Auli-India’s Mini Switzerland, SnowSki Glides Adrenaline Rush
Epinephrine-fueled adventure freaks can experience winter by skiing at their all-time favourite destination, Auli. A winter dream that is waiting to be experienced and lived.A sport that is closer to the heart for many adventure sport lovers. Swaddled in shimmery snow and the shush of cold mountain air, it’s an experience one cannot miss exploring in Auli. With each jump and glide, you will feel the thrill of the chase and rediscover your childlike self.
Auli in the Himalayas is one such dream to be at. It’s called the “Switzerland of India. It falls in the state of Uttarakhand. It has some fantastic panoramic mountains that are snow-covered. Safe slopes to glide down that give great opportunities for skiing, snowboarding. In summer, you can explore the forest with nature walks and trek up to climb peaks.
In the early years of its history, it was a natural grazing meadow for the Bhotia tribes. In the 8th century, Guru Adi Shankaracharya visited Auli. It’s also a training ground for the Indo-Tibetan Border police. In 1958, Trishul Peak was the site of a ski expedition. It was later developed as a ski resort in the 1980s. The first-ever ropeway was built in 1993. Also known as Auli Bugyal (Meadow) in Garhwali. The Bhotia tribe used to raise their yaks and sheep.
Mountaineers take up to 4 days to climb the Trishul peak, which is 23,490 feet and ski down in just 90 minutes. Auli is a well-developed ski resort now. National and international skiing competitions and events are organised here. Enthusiasts across the world participate in these events.
You can experience the alpine-like landscapes and roll through snow slopes and lush green meadows. It’s breathtaking views of the Himalayas, like the Nanda Devi, Dunagiri and Trishul. The weather up there is quite harsh, but the locals are totally cool about it with their resilience and strength. They feast on ragi and lentils, which are rich in energy and well-suited to the climate. You can also enjoy the local meals and not miss the Kachmauli, Madua roti with Gahat ki Daal.
This community has adapted to the mountain lifestyle. They widely speak Hindi, English and Garhwali. Many locals have business apt for mountain tourism, like guides, adventure instructors, home stay owners, shops, etc. This will give you a close encounter and a peek into their culture and life. You will come across Malari, an Old Himalayan Village that offers a look into the traditional culture.
Auli Lake is a site to visit. It’s the world’s highest man-made lake for artificial snow in winter. It is absolutely stunning in the Himalayan snow-covered peaks. It is a complete delight for photographers. It’s also a launchpad for trekkers to go to Kuari Pass and Gorson Bugyal. You can either walk or trek up to it or take the chair lift, which is provided by the tourism department. Also Auli to Joshimath cable ride is another breathtaking experience.
Kamet is the second-highest peak of the Garhwal region. It has slopes and a great view of the Himalayas. From Auli, you can enjoy the sunset and sunrise of Kamet.
Nanda Devi National Park is in Auli. If you’re lucky, you will spot some snow leopard, Himalayan musk deer, Asiatic black bears and bharal. But yes, this needs some planning, trekking and a permit(from park authorities) is required as there are certain restrictions on going to certain areas and the group size.
You will also come across to camp and walk through the forests full of oak and coniferous trees and meadows. So definitely a winter if you want to ski, so visit January to March and if you like it pleasant, then drop by during October to March.
Pack your Snow shoes and rush to Auli
You can reach Joshimath, which is the base and starting point. You can first come to Dehradun or Rishikesh either by flight, bus, car, or train. From Joshimath, you need to take the ropeway or take a taxi to Auli. Definitely try stayingat a local gharwali homestay and live an Auli Life.
