If you’re dreaming of snow-covered slopes, majestic Himalayan peaks, and peaceful pine forests, Auli is the perfect destination. Known as India’s skiing capital, Auli in Uttarakhand attracts nature lovers, adventure seekers, and peace chasers alike. But before you zip up your jacket and start packing your bags, there’s one important thing you need to figure out: how to reach Auli.
Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Dehradun, or Haridwar, this guide will walk you through all the possible ways to reach this breathtaking destination, plus tips to make your journey smoother.
Best Time to Travel to Auli
Before diving into routes, let’s talk about when to go. Auli is beautiful all year round, but the experience changes with the season.
- December to February: Ideal for snow lovers and skiing. Auli turns into a winter wonderland.
- March to June: Perfect for trekking and sightseeing with pleasant weather.
- July to October: Monsoon season. Travel is possible, but landslides may disrupt roads.
For a snow adventure, January is the best month. If you prefer greenery and clear skies, April to June is fantastic.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi
Delhi to Auli is one of the most popular travel routes for North Indians.
- By Air:
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), around 270 km from Auli. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Auli via Joshimath. - By Train:
The closest railway station is Haridwar (around 273 km). You can board a train from Delhi to Haridwar, then take a bus or cab to Joshimath, and finally proceed to Auli. - By Road:
You can drive or take a bus from Delhi to Joshimath. It’s approximately 500 km and takes 12–14 hours. The route via Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Karnaprayag – Joshimath is scenic and commonly used.
For those wondering how to go Auli from Delhi, this mix of train and road travel is most convenient and budget-friendly.
How to Reach Auli from Mumbai
Coming from the west? Here’s how to plan your journey from Mumbai.
- By Air:
Take a flight from Mumbai to Dehradun. After landing, take a taxi or bus to Joshimath. It’s the fastest way. - By Train:
Board a train from Mumbai to Haridwar or Dehradun. From there, continue the journey by road. It takes longer but can be cost-effective. - By Road:
Mumbai to Auli by road covers around 1,800 km. This route is not recommended unless you’re on a long road trip across North India.
If you’re searching how to reach Auli from Mumbai, flying to Dehradun and then heading to Auli via Joshimath is your best bet.
How to Reach Auli from Dehradun
Located just a few hundred kilometers away, Dehradun serves as a common base.
- By Road:
Drive or take a bus from Dehradun to Joshimath. The journey takes 8–10 hours depending on road conditions. - By Taxi:
A private cab is faster and more comfortable. Many travelers choose this for the flexibility it offers. - By Shared Transport:
You can also opt for shared jeeps or taxis available from Dehradun to Joshimath.
If you’re looking at how to reach Auli from Dehradun, this is a straightforward, scenic route with plenty of food stops and viewpoints along the way. For more travel ideas, don’t forget to explore guides like how to visit Dudhsagar Waterfall and find out Where Is Bandhavgarh National Park Situated.
How to Go to Auli from Haridwar
Auli’s connection with Haridwar is quite accessible.
- By Bus/Taxi:
You can find regular buses and taxis from Haridwar to Joshimath, covering about 270 km in 9–10 hours. - By Train + Road:
If you’re starting from nearby cities, reach Haridwar by train first, then continue by road.
People often ask how to go to Auli from Haridwar, and the easiest way is to travel early in the morning and stay overnight at Joshimath before heading up.
Joshimath to Auli: The Final Stretch
Joshimath is the last major stop before Auli, and the real adventure begins here. You have two main options:
- Cable Car (Ropeway):
The Joshimath-Auli ropeway is one of the longest in India (approx. 4 km) and offers stunning aerial views. It takes about 25 minutes to reach Auli and is highly recommended if the weather permits. - Road Drive:
A narrow, winding road (approx. 16 km) connects Joshimath to Auli. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep.
If you enjoy mountain rides and scenic beauty, you’ll love this stretch. In winter, snow may block the road, so the ropeway becomes the only option.
Travel Tips Before You Head to Auli
Here are a few things you must keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip:
- Start Early: Roads in hilly areas are best travelled during daylight.
- Stay in Joshimath if you’re arriving late. Avoid night travel to Auli.
- Carry Warm Clothes even in summer. Weather can change quickly.
- Book Ropeway Tickets in advance during peak season.
- Keep Medicines & Essentials handy. Pharmacies are limited.
- Mobile Network is patchy in some areas. Download offline maps.
And if you’re someone who loves offbeat travel, you might also want to check how to reach Spiti Valley, another Himalayan paradise waiting to be explored.
Final Thoughts
Reaching Auli is not just about the destination, it’s about the journey through the heart of Uttarakhand’s natural beauty. Whether you’re flying from Mumbai, catching a train from Delhi, or driving up from Dehradun, every route offers its own charm. From the spiritual energy of Haridwar to the lush valleys of Joshimath, every leg of the trip brings you closer to the serene, snowy world of Auli. And if travel is your passion and you’re always curious about the What, Why, When, and How of new destinations, NutBolt India is your perfect travel companion. So now that you know how to reach Auli, when are you planning your next trip?
