Beautiful Destinations To Explore In Auli During Winter

If you are a snow obsessive or a Bollywood enthusiast, then you must have conjectured what it feels like to soar through a thick blanket of snow as you feel the crisp winter breeze tickling your face. Of course, raising up, most of us had faith that one requires to cross the seven seas to be able to have thrilling adventures in the snow-covered mountains precisely if it was something as fantastic as skiing but we are here to tell you that you don’t have to go to the Switzerland or Norway to witness the thrill that one feels when slithering on snow. 

Auli, a small town in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, with its attractive view of some of the greatest peaks of the great Himalayas, and snow-laden canted slopes has attained recognition as one of the most prevalent winter destinations in India. 

A gateway to several other prevalent attractions such as Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara, Valley of Flowers National Park, and trekking destinations such as Pangerchulla, and Gorson Bugyal, the summit delivers ample opportunities for you to have a lot of fun.

If you have been wondering where you can go skiing in India, then the best place is Auli, the correct answer for you precisely if you are someone who can’t afford to go to on long trips owing to this Auli weekend trip is only 3 days long making it one of the good weekend trips in Uttarakhand. 

Overall, places in Auli are definitely one of the most breathtakingly astonishing that you must visit in Uttarakhand as it has something to propose to everyone. 

Nanda Devi Peak

Nanda Devi is the 23^rd-largest peak in the world and the second-greatest in India with a height of 7,816 meters. The name derives from the etymological comparable that means ‘Bliss-giving God’. It is a prevalent trekking destination and delivers a 360-degree view of its astonishing surroundings.

As per mythology, it is an extremely religious spot and attracts several devotees from all around the world. It is a prevalent trekking spot with snowy peaks around it surrounded by pine trees. The view at night is enthralling.  

Auli Ropeway

One of the foremost attractions in Auli is relishing a cable car ride. Locally better known as a Gondola, the cable car ride in Auli is the second greatest and the longest cable car ride around Asia after Gulmarg. Covering a complete distance of 4 km, the journey begins at Joshimath and ends at Auli, and takes a total time of nearly 24 min. Perched at an astounding height of 3010 m above sea level, the complete trip is a visual and sensual delight.

You can relish the majestic Himalayan peaks in the surroundings and the lush green valley below. Moving at a speed of 3 m per sec, you can appreciate views of the oak forests below in addition to snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. The scintillating views and the stunning panoramic vistas are a sight to behold.
The ropeway functions with two cable cars through 10 towers and can accommodate up to 25 passengers. Although, the customers have to keep standing as there are no seats. In case you are fortunate and are traveling at the accurate time, you can also observe a skiing competition going on below.

Joshimath

Also, better known as Jyotirmath, Joshimath is a town in the Chamoli district of the Gharwal area at an altitude of 6,150 feet. This location lies in the immediacy of the four ‘maths’ that were established by Adi Guru Shri Shankaracharya throughout the 8th century. Joshimath is a place of religious implication and functions as a religious center for Hindu pilgrims. Apart from being a location of high religious significance, it is also known as the ‘gateway for trekking’ as one of the most attractive treks; the valley of flowers trek is situated nearby.

The reverence of Badrinath’s throne takes place in this location during the winter months. In the past, individuals used to denote this location as Jyotishimath. Throughout history, individuals began denoting it as Joshimath. Individuals go to Joshimath to experience its primeval natural beauty, which can be seen in the form of waterfalls, temples, and hikes. Joshimath is home to several lovely charms. 

This city is a very sacred location for Hindus. Adi Shankaracharya achieved enlightenment at this location. It was here that he recognized the first of the four monasteries. Throughout the winter, Badrinath’s throne exists here and is revered. Earlier, this place was well-known as Jyotishimath. Over time, it came to be better known as Joshimath. Joshimath is home to several beautiful locations, and individuals come here to see its spotless beauty in the form of waterfalls, temples, and treks.

Auli Artificial Lake

Auli’s artificial lake, a sight for sore eyes, has fostered the town to the topmost of the list of places with the most astonishing man-made lakes in the world. Individuals who come to this Auli throughout the summer can experience snowfall thanks to an artificial snowmaking system. 

The local supervision has put forth a lot of effort to augment tourism across the lake by generating artificial snow on a ski trail that is situated right next to the lake throughout the summer and monsoon seasons. Hence, ski all the way down to this stunning lake, and while you’re there, have some duration to yourself. From Joshimath, you can use a ropeway to go to the Artificial Lake, or you can do some light climbing from the road.

The government has made plentiful arrangements to boost tourism across the lake by installing fake snow throughout summers and monsoons on a ski track situated next to the lake. You can reach Artificial Lake on the ropeway from Joshimath or by small walking from the road. For European feels around Uttarakhand, this lake is a must-visit magnetism in Auli.

Gurso Bugyal

Gurso Bugyal is a stunning meadow enclosed by thick trees of oaks and conifers. This high-altitude grassland is blanketed with snow in the winter and converted into a verdant paradise during the summer. A distinctive hike in Auli takes travelers through attractive towns, apple orchards, and past natural hot springs. 

The Gurso Bugyal Trek is an outstanding choice for camping in the middle of the river streams if you are attentive to hiking and have a hunger for it. When you reach the topmost of the trail, you will be pleased with breathtaking views of the Himalayas in each direction. Owing to the Gurso Bugyal’s astonishing height, even the most remarkable mountain ranges, such as Trishul and Nandadevi, are undoubtedly seen from the peak.

An early morning trek here will awe strike you as you get to see the deadliest amalgamation of befuddling meadows and their murmuring beauty enclosed under the snow blankets. It is truthfully one of the best places to visit in Auli.

Chenab Lake

Chenab Lake is an artificial lake in Auli that is not only known for its implication but also for the beauty it enjoys. It is an artificial lake that doubles up as a reservoir for the individuals living in Auli. The lake is said to be crystalline and is one of the unfamiliar jewels of the region and is in its cleanest form. The sight of this lake appeals to a large number of tourists during the year; some for trekking and some just to relish the views and experience nature in its unpolluted form.

The lake delivers grand and wonderful green views of the forests and valley. This lake is also artificial, which is generated with the intent to foster tourism. Chenab Lake is an attractive place where the skiing area is peasant dotted across the pine trees.

Trishul Peak

Trishul peak is molded by the 3 Himalayan peaks of the Western Kumaun and is one of the most visited locations in Auli. The Trishul peak, at a height of 7,120m, forms the Southwest corner of the rings of the peak that encircles Nanda Devi Sanctuary. The best views of the peak can only be witnessed from the Kasauni or if you are on the Roopkund trek. The peak proposes a 270-degree view of the surrounding snow-clad mountains making this location a heaven for those who love trekking.

Because the journey is arduous and requires a demanding ascent, you are demanded to begin the Trishul Trek under the supervision of an experienced tour planner.

Kwani Bugyal

Located 12 km from Gurso Bugyal at a promotion of 3380masl, Kwani Bugyal is a very prevalent destination amongst trekkers. Offering a mesmerizing view of snow-capped mountains such as Nanda Devi and Dunagiri, it is a favorite camping places to visit in Auli. It is best to visit Kawani Bugyal between June to September.

The Joshimath base camp proposes trekkers services-for-hire such as porters, guides, camping equipment, and kitchens. From here, one first trek to Auli and then treks for a further 13km to the green meadows of Gurso Bugyal.

Chattrakund

Chattrakund is one of the best places to visit in Auli. In Joshimath, it is a trivial lake about 4 km from Auli. It is situated 3,300 meters above sea level.  It has a resounding assortment of trees, involving oak, pine, and deodar. Watching sunrise may be a little chilly throughout winter, but sunsets pose as the epitome of fastidiousness with an orange glow and cotton candy clouds. It is an accurate spot to be relished either alone, with family, or with your spouse. Tourists primarily trek to this spot in the morning and retreat before sunset.

Here you can view the sunrise on a chilly winter morning. Pose for the sunset throughout the dusk hours with your cherished ones. Capture the transforming hues of the sun turning from orange to pink. This small lake is enclosed by deodar, oak, and pine trees, making it a luxurious green paradise. The best time to visit Chattrakund Lake is during the morning or before evening.

Auli Ski Resort

Being such a wanted destination in terms of Skiing in India, it is authoritative that Auli has resorts that can deliver accommodation to ski fanatics visiting this place throughout the peak months of tourism here. That is what Auli Ski Resort delivers here every year. 

Enclosed by the unmatched picturesque beauty of the Garhwal district, the hotel delivers all the basic amenities that one predicts here, alongside all the scenic views of the areas across the place. With close nearness to the bus stand, the resort is also close to several other sightseeing and adventure places of Auli, wholly fulfilling its determination as a premier skiing resort.

How To Reach Auli? 

By Air

Jolly Grant Airport is the neighboring airport to Auli situated 286 kilometers away. Auli is well-linked to Jolly Grant Airport through motorized highways. There are taxis available between Jolly Grant Airport and Auli. The second step in reaching Auli involves either pre-booking a private taxi or demanding that your hotel/resort handle the transport. You also may get a private/hired taxi on the spot and travel by road to Auli which would take nearly 8 to 9 hours.

By Train

Rishikesh 264 km away from Auli is the neighboring station on the NH58 highway. Rishikesh is effortlessly accessible by train from the foremost Indian cities, and there are unvarying trains to the city. Auli is effortlessly accessible by road from Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Joshimath, and a host of other locations.

By Road

Auli is easily available by car from the rest of Uttarakhand’s most prevalent tourist hotspots. ISBT Kashmiri Gate Delhi proposes buses to Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Srinagar. Auli can effortlessly be reached by bus or taxi from any of Uttarakhand’s major cities, such as Rishikesh, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Ukhimath, Chamoli, and so on. Auli is only 14 kilometers from Joshimath, which is situated on NH58. ‘

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