Auli is a beautiful hill station in Uttarakhand, known for its green landscapes in summer and snow-covered slopes in winter. Known as a skiing paradise and a trekking destination, Auli attracts travelers from across the globe. If you’re planning a trip from Delhi to Auli, this guide will cover everything you need to know about the Delhi to Auli journey, including the best routes, transportation options, fares, and essential travel tips. Let’s go through everything you need to make your trip easy and memorable.
Why Visit Auli?
Auli is not only beautiful but also offers a variety of activities year-round, such as skiing, trekking, and sightseeing. With the peaceful Nanda Devi Peak and the impressive Auli artificial lake, this place offers something special for every traveler.
Best Time to Visit Auli
Best time to visit Auli depends on your preference for activities. If you want to enjoy skiing, plan your visit between December and March, when Auli experiences heavy snowfall. If you prefer a more temperate climate and want to enjoy the lush green meadows, the summer months from April to June are perfect.
The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, brings heavy rain. This makes travel difficult but also rewarding, as visitors can enjoy vibrant greenery and fewer crowds.
Auli Weather
Delhi to Auli by Road
The Delhi to Auli distance by road is around 500 kilometers, and it takes approximately 10-12 hours to cover this journey. The route is scenic, passing through lush valleys, rivers, and hills.
Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid Delhi’s traffic. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, or you can hire a taxi for a more comfortable journey.
Route 1 (Via Haridwar and Rishikesh)
Delhi – Haridwar – Rishikesh – Rudraprayag – Joshimath – Auli
- Distance: 500 km
- Duration: 10-12 hours
- Highlights: Scenic landscapes, famous pilgrimage sites in Haridwar and Rishikesh
Route 2 (Via Meerut and Najibabad)
Delhi – Meerut – Najibabad – Kotdwar – Srinagar – Joshimath – Auli
- Distance: Similar to Route 1
- Duration: 10-11 hours
- Highlights: Quieter route, ideal for avoiding crowded highways
Note: Both routes include mountainous stretches and sharp turns, so be cautious if driving, especially in winter.
Delhi to Auli by Bus
While there is no direct Delhi to Auli bus, you can take buses to nearby cities and then travel to Auli by local transport. The Delhi to Joshimath bus is a preferred option, as Joshimath is the last major town before Auli.
1. Delhi to Joshimath
- Duration: 15-16 hours
- Fare: ₹900 to ₹1,500 (approximate, depending on the bus operator)
- Buses Available: Both government and private operators run buses from Delhi to Joshimath, typically starting from the ISBT Kashmere Gate.
2. Joshimath to Auli:
Once you reach Joshimath, you can take a local bus or shared taxi to Auli (₹300-₹500), which is 16 kilometers away. Alternatively, the Joshimath to Auli ropeway is a scenic option, providing magnificent aerial views of the Himalayan landscape.
The fare for the ropeway from Joshimath to Auli is ₹1,000 per person for a round trip
Delhi to Auli by Train
Traveling by train is another convenient option to cover the Delhi to Auli Uttarakhand distance by train. Although there isn’t a direct Delhi to Auli train, you can travel to Haridwar or Dehradun by train and then continue the journey by road.
1. Delhi to Haridwar Train
- Distance: Approximately 230 kilometers
- Travel Time: 4-5 hours
- Fare: ₹200-₹1,200 (depending on train type and class)
2. Delhi to Dehradun Train
- Distance: Approximately 270 kilometers
- Travel Time: 5-6 hours
- Fare: ₹250-₹1,300 (depending on train type and class)
After reaching either Haridwar or Dehradun, you’ll need to take a taxi or bus to Joshimath
Delhi to Auli by Flight
For a faster option, take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun and continue to Auli by road. he nearest airport to Auli is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
1. Delhi to Dehradun Flight
- Flight Duration: 1 hour
- Fare: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 (one-way)
- Airlines: Various airlines offer direct flights daily
2. Dehradun to Auli
- Distance: Approximately 300 km (by road from Dehradun to Auli)
- Duration: 8-9 hours by taxi or bus
- Fare (Taxi): ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 (approx.)
Things to do in Auli
Once you arrive in Auli, there are several activities and sights that you simply can’t miss:
- Auli Artificial Lake: One of the highest man-made lakes in the world, Auli Lake is mesmerizing and aids in creating snow for skiing.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Auli is famous for skiing, and you’ll find both beginner and advanced slopes.
- Trekking to Gorson Bugyal: This scenic trek offers views of some of the most magnificent Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi.
- Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint: Auli provides clear views of Nanda Devi, India’s second-highest peak, making it a must-visit for photographers.
- Chattarkund Lake and Kwani Bugyal: These offbeat locations are popular among trekkers looking to explore beyond Auli’s usual tourist spots.
In Summary
The journey to Auli starting in Delhi is full of amazing scenery and exciting experiences. You can choose road trips, buses, or a mix of trains and buses, so there’s something for every traveler. Be sure to plan in advance, especially for winter trips, and keep your plans flexible for any last-minute changes due to the weather.
FAQ’s
What is the Delhi to Auli distance by road?
The Delhi to Auli road distance is approximately 500 kilometers. It usually takes 10-12 hours to drive, depending on traffic and road conditions.
How are the road conditions from Delhi to Auli?
The roads are generally well-maintained, but the stretch between Joshimath and Auli can be steep and narrow, especially in winter when snow might affect the route.
Are there any tolls on the Delhi to Auli road?
Yes, there are tolls along the way, primarily on national highways from Delhi to Uttarakhand. Toll fees vary, typically ranging between ₹130-₹700 for a round trip.
Is it safe to drive from Delhi to Auli at night?
It’s safer to avoid night driving in hilly areas. Start early in the morning to reach Auli by evening, and ensure clear visibility and minimal traffic through mountainous stretches.
Do I need a 4×4 vehicle to drive to Auli?
A standard car is usually fine, but 4×4 vehicles or SUVs are preferable, especially in winter when snow can make roads slippery near Auli.
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