Auli – Where India Hits the Slopes
Auli, situated at an altitude of 2,519m in the Chamoli district, is undisputedly India's best skiing destination. With slopes stretching over 2.5 km at a vertical drop of 500m, Auli offers skiing conditions comparable to many international resorts — with the added grandeur of the Garhwal Himalayas.
The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) runs ski training and equipment rental facilities, making Auli accessible to complete beginners. The skiing season runs from January to March when snow depth is at its best.
Auli Ski Slopes
Beginner Slopes
Several gentle slopes near the GMVN resort and cable car station are ideal for first-time skiers. Instructors from GMVN offer certified lessons for beginners.
Intermediate Slopes
The main 2.5km slope drops 500 vertical metres through dense conifer forests and is suitable for intermediate skiers. The natural snow cover and gradient make for a thrilling but manageable run.
Advanced Runs
Experienced skiers head to the steeper sections above the tree line with fresh powder and minimal grooming. Off-piste skiing is possible with a local guide.
Auli Gondola (Ropeway)
Auli is connected to Joshimath by one of Asia's longest cable cars (gondola) — 4 km long with a capacity of 25 persons per cabin. The gondola offers spectacular views of Nanda Devi (7,816m), Kamet, Dronagiri, Hathi Parvat, and Nilgiri Parvat.
- Gondola Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (winter)
- Gondola Fare: ₹1,000 one way, ₹1,500 return (Indians)
- Journey Time: ~20 minutes
Ski Packages at Auli (GMVN)
| Package | Duration | Includes | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Ski Course | 7 days | Training, equipment, accommodation | ₹12,000–₹18,000 |
| Advanced Course | 14 days | Full training, certification | ₹25,000–₹35,000 |
| Weekend Ski Package | 2 days | Slope access, equipment | ₹4,000–₹6,000 |
| Equipment Rental Only | Per day | Skis, boots, poles | ₹600–₹1,200/day |
How to Reach Auli
- By Road: Joshimath (14 km from Auli) is well-connected by road to Rishikesh (253 km), Haridwar (270 km), and Dehradun (298 km)
- By Gondola: Take the cable car from Joshimath to Auli (most popular route)
- By Road to Auli: A motorable road connects Joshimath to Auli via Kwani Bugyal (suitable for 4WD in winter)
- Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (279 km)
- Nearest Railway: Rishikesh (253 km) or Haridwar (270 km)
Other Skiing Destinations in Uttarakhand
- Munsiyari (Pithoragarh): Off-beat skiing with Panchachuli views
- Dayara Bugyal (Uttarkashi): High-altitude meadow skiing at 3,628m
- Chakrata (Dehradun): Beginner-friendly slopes near Dehradun
- Mundali (Chakrata): Lesser-known but beautiful snow destination