Auli Winter Paradise
Experience the majestic snow-capped peaks and the famous cable car ride in India's premier ski destination.
Trip Overview
Auli is a Himalayan ski resort and hill station in the north Indian state of Uttarakhand. Surrounded by coniferous and oak forests, Auli offers unparalleled panoramic views of the towering Nanda Devi and Nar Parvat mountains.
Whether you are soaring above the pine forests in Asia's longest ropeway, skiing down its pristine slopes in winter, or trekking through the green meadows of Gorson Bugyal in summer, this 4-day itinerary gives you the perfect high-altitude escape.
Trip Highlights
- 🏔️ Ride Asia's longest scenic ropeway
- 🏔️ Unobstructed views of Nanda Devi
- 🏔️ Visit the world's highest artificial lake
- 🏔️ Skiing and snow activities (Dec-Feb)
- 🏔️ Trek to the alpine meadows of Gorson Bugyal
- 🏔️ Visit the ancient Narsingh Temple
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: The Mountain Drive to Joshimath
Begin your journey from Haridwar or Dehradun early in the morning. Prepare for a breathtaking 9-10 hour drive along the Alaknanda river, passing the sacred confluences (Prayags) of the Garhwal Himalayas. Arrive in the base town of Joshimath by evening. Check-in to your comfortable hotel, stretch your legs, and enjoy a warm dinner.
Day 2: The Auli Ropeway & Snow Vistas
After breakfast, head to the ropeway boarding point in Joshimath. Board the thrilling cable car that traverses 4 kilometers up to Auli, offering bird's-eye views of the oak forests below and the Nanda Devi peak ahead. Spend your day at the Auli ski resort. In winter, you can try your hand at skiing or snowboarding. In summer, enjoy the rolling green meadows. Return to Joshimath by the ropeway in the late afternoon.
Day 3: Auli Lake & Gorson Bugyal Trek
Today, drive up to Auli by road (if accessible) or take the ropeway again. Visit the pristine Auli Artificial Lake, the world's highest man-made lake built to create artificial snow for the ski slopes. Next, embark on a scenic, relatively easy 3 km trek to Gorson Bugyal, an alpine meadow surrounded by coniferous forests. En route, you may also trek to Chattrakund, a sweet water lake hidden in the jungle.
Day 4: Descent and Departure
Wake up early, enjoy your final breakfast in the mountains, and visit the ancient Narsingh Temple in Joshimath, the winter seat of Lord Badrinath. Begin your long, scenic descent back to Haridwar/Dehradun. You'll carry home vivid memories of India's spectacular winter wonderland.