishikesh to Joshimath. They usually leave early in the morning (between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM).
- Shared Jeeps: For budget travelers, shared Sumos and Maxx jeeps are available from the Rishikesh Natraj Chowk or the main bus stand.
2. By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh/Yog Nagari Rishikesh. However, for better connectivity, many travelers arrive at Haridwar Junction (about 25 km from Rishikesh) and then begin their road journey to Auli.
3. By Air
The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, located about 20 km from Rishikesh. From the airport, you can hire a direct taxi to Auli or spend a night in Rishikesh before heading up.
4. The Famous Auli Ropeway (Joshimath to Auli)
Once you reach Joshimath, you have two options to reach Auli:
- By Road: A 10 km winding road.
- By Ropeway: A 4 km long cable car ride that takes about 25 minutes.
- Cost: Approx. ₹1,000 per person (round trip).
- Highlight: It is one of the highest and longest ropeways in Asia, offering a bird's-eye view of the snow-clad peaks.
Best Time to Visit Auli
Winter (December to March):
If you want to see Auli in its full glory, winter is the time.
- January & February: Peak snowfall months. The slopes are perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
- Temperature: Ranges from 5°C to 10°C.
Summer (April to June):
Ideal for families and those looking to escape the heat.
- The weather is pleasant, and the meadows (Bugyals) turn vibrant green.
- Temperature: Ranges from 7°C to 20°C.
Monsoon (July to September):
The valley turns incredibly green, but the region is prone to landslides. It is generally advised to check weather forecasts and road status before planning a trip during these months.
Auli Tour Package from Rishikesh
A pre-booked Auli tour package from Rishikesh is often the most stress-free way to explore. It eliminates the hassle of finding transport in remote areas and ensures you have a confirmed stay in Auli’s limited hotels.
Typical Inclusions:
- Transport: Pick-up and drop-off from Rishikesh in a private vehicle.
- Accommodation: 2 or 3 nights in Auli or Joshimath.
- Meals: Usually Breakfast and Dinner (MAP Plan).
- Sightseeing: Visits to Joshimath temples, Auli Lake, and the ropeway station.
Ideal Duration: A 4-day / 3-night trip is perfect for a relaxed experience.
Auli Tour Package from Delhi
For those living in the capital, an Auli tour package from Delhi is a classic long-weekend getaway.
- The Route: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Joshimath → Auli.
- Travel Time: It takes about 14–16 hours to cover the 500 km distance. Most travelers prefer an overnight journey from Delhi to Rishikesh to save time.
- Why choose this? These packages often include Volvo bus transfers from Delhi to Rishikesh, making it a cost-effective option for students and solo travelers.
Top Places to Visit in Auli
1. Auli Ropeway
Connecting Joshimath to Auli, this cable car is a thrill in itself. You glide over oak forests while the Nanda Devi peak looms in the background.
2. Auli Artificial Lake
One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, it was created to produce artificial snow for the ski slopes during years of low snowfall. The reflection of the mountains in the blue water is a photographer's dream.
3. Gurso Bugyal
A short 3 km trek from Auli takes you to this vast meadow. In summer, it’s a sea of green; in winter, a white desert. It offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayas.
4. Nanda Devi View Point
Auli offers one of the clearest and closest views of Nanda Devi (7,816 meters), India's second-highest peak.
Things to Do in Auli
- Skiing & Snowboarding: Auli has slopes ranging from beginner to professional levels. You can rent gear and hire instructors on-site.
- Trekking: Apart from Gurso Bugyal, the trek to Kuari Pass often starts near this region.
- Photography: Whether it’s the sunrise hitting the peaks or the Milky Way at night, Auli is a paradise for shutterbugs.
- Visit Narsingh Temple: Located in Joshimath, this is the winter seat of Lord Badrinath.
Sample 4-Day Itinerary (Rishikesh to Auli)
- Day 1: Rishikesh to Joshimath
- Start early (6:00 AM).
- Stop at Devprayag to see the Sangam of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi.
- Check into your hotel in Joshimath by evening.
- Day 2: Joshimath to Auli
- Take the ropeway or drive to Auli.
- Visit the Auli Artificial Lake.
- Spend the evening enjoying the sunset at the ski slopes.
- Day 3: Exploration & Adventure
- Morning trek to Gurso Bugyal.
- Afternoon skiing session or snowboarding.
- Visit the Hanuman Temple.
- Day 4: Return to Rishikesh
- Visit the Narsingh Temple in Joshimath.
- Drive back to Rishikesh for your onward journey.
Travel Tips for Your Journey
- Clothing: Even in summer, evenings are chilly. Carry heavy woolens, gloves, and thermals if visiting in winter.
- Cash: ATMs in Auli are rare and often out of cash. Withdraw sufficient money in Joshimath or Rishikesh.
- Vehicle Type: If driving yourself in winter, ensure your vehicle has high ground clearance. Chains for tires are mandatory during heavy snow.
- Health: Carry basic medicines for motion sickness, as the mountain roads have many hairpin bends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Auli good for families?
Absolutely! Auli is a very family-friendly destination. The ropeway ride and the gentle ski slopes are great for kids, and the serene environment is perfect for elders.
Q2. Does Auli receive snowfall every year?
Yes, Auli receives heavy snowfall almost every year between late December and March.
Q3. Which is better: Auli from Delhi or Rishikesh?
Starting from Rishikesh is better if you want to break the long journey and explore the local culture. Starting from Delhi is more convenient for those looking for a direct, all-inclusive package from a major metro.
Q4. Are there luxury stay options in Auli?
Yes, while there are budget guesthouses, Auli also features premium resorts and the famous GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) ski resort which offers great views.
Ready to Witness the Himalayan Magic?
Auli is more than just a destination; it is an experience that stays with you long after you've left the mountains. Whether you are an adventure seeker looking to conquer the slopes or a soul searcher wanting to gaze at the peaks, the Rishikesh to Auli journey is calling.
