Auli is a beautiful ski destination in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. With thick blankets of snow, lush tropical rainforest, and unobstructed views of the majestic mountains in the background, this lovely little town looks like a page from a fairy tale. There are so many places to visit in Auli that you will be spoiled for choice. This destination is approximately 3,000 meters above sea level, and its mesmerizing surrounding areas make it a great place worth visiting to explore the various places as well as engage in exciting activities.
A trip to this picturesque, uncrowded location is well worth it for lifelong memories. This blog lists down some of the best things to do in Auli that you should not miss while visiting. The location is excellent for nature lovers and it always has something more to offer tourists, except for the rainy season of July and August, when weather conditions remain severe. The list includes everything from visiting an iconic location to participating in appealing activities such as camping, trekking, and much more, so sit back, relax, and read on for a delightful trip ahead!
Skiing
Skiing is among the best thing to do in Auli because it is surrounded by evergreen pine and oak forest, and being snowcapped in winter creates heavenly surroundings. The intense snow blankets, elevated slopes that rise to an average elevation of 3 kilometres, and strong winds all contribute to the thrill factor of skiing in Auli. Also, to provide the wonderful experience of skiing all year, an artificial lake has been built here to feed the snow guns. This location is also regarded as one of the best skiing destinations in the world, as well as one of the best things to do in Auli in December.
Visit the Artificial Lake
The Auli Artificial Lake, known as one of the largest man-made lakes around the world, was constructed by the government in order to feature snow when the season's snowfall becomes inadequate for skiing. Besides, the lake also serves a scenic purpose. The sheer presence of the lake in the area enhances its beauty. The lake is one of the best places in the region to spend time with your loved ones, or even with yourself, whether it is covered in snow in the winter or encircled by a green landscape in the summer. One of the best things to do in Auli is to watch the sunset. Imagine the sun sets over some of the country's highest peaks giving a beautiful and mesmerizing sight.
Trekking
For decades, trekkers and backpackers from all over the world have been drawn to Kuari Pass's alpine meadows and graceful snow-capped mountains. Although it is only 12,000 feet above sea level, it makes up breathtaking views. Apart from countless blankets of snow, there will be thickets of lush dense forests. Starting in Joshimath, a popular meeting place for many, the path slowly moves up to heights that end with a spectacular view of Mt. Nanda Devi's summit in all its brilliance. Abounding with Ganges tributaries, thick lush mountain forests, and valuable interaction with local tribes. The best time to go trekking in this area is from November to January.
Cable Car Ride
One of the main Auli attractions is the cable car ride. It is often referred to as a "gondola” in the traditional context. After Gulmarg, it is the second-largest cable car ride all over Asia. It takes around 24 minutes to travel the 4 kilometres in total. The stunning Himalayan peaks in the background and the lush green valley below make this one of the top things to do in Auli. The glittering sights and stunning panoramic views are impossible to forget. Up to 25 people can ride the ropeway at once, but because there are no seats, everyone needs to stand the whole ride. The speed of this cable ride is 3 meters per second.
Camping
Camping in Auli feels like this: cold breeze, dark night, warm campfire, and a million stars over your head. But, campsites in Auli are most popular during the bone-chilling winters of November to February, when thrill-seekers go on different treks. Thus, camping and trekking go hand in hand in Auli. Furthermore, if you don't want to hike but still want to enjoy the pleasure of camping, there are specialized camping locations in Auli nestled away in the beautiful green valleys. With the exception of the monsoon season, Auli is a popular destination for campers.
Bird Watching
A bird-watching trip is among the most blissful things to do in Auli. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is comprised of Auli and its surrounding areas, including Pandukeshwar, Govindghat, and Joshimath. A variety of native Himalayan species, including doves, woodpeckers, jays, spotted nutcrackers, eagles, and sunbirds, as well as foreign birds, including Redstart, Thrush, Finch, Grey Bushchat, Himalayan Griffon, and many others, can be found in the area's deep alpine woods. The summer months of April and May are the best time to go bird watching in Auli as the snow will completely melt away by this time.
Enjoy Local Cuisines
Going on a food excursion in Auli is one of the fun things to do in Auli to enjoy the local cuisine. Auli is well-known for its wonderful Garhwali cuisine, which features a variety of dals, green vegetables, and rice. The Kachmauli is the most popular traditional meat cuisine currently (goat stuffed with mustard oil, chillies, and turmeric). Bal Mithai (a famous local sweet), Singhori (a cone-shaped dessert wrapped with Malu Leaf), and many more Auli delicacies are also popular. To savour authentic Garhwali food, visit GMVN Complex, Roxy Restaurant, Hariyali Restaurant, Pindari, and Cliff Top Resort.
Head to Joshimath
Call it a mystical land, a famous winter tourist destination, or whatever you choose, exploring Joshimath should be included on your list of the best things to do in Auli in December. During the winter, the area is covered in a white sheet of snow, and there are several fascinating places to explore. You may take a cable car from Auli to Joshimath and then return on the same route. Bhavishya Badri, Narsingh Temple, and Shankaracharya Math are among the temples in Joshimath. Furthermore, it is a romantic honeymoon destination for couples. Joshimath is also a great destination to travel with family for a relaxing vacation, especially during the summer.
Chenab Lake
Chenab Lake, which lies peacefully between the gigantic Garhwal Himalayan mountain peaks in Dang village, is one of the few whimsical locations in Uttarakhand where Nature still remains in her natural form. Chenab Lake serves as the starting point for many renowned trekking trails. A walk around the lake's crystal clear waters completes the list of things to do in Auli. Chenab Lake is one of the most tempting places in India to set up a tent and relax beneath the stars due to the nearby mountain ranges, peaceful and pleasant environment, and lush greenery. However, be careful when visiting this lake because there is no safe, motorable route to it.
Shopping
There are several local shops offering ski equipment at the well-known snow skiing destination of Auli. There aren't many other shopping options there. However, if you want to enjoy shopping as one of the things to do in Auli, you must go to Joshimath Market. The market is 13 kilometres from Auli where you can buy warm clothing, woollen hats, antiques, shawls, handmade items, and souvenirs.
Imagining yourself snowbound in one of India's highest mountain peaks? Then plan a hassle-free getaway and book an Auli travel package for you and your loved ones, where you may have a snowy mountain retreat! To ensure a memorable vacation to Auli, keep a mental or paper note of these things to do in Auli!
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