Auli
Auli - The Skiing Paradise of Garhwal
The small yet picture-perfect town of Auli is India's premier ski resort destination. Originally developed as a paramilitary base, Auli's skiing slopes are popular among tourists and professionals alike. In winter, Auli hosts several snow adventure events. You can also take skiing lessons here https://gmvnonline.com/skiing.
Standing at around 2,800 m, and surrounded by acres of oak and coniferous forests, Auli offers panoramic views of some of India’s highest peaks, including the second-highest in the country, Nanda Devi (7,816m). It is also the gateway to the Nanda Devi and the Valley of Flowers National Park, including the Hemkund Sahib gurdwara, and popular trekking destinations such as Gorson Bugyal, Pangerchulla Summit, and Tapovan can be accessed through Auli. Besides Auli, Uttarakhand has several other skiing destinations, like Dayara Bugyal, Munsiyari and Mundali.
Best time to visit Auli
- For skiing enthusiasts, January to March is the best time to visit.
- For nature lovers, October to March is the most appropriate time.
Places to Visit in Auli
Gorson Bugyal: Located around 3 km from Auli, Gurso Bugyal or Gorson Bugyal is a spectacular meadow surrounded by dense forest of oaks and conifers. Situated at an elevation of 3,056 m, the high-altitude grassland is a brilliant green carpet in summer and a snow-covered magical land in winter. It's a good trek for beginners and offers spectacular views of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Dron Parvat peaks. This place is only about 1.5 km away from the last ropeway tower in Auli.
- Chattrakund: Chattrakund is located at a distance of 4 km from Auli – just one km beyond Gurson Situated as an altitude of 3,300 m, this small lake is surrounded by verdant greenery and this place offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors are enthralled by the picturesque settings and tranquility of this place.
- Auli Artificial Lake: The highest artificial lake in the world, it provides a serene and calm atmosphere. The flawless turquoise lake bordered by lush green slopes, looks picture-perfect and can be accessed through the cable car. In winter, when snow carpets the grass, the lake shines like a jewel embedded in the white.
- Kwani Bugyal: Situated at 3,380 m above sea level, this lush meadow is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Around 13 km from Gurso Bugyal, this bugyal (alpine pasture or meadow) can be reached by trekking. It offers some of the most spectacular views of the snow-clad mountain peaks, panoramic scenery, fresh air, and lots of adventure.
- Saildhar Tapovan: Located approximately 15 km from Auli, it is a small village known for natural hot-water spring and temple. Explore the traditional handicrafts of the region here and feel at home among the warm local residents.
How to reach Auli
By Flight: Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is the closest airbase to Auli (about 286 km away). One can hail a cab from the airport to Auli.
Source Link: Auli - The Skiing Paradise of Garhwal | Uttarakhand Tourism
