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Auli
is nestled in the lap of snow-capped peaks of
the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Chamoli district
of Uttaranchal india, and near the world-famous
religious shrine of Badrinath. At an altitude of
2,500 to 3,050 meters above sea level, Auli’s
well-dressed slopes are flanked by coniferous
and oak forests, which offer a panoramic view of
Mountains If you are out for adventure, fun and
frolic this winter, find yourself in Auli, in
the vicinity of the
mountain peaks Nanda Devi and Mana Parbat.
Feel the rush of air on your face, blaze a
defiant trail as you go skiing on the
well-dressed snow slopes. Or pelt each other
with snow-balls on a blanket of snow. And if
you’re a lover of natural splendour let your
eyes feast on the breathtaking view of
snow-capped peaks all around you. A16 km from
Joshimath and accessible by a good motorable
road, is the ideal ski resort of Auli with its
slopes comparable to the best in the world. The
resort is run by GMVN, which, apart from
providing accommodation also provides all
facilities for skiing. The season extends from
January to March during which time skiing
festivals and the National Championships are
held. he Auli slopes, descending from 3049
meters to 2915 meters are flanked by stately
conifers and oaks, which cut wind velocity to
the minimum. Adding to the thrill of skiing is a
180 degree view of Himalayan peaks,which include
Nanda Devi (7817 meters), Kamet (7756 meters),
Mana Parvat (7273 meters) and Dunagiri (7066
meters), seemingly only a snowballs throw away.
The conditions for skiing are perfect at Auli. A
500 meters long ski-lift and an 800 meters long
chair-lift link the upper and lower slopes, and
snow beaters and snow-packing machines maintain
the smoothness of the slopes. Skiers can enjoy
almost 20 kms of virgin slopes, which provide
excellent opportunities for cross-country,
slalom and down-hill skiing events.
Auli
has now become a leading tourist spot. While its
slopes beckon daring and gallant skiing
enthusiasts, its pristine natural beauty and its
alpine atmosphere lure many tourists. A haven
for those who want to escape the humdrum of
everyday life, conquer their fear of heights,
savour nature in its purest form or just throw
snowballs at each other.
Season : End December to March
Accessibility
Air : For those travelling by air, the
nearest airport is at Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun)
273 km from Joshimath, 17 km from Rishikesh
Rail : Coming from any part of India, the
nearest rail head is Haridwar 299 km from Auli.
Road : Auli is only a13 km drive from
Joshimath. State transport and Union buses play
regularly between Joshimath and Rishikesh (253
kms). Local Transport Union buses and State
Transport buses operate between Joshimath and
Rishikesh (253 km), Haridwar (277 km), Dehradun
(298 km) and Delhi (500 km). From Joshimath
onwards, both bus and taxi services are
available for Auli. Deluxe coaches can also be
arranged with prior notice for the group of 15
people or more.
Cable Car : The most popular way to drop
in at Auli is by the famed cable car service
which runs for 3 kms. Travelling by the
rope-way, it is impossible to resist the captive
beauty of the snow covered peaks, the alpine
forest and the bracing climate. |