Auli
Auli is a
beautiful hill station situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India.
It is located at an elevation of around 2,800 meters above sea level and is
known for its breath-taking views of the Himalayas, snow-covered peaks, and ski
slopes.
History
Auli has
become a popular tourist destination in recent years. However, the history of
Auli dates back to ancient times. The name “Auli” is derived from the
local language, meaning meadow. It is said that Auli was once the training
ground for the brave soldiers of the Gurkha regiment. The region was also known
for its rich biodiversity, and it was home to several indigenous communities.
During
the colonial period, the British recognized the potential of Auli as a hill
station and established a small settlement in the area. However, it was only
after India gained independence in 1947 that Auli began to develop as a tourist
destination. The Indian government recognized the potential of the region for
winter sports and began to invest in the development of infrastructure and
facilities for skiing.
In the
1980s, Auli hosted the first South Asian Winter Games, which brought
international attention to the region. Since then, Auli has hosted several
national and international skiing events, including the National Winter Games.
Today,
Auli is a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the
world. The hill station is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas,
including Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in India. Tourists can enjoy
skiing, trekking, camping, and other adventure activities in Auli. The region
is also known for its vibrant culture, including traditional dances, music, and
festivals.
In recent
years, Auli has faced several challenges due to climate change, including
reduced snowfall and the melting of glaciers. However, efforts are underway to
preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region while promoting
sustainable tourism.
Auli has
a rich history that spans several centuries, from ancient times to the present
day. As a popular tourist destination and a hub of winter sports, Auli
continues to attract visitors from around the world, who come to experience the
natural beauty, adventure, and culture of this stunning hill station.
Culture
Auli also
has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. In this blog, we will
delve into the various aspects of Auli’s culture and traditions.
1.
Festivals and Celebrations: Auli is a melting pot
of cultures, and the locals celebrate various festivals throughout the year.
The most significant festival is the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, which takes
place once every 12 years. It is a pilgrimage to the Nanda Devi Temple in Nauti
village and is celebrated with great pomp and show. Other festivals celebrated
in Auli include Holi, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti.
2.
Music and Dance: Music and dance are an integral part of
Auli’s culture. The folk music of the region is characterized by its simplicity
and rustic charm. The locals perform various traditional dances such as Langvir
Nritya, Pandav Nritya, and Chauphula.
3.
Cuisine: The cuisine of Auli is heavily influenced by the Garhwal
region of Uttarakhand. The local cuisine is simple, nutritious, and delicious.
Some of the popular dishes include Kafuli (a spinach-based gravy), Phaanu (a
lentil-based dish), and Baadi (a type of bread made from locally grown grains).
4.
Handicrafts: Auli is famous for its intricate wood
carvings and woolen textiles. The locals are skilled artisans who create
beautiful handicrafts such as wooden toys, baskets, and woolen shawls. The
handicrafts of Auli reflect the region’s cultural heritage and are highly
valued by tourists.
5.
Traditional Sports: Auli is known for its skiing facilities, and
skiing is a popular sport in the region. However, the locals also indulge in
traditional sports such as Gulli Danda and Kite Flying. These sports are a
great way to connect with the local culture and learn about the region’s
traditions.
Auli is
not just a beautiful hill station but also a place with a rich cultural
heritage. From festivals and music to cuisine and handicrafts, Auli has a lot
to offer in terms of cultural experiences. A visit to Auli is not complete
without exploring its cultural side, and we hope this blog has given you a
glimpse into the region’s vibrant culture.
How
to reach
If you
are planning to visit Auli, here are the different ways you can reach there:
1.
By Air: The nearest airport to Auli is the Jolly Grant Airport in
Dehradun, which is around 286 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or
take a bus to reach Auli.
2.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Auli is in
Haridwar, which is around 273 km away. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or
take a bus to reach Auli.
3.
By Road: Auli is well-connected by road with major cities like
Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to
reach Auli from these cities. The distance from Delhi to Auli is around 500 km
and takes around 12-13 hours to reach.
Once you
reach Auli, there are several things to do and places to visit.
Places
to visit
Here are some places in Auli you should not miss:
1.
Auli Ropeway: Auli Ropeway is one of the major attractions
of Auli. It is the second-longest ropeway in Asia and offers breath-taking
views of the Himalayan range. The ropeway takes you to a height of 3010 meters
and offers a panoramic view of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dronagiri, and other peaks.
2.
Gurso Bugyal: Gurso Bugyal is a beautiful meadow situated
at a distance of 3 km from Auli. It is surrounded by dense forests of oak and
coniferous trees and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is an ideal
place for trekking and camping.
3.
Chenab Lake: Chenab Lake is a picturesque lake situated at
a distance of 3 km from Auli. It is surrounded by dense forests and offers
stunning views of the Himalayas. It is an ideal place for picnicking and
boating.
4.
Nanda Devi National Park: Nanda Devi National Park is a UNESCO
World Heritage Site situated at a distance of 24 km from Auli. It is known for
its rich flora and fauna and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is an
ideal place for trekking and wildlife spotting.
5.
Trishul Peak: Trishul Peak is a popular trekking
destination situated at a distance of 23 km from Auli. It is one of the highest
peaks in the Himalayas and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
6.
Joshimath: Joshimath is a popular pilgrimage destination
situated at a distance of 12 km from Auli. It is known for its ancient temples
and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is an ideal place for spiritual
retreats.
7.
Auli Artificial Lake: Auli Artificial Lake is a man-made lake
situated at a distance of 3 km from Auli. It is surrounded by dense forests and
offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is an ideal place for picnicking and
boating.
8.
Kuari Pass Trek: Kuari Pass Trek is a popular trekking
destination situated at a distance of 33 km from Auli. It offers stunning views
of the Himalayas and is an ideal place for adventure enthusiasts.
9.
Badrinath Temple: Badrinath Temple is a popular pilgrimage
destination situated at a distance of 60 km from Auli. It is one of the four
sacred shrines in Hinduism and is known for its ancient architecture.
Auli is a
beautiful hill station that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a
nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Auli has something
to offer to you.
Accommodation
Finding
the right accommodation is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable
stay. We will discuss the various types of accommodation options available in
Auli.
1.
Hotels: Auli has a range of hotels to suit all budgets, from
luxury to budget hotels. Some of the popular hotels in Auli include the
Clifftop Club, The Royal Village, and the Auli Resort.
2.
Resorts: Auli has several resorts that offer a range of amenities
and activities. Some of the popular resorts include the Himalayan Eco Lodge,
Auli Ski & Mountain Resort, and the GMVN Ski Resort.
3.
Guest Houses: If you are looking for a more affordable
option, guest houses in Auli are a good choice. Some of the popular guest
houses include the Joshimath Tourist Bungalow, Nanda Devi Lodge, and The Tattva
Resort.
4.
Homestays: Homestays are becoming increasingly popular
in Auli. They offer a more authentic experience, where you can stay with a
local family and experience their way of life. Some of the popular homestays in
Auli include the Auli Homestay, The Snow City Homestay, and the Himalayan Abode
Homestay.
5.
Camping: If you are an adventure lover, camping is an excellent
option. Auli has several camping sites that offer stunning views of the
Himalayas. Some of the popular camping sites include the Auli Camping Site,
Chopta Camping Site, and the Gurson Bugyal Camping Site.
Auli
offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences.
Whether you are looking for luxury hotels or budget guesthouses, there is
something for everyone in Auli. Additionally, homestays and camping sites offer
a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture
and surroundings.
Conclusion
Auli is a
beautiful hill station that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a
nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway,
Auli is a destination that you must visit at least once.
Bonus – Auli in Winter
