My Journey from Bhimtal to Auli: A Scenic Route Through Hidden Himalayan Corners
If you’re someone who dreams of a pristine winter wonderland, serene landscapes, and the charm of the Himalayas, then Auli in Uttarakhand must be on your travel list. This is not just a regular travel guide; this is my first-hand experience of visiting Auli from Bhimtal, a journey that unfolded across mountains, valleys, and unforgettable moments. In this article, I will share every aspect of this trip—from how to reach Auli from Nainital/Bhimtal and other parts of India, to the best places to visit, where to eat, and precautions you should take. Let me walk you through everything I experienced, just the way it happened—no filters, just the real charm of the mountains.
Starting Point: Bhimtal to Auli – The Road Less Traveled
I started my journey from Bhimtal—a quiet, charming, and peaceful little town near Nainital, known for its calm lake and laid-back vibe. Bhimtal is about 20 km from Nainital and offers a peaceful escape with its lake, scenic walks, and lesser crowds. From Bhimtal, Auli is roughly 290 kilometers away, but due to the hilly terrain, it takes about 9 to 11 hours by road.
Best Route to Take:
Bhimtal → Almora → Kausani → Baijnath → Gwaldam → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Auli
This route, though longer in hours, offers stunning views of terraced fields, pine forests, and the majestic Himalayas.
How to Reach Auli from Major Indian Cities:
Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Bangalore, getting to Auli involves a combination of train, flight, or bus followed by a scenic road trip.
- Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh (about 260 km from Auli)
- Alternative: Haridwar (275 km)
- After reaching either station, it’s pretty easy to find a cab or shared taxi heading toward Joshimath—just ask around or check near the station exit. From there, Auli is just a short drive away—about 30 minutes, but the views along the way make it feel even shorter.
✈️ By Flight:
- Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is roughly 280 km away from Auli.
- From the airport, hire a cab to Joshimath or take a bus to Rudraprayag and further connect.
🚌 By Bus:
- Buses to Joshimath are available from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun, but they are often long and tiring. Booking a private cab or tempo traveler is advisable for groups.
Auli: Where the Sky Meets the Snow
When I reached Auli, I was awestruck by the beauty. Snow-clad peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat greeted us with open arms. Auli isn’t just about skiing—it’s about the crisp mountain air, the quiet all around, and that calming feeling you only get in the lap of the Himalayas.
Top Places to Visit in Auli:
1. Artificial Lake: Perched high in the mountains, and it is one of the world’s highest man-made lakes. It’s a beautiful spot—perfect for a peaceful evening walk. as the sun dips behind the peaks. When I visited the Auli Artificial Lake, I remember just standing there in awe for a moment. As the sun began to dip behind the snowy peaks, the sky turned this soft golden-orange, and everything around felt calm and still. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause for a moment, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and just be present in the quiet beauty around you. Honestly, it’s one of the most peaceful evening walks I’ve ever had.
2. Gurso Bugyal: Gurso Bugyal is a short 3 km trek from Auli, and once you reach the top, the wide-open views of the snow-covered Himalayas are absolutely worth the effort. Trekking to Gurso Bugyal was one of the most rewarding parts of my trip. It’s just a 3 km hike from Auli, but the trail winds through tall trees and open snowy patches, and it feels like you’re slowly leaving everything behind. When I finally reached the top, I remember just stopping in my tracks. The view was unreal—endless snow-covered peaks stretching across the horizon, with the crisp mountain air all around. If you’re in Auli and enjoy even a little bit of walking, you shouldn’t miss this.
3. Chattrakund Lake: Just about a kilometer from Gurso Bugyal, Chattrakund Lake is a small, hidden gem surrounded by forest, known for its crystal-clear, and icy-blue water. After reaching Gurso Bugyal, I decided to keep going a bit further to see Chattrakund Lake—and I’m so glad I did. It’s just a short walk from Gurso Bugyal—about a kilometer or so—and it’s hidden away in a peaceful patch of forest in this quiet, forested spot that feels completely untouched and peaceful.
The moment I saw it, I was struck by how clear and still the water was—like glass, with this icy-blue color that looked almost unreal. The whole area felt untouched, almost like nature’s secret corner. I just sat there for a while, taking in the silence and the beauty. If you’re already at Gurso Bugyal, I’d definitely recommend making that short walk—you won’t regret it.
4. Joshimath: Base town, and rich with temples and local life. Before heading up to Auli, I spent a little time in Joshimath—the base town that connects you to the higher reaches. It’s not just a stopover; the place actually has a charm of its own. There are old temples tucked between narrow lanes, small local shops, and people going about their day in that relaxed mountain rhythm.
I visited the Shankaracharya Math and wandered through the little markets—everything felt grounded and authentic. If you’ve got a couple of hours, it’s worth soaking in the vibe here before moving on to the snow and slopes.
5. Auli Ropeway: One of Asia’s longest cable cars after Gulmarg, connects Joshimath to Auli with sweeping views of deep valleys and towering peaks—an experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Riding the ropeway from Joshimath to Auli turned out to be Honestly one of the most memorable parts of my trip. It’s one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, and as you slowly glide above the valley, the views just keep getting better—deep gorges below, snow-covered forests, and towering peaks all around.
I remember feeling a mix of excitement and calm as the cabin moved through the air—it’s quiet, peaceful, and just surreal. If you’re planning to visit, don’t miss this. It’s not just a way to get there—it’s part of the whole experience.
Skiing and Snow Activities
Auli is called the Skiing Capital of India. I enrolled for a 2-day beginner skiing session with a local trainer. The slopes are safe, and the instructors are professional. Even if skiing isn’t your thing, snow trekking, snowboarding, and cable car rides keep the adrenaline alive.
Auli Monsoon Height: Auli looks during the monsoon. At over 2,500 meters above sea level, the clouds would literally float past us—sometimes even below us. It felt like being tucked inside a soft, moving blanket of mist.
The greenery around was unbelievably lush. Every pine tree, every meadow just looked more alive. But because of the altitude, the weather could change in minutes—sunshine one moment and thick fog or drizzle the next.
Getting there during the rainy season wasn’t easy—there were a few tense moments with landslides on the way to Joshimath—but standing up there in the cool, damp air made it feel worth it. You really get to see a different side of Auli during monsoon—quiet, misty, and wrapped in a sort of peaceful stillness.
Food in Auli: Simple Yet Comforting
The food in Auli is simple and nothing fancy, but it’s hearty, warm and soul-satisfying. just what you need after a day out in the cold.
🏨 Best Places to Eat:
1. GMVN Auli Cafeteria: The GMVN Auli Cafeteria is a simple, no-frills spot where you can grab a hot meal, a cup of tea, or some snacks—just what you need after being out in the cold I loved the hot Maggi and coffee..
2. Mountain Rover Cafe: Mountain Rover Café is a warm, welcoming spot where you can enjoy a mix of Indian and Tibetan dishes—perfect for a relaxed meal with a view.
3. Local Dhabas: On the Joshimath-Auli road, try 🍛Rajma Chawal, 🫓Aloo Paratha, and 🥗Pahadi Raita. If you’re ever driving up from Joshimath to Auli, don’t miss the local dhabas along the way. I stopped at one small roadside place and had the most comforting plate of rajma chawal, along with freshly made aloo paratha and a chilled bowl of pahadi raita—simple but so full of flavor. really It felt honestly like a warm hug after the mountain chill. Totally worth it!
Where to Stay in Auli: Hotels and Accommodation
Because places to stay in Auli are limited—especially during peak season—it’s a good idea, I recommend to book your accommodation well in advance.
Best Hotels in Auli:
If you’re planning a trip to Auli, here are a few places I’ve either stayed at or personally checked out, and each has its own charm.
- 🏨✨The Tattva Resort: – Luxury stay with modern amenities and mountain views.. This place felt like a hidden gem. It’s a bit on the luxurious side, but totally worth it if you’re looking to unwind in style. The rooms are super cozy, the service was on point, and the views of the snow-covered peaks from the balcony were just breathtaking. Waking to this place feels like you’re in the middle of a postcard.
- 🏨✨Clifftop Club Auli: – Closest to the ski slopes, perfect for snow lovers. This one’s right next to the ski slopes, and if you’re visiting in winter or just love snow adventures, it’s the perfect spot. I loved that you could just step right outside and find yourself surrounded by snow — it felt like being in the heart of a winter wonderland. It’s in a slightly remote spot, but honestly, that’s what makes it so special— it feels peaceful and untouched, like a hidden gem. Great for skiers or anyone wanting a true winter-in-the-mountains vibe. to the ski slopes, perfect for snow lovers.
- 🏨✨GMVN Tourist Bungalow: – it is Budget-friendly, run by -government, and also well maintained. A solid, budget-friendly option. It’s a government-run stay, so don’t expect luxury, but it’s clean, well-maintained, and in a great location. I met a few fellow trekkers and solo travelers here — it’s got that easygoing, practical vibe. Great if you’re looking to explore without spending too much.
Budget Hotels in Joshimath:
If Auli is booked, staying in Joshimath (16 km away) is a great option. Daily jeeps and cable cars are available.
Precautions and Travel Tips
1. Weather: Carry heavy woolens, gloves, snow boots, and a good jacket. Temperatures can go below -8°C.
2. Altitude Sickness: Auli is over 2500 meters high. Drink water, rest properly, and avoid alcohol on the first day.
3. Connectivity: Internet and mobile signals may be weak. Inform family beforehand.
4. Travel Insurance: Always a good idea, especially for snow activities.
5. Medical Kit: Carry basic medicines for headache, nausea, fever, and cold.
Best Time to Visit Auli
- Winter (Dec to Feb): For snow and skiing
- Spring, from March to April, is a great time to visit if you enjoy trekking and want clear, breathtaking views of the mountains without the winter chill
- Avoid monsoons (July to Sept): Landslide-prone
🗓️ Best Time to Visit: Dec–Feb for snow, March–June for trekking
🚆 Nearest Railway: Haridwar
✈️ Nearest Airport: Dehradun
Why Auli Should Be On Your List
My trip to Auli from Bhimtal was more than just a journey—it was a personal retreat. The silence of the mountains, the thrill of snow sports, and the warmth of local people made this experience unforgettable. Unlike tourist-heavy places, Auli remains raw, real, and relaxing.
If you’re thinking about taking a trip like this, feel free to use my experience as a guide to plan your own adventure. Start from Nainital or Bhimtal, explore offbeat hill routes, and dive into the snow paradise called Auli. Trust me, every hour of the road trip is worth it.
If you enjoyed reading about my Auli journey, you might also like some of my other travel experiences. I’ve shared personal guides on Leh-Ladakh, Mussoorie, and Rishikesh—each offering a different flavor of the Himalayas, from the rugged beauty of Ladakh to the calm and spiritual charm of Rishikesh, and the misty hill vibes of Mussoorie. And of course, this detailed post on the Peaceful Auli Tour from Nainital/Bhimtal is part of that same love for slow, meaningful travel through the mountains. Each guide is based on my real experience, with routes, food tips, and things I wish I’d known earlier—so feel free to check those out when you plan your next getaway.
Pack your bags, prep your playlists, and let the mountains welcome you.
Been to Auli? Share your best snow moment in the comments!
Happy Traveling!
