Complete Guide to Auli Trip Cost
Auli has two trip types with very different cost profiles: the ski season trip (Jan–Mar) is the more expensive one, while a summer/trekking trip (Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct) costs significantly less. Both are excellent value for the Himalayan experience they deliver.
Best Time to Visit Auli (Cost Perspective)
- Most expensive: January–February ski season — peak demand; GMVN rooms sell out
- Cheapest: September–November — off-season; gondola still running; great views
- Best value skiing: March — shoulder season; snow still good; 20–30% cheaper than Jan–Feb
How to Reach Auli – Transport Cost
| From | Mode | Cost per person | Duration |
|---|
| Delhi | Bus to Rishikesh (AC Volvo) | ₹400–₹700 | 5 hrs |
| Rishikesh | Shared taxi to Joshimath | ₹350–₹500 | 7–8 hrs |
| Rishikesh | Private cab to Joshimath | ₹3,000–₹4,500 | 7 hrs |
| Joshimath | Gondola to Auli (return) | ₹1,000 | 25 min |
| Joshimath | Road to Auli (taxi) | ₹300–₹500 | 45 min |
Budget and Hotels for Auli Trip
| Category | Options | Ski Season/night | Off-season/night |
|---|
| Budget | GMVN Tourist Rest House Auli | ₹2,000–₹3,500 | ₹1,000–₹1,800 |
| Mid-range | Cliff Top Club, Hotel Snow Crest (Joshimath) | ₹4,000–₹7,000 | ₹2,000–₹3,500 |
| Luxury | Club Mahindra Auli, GMVN Ski Resort | ₹10,000–₹25,000 | ₹5,000–₹10,000 |
Travel Tips and FAQs – Full Auli Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Ski Season (3 nights) | Summer (3 nights) |
|---|
| Transport Delhi–Auli–Delhi | ₹1,600–₹2,400 | ₹1,500–₹2,200 |
| Hotel (3 nights) | ₹6,000–₹10,500 | ₹3,000–₹6,000 |
| Gondola (2 return trips) | ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 |
| Ski equipment rental (3 days) | ₹2,100–₹3,600 | – |
| Ski instructor (3 days) | ₹2,400–₹3,600 | – |
| Trek guide (summer) | – | ₹800–₹1,200/day |
| Food (3 days) | ₹900–₹1,500 | ₹700–₹1,200 |
| Total per person | ₹15,000–₹24,000 | ₹8,000–₹13,000 |
- GMVN 3-day ski course (includes equipment + instructor): ₹3,500 — best value for beginners
- Food in Auli is expensive (₹200–₹400/meal); carry snacks from Joshimath to save money
- Staying in Joshimath (14 km below) instead of Auli can save ₹500–₹2,000/night with same cable car access
FAQ: Can I visit Auli without skiing? Absolutely — the gondola ride alone (₹1,000 return) and the Gorson Bugyal trek are worth the trip. Summer visits are 30–40% cheaper than ski season.
