📞 +91 98738 97652·India's Trusted Travel Partner·
💵
Winter Special3 Nights / 4 Days🚐 Private AC Vehicle🏨 All Inclusive

Auli Snow Trip 3 Nights 4 Days Skiing & Gondola Package

Glide down Asia's finest ski slopes with Nanda Devi watching over you

★★★★★4.8 (47 reviews)
Starting From
₹9,500/ person
2,847+
HAPPY TRAVELERS
4.8/5
312 GOOGLE REVIEWS
100%
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
8+ YRS
INDIA TRAVEL EXPERTS
DURATION
3 Nights / 4 Days
DESTINATIONS
Joshimath · Auli · Gorson Bugyal
DEPARTURE
Daily from Haridwar / Delhi
DIFFICULTY
Easy to Moderate

About This Tour

High in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 2,519 metres, Auli is India's premier ski destination — and one of Asia's finest. This Auli Snow Trip 3 Nights 4 Days package from Haridwar takes you to a world of pristine powder snow, oak and conifer forests draped in white, and the most breathtaking mountain panorama in India: the great Himalayan wall of Nanda Devi (7,816 m), Kamet (7,756 m), Mana Peak, Dunagiri, Dronagiri, and Hathi-Ghodi Parvat stretching across the entire northern horizon.

The journey begins with a full-day scenic drive from Haridwar through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Chamoli — each confluence town more dramatic than the last — before reaching Joshimath, the gateway town and base for Auli. From Joshimath, board Asia's longest gondola ropeway — a 4.15-km cable car ride ascending from 1,890 m to 3,010 m in under 20 minutes — for a breathtaking aerial introduction to Auli's snowfields and the Himalayan giants beyond.

At the heart of this package is a full skiing and snowboarding day with certified instructors and complimentary basic equipment rental for one day. Whether you're a first-timer nervously finding your balance on the beginner slopes or an intermediate skier carving turns on longer runs, Auli's well-maintained 2.5-km main ski run (with 500 m vertical drop) is a pure delight. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) ski school operates India's most structured ski instruction programme here, and our package includes sessions with their certified instructors.

Beyond skiing, Auli offers some of the most spectacular alpine meadow walks in India. The Gorson Bugyal — a high-altitude meadow (3,056 m) blanketed in snow in winter and covered in wildflowers in summer — is a 3-km gentle hike from Auli. The Kuari Pass viewpoint trail offers perhaps the finest Himalayan panorama accessible on a day walk in all of India. A day trip to Badrinath (50 km from Joshimath) is also available as an optional add-on for those visiting during the temple's open season (May–November).

The package is equally compelling in summer (May–June) when the snow has melted to reveal rolling meadows carpeted with Brahmakamal and other Himalayan wildflowers, and the temperature at Auli hovers around a refreshing 10–15°C — a world away from the plains' punishing summer heat.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

DAY 1
Day 1 — Haridwar to Joshimath to Auli
📍 Approx. 275 km · 9–10 hrs drive (mountain roads)
Depart Haridwar early morning (5–6 AM) to make the most of daylight on this spectacular mountain highway. Drive alongside the Alaknanda River through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, and Chamoli — each river confluence sacred in Hindu tradition. Reach Joshimath by late afternoon. Board the iconic Joshimath–Auli gondola ropeway for a breathtaking 4.15-km aerial ride to Auli (subject to operational hours — road transfer available as alternative). Check in to your Auli hotel or GMVN resort. First views of the Himalayan panorama from your hotel. Early dinner and rest to acclimatise.
Early departure from HaridwarScenic Alaknanda valley driveConfluence towns — Devprayag, RudraprayagJoshimath–Auli gondola ropeway ride (4.15 km)First Himalayan panorama views at Auli
DAY 2
Day 2 — Skiing & Snowboarding at Auli
📍 Full ski day with instruction and equipment
Rise early for the magic of sunrise over Nanda Devi — the gold light on the peak is one of India's great natural spectacles. After breakfast, gear up at the ski centre: your package includes one day of basic ski equipment rental (skis, boots, poles, and helmet) and group instruction with a certified GMVN ski instructor. Beginners start on the gentle nursery slopes progressing to the main 2.5-km run. Intermediate skiers head straight for the longer trails. Afternoon free skiing / snowboarding. If snow conditions are marginal, the instructor will guide alternative snow activities — snow tubing, snowball battles, and photography on the snowfields.
Sunrise over Nanda Devi (7,816 m)Certified ski instructor sessionsSki equipment rental included (1 day)Snowboarding availableMain 2.5-km ski run with 500m vertical dropSnow photography on Auli meadows
DAY 3
Day 3 — Gorson Bugyal Trek & Kuari Pass Viewpoint
📍 Moderate 6–8 km round-trip hike
Today's focus is on Auli's spectacular high-altitude meadows. After breakfast, begin the 3-km gentle hike to Gorson Bugyal (3,056 m) through dense oak and rhododendron forest. In winter the meadow is a silent snowfield; in summer it erupts in wildflowers. Continue on a clear trail to the Kuari Pass viewpoint ridge for a jaw-dropping 270-degree panorama of the central Himalayan range — Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghodi Parvat, and the Neelkanth peak above Badrinath all visible on clear days. Return to Auli by early afternoon. Optional second gondola ride for sunset views over the Himalayan wall.
Gorson Bugyal alpine meadow hikeKuari Pass viewpoint panoramaCentral Himalayan range 270° viewDense rhododendron and oak forestOptional sunset gondola ride
DAY 4
Day 4 — Return to Haridwar
📍 Morning departure · long scenic drive back
Last sunrise views over the Himalayas before checking out. Depart Auli/Joshimath after breakfast and begin the scenic return drive through the Alaknanda valley. Brief stop at any major river confluence or temple of your choice en route (Rudraprayag, Devprayag, or Rishikesh). Arrive Haridwar by evening. Your Junegiri Yatra trip manager will assist with onward bookings from Haridwar if required.
Final Himalayan sunrise at AuliScenic return drive via Alaknanda valleyOptional stop at Devprayag or RishikeshDrop-off at Haridwar / Delhi

What's Included

✓ Included

3 nights accommodation in Auli / Joshimath hotel or GMVN resort in selected category
Daily breakfast and dinner at hotel
Private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers (Haridwar–Joshimath–Auli–Haridwar)
Joshimath–Auli gondola ropeway tickets (round trip)
Basic ski equipment rental for 1 day (skis, boots, poles, helmet)
Group ski instruction session with certified GMVN instructor (1 day)
Gorson Bugyal and Kuari Pass trek with guide
All toll taxes, parking fees, and driver allowances
24/7 Junegiri Yatra trip manager support

✗ Not Included

Train / flight tickets to and from Haridwar
Lunch on all days
Additional days of ski equipment rental beyond included day
Snowboard rental (available on-site at extra cost)
Badrinath day trip (available as optional add-on — ₹2,000 extra per vehicle)
Advanced ski course fees beyond basic instruction
Personal expenses, tips, and shopping
Travel insurance
Any activity not listed in inclusions
GST as applicable

Package Pricing

All prices in Indian Rupees (INR) · International visitors see converted price above

Group SizeStandardDeluxeSuper deluxeLuxury
2 Pax (Sedan)13,00017,50022,00030,000
4 Pax (Sedan)11,00014,50018,50025,000
6 Pax (Tempo Traveller)9,50012,50016,00022,000

Photo Gallery

What Travelers Say

★★★★★
First time skiing in my life and Junegiri Yatra made it so easy — the instructor was patient and the slopes were perfect for beginners. The view of Nanda Devi while skiing is something I'll never forget!
Deepak Joshi
Pune
★★★★★
We visited in late January and the snow was perfect. The gondola ride alone was worth the entire trip. Gorson Bugyal in snow is like walking inside a painting. Exceptional arrangements by the team.
Kavita Ranganathan
Mumbai
★★★★★
Our group of 6 had an absolute blast. The GMVN resort at Auli had stunning mountain views right from the room window. Skiing was thrilling and the Kuari Pass viewpoint hike was breathtaking.
Manish Agarwal
Jaipur

Complete Travel Guide to Auli — India's Premier Ski Destination

Tucked into the upper reaches of the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand, Auli sits at an elevation of 2,519 metres and has earned a worldwide reputation as India's finest ski destination. Flanked by dense forests of oak, conifer, and rhododendron and backed by an unbroken panorama of the Central Himalayan range — including Nanda Devi (India's second-highest peak at 7,816 m), Kamet, Mana, Hathi-Ghodi Parvat, and Dronagiri — Auli offers an alpine experience that rivals ski resorts in the Alps and the Rockies for sheer mountain grandeur, at a fraction of the cost.

Why Auli Is India's Best Ski Destination

Auli's ski terrain spans approximately 500 hectares with a main ski run of 2.5 km and a vertical drop of 500 metres. The north-facing slopes receive consistent snowfall from December through March, and the altitude ensures powder snow quality. What truly sets Auli apart from other Indian ski areas (Gulmarg, Solang Valley, Mundali) is its combination of factors: excellent ski infrastructure operated by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), a certified ski school with trained instructors, a sophisticated artificial snow-making system as backup, and the jaw-dropping Himalayan backdrop that accompanies every run. The National Skiing and Snowboarding Championships have been held here since 1987, a testament to the quality of the terrain.

The Joshimath–Auli Gondola: Asia's Longest Ropeway

The Joshimath–Auli gondola ropeway is not merely transport — it is one of India's great aerial experiences. Stretching 4.15 km from Joshimath (1,890 m) to the Auli ski area top station (3,010 m), the cable car climbs 1,120 m of vertical elevation in 20–25 minutes. The cabins hold 8–12 passengers and offer unobstructed views of the snow-draped Auli slopes, the Alaknanda valley far below, and the towering Himalayan wall that seems almost close enough to touch. The ropeway operates daily (weather permitting) and the return ride at sunset — when the peaks glow amber and rose — is truly unforgettable. An alternative road route (8 km via Auli road from Joshimath) exists for those who prefer to travel by vehicle.

Skiing and Snow Activities

Auli's ski season runs from November through March, with peak season in January–February when snowfall is heaviest and slopes are best maintained. The main 2.5-km slope begins at the top station and descends through gentle gradient sections, making it accessible to beginners and intermediate skiers. The GMVN ski school runs group and private lessons at all levels. Equipment rental includes skis, boots, poles, and helmets and is available on-site. Snowboarding is fully supported on the main slopes. Other snow activities include snow tubing, snow sledging, and snowshoeing on the forest trails. Auli also has a ski lift (surface lift) and a shorter practice slope for absolute beginners separate from the main run.

Beyond Skiing: Auli in All Seasons

While Auli is synonymous with winter skiing, the destination is spectacular in every season. May and June see the meadows erupt in wildflowers — Brahmakamal, Himalayan primrose, anemone, and dozens of other species carpet the slopes. Temperatures hover at a pleasant 10–18°C, making Auli a premium summer retreat from the Indian plains. The Gorson Bugyal (3,056 m) and Tapovan meadow walks are stunning year-round, and the Kuari Pass (3,641 m) — historically known as Lord Curzon's Trail — offers one of the most celebrated day-hike viewpoints in the Garhwal Himalayas. In autumn (September–October) the oak and rhododendron forests turn amber and gold, and clear skies provide the clearest Himalayan views of the year.

Joshimath — Base Town and Gateway

Joshimath (1,890 m) is the essential base for Auli and also an important pilgrimage hub. It is one of the four Maths established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century — the Jyotirmath — and houses the important Narsingh Temple. Joshimath also serves as the winter seat of the Lord Badrinath idol, brought here during Diwali each year when the Badrinath shrine closes for winter. The town has good hotel infrastructure and is the last major urban settlement before the high Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, and the Valley of Flowers.

Important Planning Notes

The Rishikesh–Joshimath highway is a major national highway maintained year-round, but winter travel (December–February) requires flexibility — snowfall above Chamoli can cause 2–6 hour delays. Always depart Haridwar by 5–6 AM for a comfortable same-day arrival at Auli. Carry warm layered clothing, waterproof outer layers, and UV sunglasses (snow glare at high altitude is intense). Auli sits at 2,519–3,050 m — altitude sickness is rare but possible; avoid alcohol on day one and hydrate well. Mobile connectivity is available via Jio and BSNL through most of the route, though signals can be intermittent between Chamoli and Joshimath. Auli itself has reasonable 4G coverage on main networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

No prior skiing experience is required. Our package includes a certified ski instructor who will teach you from the basics — how to balance, glide, stop, and turn on beginner slopes. Most first-timers are comfortably skiing independently on gentle runs by the end of their first lesson. If you are an intermediate or advanced skier, please let us know in advance and we'll arrange for appropriate slope assignments and instruction levels.

Auli receives natural snowfall from December through February/early March, with January being the peak snowfall month. However, natural snowfall cannot be guaranteed on any specific date. Auli's skiing authority also operates one of India's few artificial snow-making systems, which maintains ski slopes when natural snow is insufficient. The best strategy is to book for January or early February to maximise your chances. We'll provide current snow condition updates closer to your travel date.

The Rishikesh–Joshimath highway (NH58/NH7) is a major national highway maintained year-round by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and NHAI. It remains open throughout winter, though occasional snowfall above Chamoli can cause temporary delays. Our drivers are highly experienced on mountain winter roads and we carry snow chains. In case of road blockages due to heavy snowfall or landslides, we reroute or reschedule at no extra cost. We advise a travel insurance policy that covers trip disruptions for winter travel.

If snow is absent or inadequate (typically April–November), Auli transforms into a stunning alpine meadow destination. Gorson Bugyal and Kuari Pass hikes are arguably even more beautiful in spring and summer when carpeted in Himalayan wildflowers. The gondola ride remains spectacular year-round. You can also do the Kuari Pass multi-day trek (3–4 days), paragliding at Auli, mountain biking, camping, or add a Badrinath/Valley of Flowers/Hemkund Sahib day trip. Summer visits (May–June) are popular for families wanting cool weather without the winter road challenges.

Badrinath Dham (50 km from Joshimath) is accessible only during its open season, typically early May to early November (exact dates announced by the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee each year). The shrine is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall at its elevation of 3,133 m. If you are visiting during the open season, we offer a Badrinath day trip as an optional add-on for ₹2,000 extra per vehicle. During the winter ski season (December–March), Badrinath is not accessible.

Essential items include: thermal inner layers (top and bottom), heavy woollen sweaters or fleece mid-layers, a waterproof outer jacket and ski/snow pants, waterproof gloves and warm socks (wool recommended), a warm hat or balaclava covering ears, waterproof snow boots with ankle support, UV-protection sunglasses (sun reflection off snow is intense), high SPF sunscreen and lip balm, and basic medicines. You do NOT need to bring ski equipment as helmets, skis, boots, and poles are included for one day. Additional rental days are available on-site.

The Joshimath–Auli gondola (ropeway) is 4.15 km long — Asia's longest — and takes approximately 20–25 minutes. It rises from 1,890 m in Joshimath to 3,010 m at the Auli top station, covering a vertical gain of 1,120 m. The gondola is operated by GMVN and was built and is maintained by international specialists. It carries 8–12 passengers per cabin and operates from approximately 8 AM to 5 PM daily (weather dependent). The ride is perfectly safe and provides spectacular aerial views of oak forests, snow slopes, and the Himalayan wall.

Yes, children above the age of 6 can participate in skiing at Auli with certified instruction on the nursery slopes. The ski school has specific children's programmes. Children below 12 should always be accompanied by an adult during skiing. The gondola ropeway is suitable for all ages. For very young children (under 6), we recommend the summer trip (May–June) when the meadow walks and gondola rides are appropriate for all ages without the cold-weather challenges.

Ready to Book?

WhatsApp us for instant confirmation, custom dates, and group pricing.

📱 WhatsApp +91 98738 97652