Auli Tour Packages - 2024 Guide on Best Auli Travel Packages for Skiing, Sightseeing
Auli is a charming Himalayan ski resort that attracts travelers seeking snowy slopes and mountain views. Known as the skiing capital of India, Auli offers breathtaking vistas of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamat Kamet peaks. Its pristine environs and sloping meadows make it the perfect destination for a rejuvenating holiday. If you’re planning a trip to Auli, opting for a customized tour package takes the stress out of travel planning. This allows you to experience Auli’s many delights in a well-organized manner.
About Auli
Auli is at 2,500-3,000 meters above sea level in Chamoli district. Its downhill ski slopes extend over 4km and are maintained by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam. Auli hosts national and international ski competitions owing to its world-class skiing infrastructure. The region was firmly on the tourist map after the Government of India developed Auli into a tourism center in the 1970s and 80s. Today, it draws adventure enthusiasts and leisure travelers who wish to bask in the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit Auli
Since Auli is primarily a ski destination, the best time to visit is during winter, from November to March. This period sees heavy snowfall, allowing for excellent skiing conditions. The average daytime temperature ranges from 5 to 15°C during winter. Summers are cool and pleasant, too, with temperatures between 15 to 20°C. There are fewer tourists during other seasons so that you can explore Auli’s tranquil environs in peace. However, skiing facilities are not operational beyond winter.
Skiing in Auli
Skiing is undoubtedly Auli's biggest lure, attracting skiers of all skill levels. There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced ski slopes catering to amateur and professional skiers. Skiing packages typically include accommodation, meals, equipment rental, and cable car tickets. Trained instructors are available for guidance. The skiing season commences in late November until early April, with peak season from January to mid-March.
Cable Car Ride
The cable car or Gondola lift from Joshimath to Auli offers a thrilling ride covering a distance of 4km in just 30 minutes. It is India’s longest cable car and offers stunning views of the snow-draped Himalayan peaks. The cable car connects Auli directly to Joshimath, saving the trouble of driving up winding mountain roads. Riding the cable car is an experience, even without skiing.
Trekking
The region around Auli presents excellent trekking terrain for adventure seekers. The Kuari Pass Trek, Gorson Bugyal Trek, Tapovan Trek, and Panwali Kantha Trek reward high-altitude treks ranging from easy to complex grades. The Kuari Pass Trek can be easily clubbed with skiing. Trekking through rhododendron forests and meadows blooming with wildflowers is a highlight of spring and summer treks.
Camping
Several campsites and alpine tents are available for rent in Auli for an offbeat camping experience amidst nature. Joshimath, Gorson meadows, Tali Lake, and Chattrakund are popular camping spots near Auli. Nightcamping under a blanket of stars while listening to mountain rivers is blissful. Carry your camping gear or rent from local vendors. Watch for signs of altitude sickness while camping at high elevations.
Luxury Resorts
Auli has premium resorts like Cliff Top Club, The Royal Village Resort, and The Tattva Resort, offering lavish accommodations and fine dining. They have state-of-the-art amenities like heated indoor pools, spas, conference halls, recreation centers, and more. The tariff ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 20,000 per night. Luxury properties are conveniently located near the ski slopes.
Budget Hotels
Joshimath, the base for Auli tourism, has many affordable lodges, hotels, and guest houses for budget travelers, with tariffs within INR 1000 – 3000 a night. Hotel Snow Crest Inn, Hotel Mount Annexy, and Hotel GMVN Joshimath offer clean rooms and basic amenities at reasonable rates. They provide complimentary shuttle service to Auli Gondola.
Homestays
Several local households in Auli village offer homestay facilities, letting you experience authentic Garhwali culture. Homestays are a good option with around INR 2000 per night tariffs, including meals. Interacting with the hosts and learning about the customs of mountain village life is an educational experience. Try home-cooked food like kale, duduk, and chains.
By Air
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (148 km from Auli) is the nearest airport. It is well-connected via daily flights to Delhi and other major cities. Taxis and buses are available from Dehradun to Joshimath (499 km). The journey takes around 10-12 hours with stops. Chartered helicopters and small aircraft also offer transfers from Dehradun and Delhi to Auli.
By Rail
Haridwar railway junction (279 km from Auli) is the closest major railhead. Several trains connect Haridwar to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other metro cities. Hire a taxi or take a bus from Haridwar to reach Joshimath in 10 hours. Rishikesh railway station (251 km away) is another transit point. Local trains run between Haridwar and Rishikesh as well.
By Road
Auli is connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi by well-maintained highways. Buses by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation and private operators ply on these routes daily. Shared taxis are also available from major hill stations. Driving down to Auli via Rudraprayag and Chamoli offers scenic views.
Group Tour Packages
Travel agents offer fixed departure skiing tours as group packages for 4-5 nights during winter. They include transfers, hotel stays, meals, ski passes, and equipment. Group sizes are usually 15-30 people, and rates range from INR 25,000 to INR 45,000 per person. Discounts may apply for larger groups.
Customized Tour Packages
Customized Auli packages allow you to tailor the itinerary to your duration, budget, interests, group size, and travel style. Service providers like Indian Holiday offer private Auli packages with options for hotel upgrades, sightseeing, transfers, adventure activities, etc. Rates depend on the inclusions. Customizing is excellent for solo travelers or families seeking exclusivity.
Planning a rewarding trip to Auli is easy by opting for a suitable travel package. Whether you prefer an organized group tour or a private custom tour, options suit every need and budget. With its unmatched vistas and snow-laden landscapes, Auli promises an unforgettable holiday in the lap of the Himalayas.
FAQs
What is the best time for skiing in Auli?
The ideal period for skiing in Auli is from January to March, with abundant snowfall. November-December and March-April are shoulder skiing seasons.
What are the beginner ski slopes like in Auli?
Several beginner-friendly slopes in Auli of low gradients up to 200m long are great for novice skiers. Instructors are available for guidance.
How far in advance should I book an Auli tour package?
It's advisable to book your Auli tourism package at least 2-3 months in advance for the peak winter season between December and February. For other months, one month ahead should be sufficient.
What are the languages spoken in Auli?
The main languages spoken in Auli are Hindi, English, and Garhwali. Most locals are conversant in Hindi and English, owing to tourism.
What is the ideal duration for an Auli trip?
A 3-night 4, 4-day Auli itinerary allows sufficient time for sightseeing, skiing, local activities, and acclimatization. Extend by 2-3 days if you wish to trek or camp.











