Tucked high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli feels like the quiet twin of Gulmarg — a small town wrapped in white, surrounded by forests and views that look too perfect to be real. The air is crisp, the mountains seem closer, and every turn reveals a new angle of the Himalayas. While summer brings trekkers, winter belongs to those who love snow, silence, and slow days filled with beauty.
Here are 9 experiences that make Auli worth visiting this winter.
1. Ride the Auli Ropeway — Where the Sky Feels Close Enough to Touch
Stretching 4.4 km from Joshimath to Auli, the ropeway is more than transport — it’s a journey through clouds. As the cable car glides above deodar forests and frozen meadows, you’ll see snow-blanketed slopes giving way to the sharp peaks of Nanda Devi, Hathi, and Ghori Parvat.
In winter, the contrast of blue skies and white snow turns the view into something almost cinematic. Go just before sunset to watch the Himalayas turn golden while the valley glows in silence.
2. Ski the Slopes Where Snow Feels Handmade
Auli isn’t just India’s ski capital — it’s where you rediscover what balance and focus feel like. The powdery snow, gentle gradients, and wide runs make it ideal for beginners. The GMVN Ski School offers lessons, rentals, and guided experiences for all ages.
Unlike crowded ski hubs abroad, Auli offers something rare — space. You can ski at your pace, stop for pictures mid-slope, or simply sit at the base sipping chai while watching experts carve through snow.
3. Watch the Sun Rise Over Nanda Devi — The Giant That Guards the Valley
The view of Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak, is enough reason to visit Auli. On winter mornings, the first rays of sunlight strike its snowy face, turning it from silver to rose-gold. It’s quiet, surreal, and worth waking up early for.
Walk to Cliff Top or Auli Artificial Lake for the best view. Bring a flask of hot kahwa, a camera, and a moment of stillness — this is what Himalayas are supposed to feel like.
4. Trek to Gorson Bugyal — A Snowfield That Never Ends
Only 3 km from Auli, Gorson Bugyal transforms into a white meadow framed by dark pine forests. The short trek is doable even for beginners, but the reward feels grand — 360-degree views of Nanda Devi, Hathi, and Dunagiri peaks stretching into the horizon.
In winter, you won’t find crowds or stalls here — just soft snow, the crunch of your boots, and an occasional shepherd’s dog leading the way. It’s one of the few places where the Himalayas still feel personal.
5. Visit the Frozen Auli Artificial Lake
This man-made lake was created to provide artificial snow for the slopes, but in winter it becomes a natural wonder of its own. The surface freezes, reflecting the peaks and skies like a mirror.
Stand by the railing in the early morning chill — you’ll see clouds move across the water and sunlight ripple over ice. It’s a photographer’s dream and a reminder that human engineering can sometimes complement nature beautifully.
6. Explore Joshimath — Spiritual Gateway to the Himalayas
Just 16 km below Auli, Joshimath is more than a base town — it’s an ancient settlement built on faith and resilience. Visit the Narsimha Temple, one of the oldest shrines in the region, and the Kalpavriksha Tree, believed to be over 1,200 years old.
In winter, Joshimath is calm, wrapped in soft fog, and full of stories told by friendly locals over tea. It gives you the cultural side of the mountains that adventure alone can’t offer.
7. Stay in a Wooden Chalet With a View of the Peaks
Winter is when Auli’s eco-resorts and chalets feel their coziest — fireplaces, pine interiors, thick quilts, and picture windows framing snowfields.
Imagine waking up to sunbeams touching the peaks, sipping coffee by a wood stove, and ending the day with a bonfire under a sky full of stars. The mountain silence, broken only by crackling firewood, makes every night feel like a retreat for the soul.
8. Warm Up With Kumaoni Winter Cuisine
Mountain winters are made for comfort food, and Auli’s local dishes are pure warmth in a bowl. Try aloo ke gutke, mandua roti, or a bowl of gahat dal soup cooked slowly over wood fire.
Most homestays serve food made from local grains and spices, seasoned with stories and laughter. And if you’re lucky, you might get invited to a kitchen where someone’s grandmother insists you take “just one more” helping.
9. Stargaze and Watch the Milky Way
Far from the glow of city lights, Auli’s winter sky reveals something extraordinary — the Milky Way. Step outside after dinner, wrap yourself in a blanket, and look up.
The cold, clear air makes the stars shine sharper. You’ll spot constellations easily, and on moonless nights, the whole sky seems alive. For photographers, this is one of the best night-sky locations in North India.
Why Auli Deserves Your Winter
Unlike many hill stations, Auli retains its authentic mountain spirit. There’s no chaos, no excessive commercialisation — just clean air and honest scenery. Security is tight, roads are maintained, and locals go out of their way to help travellers.
So don’t cancel your plans because of cold weather or what-ifs. Dress warm, travel prepared, and let Auli remind you that winter can be the most beautiful season to explore India.
At World Tours, we don’t just arrange trips — we design experiences. Whether you want adventure, photography, or pure relaxation, our customized winter itineraries ensure comfort, safety, and the best local stays.
“Auli isn’t a place you visit once — it’s a feeling that stays with you every winter.”
