
Auli, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, is a stunning hill station renowned for its pristine landscapes, snowy slopes, and panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas. It’s often referred to as the “skiing capital of India,” attracting adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're an avid skier or someone simply seeking tranquillity amid the mountains, Auli offers something for everyone. Below are nine iconic locations in Auli that you absolutely cannot miss, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and culture of the region.
1. Auli Ski Resort
Auli is renowned for its ski resort, offering excellent skiing conditions for both beginners and experienced skiers. The resort provides stunning views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, and surrounding peaks, making it a beautiful destination for adventure and sightseeing. In winter (December to February), Auli transforms into a snow-covered paradise, with activities like skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing drawing tourists worldwide. The resort is equipped with modern amenities, including ski lifts and a chairlift connecting the slopes to the town.
2. Gurso Bugyal
If you’re looking for a serene, lush meadow with panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks, Gurso Bugyal is a must-visit location. Situated about 3 kilometres from Auli, this beautiful alpine meadow is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling ski resort. It is an ideal spot for trekkers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers who wish to capture the splendour of the Himalayan ranges.
The meadows are dotted with wildflowers in the summer and provide an idyllic setting for a relaxed day out. In the backdrop, you can see the majestic Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Dunagiri peaks, which only add to the grandeur of the location. Gurso Bugyal is also accessible via a short trek, and the views along the way are as captivating as the destination itself.
3. Chenab Lake
Chenab Lake, located a little further from Auli, is one of the most stunning natural lakes in the region. The serene, crystal-clear waters of the lake are surrounded by dense forests and towering mountain peaks. The lake lies at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters above sea level, making it an offbeat and slightly challenging trek for adventurers.
While the trek to Chenab Lake is arduous, it is gratifying, offering a sense of solitude and an unmatched opportunity to connect with nature. It is also less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere where you can enjoy the pristine surroundings without any distractions.
4. Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint

Auli is known for offering some of the best views of the Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in India. The Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint is an iconic location that offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of this towering Himalayan peak, as well as several other majestic summits, including Kamet and Trishul. For those with a love for photography, this viewpoint is the perfect spot to capture the stunning vistas that stretch out before you.
Whether you visit in the winter, when the peaks are covered in snow, or in the summer, when the sky is clear and blue, the Nanda Devi Peak Viewpoint never fails to leave visitors speechless. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful moment of reflection or simply soaking in the vastness and beauty of the Himalayan range.
5. Auli Artificial Lake
The Auli Artificial Lake is a unique and remarkable feature of the area, located near the ski resort. This man-made lake was created to provide water for the artificial snow-making machines used at the resort during the ski season. The lake has since become a popular tourist attraction, offering picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery.
6. Joshimath
Joshimath, located around 16 kilometres from Auli, is an ancient and sacred town with rich cultural and religious significance. It serves as a base camp for travellers on their way to the Badrinath shrine, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. Joshimath offers a deep sense of spirituality and tranquillity, with many ancient temples and monasteries that attract pilgrims from across the country.
7. Kwani Bugyal
Kwani Bugyal is another stunning meadow located at a higher altitude than Gurso Bugyal, about 12 kilometres from Auli. This vast, untouched landscape is known for its verdant greenery during the summer and its captivating beauty throughout the year. It’s a favourite among trekkers, as the route to Kwani Bugyal passes through dense forests and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
8. Auli Ropeway
The Auli Ropeway is one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, offering tourists an aerial view of the entire town and its surrounding landscapes. It is one of the most convenient ways to reach Auli’s ski slopes, but it also doubles as a spectacular sightseeing experience. The ropeway ride offers sweeping views of the snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, and the picturesque Auli valley below.
During the winter season, the ropeway is the gateway to the ski slopes, while in the summer, it provides a unique vantage point to admire the pristine beauty of the region. Whether you’re in Auli for adventure sports or simply enjoying the views, a ride on the Auli Ropeway is an unforgettable experience.
9. Trekking Trails of Auli

Auli is a trekkers' paradise, offering several trekking trails that allow visitors to explore the pristine beauty of the region up close. Some of the popular trekking routes include the Auli-Gurso Bugyal trek, the Auli-Kwani Bugyal trek, and the Auli-Joshimath trek. These trails take you through dense forests, pristine meadows, and alpine terrain, providing breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and valleys.
Conclusion
Auli is a destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual serenity. From its iconic ski slopes to its peaceful meadows, stunning viewpoints, and rich cultural heritage, Auli is a place that promises to captivate all who visit. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone simply seeking a peaceful retreat in the Himalayas, Auli’s iconic locations provide an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.