Day 1: Explore Auli’s Scenic Side
8:00 AM: Start Your Day with Himalayan Views
Wake up early, enjoy a warm breakfast at your stay and step outside to admire the mountain landscape. On clear days, Auli offers spectacular views of Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks.
Take your time with morning photography, sip a cup of chai and enjoy the crisp mountain air before beginning your day’s exploration.
10:00 AM: Visit Auli Artificial Lake
One of the most popular places to visit in Auli is its artificial lake, surrounded by rolling mountain slopes. The tranquil setting makes it a wonderful stop for photography and a relaxed walk.
The landscape changes with the seasons. Summer brings green hillsides, while winter can transform the surroundings into a snowy scene.
11:30 AM: Take a Scenic Auli Ropeway Ride
The Auli ropeway experience is an attraction in its own right. Depending on operational status, the cable car offers sweeping views of forested slopes, mountain ridges and the surrounding valley.
Check current operating hours, ticket availability and weather conditions before planning your ride, as services can be affected by maintenance and adverse weather.
1:00 PM: Enjoy Local Food
After exploring, stop for lunch at a local restaurant or your accommodation. Look for simple North Indian meals, hot parathas, dal, seasonal vegetables and warming drinks.
If available, try regional Garhwali dishes to experience the flavours of Uttarakhand. Food options in Auli can be limited, so Joshimath is a useful alternative for a wider selection.
3:00 PM: Spend a Relaxed Afternoon in Nature
Instead of squeezing in another major attraction, explore the accessible walking paths around Auli. Observe the oak and conifer forests, photograph the mountain scenery or settle down at a viewpoint.
Return to your accommodation before dark and spend the evening enjoying a home-cooked dinner or a quiet conversation with your hosts.
Day 2: Trek Through Meadows and Discover Local Heritage
7:00 AM: Trek to Gorson Bugyal
For travellers who enjoy the outdoors, the Gorson Bugyal trek is one of the best things to do in Auli beyond skiing. The trail leads through forests of oak and conifers before opening into expansive alpine meadows with views of Himalayan peaks.
The walk is especially rewarding in spring and early summer, when the landscape becomes greener. Snow may cover sections of the trail during winter, so check local conditions and hire a guide when needed.
Allow around four to five hours for a relaxed round trip, depending on your starting point, pace and trail conditions. Carry water, snacks, warm layers and suitable footwear.
12:30 PM: Enjoy a Leisurely Lunch
Return from your trek and refuel with a hearty meal. A simple lunch followed by some rest will help you recover before heading towards Joshimath.
2:30 PM: Explore Joshimath’s Spiritual Heritage
Located below Auli, Joshimath offers a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the Garhwal Himalayas. Visit the Narsingh Temple, an important religious site associated with the region’s Badrinath pilgrimage traditions.
Walk through the town, browse local shops and observe everyday life in this mountain settlement. If you plan to visit additional temples, check opening hours and allow sufficient time for road travel.
5:00 PM: Return for a Peaceful Evening
Head back to your homestay or guesthouse for your final evening. Enjoy a warm drink, watch the changing colours of the mountains and unwind after two days of exploration.
Best Time to Visit Auli Beyond Skiing
March to May is ideal for pleasant weather and outdoor exploration, while September to November often offers refreshing post-monsoon landscapes and clear mountain views. Winter is beautiful too, but snow can affect hiking routes and accessibility.
Where to Stay in Auli
Choose a mountain-view homestay for a quiet retreat, or stay in Joshimath if you prefer easier access to shops, restaurants and local transport. With GharOnGo, explore stays that suit your travel style, whether you are planning a couple’s getaway, a family holiday or a nature-focused escape.
Auli is not just a winter destination. It is a place to walk through forests, discover Himalayan landscapes and reconnect with a slower way of travelling.