The short answer
Auli: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you are in the Badrinath region and interested in skiing (winter) or alpine scenery (any season). The resort is India's best-established skiing destination, though facilities are basic compared to international standards. Plan a full day trip from Joshimath or Badrinath.
Useful facts
Auli facts at a glance
- Location
- 20 km above Joshimath, at 3,000–3,050 metres
- Type
- Day trip
- Time needed
- 1 full day including travel and exploration
- Best time
- December to February for skiing; May to October for meadow walks and cable car rides
Why it matters
Why Auli is worth your time
Auli developed as India's skiing destination in the 1990s, initially with equipment from the Winter Olympics in Sochi. It is one of the few places in South Asia where winter snow skiing is possible. For Indian skiers and those wanting to try skiing for the first time, Auli is accessible and uniquely suited to the Indian climate and market.
For non-skiers, Auli represents the upper reaches of the inhabited Himalayas—a transition zone where trees thin to alpine meadow, and the landscape opens to vast views. The altitude and the treeless meadows give Auli a sense of exposure and scale that is memorable.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Drive up from Joshimath in the morning. The road is steep and winding; allow 45 minutes to an hour. At the top, park at the cable car base or ski lodge.
In summer, take the cable car (chairlift or gondola, depending on what is operating) to the higher slopes. From there, you can walk through the alpine meadows, which are covered in wildflowers from June to August. The views west towards the main Himalayan range and east towards Badrinath are expansive. Bring a jacket; the weather at altitude is changeable, and it can turn cold and cloudy quickly.
In winter, if you are a skier, the runs range from beginner to intermediate. Equipment rental is available. The skiing is not challenging by Alpine standards but is fun for Indian skiers and a novel experience for visitors. If you are not a skier, the cable car and meadows are still worth the trip for the views and the experience of being at this altitude in snow.
Eat at the lodge restaurant or bring packed food. Return to Joshimath or Badrinath by late afternoon.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Winter: book accommodation and lift tickets well in advance
- Bring a windproof jacket and sun protection; the altitude brings intense UV
- The drive up is winding; if you are prone to car sickness, take medication beforehand
- Altitude acclimatisation is important; go slowly on arrival
- Weather can change rapidly; check forecasts and be prepared to turn back if a storm threatens
- The road is closed or difficult in heavy snow; confirm conditions before heading up
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- 20 km above Joshimath, at 3,000–3,050 metres
- Time needed
- 1 full day including travel and exploration
- Best time
- December to February for skiing; May to October for meadow walks and cable car rides
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The altitude is significant (3,000 m); those not acclimatised should go slowly. The cable car is accessible for most, but the meadow walks are at high altitude. Sit and rest frequently.
- Tickets and access
- Cable car tickets are charged separately; ask at the base for current prices. Winter lift passes and equipment rental are available. Accommodation is limited and books up during peak winter season.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Auli
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The altitude is significant (3,000 m); those not acclimatised should go slowly. The cable car is accessible for most, but the meadow walks are at high altitude. Sit and rest frequently.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Auli worth visiting in summer?
Yes. The meadows and views are beautiful, the cable car is scenic, and the altitude is a real experience. Skiing is not possible, but the landscape is rewarding.
How good is the skiing at Auli?
Auli is a modest ski resort by international standards, but it is India's best and has good beginner and intermediate terrain. Equipment rental and instruction are available.
Can you get to Auli from Badrinath directly?
No. You must go down to Joshimath first, then drive up. It is a long day trip (5–6 hours of driving) from Badrinath.
Is there food and accommodation at Auli?
Yes, a ski lodge and some restaurants are open. Accommodation books up in winter; make reservations ahead. Summer facilities are more limited.
What altitude is Auli?
The base is around 2,500 metres; the top of the ski runs is 3,000–3,050 metres. Altitude acclimatisation matters.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
