Auli

Auli is a comparatively recent addition to the tourist map of India. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand among snow capped mountains, this small town is fast becoming one of the major tourist attractions of Uttarakhand. The main attraction of Auli is skiing. It is considered by many to be the best skiing slope found in Asia. Skiing in India is catching up as a popular winter sport. The vast snow-capped landscape and the perfect slopes flanked by oak and coniferous forests make Auli an ideal destination for skiing enthusiasts. November to March is usually the skiing season in Auli.

The landscape of Auli is a visual treat with the Nanda Devi peak standing tall amongst the mountains facing the snowy slopes. The Hathigauri, Neelkanth, Comet and Eravath mountains present a spectacular panoramic view from Auli. The area offers splendid trekking routes to adventure lovers. A ropeway from Joshimath to Auli is one of the longest in India, extending to 4.15 kilometers. Auli is also the venue for the National Winter games in the months of February and March. Among the other interesting aspects of Auli is the grazing land spread over 6 kilomteres, known as Byugal in the local language. A large number of colorful flowers blossom during the monsoon.

The population of Auli in Uttarakhand is composed of Tibetans belonging to the Bhotiya ethnic group. Hinduism is the chief religion practiced here.

There are many scenic and interesting spots around Auli. Joshimath, also called Jyotirmath is the site of one of the four religious centers established by the Hindu religious saint Adi Shankara. Badrinath, and Hemkunda sahib are among the famous religious centers located close to Auli. The valley of flowers is known for the colorful flowers that blossom there.

Pithoragarh is another important tourist destination near Auli. Pilgrims to Kailash Manasarovar trek through this scenic town. The town of Bageshwar has many historic temples including the Baijnath temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas. Almora is another important district near Auli. It is famous for many old temples.

The small hill station of Auli in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand is fast becoming one of the major tourist attractions in North India. It is already being hailed as the best skiing slope in Asia , and one of the best in the world. Winter sports are becoming increasingly popular in this ski resort. The area also offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat and Dunagiri. The major tourist attraction in Auli is surely its skiing slopes. The slopes reach up to a height of 9000 feet above sea level, and the oak and deodar forests offer just the kind of resistance to wind that is required in a perfect skiing slope.

There are other interesting tourist attractions in and around Auli. The Gurso Bugyal is a vast meadow spread among forests of Oak and other trees. The Chattrakund, is located just a kilometer away from here. It is the location of a small sweet water lake by the same name. Saildhar Tapovan is the location of many hot water springs. The place is situated on the Joshimath road, about 15 kilometers from Auli. Chenab Lake , Vanshinarayan Kalpeshwar, and Bhavishya Badri, are some of the nearby places of interest.

Joshimath is the nearest town and has historic significance. It is home to one of the four centers of learning, or pithas established by Guru Adi Shankaracharya in India. A long ropeway, (4.15 kilometers) connects Joshimath and Auli and is one of the longest ropeways in India. Badrinath and Hemkunda Sahib are the other two famous pilgrimage centers located near Auli. Pithoragarh is an important tourist destination as it is known as the gateway to the Himalayas. The pilgrims to the famous Kailasa Manas Sarovar Lake have to pass through Pithoragarh. Baijnath temple in Bageswar is believed to have been built by the Pandavas.

Almora is an important town with its historical significance and many quaint temples. The Rudreshwar Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shivga and is a major tourist attraction in Almora. The town is also known as the cultural center of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand. The valley of flowers is a world famous nature retreat known for the colorful flowers that blossom there during spring. Many Fairs and festivals are also included among the tourist attractions in Auli. The winter games are held here during February and March and are becoming increasingly popular among tourists.