Want to Witness Paradise on Earth? Head to this hill station in Uttarakhand!

As the summer heat intensifies, finding a cool, refreshing escape becomes a priority for many families. It’s the perfect time for a family vacation. Don’t know where to go? We’ve got you covered. One such perfect destination is Auli, a serene hill station in Uttarakhand, India. Known for its stunning landscapes and chilly weather, Auli provides a much-needed respite from the sweltering heat.

With temperatures ranging between 7°C to 17°C in late May, it’s an ideal spot for a memorable family holiday. Let’s explore what makes Auli a paradise on Earth and why it should be your next getaway.

Auli: A serene and cold hill station in Uttarakhand

Auli, often referred to as the skiing capital of India, is a pristine hill station nestled in the Himalayas. According to Wikipedia, “Auli is also known as the Gateway of the Himalayas“. It boasts breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamat Kamet.

The town is surrounded by lush oak and coniferous forests, providing a cool, refreshing atmosphere even in the peak of summer. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply a break from the heat, Auli offers an idyllic setting for all. Its well-maintained slopes and clear skies make it a favorite among tourists looking to experience nature at its finest.

Activities in Auli: Thrills and Serenity

Auli offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages. During winter, it transforms into a skiing paradise with well-groomed slopes suitable for beginners and professionals alike. In the warmer months, the region becomes a haven for trekking and camping enthusiasts, with trails leading to stunning locales like Gurso Bugyal and Kwani Bugyal.

For a more relaxed experience, take the cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, you can visit the Auli Artificial Lake, one of the highest man-made lakes in the world, and enjoy its serene beauty.

Simply put you can try these Activities in Auli Hill Station

• Trekking
• Camping
• Auli Artificial Lake
• Scenic Walks

Culinary Delights: Best Food to Try in Auli

While in Auli, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the local cuisine, which is both delicious and comforting. Start your culinary journey with Garhwali dishes like Kafuli, a nutritious spinach curry, and Phaanu, a hearty lentil soup. For a taste of local snacks, try Bal Mithai, a sweet made from roasted khoya and coated with sugar balls, or Singori, a cone-shaped dessert wrapped in a malla leaf. Many local eateries and dhabas in Auli offer these traditional foods, providing a delightful gastronomic experience that complements the region’s natural beauty.

Best food you can try in Auli

Kafuli :

A vibrant green, leafy dish made with spinach or other local greens, known for its distinctive taste. (Vegetarian)

Auli one of the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, beckons with its snowy slopes and breathtaking beauty. But before you embark on this adventure, planning your journey to Auli is crucial. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the various ways to reach this enchanting hill station:

By Road:

• Distance: The distance from Delhi to Auli is approximately 500-520 kilometers, depending on the route chosen.
• Route: There are two primary routes to reach Auli by road:
  • Via Upper Ganga Canal Road: This is the shortest and most recommended route, offering a distance of around 397 kilometers. The route takes you through NH 44, Upper Ganga Canal Road, and NH 709A. While this route is faster, be prepared for some twists and turns.
  • Via Kotdwara: This route is slightly longer (around 522 kilometers) but offers a scenic journey through towns like Meerut, Khatauli, and Kotdwara. It involves traveling via NH 44, Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, and NH 709.
• Travel Time: Expect a road journey of approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic conditions and road stopovers.
• Options: You can choose from various options for your road trip:
  • Self-drive: If you’re comfortable navigating unfamiliar roads, consider renting a car and driving yourself. This offers flexibility and allows you to stop at scenic spots on the way.
  • Taxi: Hiring a taxi provides a convenient and comfortable option. Pre-book a taxi for a hassle-free experience.
  • Bus: Regular government and private buses operate between Delhi and Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun. From these towns, you can take a connecting taxi or shared jeep to Joshimath, the last road point before Auli.

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: The closest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (DED), situated approximately 230 kilometers away.
• Connectivity: Several domestic airlines offer flights to Dehradun from major Indian cities.
• Onward Journey: From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath. Joshimath is connected to Auli by a cable car ride (discussed below).

By Cable Car:

• Joshimath to Auli: The most convenient way to reach Auli from Joshimath is via the cable car. This scenic ride takes approximately 20-22 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Distance: The cable car covers a distance of approximately 4 kilometers.

Combining Modes of Transport:

For a more convenient journey, consider combining different modes of transport. For example, you could fly to Dehradun and then hire a taxi to Joshimath, followed by the cable car ride to Auli.

Important Tips:

• Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
• Carry warm clothing, especially if visiting during winter.
• Be prepared for potential road closures due to snowfall.
• Check the weather forecast before your trip.

By following these tips and choosing the mode of transport that best suits your needs and preferences, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to the enchanting Auli.

By Train:

• Nearest Railway Station: While Auli itself doesn’t have a railway station, the closest major railhead is Rishikesh Railway Station (RISH), approximately 230-260 kilometers away depending on the route chosen.
• Connectivity: Rishikesh is well-connected to major Indian cities by a good network of trains. You can find trains from Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, and other significant locations.
• Onward Journey: From Rishikesh, you’ll need to take a taxi or shared jeep to Joshimath, the last road point before Auli. This journey takes roughly 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions. Joshimath is then connected to Auli by the cable car (mentioned earlier).

Important Note: While trains can be a budget-friendly option, keep in mind the additional road journey from Rishikesh to Joshimath and the cable car ride to reach Auli.

Combining Modes of Transport:

Similar to other options, consider combining train travel with other modes of transport for a more convenient journey. You could travel by train to Rishikesh and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, followed by the cable car to Auli.

Here’s a quick comparison of reaching Auli by Road, Air, and Train:

Auli is truly a paradise on Earth, offering cool weather, stunning scenery, and a range of activities that cater to every traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to relax in a serene environment, Auli is one of the top and best hill stations in Uttarakhand has something for everyone. So, as the temperatures rise, pack your bags and head to this dream holiday destination for an unforgettable holiday. Experience the best of what nature has to offer and create memories that will last a lifetime.