Best Places to See in Auli:

1. Auli Ski Resort: Auli Ski Resort, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its premier skiing facilities. Operating from December to March, the resort offers slopes ranging from 3,049 meters to 2,915 meters, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers. Visitors can enjoy modern amenities including equipment rental, a chair lift, and India’s longest ski lift [imported from France], ensuring an efficient and enjoyable skiing experience. Accommodation options are warm and comfortable, accommodating up to 110 guests with amenities like cozy beds, hot water, and medical facilities. The resort also features a Ski & Snowboard School offering lessons for all skill levels, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Entry Fees and Packages:

• Skiing costs vary between ₹20,000 to ₹50,000, depending on the duration and package selected.
• Comprehensive 7-day packages start at ₹13,500 per person, with extended 14-day packages priced at ₹22,300 per person.

Ski & Snowboard School: Auli Ski & Snowboard School caters to all skill levels, offering group and private lessons between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily during the winter season.

2. Chenab Lake: Nestled amidst the pristine landscapes of Auli, Chenab Lake beckons nature enthusiasts seeking serenity. This natural gem offers a tranquil escape, characterized by its crystalline waters and untouched surroundings. To reach Chenab Lake, adventurers embark on a challenging trek, starting from Vishnuprayag, which marks the last accessible point by road, approximately 10 km from Joshimath. The lake is best explored during the months of May to October, when the weather is pleasant and warm, offering ideal conditions for a peaceful retreat. However, Chenab Lake remains closed to visitors during heavy snowfall months, typically from late December to February, ensuring its pristine beauty is preserved throughout the year.
3. Gorson Bugyal: Nestled amidst the Garhwal Himalayas near Auli, Gorson Bugyal is a mesmerizing alpine meadow renowned for its natural splendor and outdoor adventures. Situated at an elevation averaging 3,519 meters (11,545 ft), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi and Trishul. A 3 km trek from Auli leads to the expansive green pastures of Gorson Bugyal where visitors can experience the tranquility of the Himalayan landscape.

During winters, it becomes a popular skiing destination, complemented by its scenic backdrop of snow-capped peaks. In the warmer months, Gorson Bugyal emerges as an ideal spot for trekking and camping, offering opportunities to immerse oneself in the serene beauty of its natural surroundings. Whether skiing down its slopes or hiking through its verdant meadows, Gorson Bugyal promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

4. Trishul Peak: Standing tall at 7,120 meters, the trident-shaped Trishul Peak is an iconic trio of summits forming the southwest border of the Nanda Devi Sanctuary in the Indian Himalayas. Steeped in mythological significance, the name “Trishul” refers to the trident weapon of Lord Shiva.

The peak’s beauty can be admired from Auli during sunrise and sunset. The Roopkund Trek also offers closer views of this legendary mountain.Reaching Trishul’s base requires a multi-day trek from Auli with proper gear, supplies, and experienced guides. For adventurers seeking natural splendor and cultural richness, conquering or simply witnessing the might of Trishul Peak promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

5. Vridh Badri Temple:

Nestled near the sacred town of Joshimath in Uttarakhand, Vridh Badri Temple is a revered part of the Sapta Badri pilgrimage circuit. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his venerable form, this ancient temple remains open from 6 AM to 7 PM daily, inviting devotees to seek blessings. Conveniently located approximately 19 km from Auli, reaching Vridh Badri is a short journey – hire a taxi from Auli to Joshimath, then proceed to the nearby Animath village, accessible by road. A visit to this sacred site promises a profound spiritual experience amidst the majestic Himalayas.

6. Bhavishya Badri Temple:

Considered the future abode of Lord Badrinath, Bhavishya Badri Temple holds a significant place in the Sapta Badri pilgrimage. Situated in the quaint Subhain village, about 35 km from Auli, this temple is open from 5 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 9 PM. To reach Bhavishya Badri, travelers can journey by road to Joshimath, then proceed to Saldhar (18 km away), followed by a scenic 5 km trek through the steep mountain trails. The rewarding trek culminates at the temple, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual heritage and awe-inspiring natural surroundings.

7. Nanda Devi National Park: Tucked away in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli District, Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Covering over 6,407.03 sq km, this park is a sanctuary for rare wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard and musk deer.

Season: Open from May 1 to October 31, closed from November 1 to April 30.

Permits: Entry permits are required for all visitors.

Fees: ₹50 for Indian adults and ₹150 for non-Indians for the first three days, with additional days costing the same rate.

Getting there: Private taxis are available from Dehradun and Rishikesh to Joshimath. From Joshimath, it’s a 25 km drive to Lata Village, the starting point of the trek.

Trekking Details: Embark on a thrilling 5 km trek starting from Lata Village. The trek is suitable for those over 14 years old and requires a guide for each group.

8. Nanda Devi Museum of Natural and Cultural History: The Nanda Devi Museum of Natural and Cultural History, located along the Dhouli Ganga river on the Niti-Malari highway, offers an immersive experience into the rich heritage of the Nanda Devi region. Featuring traditional artifacts, photo exhibitions, and detailed accounts of mountaineering, exploration, and the Chipko movement, visitors can explore the museum for 2-3 hours. The museum also provides a souvenir shop, restaurant, and accommodation. As part of the Interpretive Trek to Nanda Devi National Park, it is situated 25 km from Joshimath and just 5 km past the hot water springs.

Read Less