The Ultimate Travel Guide to Auli: Where to Go, Eat, Shop & Stay

Whether you’re chasing snow or serenity, Auli, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, offers both — and more. From world-class skiing and scenic cable rides to cosy cafés and local shopping, here’s your all-in-one guide to experiencing Auli the right way.

---

🌄 Top Places to Visit in Auli

1. Auli Ropeway

One of Asia’s longest cable car rides, this 4.15 km journey from Joshimath to Auli offers surreal views of snow-laden forests and valleys. Tip: Ride during sunset for those Instagram-perfect, cotton-candy skies.

2. Gorson Bugyal

A snow-covered meadow in winter and a floral carpet in summer, this high-altitude grassland (3 km from Auli) is perfect for a scenic hike or a horse ride.

3. Chattrakund Lake

Just 1 km from Gorson Bugyal, this hidden gem inside a forest offers peace, reflection, and a perfect picnic spot. The trail through the woods is as rejuvenating as the lake itself.

4. Joshimath

More than a stopover, Joshimath is rich in spirituality and history. Visit temples linked to Adi Shankaracharya and the ancient Kalpavriksha tree, said to be over 1,200 years old.

5. Auli Artificial Lake

Though man-made, this serene lake near Clifftop Club is picture-perfect. It also serves a key role in snow production during ski season.

6. Chenab Lake

Not easy to reach but absolutely worth it, this remote, tranquil lake offers a true escape. Best for trekkers and nature lovers looking for offbeat experiences.

7. Nanda Devi National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this biosphere is a treasure for wildlife lovers and trekking enthusiasts. Permits are required, but the views are extraordinary.

---

🛏️ Where to Stay in Auli

Luxury Escapes

• Clifftop Club: Ski-in/ski-out access, wood-panelled rooms, panoramic mountain views.

• Satopanth The Auli Resort: Plush interiors, gourmet food, mountain-facing spa — luxury without going overboard.

Boutique Stays

• The Tattva Boutique Resort: Cosy rooms, custom decor, hearty meals — perfect for couples or solo travellers.

• Casa Himalaya: Eco-conscious, solar-powered cottages with sweeping views of Nanda Devi. Ideal for writers, artists, or seekers of quiet.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Hotel Mount View, Manik Resort, and several homestays in Joshimath offer basic amenities, warm meals, and genuine Uttarakhandi hospitality at pocket-friendly prices.

---

🍲 Where to Eat in Auli

Local Delights

Try traditional Garhwali cuisine like Kandali saag, bhang ki chutney, chainsoo, mandua roti, and aloo ke gutke. Ask for a local thali — most restaurants can serve it on request.

Cafés with a View

• The Sky Story Café (Casa Himalaya): Wooden interiors, glass walls, and Garhwali comfort food at 10,000 feet.

• Land of a Thousand Hills Café (Joshimath): Think Himalayan hygge — wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, and epic rooftop views.

Fine Dining

• In-house dining at Clifftop Club and Satopanth Resort: Indian, Continental, and Chinese buffets with top-tier service.

• Oryza Restaurant: Global cuisine, French windows, and a cedar wood patio under the stars — perfect for dinner with a view.

---

🛍️ Where to Shop in Auli

Local Markets (Joshimath)

Vibrant and full of stories, you’ll find everything from affordable snow gear to woollens and snacks. Strike up a conversation — the locals are warm and welcoming.

Handicrafts & Souvenirs

Pick up handwoven Pashmina shawls, Kullu caps, apricot oils, organic jams, and herbal teas. Many are made by local women-led collectives.

Unique Finds

Personalised woollens, sustainable soap bars, hand-carved wooden decor, and copper utensils make for memorable and usable souvenirs.

---

☀️ Best Time to Visit Auli

• Winter (Dec–Mar): Peak ski season; temperatures dip to -8°C.

• Spring (Apr–Jun): Pleasant weather, great for trekking and photography.

• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Risk of landslides — best avoided.

• Autumn (Oct–Nov): Crisp skies, vibrant landscapes, fewer tourists.

---

🚗 How to Reach Auli

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (280 km).

• From there: Hire a cab or shared taxi to Joshimath (8–9 hours).

By Train

• Nearest Station: Rishikesh Railway Station (260 km).

• Continue by road to Joshimath.

By Road

• Regular buses and shared jeeps from Haridwar, Dehradun, and Rishikesh to Joshimath.

• Take a taxi or the ropeway from Joshimath to Auli.

---

🚶‍♂️ Getting Around in Auli

Most places are walkable. For longer or steeper stretches:

• Use the ropeway or chair lift.

• In winter, snowmobiles or horses might be used.

• Pro tip: Pack comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers for all seasons.