Auli
औली
India's premier skiing destination at 3,050 meters altitude, featuring pristine snow slopes, dense forests of oak and deodar, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. It transforms into a hub for winter sports enthusiasts and summer trekkers exploring alpine meadows.
Things to do
- Skiing and Snowboarding — Experience India's only operational ski slopes during winter months (December to March) with well-groomed runs and ski lifts catering to beginners and advanced skiers.
- Chairlift Ride to Gorson Bugyal — Take the cable car to the expansive alpine meadow at Gorson offering panoramic views of the Nanda Devi and Ably peaks, accessible year-round.
- Trekking in Alpine Meadows — Explore summer wildflower meadows and forest trails through dense oak and deodar forests from May to October with trails connecting to nearby villages.
- Auli-Chopta Trek — Undertake a multi-day trek from Auli through rhododendron forests and pastoral landscapes to the scenic Chopta meadows, typically done in spring and autumn.
- Visit Joshimath Temple Town — Take a short drive to the ancient pilgrimage town of Joshimath to visit the historic Narasimha Temple and experience local Hindu religious culture.
- Photography at Sunrise Points — Capture golden hour shots of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and alpine vistas from designated viewpoints around the ski resort.
- Mountain Biking and Downhill Rides — Experience downhill mountain biking on designated trails through forest terrain, available during warmer months when snow melts.
Food to try
- Kumaoni Bhatt (Buckwheat Pancakes) — Savor traditional thick buckwheat pancakes served with local ghee and honey, a staple breakfast dish of the Kumaon region eaten warm off the griddle.
- Aloo ke Parathas with Local Pickle — Enjoy hand-rolled wheat flatbreads stuffed with spiced potato and served with homemade Kumaoni achar (pickle) made from local chilies and wild herbs.
- Kafuli (Bean and Spinach Curry) — Taste this nutrient-rich local curry of kidney beans and leafy greens tempered with traditional spices, eaten with rice or local millet bread (mandua ki roti).
- Maggie in the Mountains — Experience the quirky Himalayan tradition of instant noodles cooked with local vegetables and cheese at mountain cafes, perfect for quick energy.
- Ghee and Honey from Local Vendors — Purchase authentic mustard oil and pure honey from local beekeepers and dairy farmers who sell directly at Auli market, prized for their purity.
Local customs & good to know
- Respect Religious Sensibilities in Joshimath — When visiting nearby Joshimath, dress modestly at temples and remove shoes at sacred sites, as this is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus.
- Winter Season Precautions — Carry adequate warm clothing, sunscreen, and lip balm for high-altitude skiing; respect weather warnings and avalanche alerts issued by resort authorities.
- Support Local Communities — Engage with homestays and local guides rather than large chain hotels to ensure your tourism spending benefits the Kumaoni mountain communities directly.
- Learn Basic Hindi and Kumaoni Phrases — Locals appreciate visitors who attempt greetings and thanks in local languages; English is less common outside the resort, making basic phrases helpful.