Auli
Auli is a famous for its mesmerizing nature vistas and fascinating ski resorts and surrounded by snowcapped cliffs of mighty Himalayas. The enthralling hilly region is saturated with enchanting sceneries of slopes fringed with oak trees and coniferous forest. This is a region of snowy miracle with the imposing spectacles of lofty terrains and mountain ranges such as Mana Paravat, Kamat Kamet and Nanda Devi. One can find gorgeous orchards of apples and deodar trees which offers an unforgettable picnic experience. Some legends claim that this place was visited by Sri Sankaracharya. It is the only holiday destination where skiing is most enjoyed and appreciated. The unspoiled ambience of Auli is filled with sylvan peaks, long stretch of snow valleys and frosty stroms are the ideal environment for skiers. It is one of the hot picnic spot for nature lovers to enjoy the scenic beauty at its full bloom and adventure seekers for an awe-inspiring holiday time.
Places to visit
Joshimath
It is a famous pilgrim center in Auli where Jyothirlinga of Shiva is located. It is a common belief that the region was found by Sri Sankaracharya the great guru in Hindu religion. Joshimath has many sacred temples, in which Narashima temple is much famous. Naudevi, Ganesh, Hanuman, Gaurishankar and Surya temples are other temples of Joshimath.
Nandaprayag
It is a beautiful place serves as entry gate for world popular pilgrim centers badrinath and Kedarnath. It is located at the convergence of two Rivers. It is well noted for its marvelous landscapes, scenic snowy peak and splendorous vistas. The tiny hamlet has a Goplalji temple on the banks of River Alakananda which grabs thousands of devotees every year.
Rudraprayag
It is another pretty place located at the convergence of two Majestic Rivers namely Mandakini and Alaknanda. It is considered as holy abode of lord Shiva. It is located near to Badrinatha and Kedarnath. The serene place houses many temples mainly Rudranath and Chamunda Devi which are worth to visit.
Activities to do
Skiing
It is a delightful place for skiers. The snowy slopes are one of the best places in the world for skiing. It is an emerging sport activity here. It offers around 500 meters lift and 800 meter chair-lift link through lesser and greater snowy slopes. Skiers can enjoy the vast stretch of around 20 km of fantastic slopes to enjoy to maximum. Skiing equipment are available for rent. There are some training courses to practice skiing which is conducted by Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Gulmarg.
How to reach Auli
By Air
The nearest airport is in Dehradun about 279 km from Auli.
By Train
The nearest railway station is in Haridwar around 273 km from Auli.
By Road
There are pretty number of buses available to reach the nearest town Joshimath. From Joshimath there are regular taxi services available to reach Auli. It is well connected to Rishikesh, Haridwar and Dehradun.
Weather
In summer, temperature is between 15 C and 30 C and in winter -4 C to 24C. It is best visited between November and March.