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3,050 m (10,000 ft) Easy Chamoli, Garhwal

Auli Snow View Trek

A delightful snow and meadow walk above India’s premier ski resort of Auli, offering panoramic vistas of Nanda Devi and surrounding Greater Himalayan spires.

Summit Altitude 3,050 m (10,000 ft) Highest elevation
Expedition Duration 4 Days Easy grade
Trail Distance 10 km Base camp: Auli / Joshimath
Best Season December to March (Winter Snow) & April–June Garhwal Himalaya

Trail Overview & Topography

The Auli Snow View Trek is an idyllic winter trail beginning from the famous ski resort of Auli in Chamoli district. Standing between 2,800m and 3,050m, this trek is tailored for beginners, families, and leisure travelers who want to experience snow walking and alpine views without strenuous climbing.

Winding past the sparkling artificial lake of Auli, the path passes through conifer forests of blue pine, deodar, and oak before opening out onto the gentle undulating snowfields of Gorson Bugyal.

On clear winter days, the massive profile of Nanda Devi (7,816m) dominates the horizon alongside Dunagiri, Hathi-Ghodi, and Mana peaks, creating one of the most photographed vistas in Uttarakhand.

High-Altitude Preparedness & Leave No Trace

Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.

Peaks Visible on Trail

Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Auli Snow View Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:

Nanda Devi
Dunagiri
Hathi Parbat
Kamet
Mana

Day-by-Day Expedition Itinerary

Day 1

Rishikesh to Joshimath (Drive 255 km)

Drive via Alaknanda valley.

Day 2

Joshimath to Auli (Cable car or drive) & Trek around Auli Lake (4 km)

Ride the famous ropeway and explore Auli ski slopes.

Day 3

Auli to Gorson Bugyal viewpoint (3,050m) & Return (6 km)

Trek across glistening snowfields facing Nanda Devi.

Day 4

Joshimath to Rishikesh (Drive 255 km)

Return drive.

Expedition Gear & Packing Checklist

Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:

Footwear & Poles
  • High-ankle waterproof trekking boots
  • Microspikes / crampons (winter/spring)
  • 4 pairs merino wool & synthetic socks
  • Adjustable anti-shock trekking poles
Clothing & Layering
  • Thermal base-layer tops & bottoms
  • High-loft down jacket (-10°C rated)
  • Windproof & waterproof hardshell
  • Waterproof insulated gloves & fleece beanie
Pack & Essentials
  • 50-65L rucksack with rain cover
  • 250+ lumen headlamp with spare batteries
  • UV Category 3/4 polarized sunglasses
  • Insulated thermos flask (1L)
Medical & Acclimatization
  • Diamox (AMS prophylaxis if prescribed)
  • Oral rehydration salts & electrolyte tablets
  • Moleskin & blister prevention dressings
  • Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) & lip balm

How to Reach the Base Camp

The trailhead for Auli Snow View Trek originates from Auli / Joshimath in Chamoli district (Garhwal region).

  • By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) for Garhwal trails or Pantnagar Airport for Kumaon treks. Pre-paid taxis and rental cabs connect onwards to the base camp.
  • By Rail: Major transit railheads include Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Kathgodam, connecting directly to Delhi and major Indian metros.
  • By Road: State transport buses (UTC) and private shared jeeps operate regular morning schedules towards mountain bases like Joshimath, Uttarkashi, Sari, Sankri, or Dharchula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ski rentals and beginner lessons are readily available in Auli between January and March.

By motor road (14 km) or via the famous 4-km cable car ropeway.

Yes, it is very gentle and non-strenuous.

3,050 meters (10,000 feet).

Nanda Devi, Dunagiri, Hathi-Ghodi, and Kamet.

Heavy winter jacket, thermals, snow boots or waterproof shoes, gloves, and sunglasses.

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