Auli is nestled in the lap of snow-capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas, in the Chamoli district of Uttar Pradesh, 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.

16 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. The 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.

The rugged and snowy terrain of Auli is so challenging that it used to be a training ground for India’s Para-Military Forces in the 70’s. Realising the potential of Auli as a ski-resort, the Government of Uttar Pradesh had it surveyed by French and Australian experts who favourably compared the slopes of Auli to the best in the world. Auli is today a promising ski-spot and an ideal winter resort.

Apart from Skiing Festivals being held here since 1986, National Championships under the aegis of Winder Games Federation of India have been held at Auli with technical and other backup assistance provided by various government and adventure related agencies. Winter Games Federation of India have been providing technical and backup support.