Auli: A Quiet Gem in the Garhwal Himalayas

Tucked high in the Garhwal Himalayas, far from the tourist buzz of Mussoorie and Nainital, lies Auli, one of those Uttarakhand hidden places that surprises you with its silence and beauty. Perched at around 2,800 meters in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, Auli is best known as a winter ski resort—but that’s just one chapter of its story.

When the snow melts, Auli transforms into one of the best quiet escapes Uttarakhand has to offer. The meadows turn green, wildflowers bloom, and cool mountain breezes whisper through oak and apple trees. Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak, stands tall in the background, silently watching over this alpine haven.

How To Reach Auli

Reaching this peaceful paradise takes time, but every turn in the journey adds to its charm.

By Road (Bus/Taxi):

Start your journey toward Auli by getting to Joshimath, the last major town before the hill station. From there, it’s a scenic 16 km drive. The narrow roads wind along deep valleys and forested hills—just what you'd expect from one of the more secluded Uttarakhand hidden places. Shared taxis and jeeps are available from Joshimath.

If you're coming from Delhi (about 500 km away), consider breaking the journey with an overnight stop in Rishikesh or Haridwar. Early morning buses and cabs run from both cities to Joshimath, though the roads are slow and winding.

By Train:

There’s no direct train to Auli. The closest major station is Haridwar, about 280 km away. From there, continue your journey by road. Along the way, you’ll pass towns like Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Karnaprayag—each offering glimpses of river valleys and mountain life.

By Air:

Fly into Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From there, it’s a 9–10 hour road trip to Joshimath, followed by the final stretch to Auli.

Bonus Auli Travel Tip:

Don’t miss the Auli Ropeway—one of India’s longest cable car rides—connecting Joshimath to Auli. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience with sweeping views of oak forests, snow slopes, and distant peaks.

What To Do in Auli (Beyond Skiing)

Come summer, Auli becomes a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers, and anyone searching for quiet escapes Uttarakhand promises but rarely delivers. Here are some of the best ways to experience it:

Hike to Gurso Bugyal

A 3 km trek through pine and oak forests opens up to a vast meadow with panoramic Himalayan views. This peaceful spot is a favorite among those exploring Uttarakhand hidden places on foot. Best time to go? Early morning, before the mist lifts.

Camp at Kwani Bugyal

Continue the trail for another 12 km to Kwani Bugyal, a perfect camping site surrounded by silence and mountains. Nights are chilly, so pack warm layers and be ready for a sky full of stars.

Relax by Auli Artificial Lake

Though man-made, this lake is beautifully set against a backdrop of peaks and meadows. Locals and travelers alike gather here to sip tea, watch the sun dip, and enjoy the stillness.

Visit Chattrakund

Just 4 km from Auli, this tiny forest lake is cold, clear, and calm. Auli travel tip: Go during golden hour for soft light filtering through the trees—ideal for photos or quiet reflection.

Ropeway Revisit

Even if you came by car, set aside time to take the Auli Ropeway again. It offers a different kind of peace when you're gliding silently over valleys and slopes.

Do Nothing at All

Yes, one of the most underrated Auli travel tips is simply to sit. On a rock, on the grass, or by the lake—Auli is one of those rare Uttarakhand hidden places that invites stillness. Bring a book or just breathe in the silence.

Why Auli Stands Out

While Auli is famous for skiing in winter, its true soul lies in its bugyals—lush alpine meadows that bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer. These meadows aren’t just scenic; they’re cultural, with shepherds bringing their flocks to graze just as they have for generations.

Auli also serves as a base for serious trekkers heading toward Kuari Pass, Tali Lake, or even Nanda Devi National Park. For the spiritually inclined, the sacred town of Badrinath is only 60 km away.

And then there’s the food—simple yet soul-warming. Dishes like Aloo ke Gutke, Jhangora Kheer, and Chainsoo hit differently when you’re sitting by a wood fire in the chilly evening air.

Best Time To Visit Auli

Winter (Dec–Feb): For snow, skiing, and a lively crowd.

Summer (Apr–Jun): The best time for treks, nature, and quiet escapes Uttarakhand excels at.

Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Lush and green but risky due to landslides.

Autumn (Oct–Nov): Crisp air, fewer tourists, clear views.

If skiing isn’t your thing, skip the winter crowds. Instead, head here in summer—when Auli shows its softer, quieter side. Among the many Uttarakhand hidden places, Auli stands out not with fanfare, but with peace. It doesn’t sell noise or neon lights. It offers green meadows, cold wind, and mountain silence.

If that’s your kind of travel, you’ve just found your place.