In this guide
Perched high above Joshimath in Uttarakhand's Garhwal Himalaya, Auli is India's best-known ski destination — a sweep of open slopes and meadows at roughly 2,800–3,000 m, with a direct view of Nanda Devi (7,816 m), the second-highest peak in the country. In winter it's about the snow; the rest of the year it's about green bugyals (alpine meadows) and quiet Himalayan walks.
Skiing in Auli
Auli's gentle, wide slopes suit beginners and intermediates, and the state tourism corporation (GMVN) runs the main ski infrastructure and courses. The reliable snow window is January to March; exact conditions depend on that season's snowfall, so check current status before booking a ski trip. Equipment hire and basic instruction are available locally.
Gorson Bugyal and the meadows
Even if you don't ski, Auli's meadows are the draw. Gorson Bugyal (~3,056 m), about 3 km from Auli, is a broad grassland — emerald in summer, snow-blanketed in winter — and an easy, hugely rewarding walk. Chattrakund, a small forest lake, and Kwani Bugyal are further extensions for keen walkers. Auli is also the roadhead/base for the classic Kuari Pass trek.
An honest note on the Auli ropeway
Auli's famous cable car connected Joshimath town to the slopes and was long promoted as one of Asia's highest ropeways. Following the Joshimath land subsidence of 2023, the ropeway was suspended, and a full reconstruction (a new multi-tower gondola) has been planned rather than a quick reopening. Treat the ropeway as not operational until officially confirmed — verify its current status before you build a trip around it, and reach Auli by road in the meantime.
Turn this route into a real trip
Build a day-by-day plan for this itinerary, then get real, comparable quotes from vetted local operators.
Plan My Trip →Best time to visit
- January–March: snow and skiing.
- April–June: green meadows, wildflowers and clear peak views — great for walkers.
- September–November: crisp post-monsoon skies.
Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) for landslide risk on the mountain roads.
How to reach
The nearest airport is Dehradun (Jolly Grant) and the nearest major railheads are Rishikesh and Haridwar. From there it's a long, scenic mountain drive to Joshimath (the gateway town), then up to Auli by road. Build in buffer time — Himalayan roads are weather-dependent.
Where to stay
Auli itself has resorts and GMVN accommodation near the slopes; Joshimath has more budget guesthouses and hotels. Staying at Auli puts you closer to the meadows and morning views.
Costs (indicative)
Skiing packages (with gear and instruction), stays and transport vary widely by season — winter is priciest. Confirm current ski-course fees, gear rental and slope conditions locally before you commit.
Responsible travel
This is an ecologically sensitive, high-altitude zone above a town that has faced serious subsidence. Stick to established slopes and trails, carry out all waste, avoid single-use plastic, and support local operators and homestays.
FAQ
Is the Auli ropeway working?
It was suspended after the 2023 Joshimath subsidence and is slated for reconstruction. Check official status before relying on it; reach Auli by road for now.
When can you ski in Auli?
Roughly January to March, snow permitting. Green-season visits (spring and autumn) are for meadows and views, not skiing.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Team
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
