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Auli – A Complete Travel Guide

Auli is one of the most picturesque places I have been to. With seeing the mighty ranges to skiing in the fresh snow, Auli had it all. It does not just end here, Auli lies in the upper ranges of Himalayas and even though it is a famous tourist spot, the place does not look crowded.

Below, you will find a complete guide of Auli that you can follow to reach this place, as well as where to stay, things to do and itinerary.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Best Time to Visit Auli

Auli can be visited anytime during the year. However, since Auli is the skiing destination and is famous for its peaked snow mountains, it is better to visit this beauty during the winter season. Reaching here during the winters might get difficult though due to road blockages, so before leaving for this place do ask for the road conditions.

Below I am listing down the months in which you can expect what kind of weather.

Summers: The summertime in Auli is from March to June. However, you won’t be able to find snow during this time. Since the mountains here are barren, the mountains will have a brown shade, with a little snow on the top of the peaks. The temperature stays about 15 degrees, which is ideal for beating the heat of the city. You can go on many treks and enjoy the sight-seeing activities due to the pleasant weather.

Monsoon: Monsoon stays between July to October in Auli. During this time, the temperature falls a little further and might go down to 10 degrees. While visiting the place during this time, do check if landslides are happening since mountains are prone to this. I would suggest you to avoid visiting Auli during this time since due to rain you might get stuck in the hotel rooms itself and exploring the place might get difficult.

Winters: From November to February, one can expect snowfall and the temperature goes down in negative 8 degrees. This window is the best time when one can experience skiing activities. Many tourists come here during this time due to experience skiing. But again, do check the weather before coming since there are chances of snowstorms in Auli at times which might again be a hindrance to your tour.

Lying at the height of 2,800 meters, Auli offers the most captivating views of mighty Himalayas. It lies in Uttarakhand, which in itself offers an abundance of natural beauty. It lies in the Garhwali district and lies in the upper ranges of the Himalayas.

Sightseeing in Auli

Auli offers amazing views with high peaks of the Himalayas. One can see Nanda Devi from here. The mighty Nanda Devi is at the height of 7800 meters. From far you can see the snow-clad mountains, and it is so relaxing to have a cup of tea while watching these mountains. The colors become even more enchanting during the sunset time when the entire sky lit up in a shade of pink color. This time is when you will get the “peace of mind.”

The high peaks can be seen in all the four corners and this panoramic view will always be stuck in your eyes.

Hanuman Temple

One can visit the Hanuman temple here. It is said that Hanuman Ji took rest here while he was taking Sanjivini to Laxman. The mythology says that when Lord Rama was fighting a war in Sri Lanka, his younger brother, Laxman, got injured in it. The only herb that could have cured him was ‘Sanjivini,’ which is only found in the Himalayas. Hanuman Ji flew from Lanka to take the herb and took rest in Auli, the temple that has been built.

This offers spiritual feeling to all those who would like to share the religious vibe along with peace amidst the mountains.

But even for religious beliefs, one can experience it amidst the mountains only. The mighty Himalayas are named after Gods or have some mythological connection. You can also see Mount Neelkant from here, and the Badrinath route can be commenced from Auli.

Dheeraj Sharma

Cable Car and Ropeway

Further, enjoy the cable car here. There are two cable cars and one can see the bird’s eye view of the man-made lake from the cable car.

The ropeway in Auli is said to be the longest in Asia. It is about 4 KMs long and runs directly from Joshimath and covers the entire ride in just 25 minutes.

Auli, in fact, also has a cable car that links the lower slopes of Auli to the upper slopes, and through this, tourists can reach the skiing spot directly, in a matter of ten minutes. Otherwise, tourists would have to hike to this place if the cable chair was not there.

Artificial Lake

Auli is just not famous for its highest cable car, but as well as for its highest human-made lake. This lake was specially built to create artificial snow, such that skiing can be enjoyed throughout the season.

Hence, when there is a low snowfall in a particular season, the water from this lake is used to make a good skiing surface.

Experience Skiing in Auli

Skiing is a famous sport to experience in Auli. Many tourists come here to experience skiing only. The artificial lake helps in making snow all round the year. One does not have to be necessarily fit or a trained professional to opt for skiing. You can opt for an hour skiing guide and he will give you all the skiing gear and will help you to have the first skiing experience at its best.

Although do consider the weather because during winters there are chances of a snowstorm which can be really frustrating.

You can also make a side trip to Mana village from Auli. 

Trekking Routes that Start from Auli

There are several treks that start from Auli itself; Auli being the base camp. Some of them are the Auli Gorson trail, Gorson – Tali, Tali – Kuari Pass, Kuari Pass – Khulara and Khulara – Tapovan.

Auli is the starting point for most of the treks such as – valley of flowers, Roopkund, Kuari Pass, etc. Apart from this, there are snow treks as well. I am covering the two major treks below –

Gurson Meadows trek

This trek is amidst the apple orchards and you will cross several quaint villages and settlements. You will also come across hot springs at Tapovan.

Trekkers usually camp on this trail beside the river streams. Several peaks are visible from here such as Mt. Kamet and Neelkantha.

Trekkers also witness several other peaks like Lampak Massif, Dronagiri, and Nanda Devi.

Kuari Pass trek

Kuari trek is located near the Tibet border and at the edge of Nanda Devi. Kuari means ‘doorway’ and is surrounded by high mountain ranges.

This trek opens during the winter season and is a challenging little one. During this trek, you will cross meadows and alpine streams. You will also get to witness the Chaukhamba Range at one side and Mana, Kamet, and Abl Gamin on the other.

4 Day Itinerary for Auli from Delhi

Day 0 – start from delhi.

You can easily get an overnight bus from Delhi to Rishikesh. The private buses leave from Anand Vihar ISBT, while the government ones leave from Kashmiri Gate. You can book your buses online on the government or private websites. However, getting on the spot private buses to Rishikesh won’t be a problem

It is easy to find buses till Rishikesh. You can either book the bus on the spot or either online on the bus booking websites. The bus journey takes about 6 hours.

Day 1 – Rishikesh to Auli

You will reach Rishikesh early in the morning, and from here, you would be able to find many options to reach Auli. The buses leave early in the morning. You can also ask for shared cabs here since many tourists go to Auli.

If by chance you are not able to find a bus that reached Auli directly, you can either take a bus for Joshimath and from there you can take another bus or a cab for Auli. Those ways it would be cheaper too as Joshimath is near to Auli

You will reach Auli sometime in the evening. Today, take a rest and soak in the surroundings. You will fall in love immediately.

Day 2 and 3 – Spend in Auli

The next two days, explore Auli. You can split the days into two. One day you can explore the places near Auli. The next day you can experience skiing as well as take the cable car back and forth to the Joshimath town.

It depends on you what activity you want to opt for and for how long you want to indulge in it. If you are not interested in skiing, you can also go for treks nearby.

Day 4 – Head Back to Delhi

Take an early morning bus that leaves from Auli to Rishikesh. It takes about 10-12 hours to reach Rishikesh from Auli. From Rishikesh, you can again take a bus to Delhi.

How to Reach Auli

There are several ways through which you can reach Auli. Either you can reach Delhi first by taking a flight or reach Dehradun directly.

The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport. From the airport, the distance is about 280 KMs.

On the other hand, you can also use the railway network to reach this place. The nearest railway station to this place is the Haridwar railway station. Many trains run to this place.

You can also take a bus either till Dehradun or Rishikesh. UPRSTC runs buses on a regular basis to this place.

From Rishikesh or Dehradun, you can again take either a bus or a shared taxi to reach Auli. Buses leave early in the morning. There are options for taking a private taxi as well. However, it would cost a lot.

Accommodations in Auli

There are several guest houses and hotels in Auli. One of the most prominent ones is the Auli resort. You can also stay in Joshimath and travel to and fro from this place. Joshimath has a proper market place with many stay options, however, to soak in the surroundings, I would highly recommend you to stay at Auli.

The stay in Auli is comparatively costly when compared to Joshimath. I stayed in ‘Manik hotel’ which was cheaper when compared to other hotels.

If you are traveling to Auli during the peak season, it is better to pre-book the rooms. Otherwise, the best option would be, if the rooms are not available, is staying in Joshimath instead.

Food options are not as much available as compared to other hill stations. There are only a few restaurants and dhabas that you would be able to find in Auli.

ATM Availability

ATMs – ATMs are not readily available in Auli. You can find 2-3 of them in Joshimath. So it would be best to carry extra cash with you from Dehradun or Rishikesh so that you do not face the cash crisis in Auli.

This place is a perfect hill station amidst the upper Himalayas. Not only is it a perfect destination for skiing lovers, but it also offers the most picturesque sites of the mountains. If you visit this place during the winter, you could experience snow, as well as snowfall if the time is right.

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube ch annel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.

There are several things that you can tick off as well such as experiencing the highest man-made lake, longest cable car, etc.

Rachita Saxena is from Delhi, India and has been travel blogging for the past three years. She loves to explore new places, both alone and with friends and then pens down her experiences to share with others. She run her own travel blog and Youtube Channel by the name of Nomllers with her best friend, Radhika Sharma. Their travel blog caters to budget travelers and aims to inspire others to leave their comfort zone and experience the unknown.

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Home > Auli Tourism & Travel Guide

Auli Tourism & Travel Guide

  Auli – The Skiing Paradise of Garhwal

Auli, India’s leading ski resort destination, is a small but picture-perfect village in Uttarakhand. Because of its gleaming slopes and clean environment, it is popular among tourists and professionals. It is surrounded by apple orchards, oaks, and deodar trees and has numerous resorts nestled in the Himalayan range. Besides skiing, there are multiple jungle treks in the hills of the Garhwal Himalayas that offer the stunning scenery of the snow-draped mountains.

The ideal time to travel for snowboarders is from January to March. While for nature enthusiasts, October and March will be the best time.

History of Auli

History of medieval auli:-.

Adiguru Shri Shankaracharya first set foot in Joshimath, 6.6 km from Auli in the 8th century AD . He established a temple (Shri Shankaracharya Math) here, which still exists today. Semi-nomadic tribes of Tibetans, Mongolians and Bhotias conducted trade and communication between Tibet (China) and India from here. They took the help of their long haired yaks and horses to cross the snowy mountains of the Himalayas.

History of Modern Auli:-

Before being developed as a ski resort, the slopes of Auli were a training ground for Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force personnel. The 23,490 feet high Trishul is also visible amidst the snow-clad peaks around Auli. Mount Trishul is said to have been part of an adventurous expedition in 1958 by a unique mountaineering team.

Auli and Joshimath are in the high Himalayas bordering China. Since the Sino-Indian War of 1962 , there have been periodic attempts by Chinese troops to transgress into Indian territory by violating the border. Even during the war, the villagers of the border village supported the Indian Army. To promote tourism in Auli, a ropeway was built in September 1993 , which takes tourists from Joshimath to Auli at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, amidst dense forests of lush green deodar.

Best Selling Tour Packages:

4 nights 5 days auli trip from rishikesh.

• 2 Nights / 3 days

Rishikesh Auli Tour Package

• 3 Nights / 4 days

Haridwar Rishikesh Auli Tour

Auli Uttarakhand Tour Package

Auli Tour from Dehradun 2N/ 3D

• 2 nights / 3 days

Auli Tour From Rishikesh 3N/ 4D

• 3 nights / 4 days

Relaxing Nainital Auli Trip 5N/ 6D

• 5 nights / 6 days

Rishikesh-Auli Adventure Trip

• 7 nights / 8 days

Major Places to visit:

1. Auli Lake – The Artificial Lake is one of the best and top places to visit in Auli. It is the only man-made lake across Joshimath. It is located near the Clifftop Club resort. The Uttarakhand government created this lake to fill the ski slopes with artificial snow so that people could enjoy skiing in monsoons too. It would be best if you did not miss visiting this beautiful destination on your Auli trip. 

Distance:  12km from bus stand

2. Chhatrakund: Chhatrakund is a beautiful lake near Joshimath. It is one of the best tourist places in Auli. It is situated at an altitude of 3300 meters above sea level. To enjoy this beautiful place, you have to cover a distance of about 4 km. The beautiful dense, tall trees around this lake will give you a breathtaking view. It is a peaceful place to hang out with family and friends.

Distance:  1 km from Gurson Bugyal

3. Gurson Bugyal: Gurson Bugyal is a mesmerizing bugyal near Auli and a beautiful skiing destination. It is a very famous tourist spot here. After reaching the top, one can also catch sight of the Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Drona mountain ranges. It is just a 3 km trek from  Gmvn Ski resort. 

Best Time to visit – March to October

Things to do – Trekking

4. Narsingh Temple: Narsingh Temple is a very popular place in Joshimath. It is a beautiful and sacred place to explore on your  Auli trip . This temple is also famously known as the Narsingh Badri temple. It is a famous destination because the Badrivishal idol is rested here during winters.

Location:  Joshimath

5. Badrinath Temple: Badrinath is one of the dhams of the Char Dhams in India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is also famously known as Badrinarayan Temple. Badrinath temple, located in the Garhwal Himalayas, serves beautiful and mesmerizing scenic views. 

Best Time to visit:  May to November

6. Tapovan: Tapovan is a very famous tourist destination near Auli. This is a worth-visiting spot near Joshimath. You can have a great time at the Tapovan hot springs too. This place is a natural wonder you should not miss visiting while exploring Here. 

Best Time to Visit – October to February (Summer) & May to July (Winter)

Best Things to do

1. Skiing on the slopes of Mountain: Auli is the best skiing destination in India. This destination is a snowy paradise to visit in winter. Skiing is one of the best things to do here in December. This place attracts a huge crowd of tourists to enjoy skiing.

Best time: December to February

2. Valley of Flower Trek: Valley of flowers is a must-visit place in Auli. It is located in the Nanda Devi National Park, the second-highest peak of India – Nanda Devi. You have to complete a trek of 10 km to reach here. Read more .

• Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days

Difficulty : Moderate

3. Chair Lift: You should not miss the exciting and thrilling experience of enjoying a chair lift ride on your Auli Trip. You can enjoy chair lift services for reaching the Skiing Slopes of Laga salude from the main Joshimath. 

Entry: INR 500 (two-way ticket)

Distance: 800 m

4. Kuari Pass Trek: Kuari Pass Trek is a very famous trail that starts from Gurson Bugyal in Auli. It is a trek at the altitude of 12,516 feet and offers magnificent views of Nanda Devi & Kedarnath Peak along with breathtaking Dronagiri, Chaukhamba, Tali, and Chitrakantha top. Kuari Pass is a 4-day moderate trek ideal for beginners starting their trekking journey. Book Now!

Duration: 3 Nights / 4 Days

5. Trek to Gurson Bugyal: The trek from Auli to Gursan Bugyal is an exciting and adventurous experience. Adventure enthusiasts should take advantage of this exciting experience of their trip. If you visit this place in January, Gursan Bugyal Trek will be the main attraction for trekking here. You will be mesmerized by the views and clear views of Nanda Devi, Drona, and Trishul peak.

Distance: 4.7 km

Best Time: March to June 

6. Camping: Camping is one of the most famous and adventurous activities you can experience in Auli. It will help if you don’t miss spending a night in the lap of nature. Sleep under the stars, enjoy a night of bonfires, relish local food, play fun games, and much more while camping under the beautiful skies here.

Recommended Campsites – Laga Salude woods & Nanda View

Price – 3500 – 4500 rupees per person

Best Time To Visit:

In Summer:  April to June is the perfect season for visiting Auli if you are not fond of snow. The weather is quite pleasant during this season. The temperature mostly ranges between 7-20 degree Celsius. Badri Kedar Festival is the main reason for tourists visiting here in June.

In Winter:  October to February is the best season to visit Auli if you want to enjoy snowy holidays. There is heavy snowfall in this season, which makes the place a paradise on earth. On the other hand, the temperature usually drops to -2 °C. January is the best month to enjoy major skiing festivals and championships here.

How To Reach:

By Bus:  To reach Auli, you must first reach Rishikesh by bus. From there, you can take a bus or a private cab to reach Joshimath. It will be a journey of 8-10 hours. You can take a cable car (ropeway) to reach here from Joshimath.

By Air:  The nearest airport is Dehradun Jollygrant Airport. From here, one can take state-run buses to reach Rishikesh. From Rishikesh, you can hire a private taxi or take a bus to reach Joshimath. Cabs go to Auli easily in the summer. In winter, the ropeway is the only transport to reach here from Joshimath.

By Train:  Yog Nagri Railway Station Rishikesh is the nearest railway station to Auli. Cabs and buses are the means of travel from here to Joshimath. And take a ropeway to reach here from Joshimath.

More on Auli Tourism :

10 Best Auli Tour Packages

10 Famous Places to Visit

12 Things to do in Auli

Auli Weather & Best Time to Visit

Top 12 Hotels in Auli

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Auli Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Auli

T he popular ski destination of India in the Himalayas, Auli, also popular as a ‘Bugyal’, is known for its mesmerizing scenery and the adventure opportunities that it offers.

• Average Climate: 4°C - 20°C
• Best Time to Visit: March - November
• STD Code: 01389

Auli Travel Guide

Nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Auli is encompassed by oak and coniferous forests. Owing to its perfect slopes, Auli is among the best skiing destinations in India . The slopes of Auli are reputed internationally for their thrilling skiing, adventure sports, and spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas. 

Auli tourism is one of the best forms of tourism as it offers fantastic views of the high peaks of the Himalayas. One can see Nanda Devi from here. You can see the snow-clad mountains from afar, and it is so relaxing to have a cup of tea while watching these mountains. The colors become even more enchanting during the sunset when the sky is lit in pink. This is when you will get “peace of mind.”

Places to visit in Auli

Auli is a soothing place, snowy in the winter and moderately cold in the summer. Several tourist attractions in Auli will capture your attention. In addition, artificial lakes, sacred temples, and trekking spots make for an adventurous stay in the town. So if you are planning your next holiday in Auli , here is a list of top tourist attractions:

• Gurso Bugyal
• Nanda Devi Peak
• Chattrakund
• Chenab Lake
• Auli Ski Resort

Things to do in Auli

Auli also offers its travelers tranquil conifer-lined slopes and breathtaking Himalayan mountain vistas. And there are numerous things to do in Auli that you will be spoilt for choice. This place is about 3,000 meters above sea level, and its site in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand makes it a famous place worth visiting to get involved in so many things. A trip to this uncrowded, pristine terrain is worth it for lifetime memories.

• Adventure At Its Best on Auli Gorson Trek
• Do camping at Night Under Stars
• Enjoy Cable Car Ride
• Treat Your Eyes with bird watching
• Strolling Around at Chattrakund Lake

Best time to visit Auli

Auli is a year-round destination due to its pleasant climatic conditions. However, the best time to visit Auli is in the summer or winter. Summers are ideal for camping, trekking, and mountain bliss. But if you want to enjoy the snow and try skiing, visit Auli from December to March. 

However, avoiding planning a trip to Auli during the monsoon is advisable as the heavy rainfall leads to landslides. So, plan your trip in the best month of Auli to get a memorable experience.

How to reach Auli

Auli is well connected with other parts of India via flight, train, and road. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Auli. Taxis can be hired to reach Auli from the airport. Dehradun Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Auli . 

Also, Auli can be reached by car or taxi. Buses are available from Dehradun, Delhi, Rishikesh, etc., for Joshimath, and from Joshimath, one can take a ropeway or taxi to reach Auli by bus .

Accommodation in Auli

Auli, India's skiing capital, is among India's top hill stations. Hence, there are many options for Auli hotels and resorts , but if you settle for nothing less than the best, you've landed on the right page. 

Many hotels in this area need an online presence. Hence, the properties listed below are wider than Auli and nearby places like Joshimath. Clifftop Club Resort, Nanda Inn Cottage, and The Tattva Resorts are thrilling ski resorts in Auli. 

Where to eat in Auli?

The delicious Garhwali cuisine is a must-try on your visit to this place. The city consists of various authentic restaurants serving food from different cuisines. Auli Café, Auli ‘D’ Food Plaza, Auli Chai, Auli Rishta Dil Ka, Panchvati Inn, Auli Restaurant, The Apple Tree Buffet Corner, The Cliff Top Club, Bawarchi The Family Restaurant, Twenty 3RD Fast Food And Bakery, and many more are some of the best restaurants in Auli.

How to get around in Auli 

When traveling internally in Auli or to nearby places, you can hire a taxi or van or use buses if there is a ropeway connection. There is nothing better than a cable car.

Travel tips

• Do not entertain the beggars. If you give money to one, many others will follow you back.
• Though Auli's street food and delicacies are authentic, you must still check for quality before buying anything.
• You must check for the seal when buying a drinking water bottle. If the seal is broken, you must avoid purchasing that bottle.
• Buy a bottle of the brand that is known to you. Several replica brands come into play and tend to deceive you.
• Never leave your cash or valuables in the hotel room.
• Avoid leaving the room with too much cash in your pocket.

Things To Do in Auli

Best time to visit, how to reach, snowfall in auli, things to do in auli.

• Fairs and Festivals

Auli Tour Packages

• Auli Honeymoon Packages
• Auli Family Packages

Other Cities of Uttarakhand

• Corbett National park
• Char Dham Yatra
• Valley of Flowers
• Chamba Uttarakhand
• Hanuman Chatti
• Karanprayag
• Pithoragarh
• Nandaprayag
• Naukuchiatal
• Rudraprayag

Auli Tourism and Travel Guide

Tripoto recommends: auli.

Best Places To Visit In Auli

Itineraries For Auli

Best Mid-Range Hotels In Auli

Best Budget Hotels In Auli

Best Hostels And Homestays In Auli

Travel Articles And Blogs For Auli

Places To Visit Near Auli

Best Time To Visit Auli

Peak season: Auli can be visited throughout the year but if you are interested in snow skiing the best season is from November to March.

Shoulder season: May to November is the ideal time if you want to relax in the mountains as the weather is cool and pleasant.

Budget For Auli

For Budget Travellers:  INR 500 - 800 a day

• Accommodation in hostels and guesthouses: INR 500 - 700
• Food in local cafes and street eateries: INR 25 - 150
• Public Transport in buses and auto rickshaws: INR 15 - 80
• Sightseeing: INR 10 - 50

For Mid-range Travellers:  INR 1000 to INR 2500 a day

• Accommodation in mid-range hotels and resorts: INR 900 - 1200
• Food in mid-range cafes and restaurants: INR 250 - 500
• Local transport in local taxis or car rentals: INR 150 - 300
• Treks and Hiking packages: INR 1000 and upwards.

For Luxury Travellers:  INR 4000 and upwards

• Accommodation in 4* or 5* hotels: INR 3000 and upwards
• Food in upscale restaurants and bars: INR 800 and upwards
• Local transport in private taxis: INR 2000 and upwards
• Guided tours: INR 1500 and upwards

The Top 8 Things to Do in Auli, Uttarakhand

anand purohit/Getty Images

Auli, one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand , rose to prominence as a snow skiing destination after hosting the first South Asian Winter Games in 2011. While Gulmarg in Kashmir is undoubtedly more accessible and has superior facilities, less-commercialized Auli offers serene conifer-lined slopes and spectacular Himalayan mountain views. It's located about 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level in the Chamoli district of Uttarkhand, on the way to Badrinath . Admittedly, it's not easy to get there (be prepared for a long 10 hour drive from Haridwar or Rishikesh ). The uncrowded, pristine terrain is worth it though! Here's the pick of things to do in Auli, even if you're not a skier. The destination has something for nature-lovers throughout most of the year except the monsoon season , during July and August.

Ski, Of Course!

Varma Gajarla/Getty Images

Auli's south-facing slopes mean that the ski season is limited to just a month or so, from around mid January to the end of February, each year. Snowfall has become temperamental too, due to global warming. Downhill and cross-country skiing are both possible at Auli, although the skiable area isn't large. There are four downhill runs, with one ideally suited to beginners. A 500-meter J-bar standing surface lift services the beginner run, while the other runs are connected by an 800-meter chairlift. One ride on the chairlift costs 500 rupees per person, while it's 50-100 rupees for the J-bar. Day passes are available for skiers.

There are a range of options for learning how to ski, for all levels. These include freelance instructors, courses by private operators, and seven and 14-day courses conducted by Uttarakhand Tourism's Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (which provides and maintains Auli's infrastructure). Local skiing champion Ajay Bhatt founded Auli Ski and Snowboard School , the recommended private operator. If you enroll in a course, the cost will include accommodations, equipment rental, lift fees, meals and training. Otherwise, you'll need to arrange and pay for everything separately if you get lessons from a freelance instructor,

Ride Asia's Longest Aerial Tramway

During winter, the aerial tramway/ropeway is the easiest way to reach Auli. It runs from Joshimath to Auli, over a distance of 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), and is the only way of getting to Auli if the road is covered in snow. The journey takes about 25 minutes and costs 1,000 rupees per person, return. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket counter at Joshimath. There are fixed departure times every 15-25 minutes throughout the day, with the first departure at 9:15 a.m. and last departure at 4:20 p.m. in winter. However, the aerial tramway will often only run if it's filled to capacity of about 20 people.

Spot the Himalayan Peaks

Richard I'Anson/Getty Images

One of the things that makes Auli special is that it's surrounded by so many major Himalayan mountain peaks. These include Nanda Devi (7,817 meters), Kamet (7,756 meters), Mana Parvat (7,272 meters), Chaukhamba (7,138 meters), Trishul (7,120 meters), Dunagiri (7,066 meters), Nanda Kot (6,806 meters), Hathi Parbat (6,727 meters), Gauri Parbat (6,719 meters), Neelkanth (6,597 meters), Bethartoli (6,354 meters) and Panchchula (5,904 meters). Nanda Devi is India's highest peak, not taking into account Mount Kanchenjunga (which is partially in Nepal). A panoramic view of these powerful snow-clad peaks, which literally loom over you from some places in Auli, has a profound impact.

Trek to the Highest Point in Auli

Dinodia Photo/Getty Images

For unsurpassed views of peaks such as Nanda Devi and Dunagiri head up to Gorson Bugyal (meadow). At 3,056 meters above sea level, it's the highest point in Auli. Although it's not very far from the aerial tramway station, the steep incline requires a picturesque 2-hour trek through oak forest to get there. Alternatively, it's possible to ride on a pony at a cost of about 800 rupees. The meadow is particularly attractive during spring, when it's carpeted in lush green vegetation. If you're feeling energetic, you can also include Chattrakund, a pretty sweet water lake, in your day trek around Auli. Do take a guide with you to Chattrakund, to avoid getting lost in the dense forest.

Visit the Temple Where Lord Hanuman Rested

Michael Scalet/Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0

Auli is even connected to the great Hindu epic, "The Ramayana," which narrates the life story of Lord Ram. Accordingly to mythology, Lord Hanuman rested there for a while when traveling to the Himalayas to get a healing herb called Sanjeevani for Lord Ram's brother Laxman, who was injured while fighting demons in Sri Lanka. The small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman sits near the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam hotel at Auli and provides a magnificent view.

Check Out the Artificial Lake

Another of Auli's claims to fame is its artificial lake, which is said to be one of the highest in the world. It's located next to the Clifftop Club . The water from the lake is used to feed the snow-making machines that have been installed to improve snow cover. However, the ability to make snow is dependent on weather conditions, and unfortunately unseasonably high winter temperatures have had a negative impact on this.

Glamp Under the Stars

If you don't care about snow and simply want to enjoy the outdoors, glamping is a fabulous way to do so. Auli Woods is the first luxury campsite in Auli, with just six fully-equipped premium tents nestled into the mountainside. It was set up by mountaineer and skiing champion Ajay Bhatt, who also has a popular luxury homestay (Himalayan Abode) in nearby Joshimath, in addition to founding Auli Ski and Snowboard School and Himalayan Snow Runner adventure trekking company. (Yes, he's done a lot to promote tourism in the area!). Auli Woods is open from April to January, although the weather is best from May to June and September to October. The cost is 7,500 rupees per night for a double, including breakfast and dinner. Plenty of activities are offered including village visits, jungle walks, night trails, day hikes, horse riding, and photography.

Go Bird Watching

Mary Plage/Getty Images

In April and May, after the snow has cleared, birds start venturing to the higher regions of Uttarakhand. Birding enthusiasts will be delighted with the unusual Himalayan species that can be spotted around Auli, such as the Himalayan Monal (a type of pheasant) and Himalayan Griffon vulture. The forests are also home to doves, eagles, tits, jays, woodpeckers, spotted nutcrackers, and sunbirds. Serious birders should consider staying at Devi Darshan Lodge , run by community-owned ecotourism company Mountain Shepherds . Their local staff are qualified mountaineers and conduct outstanding bird watching hikes. They can take you completely off-the-beaten-track to places tourists don't visit.

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A Travel Guide to Visiting Auli, Uttarakhand

19 mar a travel guide to visiting auli, uttarakhand.

Auli is still one of the lesser-known secret hill stations of Uttarakhand that has not been swarmed over by tourists. At least yet. And that in itself brings respite from the otherwise crowded attractions in the area. Otherwise known as a fantastic ski resort, Auli has lush green open meadows that are great for a trek during the summers as well.

I loved it because, after the intense experience of the Kedarnath and Badrinath pilgrimage , Auli was a more light-hearted relaxed touristic spot with hardly any tourists for miles. But you need to know a few things to plan a trip to Auli. You can live there or just visit it in a day and be back. Here is a complete travel guide to visit Auli.

Why visit Auli

As I already mentioned, Auli is especially attractive as a ski resort. The 5-km stretch on the gentle slopes of Auli is perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers. Auli ropeway service has a cable car and a ski lift that adds to the infrastructure required by skiers. Apart from that there are several ski schools that tourists can check out for some fun ski experience.

Now, Auli is fantastic in winter but there is a different side to Auli during the summer. Due to its location, Auli serves as a gateway to several treks on this route towards some of the most beautiful Himalayan peaks and ranges. Some of the short treks like Gorson Bugyal are just a few kilometres away. But Auli is also the starting point for some long-range treks towards Nanda Devi passing Saptakund and Homkund on the way.

Looking to ski? R ead on the visiting the ski town of Gulmarg, Kashmir

When to visit Auli

Your visit to Auli pretty much depends upon what you want to do. If you are looking for a winter wonderland, snowfall and some skiing, December – March is the best time to visit. Auli gets heavy snow all around the winter but January-February is the peak season. Pack warm though.

If you are not fond of winter or snow, you can always look out for Spring and Autumn seasons. These are shoulder months when the places are not overly crowded by tourists and you can enjoy the place to yourself. April, September, October and November are fantastic months to enjoy the place when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

The summer months of May, and June are ideal for long treks when the snow melts completely and trekkers look forwards to some challenging trails. Auli may get a little warm, but it is perfect to explore beyond the meadows. If you are planning to visit Badrinath during this time, Auli makes a great stopover.

The months of July and August receive heavy rainfall in the region. Landslides are common and the outdoors are muddy and swampy which makes trekking high altitudes treacherous. So maybe avoid this time.

How to reach Auli

To reach Auli, you must reach Joshimath before. From Joshimath, you can reach Auli only using two types of transportation – the road and the ropeway. No other modes of transportation run on this route. However, during the winter months, you cannot access Auli by road at all. Therefore between December – mid-March, you may have to rely solely on the ropeway to reach and return from Auli to Joshimath.

Reaching Joshimath

To reach Joshimath you can either take a train to Rishikesh or Haridwar or take a flight to Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun. From there, hop on to a bus or a taxi to reach Joshimath which takes around 10 hours for the journey. 

You can get a bus at Rishikesh Bus Station that starts early morning between 4 am and 6 am. You can get the ticket at the station or book one in advance on any online portal like makemytrip.com , abhibus.com or redbus.in . Unless you are planning to break your journey in between, you need to start your journey before sunrise to reach Joshimath by evening. You can check the same for buses from Dehradun as well.

Another option is to take shared sumo for the journey. It may not be as comfortable but it will be slightly faster. The prices are almost the same. However, all sumos also leave before sunrise so you need to be super early to start to catch one. No schedules are available online so it’s better to ask around for directions at the bus station.

You can take a private taxi/minivan for the journey. The average rental of a day is ₹3500 for a 4-wheeler car and ₹6000 for a tempo traveller (in 2022) with a driver. Do check before the inclusions and exclusions of your trip. This works best if you are in a group.

Reaching Auli by Ropeway

To take the ropeway, you need to reach the base of the Auli ropeway ticket counter first near Joshimath. The ticket counter or base station is just around 5km from Joshimath town centre but you will need transportation to reach here. You can buy a ticket directly at the ticket counter itself or you can buy them in advance on the official government website .

The round-ticket cost per person is ₹500 for the round journey. If you are buying the tickets at the counter, you better take some cash with you. Once you have your tickets, you may have to wait a little while for your turn to board the ropeway.

The journey on the ropeway is an experience in itself. It lasts about 25 minutes and you can get a glimpse of some of the most beautiful peaks in the region. It gets cold as you go up so better take some warm clothes with you even if it feels warm in Johshimath. The ropeway is one of the highest ropeways in India.

Once you are at the top and decide to return, go back and report at the counter. You may have to wait for a while before you get your turn on the return journey back.

Reaching Auli by Road

During the summer months, you can also take the journey to Auli by road. You can hire sumo or a car at Joshimath to Auli GMVN Ski Resort for around ₹800. This turns out to be cheaper if you are in a group, but you may miss out on the ropeway experience.

Although you can still take a chair lift to the upper terminal from the Ski resort which costs around ₹100 per person for the ride.

As I mentioned, the roadways are closed during the winter months when it snows heavily, so this option is open only during the summertime. Unless you are returning on the same day, keep the number of the cab driver in handy to help you return back to Joshimath.

Where to Stay

There are a few hotels and resorts in Auli, but I wouldn’t say that it will guarantee a place if you do not book ahead of time, especially during peak season. But if you plan, you can totally get a fantastic place at a great price. I wouldn’t worry about the view since no matter where you are staying, the views will be gorgeous.

Now if you have a lot of luggage, you can stay at these places since you get direct access from a vehicle. Here are a few places where you can stay:

Budget: GMVN Guest House , Mountain View Stay , Royal Village Resort

Luxury: Casa Himalaya , Mountain Rover Auli Resort

However, if you would love an even better view with the ski experience, you can head to a higher altitude. You will not have car access to these places and will need to carry your luggage yourself.

The Snow City , Snow Mount Hotel Auli

Checkout this website for more options:

https://www.euttaranchal.com/hotels/hotels-in-auli.php

Things to do at Auli

1. experience the auli ropeway.

More chances are that you will experience the ropeway on your way to Auli anyway. But in case, you end up taking the road, you must take a ride on the Auli ropeway or the ski lift. The height of the ropeway not only gives an aerial view of the meadows in Auli but also gives a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. The mountains are covered with snow for the most part of the year and are so gorgeous to look at. I enjoyed the ride, and I think so will you.

2. Ski on the gentle slopes of Auli

This one is only available during the snowy winter months between January to March. So really depends upon your timing. But it would be an experience. Even if you do not know much about skiing, I think it would be a lot of fun to take a day lesson from one of the skiing schools in the area.

And if you have a little more experience, the chairlifts are ready to take you to the top of the slope from where you can make your way down in style. You can rent ski gear here as well. GMVN conducts several ski courses over a period of 7-14 days that you can participate in. On top of that, the local authority conducts events during the snow season for tourists and ski enthusiasts.

3. Hike to Gorson Bugyal

Gorson Bugyal is a meadow around 3km from Auli. Bugyal in Garhwali means meadow itself. It is not a very steep trek. But you will need some fitness level to do it since the altitude is high. Or just take your time with a few breaks on the way. You will pass through some cosy coniferous forests and a small temple on the way. Take some food and water with you since you won’t find them here.

The view of the surrounding valleys from Gorson Bugyal is astounding. You really can get a 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges, mostly covered in snow. We also caught snowfall here that was so much fun!

Ponies are available from Auli with guides who are ready to accompany you to the top and back. If you are unsure but still want some hiking experience, you can take a pony to the top and trek back on foot. It is not very far honestly. The pony will cost you ₹500 per person even if you wish to hike back on foot.

4. Hike to Kuari Bugyal

Kuari Bugyal (also mentioned as Kwani Bugyal) is another trek from Joshimath that has some breathtaking views. The endpoint is the Kuwari pass where the trail goes as Joshimath-Auli-Gurso Bugyal-Kwani Bugyal which rewards you with some serious views of Nanda Devi and Dunagiri mountain ranges.

The trek on this route goes through lovely green oak trees and green meadows that in itself are therapeutic in nature. However, there is also another starting point that starts near Hanuman Shila that one can take. Take a local guide with you since you will need help to navigate here as there are no roads or trails but complete wilderness.

5. Enjoy a high-altitude artificial lake

Well honestly, it is more of a wonder than a beauty. And if you are planning to trek in the area, you will find better-looking lakes. But it still is a great feat to build an artificial lake at such a high altitude with a sparse civilization around.

The lake is not just decorative. It has freezing coils at the bottom to create artificial snow for tourists. A form of suction or pump carries the snow to huge fans that spreads it over the ski slopes. So I think it is worth checking out!

Places to visit near Auli

1. joshimath.

Joshimath is also known as Uttaramatha (or the northern monastery) while the other three are located in different parts of the country. The place has important religious significance since it was established by Adi Shankaracharya himself and started the tradition where the place was the charge of Atharvaveda.

Joshimath is also important since it is the base for people travelling to Badrinath, Guru Gobind Ghat, the Valley of Flowers and several other trekking routes in this area.

2. Badrinath

Badrinath needs no introduction. It is one of the most important shrines in the country. But other than that it is simply known as Devabhumi or the ‘land of gods’ due to several Hindu legends originating here.

The main temple of Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu which is one of the 4 dhams as well as the chota dhams of the north. Thousands of pilgrims travel to Badrinath every year during the summer months to get a glimpse of the shrine and the lord’s idol inside.

Need more details? Read more on how to reach and visit Badrinath Dham

3. Mana Village

Mana is a small village located just 4km north of Badrinath. It is the last habitable village before the border of Tibet. The place is considered holy as it is home to Ganesh Gufa (cave) and Vyas Gufa. This is where Ved Vyas narrated the Mahabharata that was scripted by Lord Ganesha himself.

This is also the place where you can get a glimpse of the Saraswati river before it disappears. Another important landmark is Swargarohini or the gates to heaven that the Pandavas and Draupadi took in their last pilgrimage.

Planning a visit? Also read our article on visiting the holy village of Mana

4. Nanda Devi National Park & Valley of Flowers

Nanda Devi National Park and The Valley of Flowers is a trek route deep in the Himalayan wilderness that only a few take. The trek goes through dense forests, open meadows, bridges, streams and glaciers. In the end, you will find gorgeous meadows filled with alpine wildflowers, especially breathtaking during the spring season. The place is also a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site today.

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Snigdha Jaiswal

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Auli Travel Guide – Everything you need to know about visiting Auli

Table of Contents

Before we get into details about Auli, let’s first let you know that there are multiple Auli’s in India. The most common ones you will come across are the two shown in Uttarakhand in the map below.

If you are looking for the Auli that’s a popular skiing destination then it’s the one on the right on the map above. Now, with that cleared, let’s talk about everything you need to know about Auli through this Auli travel guide.

Auli is a small hill station in the Chamoli district in the  Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand. It is also known as Auli Bugyal, in Garhwali, which means “meadow”, and is located at an elevation of 2,800 meters (9,200 ft) above sea level. From June to October, the Auli valley becomes home to one of the highest number of flower species found anywhere in the world, with 520 species of high-altitude plants, 498 of which are flowering plants with significant populations of endangered species.

Surrounded by oak and other coniferous trees, Auli has always been marketed as a ski destination by the local government. GMVNL or The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited runs a popular ski resort, a ski rental shop and the tourism department runs a cable car, a chairlift, and a ski lift, along with a maintained trek route.

Auli is one of the most picturesque hill stations, more so because it is relatively still unexploited and untouched by commercialization. The views of the snow-covered Himalayas combined with pristine lakes, dense forests, and lush green meadows are a treat to the eyes.

Our comprehensive Auli travel guide will give you detailed information about the best sites to see, places to stay along with information about skiing adventures in the serene hill destination. If you are planning a ride to Uttarakhand, you can check our amazing motorcycle tours here .

How to reach Auli

To get to Auli, you will first have to reach either Delhi or Dehradun as they are the best transit points to the hill station. 

From Dehradun – The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport to Auli. Once you are at the airport, you can take a private cab to Auli. However, since Auli is about 300 kms from there, it will cost you a bomb to travel by cab. Alternatively, you can book a bus to Joshimath which is just 15 kms from Auli. Once you are there, you can hire a cab to get to Auli. Alternatively, you can board a bus or a shared cab to reach Auli from Dehradun.

If you are traveling by road then here are a couple of routes you can take.

Through Haridwar and Rishikesh

Delhi – Meerut – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devprayag – Rudraprayag – Chamoli – Joshimath – Auli

Through Lansdowne

Delhi – Meerut – Bijnor – Najibabad – Lansdowne – Khirsu – Srinagar – Rudraprayag – Chamoli – Joshimath – Auli

Cable car from Joshimath to Auli

Now, this is a truly unique and adventurous experience. You can travel to Auli from Joshimath by cable car that is the longest gondola ride in Asia. The ride will cost you INR 700 per person but it’s definitely worth the money!

How to travel inside Auli

Auli doesn’t have a public transportation system and since it’s an offbeat destination the app-based transportation services aren’t available as well. The only way to travel within Auli and to neighboring areas is via a private cab. There are a few cab providers in Auli and you can book their services with the help of your hotel.

Best places to visit in Auli

Gorson Bugyal

Situated at an altitude of 3,056 meters, Gorson Bugyal is an expansive green meadow surrounded by beautiful oak and coniferous trees. From Auli, you can reach there by a half-hour easy trek and will be awestruck by the magnificent views of the Himalayan range. However, if you want to keep exploring you can trek 1 km further towards Chattarkund which is famous for its sweet water and is located inside a dense forest. 

Hanuman Temple

As is with legends, sources say that Lord Hanuman took a break here during his quest for the Sanjeevani booti. The temple has stunning views of Mount Neelkanth from here and it’s a great spot to spend a couple of hours. If you are into religious tourism, then you could also explore many other temples located in and around Auli.

Did you know that the world’s highest man-made lake is located in Auli? Situated in the mountains the lake was developed to produce snow even during summers. The artificial snow is used to aid skiing and snowboarding sports all throughout the year.

Things to do in Auli

If developed the right way, Auli has the potential to become an Aspen like destination. But at this time, tourism in Auli is still in its nascent stages but attracting a lot of tourists at the same time. Facilities are at a bare minimum but you can enjoy the natural environments through some interesting activities. Our Auli travel guide highlights some of the must-do activities in Auli.

Trekking and hiking enthusiasts will love visiting Auli as this mountainous town has plenty of trails to offer. From breathtaking meadows to pristine lakes in forests – Auli has a magnitude of hidden beauties to explore. However, the most popular trekking spots in Auli are Chattrakund Lake, Gorson Bugyal, Tali, Kuari Pass, Khulara, and Tapovan. 

However, if you crave something more challenging then you can book guided trekking tours to Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Dunagiri, and Joshimath from Auli.

Auli is on track to become one of the top ski destinations in India and is slowly featuring on the world map as well. Each year Winter sports and skiing championships are organized which attracts lots of tourists not only from India but from all over the world. After the first snowfall of winter in December, skiing starts here. The skiing season lasts till March and you can book a resort with skiing facilities in Auli. Our Auli travel guide highlights where to get the skiing equipment along with details about travel, accommodation, and food for your ski trip.

The Auli ropeway and cable car is one of the major attractions in the mountain town and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayas. It is the second-highest and longest ropeway after Gulmarg Gondola Cable Car in Asia. You can get on it from either Auli or Joshimath and travel 4 kms. The cost of the ticket is INR 500 to INR 1000 per person for a round trip. 

Where to rent Ski equipment in Auli

Inside Auli, there are many places where you can rent ski equipment and our Auli travel guide highlights some of these options below.

GMVNL ski resort in Auli is a winter ski resort that has an integrated ski equipment rental shop as well. The shop is inside the GMVNL campus and you will need to rent the complete set from them. For the complete set, the pricing is around INR 1,200 per day and it includes the ski with bindings, boots, and ski poles. 

Another option is to rent the equipment from Auli Ski and Snowboarding school. You can pick up the equipment from their shop in Auli and make an advance booking online as well. This is a great option since during peak season it’s difficult to find spare equipment. There are a few local shops in Joshimath and Auli that rent out skiing equipment. However, while renting from them do check their quality and fitment.

What to eat in Auli

The Garhwali cuisine isn’t as popular as other Himalayan foods but it has its own distinct flavor and needs to be experienced. But the food options in Auli are very limited and chances are that the restaurants won’t serve local food. As is the case with every tourist destination in India, most of the food will be geared towards North Indian cuisines. 

However, there are a few homestays and local restaurants that serve Garhwali food. Garhwali cuisine comprises of dals, leafy vegetables, and rice. Some of the local delicacies include Kachmauli (stuffed goat with oil and spice), Bal Mithai, Singhori (a cone-shaped sweet wrapped in Malu Leaf), and many other delicacies.

Mobile network in Auli

With the advancement of technology and multiple players entering the market, there is no dearth of mobile connectivity in Auli. All major mobile network providers have good connectivity in Auli. However, if you go into the skiing areas, you might face low network coverage or no network at all. Most of the top hotels and resorts provide Wi-Fi coverage so you should be connected at all times.

ATM’s in Auli

Auli doesn’t have an ATM network yet so it is advisable to carry plenty of cash or make online payments. However, if you are in dire need of cash, then you will need to drive to Joshimath to use the ATMs.

Best time to visit Auli

Since it’s a hill station, Auli can be visited anytime during the year. However, most travelers come to see white Auli, covered in snow therefore it is better to visit during the winter season. But if there is excessive snowfall or landslides then getting here in the winters can be a bit challenging. So do your research and read our Auli travel guide before you book a winter vacation there.

Summers:  From March till June, Auli experiences is summer season. The absence of snow will reveal the barren side of the mountains that look like mounds of dirt! But the weather is ideal for outdoor activities as you can spend the whole day out in cool 15-degree temperatures. Many trekking enthusiasts flock to Auli during summers to explore trekking routes in the valley.

Monsoon:  The rainy season lasts from July to October in Auli. During this time, the temperature falls a little further and might go down to 10 degrees. It can rain quite a bit in Auli so if you plan to spend maximum time outdoors then this isn’t the best time to be there. Hence, I would recommend that you avoid traveling here during the rainy season.

Winters : The weather starts to cool down further from November onwards and the winter season continues till the beginning of March. Snowfall is a common occurrence during this time, attracting hordes of tourists from all over India.  Auli is famous for being a skiing destination and winters are the ideal time to enjoy this thrilling sport.

Festivals in Auli

Mata Murti Ka Mela

Celebrated in the month of September, the Mata Murti Ka Mela is a religious festival for the Hindus. On this day, Shri Badrinath’s mother is worshipped and a large procession is held at the Badrinath temple. According to legends, the holy river Ganges descended on earth from heaven. In Auli, this festival is celebrated with much fervor.

Auli Winter Carnival

During peak winters, Auli comes to life as it celebrates its snow day in January or February. The icy slopes in Auli start to buzz with skiers and snowboarders allowing them to indulge in this extremely fun sport. The main attraction of the winter games celebration is the skiing demonstration by the ITBP. This is usually the opening ceremony post which the skiing championship begins. People from different age groups and skill levels can take part in the competition. And if you are a spectator, you can enjoy the snowboarding challenge where participants from all over the world compete.

Hotels in Auli

Auli aims to be a world-class ski destination and travelers from all over the world come here to experience its ski slopes. Due to the influx of ski tourists, the hotel infrastructure has been built accordingly. Hotel prices in Auli aren’t as economical as other Himalayan destinations across India and average room prices are between INR 2,500 to INR 5,000 for two people. This is exclusive of meals and for 3 meals you will have to shell out INR 1,000 per person. For hotels and B&Bs in Auli, you can visit sites like Booking , MMT , ClearTrip , Yatra , and Airbnb , etc.

However, if you do want to stay money on accommodation, you can camp in Auli. The best way to do so would be to tie up with a camping service provider who will take care of tent stay and food for your camping adventure. 

We hope you liked our Auli travel guide and if you have any suggestions do leave your comment.

Liked this article? Don’t forget to leave your comment below and share it with your friends! If you would like to travel the way we do, then join us on our tours through our boutique travel company,  Moto Overlanders .  

We also recommend our section on  Food ,  Reviews , and  International  destinations in our blog. If you like our pictures, do check out our  Instagram  and  Facebook  page as well.

This article and the pictures in it belong to  Travelmynation  and usage without prior permission is prohibited. If you would like to use any of our content, pls feel free to  reach out to us .

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Auli Hill Station Uttarakhand Travel guide

With stunning landscape and topography, this place is heaven for adventure and nature lovers. This place is quite popular as a Ski destination and recently hosted the National Winter Games. Yes, you get it right. I’m talking about Auli. Auli is a remote destination of Uttarakhand. Very few people have heard about it. That’s why Auli is considered a pristine destination and an excellent choice to escape your fast-paced city life. For the last 3-4 years, Auli is in the trending destination of Uttarakhand. Auli is a popular ski resort in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The sheer beauty of Auli is divine & enthralls the tourists with scenic beauty. Auli is endowed with beautiful mountains, verdant rich Coniferous, Oak forests with the sight of glorious mountain peaks as Durnagiri, Mt Nanda Devi, Mana Parwat, Dunagiri, Kamet, Hathi Parbat, Ghori Parbat, etc. Snow skiing is the main tourist attraction at Auli. The ride on beautiful scenic trails is a great experience for all skiers. Apart from Skiing, this place has lots of interesting things to experience.

Different Experiences of Auli

Auli has so much to explore. Around the breathtaking views, sipping a cup of tea with your partner is always a great experience. Isn’t it? So don’t miss out, these fabulous chances while you’re touring this wonderful hamlet. Whenever you have free time just grab the chance, which helps you to create some lifetime memories! These are the things you can try on your trip-

Stunning view of Himalayan mountains:

Highest artificial lake:, skiing in winters:.

Asia’s second-highest and longest ropeway:

How to go to Auli Uttarakhand

Best time to Visit

Auli is a famous hill station and Ski destination in India that’s why this place remains packed throughout the year. Auli can be visited throughout the year, however, if you want to experience snow-skiing then, January and February is the best time for this.

Accommodation in Auli

This place is not commercialized yet that’s why very few staying options are available here. Cliff Top, GMVN Auli Tourist Bungalow, Auli resort, Blue Poppy, Manik Resort are some best-staying options for a comfortable and relaxing stay near Ski Resort. But, because of less accommodation and high tourist demand for this place, the price of staying is quite higher than in other places of Uttarakhand. And it is always advised that book your accommodation in Auli before departure because sometimes the hotels are packed with tourists and may be possible that you didn’t get any accommodation. If you love to stay in cottages then BlackBerry Cottages is the best place to stay in Auli. [ Hotels in Joshimath | Hotels in Auli ]

How to Plan a trip to Auli?

Planning a trip is always important because one single mistake can ruin your whole trip. So make sure all of your plans are full proof and if any problem occurs during execution then you should have the proper backup plan in such a scenario. The first main part is to fix your traveling dates and days. The second main part is your budget.

Day 2 & 3:

Places of attraction near Auli

If you are in Auli then you can also visit these destinations of surroundings

Narsingh Temple Joshimath:

Valley of flower:, mana village:, trek to gursobugyal:.

Is Auli safe for Solo girl/ lady travelers?

Over the last few years, the number of female solo travelers is increasing, which is a good sign for our society and women's equality. So it is necessary to know whether Auli is safe for females or not? As compared to other parts of India, Uttarakhand is quite safer in terms of females/girls/women safety. People of the hills are innocent, helpful, and supportive. But you can not judge everyone on the same scale. In society, good & bad, both types of people exist. So it is on you, how you can identify, who is trustworthy and who is not? Here are a few tips that help female travelers in their solo trips -

• On hills, the sunsets early which is the most favorable time for the jungle predators. So try to get back to your accommodation before sunset and avoid night traveling.
• Save some emergency numbers on the speed dial in your phone. Also save the contact of those who are nearby to you, or who can be available for you easily in case of emergency; like your guide, hotel owner or receptionist, driver, nearby friends, etc.
• Do not trust anyone easily. I'm not saying don’t make friends, or don’t interact with new people. But what I’m trying to say is know the limits, make a fine balance, don’t be over-friendly to anyone, and don’t share your information in just 5 min talk.
• Always trust your instinct. If you feel odd or negative about a place or any person, then follow your senses and act accordingly.
• In Uttarakhand, different languages are spoken in different regions, but almost 100% of people here, understand Hindi. So if you are coming from a non-Hindi-speaking region, then learn some local emergency phrases, which you can use when you need help.
• Keep sharing your day-to-day programs, your forward plans, to your family members, your friends, your spouse. Keep updating them, because it will let them know where you are, and in case of emergency, they will be able to tell where you can be.
• Don’t look scared, nervous, or act like you are new to this place. Look confident and portray like you are a pro player in this traveling field. Like straight trees always cut first, similarly nervous, unconfident, scared persons are easy targets to thieves and criminals.
• Don’t keep all your money in a single place. Make a partition, one part in your wallet, one part in your pocket, and another part in your hotel (accommodation) room.
• Always be in alert mode, observe, notice, and be aware of everything happening around you.
• Must carry pepper spray, pointed objects like pen, pencil, a bunch of keys, hairpins, etc to deal with any worst situation.
• Google maps are not very reliable, especially in high mountains. So 100% relying on Google Maps is quite risky, so keep cross-checking the way with the locals before proceeding. Also, you can download the offline map, which is more reliable and secure.

As I said earlier, I am confident that you will not face issues related to women's safety in Auli or any part of Uttarakhand. But if you follow all the precautionary measures, then you will easily deal with the remaining 0.1% probability.

Auli Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

In Winters, the temperature came down below freezing point, the slopes are carpeted with snow. So if you love to play with snow or want to celebrate Christmas & New Year Eve here, then December is the perfect time to visit.

Well, it totally depends on you. Some tourists only want a relaxing stay, while other tourists want some adventure. So if you want a relaxing stay without trying extra activities then 2 days are enough, but if you want to explore more and want to do skiing, trekking, then you should have at least 3-4 days.

Visiting Auli in May is good for escaping from the hot-sultry cities. From May-August Auli offers a cool & pleasant climate, which is absolutely perfect time to spend the relaxing moments outdoors in Auli. The greenish environments enthralled you to explore & adventure. But if you are expecting snowfall in May, that would not be possible.

No, there is no ATM facility in Auli. The nearest ATM is in Joshimath, which is approx 15 km from Auli. It is always advised to carry enough cash into the hills.

GMVN provides a 7 to 14 day skiing training course in which they offer all skiing gear & equipment, but if you don’t want to enroll in this course then there are few local vendors and also online stores who provide skiing gears for Auli.

December to February is the best time to see snowfall in Auli and is also the best time for skiing. Because December to February is the peak season, so it is advised to pre book your hotels or resorts before the departure.

From Delhi you can take either bus or train to Risihikesh . You can also take flight to Dehradun if you want to save your time, but it is quite expensive. So once you reach the Rishikesh/Haridwar you can hire a car till Joshimath or you can take any public transport. For Joshimath, shared taxis & GMOU public buses are available only in the morning, which you can book till Joshimath. This would take approx 9-10 hours. Once you reach Joshimath, you can take a taxi which would charge approx 500 to 600 to Auli.

Winter Sports, skiing, Asia’s highest cable ride, world's highest artificial lake and enchanting view of Himalayan peaks are quite popular things which tempts tourists towards Auli.

November to March is the best time to visit Auli. This is the time when the whole landscape covers under the white snow, which is good for skiers & people who love to play with snow. Besides this you can come to Auli in May-June at summer vacation time.

Yes, you can visit Auli by your own car but try to avoid it in the monsoon season because it increases the chances of landslides. I would also advise you to drive only when you have good driving experience on Uttarakhand hilly roads.

Narsingh Temple, Valley of Flower , Badrinath, Mana Village, GursoBugyal Trek, Chattra Kund Lake etc are some nearby places of Auli.

Chainsoo, Bhatt ki Churkani, Kandali Saag, Jhangora ki Kheer, are some of the famous Garhwali cuisine which you can taste at local food stalls or in any homestay in Auli.

In Auli you can go for trekking (to Gurso Bugyal or Kuari Pass trek), skiing, artificial lake visit, cable car/chair lift ride etc are some of the activities which you can try. In Spite of this you can also try night camping under the star lights which really would be a great and unique experience.

If you are visiting Auli, you most probably will be reaching from Delhi or Dehradun. The best way to reach Auli is to take a bus from Delhi to Rishikesh. This is an overnight journey. From Rishikesh, either you can take a private cab direct to Auli (10 hours) or a shared taxi/bus till Joshimath (9 hours). From Joshimath hire a taxi or can take a cable car (it can’t operats after 5 pm) till Auli.

Yes, Auli is safe for both solo travellers and female travellers. People of hilly areas are quite humble, cooperative, helpful and guide you in the right direction if you are in any problem. Correct planning & proper execution will ensure the best & lifetime cherishing trip for travelers/tourists.

There are very few staying options available in Auli. Cliff Top, GMVN Auli Tourist Bungalow, Blue Poppy, Auli resort, Manik Resort are some best & comfortable staying options near Ski Resort. Because of high tourist demands the rates of accommodation is quite higher than the other places, so if your budget is low it’s better to take an affordable stay in Joshimath or choose camps in Auli. And it is also advised pre book your accommodation before departure because it’s not easy to get availability during peak seasons.

The charges of ropeway updates every year, but it generally varies from 700-800 rupees/pp (round trip) from Joshimath to Auli & if you want to take chair lift ride then its charges would be around 200-400 which runs from GMVN resort to Ski resort.

It operaprats from morning 9 AM to 4 PM in evening.

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Auli Itinerary-What to see, Activities, Location, Trip & More: 40% Off

In this post, we would like to share with you about Auli Itinerary. Auli is a beautiful place in the Himalayas where you can have a fantastic vacation. It is surrounded by snowy mountains and green forests, making it perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Post Contents

Auli Trip plan 

Auli is a hill station in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, is a popular tourist destination famous for its natural beauty, and adventure activities. 

• Arrive in Auli and check into your hotel.
• Visit the Auli Artificial Lake. 
• Take a cable car ride to the top of the Auli Ski Resort and enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas. 
• In the evening, return to your hotel and relax.
• Go skiing or snowboarding at the Auli Ski Resort.
• Take a nature walk in the Auli Meadows. 
• Visit the Auli Gorson Bugyal. 
• Visit the Chenab Lake. 
• Take a boat ride on Chenab Lake and enjoy the mountain views. 
• In the afternoon, depart from Auli.

Additional Information:

Best time to visit Auli: The best time to visit Auli is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is cold and dry. Auli is famous for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.

Things to do: Auli offers a variety of activities for visitors, including skiing, snowboarding, nature walks, trekking, and camping. You can visit Auli Artificial Lake, the Auli Gorson Bugyal, and the Chenab Lake.

Where can I stay? Auli has a variety of accommodation options to choose from, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. Some popular hotels in Auli include the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) Tourist Rest House, the Hotel Mount View, and the Nanda Devi Resort.

Auli Uttarakhand Tour Guide:

Here are some tour plan tips for Auli:

• Make sure to book your hotel and transportation in advance, especially if you’re going during the busiest times.
• Drink water and eat healthy food to keep your energy up and stay hydrated.
• Be aware of the weather, and wear the right clothes according to the conditions. 

Sightseeing in Auli:

Below, we mentioned some of the famous places of Auli; if you are looking to explore Auli, then do not forget to visit these places also: 

• Auli Artificial Lake
• Auli Ski Resort
• Auli Meadows
• Auli Gorson Bugya
• Chenab Lake
• Trishul Peak
• Auli Artificial Lake: A beautiful man-made lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. 
• Auli Ski Resort: A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
• Auli Meadows: A vast expanse of meadows with stunning views of the Himalayas. 
• Auli Gorson Bugyal: A high-altitude meadow located at an altitude of 3,056 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Chenab Lake: A high-altitude lake located at an altitude of 3,660 meters, known for its pristine beauty.
• Trishul Peak: A mountain peak located at an altitude of 7,120 meters, offering stunning views of the Nanda Devi National Park.

Best things that you should bring with you for your trip to Auli

• Woollen clothes
• Water bottle

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Plan for 2-3 days in Auli to explore attractions, ski, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Stay longer for a relaxed experience and nearby discoveries.

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Really very interesting blog thanks for sharing us.

we always try to share excellent Itinerary of any travel destinations, so thanks for like it.

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This Central European City Is 'Paris of the East' and Boasts Michelin-Starred Restaurants, Contemporary Museums, and High-End Shopping

Budapest is emerging as Central Europe's most modern city.

Where to Eat

Where to stay, where to see art, where to shop.

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With its history dating back to the Roman times and its grand palaces and cultural institutions, Budapest is one of Europe's most beautiful and architecturally significant capitals. Dubbed "Paris of the East," the Hungarian city comprises Buda and Pest, sitting on the opposite banks of the Danube River, linked by the spectacular Chain Bridge.

The city is recognized for its cultural significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , offering spectacular architecture, riverfront views, and thermal baths. But Budapest, while rooted in the past, is also emerging as a modern world-class destination with Michelin-starred restaurants, a globally acclaimed art scene, top-notch hotels, sleek spas, and countless independent boutiques and design shops.

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"Budapest has been an 'over-cultured' city for about a hundred years, with more theatres, symphony orchestras and museums than the country could have afforded," said András Török, a Budapest-based author and lecturer, whose latest book "Budapest Gem" was published by Assouline in April. "Nowadays, Budapest, a city just the right size, offers all the sophistication of much larger cities, especially after the gastro revolution of the mid-2010s."

Read on for a curated list of Budapest's best hotels, restaurants, spas, and galleries that reveal the city's modern spirit. 

Overlooking the Danube River, Felix occupies a stunning neo-renaissance building and a former pumping station for the Royal Palace. The elegant eatery, often frequented by celebrities, boasts multiple dining rooms, including a breezy (and shaded) terrace with spectacular Gresham Palace and Buda Castle vistas. With seasonal, globally-inspired menus and a few year-round classics like oysters and caviar, Felix sources the freshest local ingredients and prime cuts of Australian and Japanese meats. Patrons also enjoy an impressive selection of hundreds of bottles of classic and rare Hungarian and international wines. Try the 1995 Oremus Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos, a sweet dessert wine from Hungary's most renowned wine region, or indulge in a bottle of dry white 2021 Balassa X Czinki Szent Tamás Furmint, the result of a collaboration between one of the country's best vineyards and master sommelier Tamas Czinki, who's behind the restaurant's wine list.

In 2022, the Michelin Guide launched its inaugural Hungary guide, awarding two stars to just two eateries, including the Budapest-based Stand . The cozy downtown restaurant is helmed by award-winning chefs Tamás Széll and Szabina Szulló, whose elaborate dishes are rooted in traditional Hungarian culinary traditions but prepared with modern palates in mind. The result is a fine dining experience that showcases modern techniques and takes guests on a culinary journey around the country in an elegant yet cozy dining room.

Courtesy of W Budapest

Another highlight of the modern Budapest dining scene is Babel , which, like Stand, has been part of the Michelin Guide for two years. There is something whimsical and homey about its dining room, which features exposed stone walls, lush greenery, and warm wood accents. The eight-course menu is a refined celebration of Central European flavors and ingredients with a touch of Scandinavian minimalism. 

Nightingale by Beefbar , the sleek Art Nouveau restaurant and bar of W Budapest, draws the city's cool crowd. Handcrafted cocktails, live DJ sessions, and shareable plates of Asian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes are complemented by front-row views of the city's Opera House across the street on elegant Andrássy Avenue. 

It's easy to see why luxe hospitality brands love Budapest — the city has no shortage of grand palaces and mansions oozing Old World charm that have been transformed into five-star hotels.

But a roster of new openings blends past and present, marrying the best of two worlds and aesthetics.

W Budapest , which opened its doors in the summer of 2023 and was a finalist on this year's Travel + Leisure It List , is a prime example of the timeless sophistication of the city's historic buildings. Housed in the UNESCO-listed Drechsler Palace on Andrássy Avenue, the property's spectacular interiors reference the building's past — at one point, it served as the headquarters for the Ballet Insitute, so all bathrooms are outfitted with dressing room-like mirrors and lighting fixtures are inspired by delicate pearl earrings that ballerinas wear — with the brand's design-forward approach to hospitality. There are spacious accommodations with custom furnishings, a spa with an indoor heated pool, an impossibly chic hidden speakeasy, and a very Instagram-worthy courtyard covered by a wave-like glass ceiling.

With 84 rooms, the splendid Kozmo Hotel Suites and Spa , falls into the boutique hotel category and bills itself as the "modern reinterpretation of luxury." The five-star property, also housed in a historic landmark building, proves sophistication is in the small details such as Penhaligon toiletries, poster beds, bathtubs, and expansive city views.

Spanning three buildings, Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection debuted in November 2023 at the heart of the city's downtown, just a few blocks from the Danube River. With 216 rooms, all impeccably furnished by the Milan-based Lissoni & Partners studio and featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, soaking bathtubs, and private balconies, the property's interiors balance old and new.

In recent years, the art landscape in Budapest has changed thanks to the growing recognition of Hungarian artists abroad and the rise of younger Hungarian collectors at home.

"Hungarian people have become more open for contemporary art," Márton Nemes , one of Hungary's most prominent contemporary artists, explained in his downtown Budapest studio. He said more young people are encouraged to pursue careers as professional artists at home. Nemes studied in London and divides his time between New York City and Budapest. His colorful abstract work is currently on view at the Hungarian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale.

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The Hungarian capital's art scene is ripe with galleries and spaces showcasing a diaspora of art media by established and up-and-coming artists. acb Galéria , housed in a neo-Renaissance building a few city blocks from the city's Opera House, was founded in the early 2000s but has since become one of the most prestigious art galleries in Hungary with three exhibition spaces and focuses on emerging local and international artists. (Nemes's work was displayed here in 2023.) 

In September 2021, 37-year-old Hong Kong art collector Queenie Rosita Law opened Q Contemporary , a non-profit art center dedicated to Central and East European art, housed in the elegant 19th-century Rausch Villa on Andrássy Avenue. Law has been a champion of Hungarian art for over a decade after spending time in the region as a student at the prestigious Central St. Martins School of Art and Design in London. The space was renovated and now has whitewashed walls where travelers can peruse some one hundred works of art by dozens of the region's most prominent multidisciplinary contemporary artists like the internationally acclaimed László Fehér, Ilona Keserü, and Mira Brtka. 

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For decades, The Studio of Young Artists' Association has supported Hungary's art professionals, and its FKSE Stúdió, a permanent exhibition space in Budapest's bohemian 7th district on the Pest side, promotes the work of the country's youngest artists and most recent art school graduates. The dynamic space also hosts lectures, discussions, video presentations, and other events where the general public can meet the artists in person.

And among the many galleries and art spaces along Bartók Béla Boulevard on the Buda side, you'll find Godot Intézet (the entrance is through a coffee shop), a small and beautiful gallery space with huge circular windows that regularly showcases art by local newcomers. Godot Intézet is associated with Budapest's Godot Galéria, an Independent Museum for Contemporary Art , which is also a worthy stop.

Nanushka , the sustainable fashion brand with a cult following among fashionistas on both sides of the Atlantic, was founded almost two decades ago in Budapest by Sandra Sándor and is now one of the best-known Hungarian labels worldwide. The company's aesthetic blends traditional Hungarian folklore details with urban simplicity and impeccable craftsmanship. Nanushka's Budapest store is fronted by a trendy coffee shop serving pastries and caffeinated drinks, hinting at the company's lifestyle appeal. The curated boutique collection includes women's and men's wear, including accessories like bags and sunglasses.

Dan Glasser/Courtesy of Nanushka

A few steps from Nanushka is the bright and airy boutique of Aeron , another well-known Hungarian brand in fashion circles, offering pieces that showcase its designer's penchant for sustainable practices and materials and exquisite tailoring and timeless design.

On the complete opposite of the creative spectrum is Eszka , whose brightly colored patterns and bold knitwear are designed to boost a wearer's confidence.

And if you need some high-end R&R, head to Omorovicza Insitute . The serene spa and store of the celebrity-favorite beauty brand (Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Uma Thurman are fans) uses minerals from the city's thermal waters. Book a detoxifying facial with Omorovicza's Moor mud products that refine and nourish or boost your skin's hydration levels with the brand's Hydrafacial Skin Therapy Session, blending its proprietary healing concentrate for instant glow and rejuvenation.

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My First Trip to Norway, With A.I. as a Guide

Can artificial intelligence devise a bucket-list vacation that checks all the boxes: culture, nature, hotels and transportation? Our reporter put three virtual assistants to the test.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

The assignment was clear: Test how well artificial intelligence could plan a trip to Norway, a place I’d never been. So I did none of my usual obsessive online research and instead asked three A.I. planners to create a four-day itinerary. None of them, alas, mentioned the saunas or the salmon.

Two assistants were, however, eager to learn more about me in order to tailor their initially generic recommendations, which they had spewed out within seconds. Vacay , a personalized travel planning tool, presented me with a list of questions, while Mindtrip , a new A.I. travel assistant, invited me to take a quiz. (ChatGPT, the third assistant, asked nothing.)

Vacay’s and Mindtrip’s questions were similar: Are you traveling solo? What’s your budget? Do you prefer hotels or Airbnbs? Would you rather explore the great outdoors or pursue a cultural experience?

Eventually, my chat sessions yielded what seemed like well-rounded itineraries, starting with one day in Oslo and moving on to the fjord region. Eventually, I locked down a trip that would combine the assistants’ information and go beyond a predictable list of sites.

This time around, my virtual planners were far more sophisticated than the simple ChatGPT interface I used last year on a trip to Milan. Though it offered more detailed suggestions for Norway, I ended up ditching ChatGPT in the travel-planning stage after it repeatedly crashed.

Vacay’s premium service, which starts at $9.99 per month, included in-depth suggestions and booking links, while Mindtrip, which is currently free, provided photos, Google reviews and maps. During the trip itself, each delivered instantaneous information by text and always asked if more specific details were needed. Sadly, only ChatGPT offered a phone app, whose information I found to be outdated (the $20-per-month premium version is more current).

I’m not alone when it comes to turning to A.I. for help: Around 70 percent of Americans are either using or planning to use A.I. for travel planning, according to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of the personal finance app Moneylion, while 71 percent said using A.I. would most likely be easier than planning trips on one’s own.

I decided to find out for myself in Norway.

A whirlwind day in Oslo

After I landed at Oslo Airport, all three assistants directed me to the Flytoget Airport Express Train , which got me to town in 20 minutes. I was delighted to find my hotel adjacent to the central railway station.

Choosing accommodations had not been easy. I was looking for a midrange boutique hotel, and the A.I. assistants generated many options with little overlap. I went with Hotel Amerikalinjen , Vacay’s recommendation, which it described as “a vibrant and unique boutique hotel in the heart of Oslo.” Its location was the main draw, but overall the hotel exceeded my expectations, blending comfort and style with the 20th-century charm of its building, which once housed the headquarters of the Norwegian America Line shipping company.

For the one-day Oslo itinerary, the assistants were in agreement, packing in the city’s top sights, including the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Royal Palace , the Nobel Peace Center, Akershus Fortress and the Munch Museum. I shared my location and asked each assistant to restructure the itineraries to start from my hotel. But when I gave in to my own research instincts and pulled up Google Maps, I saw that the order they suggested didn’t make sense, so I plotted my own path.

By the time I got to Frogner Park at midday, I had already covered half of the sights, and after walking past more than 200 sculptures by the Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, I was happy to sit down and admire his granite monolith of entwined humans.

For lunch, the assistants recommended high-end restaurants in the bustling waterfront neighborhood of Aker Brygge . But I wanted a quick bite in a more relaxed atmosphere, so I ditched A.I. and walked to the end of the promenade, where I stumbled upon the Salmon , a cozy establishment where I started with salmon sashimi that melted in my mouth and finished with a perfectly grilled fillet. How had my assistants not mentioned this place?

Next on my list was the Nobel Peace Center, the Opera House and the Munch Museum. The assistants had not recommended prebooking tickets, but fortunately, I had done so, learning, in the process, that the Peace Center was closed, a crucial bit of information that A.I. did not relay.

It was chilly for mid-June, and as I walked along the harbor promenade toward the Munch Museum, I spotted small floating saunas, which my assistants had not included. I went back to the ChatGPT phone app for recommendations. Even though I was eager to try a floating sauna, where people warmed themselves and then plunged straight into the frigid waters of the Oslofjord, I took ChatGPT’s suggestion and booked the Salt sauna, which is where I headed after spending a few hours at the Munch Museum, with its extensive works by the Norwegian artist and its sweeping views of Oslo’s harbor.

At the Salt cultural complex , a large pyramidal structure on the water, I was relieved that swimsuits were a requirement. In Scandinavia, saunas are usually taken naked , and earlier, I had asked ChatGPT for the etiquette at Salt, but it failed to give me a definitive answer. After sweating it out with around 30 strangers in Salt’s main sauna, I dipped into a cold-water barrel tub and then tried the smaller sauna options, which were hotter and quieter. It was the perfect ending to a long day.

Waterfalls, lush valleys, raging waters

Each of my assistants had different ideas on how to reach the fjord region. ChatGPT suggested taking a seven-hour train ride and then immediately embarking on a two-hour fjord cruise, which sounded exhausting. Mindtrip suggested taking a short flight to Bergen, known as the “gateway to the fjords,” and setting out on a cruise the next day, which was perhaps more efficient, but would also mean missing one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Vacay also recommended a train ride.

After conversing with the assistants, I decided on a shorter train journey (six hours) that would deliver me to Naeroyfjord , a UNESCO World Heritage site with lush valleys and thundering waterfalls. But to figure out the logistics for transport and accommodation, I needed live train timetables, which I found on my own, and information on hotel availability that none of the assistants had.

At this point, I was desperate for human guidance to navigate the region’s expensive and limited accommodations. This is where the pictures and reviews on Mindtrip were useful, helping me to understand that I would be paying premium prices for the spectacular setting of a mediocre hotel.

The train ride from Oslo to Myrdal was breathtaking: rolling hills, mountain villages, fjords, waterfalls. But nothing prepared me for the majestic one-hour Flam railway ride that followed. Vacay had described it as an “engineering marvel” with a breathtakingly steep descent as it passes picturesque villages, dramatic mountains, raging rivers and pounding waterfalls, complete with a dance performance featuring a mythological spirit known as a huldra.

The next morning I boarded a Naeroyfjord cruise, recommended by Vacay, on an electric, 400-person vessel. I was surprised by the serenity of the fjord. Later I learned from a tour guide that I had been lucky to visit when there were no large cruise ships. It was hard to imagine an ocean liner maneuvering through the narrow, windy fjord, but when I asked ChatGPT, it told me 150 to 220 cruise ships squeezed through the fjord each year, a detail that I felt the travel assistants should warn travelers about.

The cruise ended in the village of Gudvangen, where rain made me cancel a hike to a waterfall and instead try my hand at ax-throwing in the Viking Village Njardarheim. The assistants had told me that there were buses that left town every four hours, a time frame that had worked with my original hiking plan, but now I was stuck. Thankfully, I took note of the A.I. disclaimers to check all information and found an alternative shuttle bus.

On my way to Bergen, I decided to stop in the town of Voss, famous for extreme sports like skydiving and spectacular nature. All the A.I.-suggested hotels were booked, but a Google search led me to the lakeside Elva hotel , which had delicious farm-to-table food. I suspect it didn’t make the A.I. shortlist because it was new.

I ended my trip in Bergen, which, despite being Norway’s second-largest city, maintains a small-town charm with its colorful wooden houses and cobblestone streets. With only half a day to explore, I followed Mindtrip’s short itinerary, starting with a hearty lunch of fish and chips at the bustling waterfront fish market and ending with a funicular ride up Mount Floyen for panoramic views of the city and fjords. The A.I. dinner suggestion at the Colonialen was perfect: cozy vibe, live jazz and locally sourced dishes.

The bottom line

None of the A.I. programs were perfect, but they did complement one another, allowing me to streamline my travel decisions.

Overall, Mindtrip — with its polished, dynamic interface that allowed me to cross-check details with maps, links and reviews — was my favorite. While it gave some good recommendations, Mindtrip needed more prompting than Vacay, which offered a wider variety of suggestions in more detail. Unfortunately, Vacay doesn’t save chat history, which I discovered halfway into my planning after closing the website’s tab on my browser.

The biggest drawback was the absence of phone apps for Mindtrip and Vacay, which led me to rely on ChatGPT’s basic A.I. assistant when I needed on-the-spot guidance. Mindtrip, I’ve since learned, is planning to debut an app in September.

Still, there were times when I desperately craved the human touch. Before setting out on a trip, I always contact friends and colleagues for recommendations. This time, as part of the A.I. experiment, I refrained from reaching out to a Norwegian friend until after my trip, only to find out that we had both been in Oslo at the same time.

That’s one element of travel that I doubt A.I. will ever master: serendipity.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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