Auli, the winter sport destination, is nestled in the peak of Garhwal hills in the Chamoli district of Uttaranchal. Situated 16 kms from
Joshimath, at an altitude of 2895 m, it is one of the most popular ski resorts in India. Auli's 7kms long sloped ranges with an elevation of
500m offers exciting skiing opportunities for both experienced skiers as well as beginners. The beautiful slopes covered with oak and
coniferous trees against the backdrop of lofty snow clad mountains, heightens the spirit of the skiers.
Auli can be reached by road or ropeway from Joshimath. Locally called trolley, this 500m long ski-lift system which is the longest cable car
in Asia, connects Joshimath with Gorson, above Auli. A short distance beyond Gorson lies the hill of Gorson Top, which provides an excellent
view of the giant mountain peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet and Dunagiri. From Gorson, an 800m long chair lift travels to the base lodge that
marks the starting point for all the ski runs. It is Auli's only chair lift that connects the lower slopes with the upper slopes. From there,
the skiers can ski down to enjoy almost 20 km of virgin slopes of the unexplored terrain and others can walk down through the snow capped
paths. Sliding down on skis at a speed of 20-40 Kms per hour, provide a thrilling experience.
Skiing and Tourist resort, run by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), provides accommodation as well as all other facilities to the tourist.
It has two snow-beaters imported from Germany which beat the snow to keep the slopes fit for skiing at all times.
Auli is the venue of the Indian winter games. This skier’s paradise is an active destination for the ski enthusiasts. GMVN offers
fortnight-long skiing courses for amateurs. This includes a 7 day non-certificate course and 14 days certificate skiing courses by qualified
instructors from Skiing and Tourist Resorts, Auli and Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Gulmarg. These courses are conducted
from the month of January to March. Special provisions for day tourists are also available.
All the skiing equipment are available with GMVN on hire including the most modern alpine skis, Nordic skis, gloves and goggles. As the
weather of Auli is really chilled, tourists are advised to bring woolen clothing, socks, wind-proof jackets etc. Medical facilities,
microwave telephones, wireless sets and walkie-talkies are also available. Another option for accommodation is the Cliff Top Club Resort.
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