Hey explorer, 

Remember the Himalayas? I know you might argue, but trust me, smiles spread immediately, relaxing becomes a breath, and I feel so happy that I do not get with any other site every time I see them. 

I know it's been a while since we explored something in the Himalayan lands, and I got you a unique place today in the Himalayan range. Yes, it is a place we haven't heard much of or seen before. That is Auli in Uttrakhand. 

Why Auli?

Imagine waking up in a world, a land full of wildflowers - lilies, poppies, and daisies stretching as far as your eye can see. Or picture yourself trying one of those winter games you have been Instagraming and wondering how it feels to be playing it. Well, that is Auli. 

Man, the beauty of this site explodes in the autumn - the peaceful setting sun, the fresh and chilly Himalayan air, the slowly falling leaves, the new buds on trees, and a cup of chai sitting on a picnic blanket on this tall mountain with amazing views of surroundings is all you will need for this life. 

Overview

Auli's past is relatively recent compared to other Himalayan settlements. Initially used as a cantonment for paramilitary forces, the world identified the potential for winter sports in the 1930s, and it became an exclusive winter tourism destination in the latter half of the 20th century after 1947. 

Auli sits amidst the robust Garhwal Himalayas at 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level, with stunning panoramic views, while coniferous and oak forests cover the slopes, creating a refreshing and scenic aura. 

Known for warm hospitality and deep connection to the mountains, the Garhwali culture blossoms in Auli. While traditional music and dance are integral parts of the Garhwali culture, you can see it through interacting with locals, participating in their events, and exploring sites. 

One of the best things about Auli is that locals use Hindi as their primary mode of communication. Although people understand English, especially in the hospitality and service sectors, you should learn a few common phrases in Hindi to bridge the communication gap. 

- Yahin (यहीं): Here
- Kripya (कृपया): Please
- Yahan se (यहाँ से): From here
- Dhanyavad (धन्यवाद): Thank you
- Khoobsurat (खूबसूरत): Beautiful
- Garam pani (गर्म पानी): Hot water
- Namaste (नमस्ते): Hello (formal greeting)
- Khamma (खाम): Hello (informal greeting)
- Theek ho (ठीक हो)? How are you? (informal)
- Aap kaise hain (आप कैसे हैं)? How are you? (formal)
- Kahan jaana hai (कहाँ जाना है)? Where are you going?
- Ye kitne ka hai (ये कितने का है)? How much does this cost?
- Bahut achha laga (बहुत अच्छा लगा): I enjoyed it very much.
- Wapas aana (वापस आना): Come again (polite way to say goodbye)
- Ek cup chai mil sakti hai (एक कप चाय मिल सकती है)? Can I get a cup of tea?

Auli's climate varies in every season. Winters are best for several winter games. Summers are best for outdoor activities. Monsoon bring moderate rain, while Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best months to visit Auli and avoid peak-season crowds. 

Discovery Checklist

Auli is unlike most other Himalayan destinations if you observe it. Each season here comes with its unique experiences. It doesn't matter when you visit it. There are always some things you must do, places you must see, and things to buy a home as souvenirs. 

Some of such must-do things while you are in Auli are:

- Enjoy skiing (when visiting in winter)
- Go for a trek (there are many mountains)
- Feel the panoramic views (on any mountain)

And the must-visit places around Auli are:

- Joshimath (10km away)
- Chenab Lake (28 km away)

When shopping, ensure you buy locally woven woollen clothes, hand-made wooden things, and spices like cloves, cardamom, and black pepper to recreate the Auli memories at home. 

Travel Itinerary

A Guide to WH Questions

Transportation

Reaching Auli requires a multi-modal approach. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport (273 km) and Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railway station (250 km). You can then get on a 9-10 hour scenic journey from Dehradun to Joshimath. And you can go up by Auli Ropeway or a taxi. 

Hotels 

Auli caters to a range of budgets with diverse accommodation options. Although some hotels in Auli offer in-house dining, venturing out to Joshimath allows you to experience the local flavours. Some of our recommendations include:

• Accommodation

- Auli Resort - It's a 3.9-star rating hotel
- Villotale Auli Camps - It's a 4.5-star rating hotel 
- Nanda View Resort - It's a 3.8-star rating hotel 

• Eateries

- Ropeway UTP Canteen - Best for snack items
- Auli 'D' Food Plaza - Best for North Indian food items 
- Snow View Resort - Best for Noth Indian Food 

Popular Food

- Mandua Roti: Flatbread made from millet flour. 
- Kafuli: A flavorful curry made with local greens.
- Siddu: Steamed bread stuffed with savoury fillings.
- Aloo Gutke: Potato dumplings simmered in a rich gravy.
- Lamb Curry: Succulent lamb curries cooked with aromatic spices.

Travel Tips

- Carry footwear that can adapt to hilly lands. 
- Pack according to the season you are travelling in. 
- Snow can disturb your travel plans. Be prepared for changes.  
- Always carry body lotions to avoid sun and cold temperatures. 

Safety Tips

- Only trek those well-known and designated trails. 
- Let someone know about your plans and return time.
- Beware of monkeys as they can snatch belongings.

Travel Expenses 

Travel costs to Auli vary depending on your preferences and travel style. Although you can compromise on other things, accommodation can still be expensive. On average, a budget traveller might still need ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 a day per head. But experience is worth it. 

Conclusion

Auli can steal your heart just like it did mine. It's a place with something for everyone, whether you're a thrill-seeker carving down slopes, a nature lover seeking breathtaking views, or a culture enthusiast wanting to experience something new. Pack your bags, come here, and be charmed by this gem.

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