Auli during winter looks just like a picture straight out of a fairy tale. There are mountains covered with snow, surrounded by tall pine trees. This hill station in Uttarakhand is known as one of the best skiing destinations in India. Auli in winter, especially during December to February, turns into a white wonderland.
It becomes a dream destination for travellers because of the clear blue skies, frozen lakes and the majestic view of Nanda Devi Peak and is thus included in the best Uttarakhand tour packages. In this blog, we will take you through everything that you would need to know to plan the dreamiest trip to Auli this winter.
Weather in Auli During Winter
Winter in Auli falls between December and February and makes the place a snowy wonderland. The daytime temperatures range from -2°C to 10°C and the nights may fall below -8°C, which creates the perfect setting for tourists to enjoy skiing, snowboarding and other Auli winter sports. January sees the heaviest snowfall, and clear sunny skies make the landscape even more beautiful. Tourists need to be prepared for the cold weather since it is necessary to dress in layers with thermals, jackets, gloves and boots in order to enjoy the chilly weather safely.
Auli Temperature in Winter: Day -2°C to 10°C, Night -8°C
Snowfall: Heaviest in January, approx. 8 cm
Sunshine: Clear skies about 66% of the day
Humidity: Around 67%
Wind Speed: about 8.3 mph (13.4 kph)
Top 5 Places to Visit in Auli in Winter
Being one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, Auli has several stunning spots to explore in winter. In this section, we will guide you through the top 5 must-visit locations in Auli in winter that perfectly capture the charm and beauty of the region during the snowy season.
1. Auli Ski Slopes
Auli is world-famous for its ski slopes, thus a winter paradise for adventure seekers. The slopes are covered in thick and soft snow in February and December, ideal for amateurs and professionals both. You can learn skiing, go snowboarding or just ride gently on the calm slopes. The expanse of neighbouring Himalayan peaks from up there only adds to the thrill, making it the perfect combination of adventure and panoramic vistas to visit at Auli in winter.
Location: Auli, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Skiing packages vary (₹500-₹1500 per session)
2. Gurso Bugyal
Gurso Bugyal is a green alpine meadow that turns into a winter paradise with snow. It is perfect for a walk in the snow, photography and the serene sights of Nanda Devi and Mana summits. It's perfect for family and independent travellers to picnic or take a short hike. The light snow and vast meadows are perfect for playing snowball fights, building snowmen and enjoying the calm scenery of Auli in winter.
Location: 3 km from Auli
Timings: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Auli Artificial Lake
Auli Artificial Lake is one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. It is a unique place surrounded by snow during winter, possessing quiet and calm surroundings. It's a wonderful place for photography and quiet walks along its edges. The mirror reflection of snow-covered peaks in the lake is simply breathtaking. Tourists visiting Auli in winter prefer enjoying the quiet and the opportunity to witness frozen water surfaces, adding magic to the winter experience in this Himalayan getaway.
Location: Near the Auli ropeway base
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Auli Ropeway
Auli Ropeway is one of the highest cable cars in Asia and provides a thrilling aerial view of snow-covered slopes and Himalayan peaks. Taking a ropeway ride in Auli in winter offers panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape, thick pine forests and neighbouring villages. It is among the best things to do in Uttarakhand at Auli for tourists, giving both thrill and a peaceful perspective of Auli’s beauty from above. The ropeway connects Joshimath to Auli, making it convenient for sightseeing.
Location: Joshimath to Auli
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹400 per person
5. Trishul Viewpoint
Trishul Viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of the glorious Trishul peaks, and it is particularly lovely during winter. The landscape is covered with snow, and the sun-kissed sky offers great photo opportunities. A short climb to the viewpoint is a peaceful, stress-free endeavour wherein you can fill your lungs with the crisp winter air and pristine natural beauty of Auli. The site is perfect for sunrise or sunset visits.
Location: Near Auli ski slopes
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry Fee: Free
Best Things to Do in Auli in Winter
Winter turns Auli into a snowy paradise, perfect for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. From skiing down pristine slopes to exploring peaceful snow-covered trails, the mountains offer endless excitement. In this list, we explore the best things to do in Auli in winter for an unforgettable trip.
1. Skiing in Auli
Auli is famous for its white slopes and hence it is one of the top skiing destinations in India. Winter provides the perfect snow for amateur as well as professional skiers. Ski schools provide tuition, safety equipment and guided practice so that everyone can enjoy the sport. Skiing at Auli also provides one with breathtaking scenery of Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks. Sliding down the steep hillsides with a scent of fresh mountain air is a feeling that combines nature and adventure.
2. Gondola Ride
The Auli Gondola is one of Asia’s longest cable cars, linking Joshimath to Auli. Riding it presents bird's-eye views of snow mountains, pine forests and valleys. The ride is peaceful, allowing tourists to experience the landscape without covering long distances. Photographers and nature lovers especially enjoy capturing the Himalayan landscape from a bird's-eye view. It is also an excellent and risk-free way to reach upper slopes for skiing or trekking, and hence a must-do activity on a vacation to Auli in winter.
3. Snow Trekking
Winter trekking in Auli is an experience of a lifetime. Gorson Bugyal and the surrounding slopes are covered with fresh snow, offering peaceful walks through woods and open meadows. Guided treks ensure safety and highlight scenic spots along the way. Trekking here is suitable for nature lovers who want a serene, quiet countryside. The trek also lets you recognise Himalayan flora, icy streams and sometimes animal tracks in the snow. Snow trekking is a sport that involves adventure, exercise and winter mountain beauty all in one.
4. Camping in Snowfields
Winter camping at Auli is perfect for adventure lovers. Pitching camps on slopes or meadows, making bonfires and gazing at a starry sky turns it into a fantasy. The cutting cold can be severe, but the warmth from a campfire and thick sleeping bags makes the campers cosy.
A one-night stay in the white mountains works like a therapy and makes one connect with nature. Watching the sunrise from snow-covered peaks and hearing the silence of the Himalayas is a peaceful, not-to-be-missed experience for every outdoor enthusiast.
5. Photography and Sightseeing
Auli in winter is a heaven for photographers. Snow-covered peaks, ice-covered streams and pine trees provide ideal settings for stunning photographs. Sunrise and sunset paint the mountains golden and pink, with a panoramic view. Walking around the slopes gives travellers a chance to observe wildlife, frozen waterfalls and Himalayan landscapes up close. Sightseeing combined with photography lets visitors enjoy the beauty of Auli at their own pace.
This activity is ideal for those who want to capture memories while appreciating the serene winter environment of the mountains.
6. Snowboarding
Snowboarding in Auli offers a thrilling adventure for winter sports lovers. The slopes are open to learners and advanced skiers, and there are local instructors for lessons. Snowboarding blends the excitement of skiing with the techniques of balance. Sliding down the snow-covered slopes amidst the Himalayan ranges is an adrenaline rush. Safety gear and hired equipment make it convenient for tourists.
7. Ice Skating
In the peak winter months, frozen lakes in Auli become perfect ice-skating arenas. Friends and family members can skate together in a safe and picturesque setting. Beginners can practice slow skating while experienced tourists can skate faster on the ice. Skating offers an enjoyable means of enjoying the mountain winter weather and introduces a recreational activity into the winter schedule. The snowcapped peaks and tall pine trees surrounding the area give the ice rink a fairy-tale type of environment. It is an unforgettable experience for anyone travelling to Auli in the winter.
Conclusion
It is wonderful to be at Auli in winter, especially for people who enjoy snow as well as adventure. One can experience glittering snow-covered slopes, exciting winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Its location is a perfect winter resort due to the clean mountain air, breathtaking Himalayan scenery and peaceful environment. Auli is the place to be at when you are in search of adventure or peace provided by the snow-capped scenery. With proper planning, you can enjoy the best winter vacation in this gorgeous hill station.
