Explore a complete Delhi to Auli trip guide with travel routes, skiing spots, best time to visit, and expert tips for an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
A Snowy Getaway to the Himalayas
Want a snowy getaway slice out of the city? Delhi to Auli trip is the zenith of exploration, tranquility, and the magic of nature. Whether that means you’re looking for winding mountain roads, ski slopes or stunning sunrises over snow-covered peaks, this trip has all that and more.
Planning the Delhi to Auli Trip
Some preparation can take you a long way before you hit the road. Uttarakhand’s picturesque hill station Auli is famous for its desolated beauty and winter sports. The distance from Delhi to Auli trip is around 500 Kilometers and the travel time by road depends on your route and stopovers and can vary between 10–14 hours.
You can reach Auli via multiple options:
*By road: A personal car or cab offers flexibility.The most popular route is Delhi–Haridwar–Rishikesh–Joshimath–Auli.
*By train: Nearest railway stations are Haridwar or Rishikesh. From there, take a taxi or bus to Joshimath.
*By air: The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Thereafter, drive directly to Joshimath and take the ropeway or a car to reach Auli.
Protip : Always check weather and road conditions before planning your trip ,especially in winter months.
Delhi to Rishikesh: The Journey Begins
Itinerary for the trip from Delhi to Auli – Our trip to Auli from Delhi started early in the morning. The air became clear and cool as we drove away from the crowded streets of Delhi. After around six hours, we got to Rishikesh — an ideal place for a quick halt.
Renowned for its spiritual undercurrents and river rafting, Rishikesh was a much-needed pitstop. We took some local food, gave our feet a stretch and enjoyed the view of the Ganges.
The Climb to Joshimath:
The road from Rishikesh started climbing steadily. The gnarled roads with the gurgling Alaknanda River next to us and the dense pine forests added to the excitement. En route from Rishikesh to Joshimath — the drive takes about 8–9 hours — can be a little tiring but the views are worth it!
Joshimath is the last major town before Auli, which it acts as a base for. And a lot of travellers stay here for the night before proceeding to Auli.
Reaching Auli: Ropeway or Road
From Joshimath, Auli is just 16 km away. You have two exciting options:
Ride the ropeway — One of Asia’s longest, providing stunning panoramic views.
By own vehicle or cab – Best option when you have heavy bags or ropeway is closed owing to weather conditions.
The ropeway that we took was one of the highpoints of the trip from Delhi to Auli. It felt surreal to float over valleys and snow-dusted trees.
Things to Do in Auli
There is no denying that Auli is a winter wonderland. Perched at 8,200 feet, it is famous for its snow-covered slopes and is a destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Here’s what you need to do in Auli:
Skiing: (Auli: where: Auli is one of the best ski destination of India. If you are a novice, there are instructors and equipment rentals.
Tada: Gorson Bugyal Trek: Trekking up to Gorson Bugyal for the beautiful views of Nanda Devi and other magnificent peaks of the Himalayas
Auli Lake: A man-made lake that reflects the sky and mountains — ideal for photos.
Chair lift ride: Another scenic ride within Auli that gives a bird’s eye view of the slopes.
Whether you’re here for snow adventures or just peace and quiet, Auli delivers on all fronts.
Things to Do in Auli
There is no denying that Auli is a winter wonderland. Perched at 8,200 feet, it is famous for its snow-covered slopes and is a destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Here’s what you must need to do in Auli:
Skiing: (Auli: where: Auli is one of the best ski destination of India. If you are a novice, there are instructors and equipment rentals.
Tada: Gorson Bugyal Trek: Trekking up to Gorson Bugyal for the beautiful views of Nanda Devi and other magnificent peaks of the Himalayas
Auli Lake: A man-made lake that reflects the sky and mountains — ideal for photos.
Chair lift ride: Another scenic ride within Auli that gives a bird’s eye view of the slopes.
Whether you’re here for snow adventures or just peace and quiet, Auli delivers on all fronts.
Where to Stay:
Accommodation: there are few places in Auli to stay, but they are very hospitable, from GMVN guesthouses or private resorts. It is highly advised to book in advance, particularly during the height of snow season (December to February).
If you want more amenities or are traveling with family, staying in Joshimath and commuting to Auli on a daily basis is also a good option.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for a Delhi to Auli trip is subject to your interests:
For snow and skiing: December to February
For trekking and clear skies: March to June
Avoid the monsoon (July to September) as landslides can disrupt travel.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Pack warm clothes, gloves, and snow boots, especially in winter.
Carry medicines, including altitude sickness remedies.
Start early each day to avoid driving in the dark on hilly roads.
Keep cash handy, as ATMs are rare in the hills.
Final Thoughts
A Delhi to Auli trip is more than just a vacation — it’s a journey from chaos to calm. From the flatlands of Delhi to the snow-capped silence of Auli, one mile has at least one story.
Going solo, a couple or with friends: Auli has something for everyone. The snow, the skies and the slow pace are the perfect escape.
So go ahead, pack your bags, and chase the snow. Now ya never, right?