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Auli Frequently Asked Questions
What is Auli famous for?
Skiing and snow from January to early March, alpine meadows (bugyals) and views of Nanda Devi and other Garhwal Himalaya peaks.
Is the Joshimath–Auli ropeway open?
No. The ropeway has been closed since January 2023 after land subsidence in Joshimath and had not reopened as of October 2026. Auli is reached by road from Joshimath, 14–16 km.
When does it snow in Auli?
Mainly in January and February; December and early March can also have snow. Snowfall varies a lot from year to year.
What is the best time to visit Auli?
January to early March for snow and skiing; April to June and October to November for walks and clear mountain views. Avoid July and August (monsoon).
How do I reach Auli?
By road to Joshimath and then 14–16 km uphill to Auli. Rishikesh to Joshimath is about 255 km (9–11 hours). The nearest railheads are Rishikesh and Haridwar, and the nearest airport is Dehradun (Jolly Grant).
How many days are enough for Auli?
Plan 3 to 4 days including travel from Rishikesh: one day each way on the road and 1–2 days in Auli. Add days for a ski course.
Can beginners ski in Auli?
Yes. GMVN runs 7-day and 14-day courses from January to March, and local instructors offer daily beginner lessons with equipment.
How much does skiing in Auli cost?
Roughly ₹1,500–₹3,000 for a one-day beginner lesson with equipment, and ₹550–₹1,500 per day for equipment hire. GMVN's 7-day course cost about ₹17,000 in 2023 including stay and meals. Check current fees.
Should I stay in Auli or Joshimath?
Stay in Auli for snow, slopes and views; Joshimath is cheaper and has more food and services, but you need a taxi up to Auli each day.
Will I get altitude sickness in Auli?
Auli is at about 2,500–3,050 m, so mild symptoms such as headache are possible. Rest on the first day, drink water and descend if symptoms get worse.
Is Auli safe to visit in the monsoon?
The road from Rishikesh is prone to landslides in July and August. Travel only with a flexible plan and follow official road advisories.
What should I wear in Auli in winter?
Thermals, a heavy down jacket, waterproof gloves and boots, a woollen cap and UV sunglasses.
How much does an Auli trip cost?
About ₹2,500–₹5,000 per person per day on a budget, ₹6,000–₹11,000 mid-range, and ₹12,000+ for comfort, plus travel and skiing costs.
What is the altitude of Auli in feet?
About 8,200–10,000 ft (roughly 2,500–3,050 m). The main slopes are at about 9,200 ft (2,800 m).
Which is the nearest railway station to Auli?
Yog Nagari Rishikesh, about 270 km by road. Haridwar (about 295 km) has more long-distance trains. The Rishikesh–Karnaprayag railway was still under construction as of October 2026.
Which is the nearest airport to Auli?
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 280–290 km by road. There are no regular commercial flights to any airport closer to Auli.
Does it snow in Auli in December?
Sometimes, mostly in the second half of the month, but December snow is not reliable and is often not enough for skiing. For snow, mid-January to February is the safest time.
How far is Auli from Delhi?
About 510 km by road via Haridwar, Rishikesh and Joshimath – roughly 15–17 hours of driving, so most travellers take two days.
Can I drive to Auli in a normal car in winter?
Usually yes as far as Joshimath. Above Joshimath the road can be icy or closed for a day or two after heavy snowfall. Carry snow chains, drive only in daylight, or hire a local taxi with an experienced driver.
What is the Joshimath–Auli ropeway ticket price, and can I book it?
The ropeway is not running – it has been closed since January 2023, so there are no tickets to book. Before it closed, a return ticket cost about ₹1,000. Go up by road from Joshimath (14–16 km).
Auli or Gulmarg – which is better for skiing?
Gulmarg in Kashmir is a bigger ski resort with higher slopes and usually more reliable snow. Auli is smaller and quieter, popular for beginner lessons and GMVN ski courses, and easy to combine with Badrinath or other parts of Uttarakhand.