The slopes of Auli are somewhat steep and not easy. But
that's precisely the reason why you have come all the way from your
comfortable homes. That you'll also get to enjoy the sight of snow capped
Nanda Devi, Kamet and Mana Parbat of of the Himalayas while you are skiing
at Auli in Uttaranchal is reason enough for you to start preparing for your
vacations in right earnest. Just take care that you don't get distracted by
the beautiful landscapes while you are skiing here. Located in the Chamoli
district of Uttaranchal and close to China and Nepal, Auli is said to be the
ski capital of India. Auli is located at the altitude of 8200 feet but you
are not going to realize it because the Nanda Devi peak at an altitude of
23000 feet is there to give you company.
The state of Uttaranchal has been steadily rising in terms of its
popularity among the tourists, mostly because of the adventure sports
opportunities that it provides. The state provides various options and
facilities for trekking, white water rafting, hang gliding as well apart
from skiing. Auli has emerged among the major tourism destinations of India
and you'll have to start packing your bags if you want to find out why.
Things you can do at Auli
We
know that skiing is your primary purpose to be here so we are going to talk
about that first. You'll get some clean stretches of about 10 to 20 km for
skiing here. The woods on the slopes help reduce the wind velocity which
makes the conditions for skiing even better for you'll enjoy the wind
brushing against your cheeks while you ski down the slopes.
A 3.9 km long cable car links Auli to Joshimath whereas the distance goes
up to 16 km if you feel comfortable travelling by the road. Another way of
reaching Auli is by a 500 meters long chair lift which connects the upper
and the lower slopes. The necessary equipments and snow beaters for skiing
can be rented here and if you have any queries regarding the facilities,
lodging and the packages then you should feel free to contact the Garhwal
Mandal Vikas Nigam.
Apart from skiing you'd need some activities to enliven the evenings at
Auli. There are huts and resorts at Auli that are warmed by Bukhari where
you can relax. You can also choose to listen to the folk tales or Garhwali
music by the campfire. You may not believe that the shopping buffs here can
also enjoy themselves by buying shawls, blankets, woolen caps and many gift
items.
Necessary Preparations
First things first, pack your bag with enough warm clothes before you leave
for Auli. Another must is a first aid kit which can prove to be handy
anywhere, not just in Auli. Other things that you should bring with yourself
are torch, good snow boots, dark glasses and extra batteries.
Accommodation Options
There
are various tourist guest houses and comfortable hotels available in
Joshimath which is only 16 km away from Auli. Most of the accommodation
options have reasonable prices therefore finding the suitable place to stay
is not going to be a problem for you.
How to reach Auli
Auli is somewhat remote which is expected as you know that all good things
in life can be had only with some degree of difficulty. Dehradun is the
nearest airport (298 km away) which is also the capital of Uttaranchal.
Rishikesh is the nearest railhead which is about 235 km away. Regular buses
operate between Auli and Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar and Delhi. You can
also hire jeeps for Auli once you have reached Joshimath.
