Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Auli is a serene hill station known for its panoramic ski slopes, oak-dense forests, and unmatched views of snow-capped peaks like Nanda Devi.
Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or a summer escape into nature, knowing the Delhi to Auli distance and how to cover it comfortably is essential for a smooth trip.
This guide breaks down the travel options from Delhi to Auli distance and travel time by each mode, route recommendations, and practical travel tips to help you plan your adventure.
📍 Where is Auli Located?
Auli is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of around 2,500–3,000 meters, close to Joshimath. It’s a popular destination for skiing in winter and trekking and scenic views year-round.
🛣️ Delhi to Auli Distance Overview
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By Road (via Joshimath): ~500 to 520 km
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By Train (to Haridwar/Rishikesh + Road): ~300 km train + 270 km by road
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By Air (to Dehradun + Road): ~250 km by air + 300 km by road
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Total Travel Time: 10 to 14 hours depending on mode and weather conditions
🚗 Best Route by Road
🛤️ Route: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Auli
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Distance: Approx. 500–520 km
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Travel Time: 12–14 hours by car
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Road Condition: Mix of NH7 (well-maintained) and hilly roads post-Rudraprayag
Auli is not directly accessible by car—the road reaches up to Joshimath, and from there, a cable car or steep 13 km road leads you to Auli.
🚘 Travel Options:
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Private Car: Best for comfort and flexibility
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Self-Drive: Great option for road trip lovers (be prepared for hill driving)
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Shared Taxis/Buses: Available from Rishikesh and Haridwar to Joshimath
🚆 Delhi to Auli via Train
While Auli has no direct railway station, you can take a train from Delhi to Haridwar or Rishikesh, and then continue by road to Auli.
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Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh by Train: ~230–250 km, 5–6 hours
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Haridwar to Auli (via Joshimath): ~270 km by road, 8–10 hours
🚉 Recommended Trains:
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Shatabdi Express (fast and reliable)
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NDLS–Doon Express
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Mussoorie Express (overnight option)
This route is cost-effective but may take longer due to multiple transfers.
✈️ Delhi to Auli via Flight
There is no airport in Auli, but you can fly from Delhi to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, then travel by road to Auli.
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Delhi to Dehradun by Air: ~1 hour flight
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Dehradun to Auli (via Joshimath): ~300 km, 9–10 hours by road
While this is a good option for saving time on the first leg, the remaining road journey is long and tiring. However, it’s great if you want to explore Rishikesh or Auli in a multi-city trip.
🚡 Joshimath to Auli: The Final Stretch
Once you reach Joshimath, you have two options to reach Auli:
1. Cable Car (Auli Ropeway)
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Distance: ~4 km
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Time: ~25 minutes
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Scenic Factor: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Cost: ₹500–₹1,000 approx. (round trip)
The ropeway is one of the highest in Asia and offers jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas. Highly recommended!
2. Road via Taxi/Private Vehicle
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Distance: ~13 km
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Type: Steep, narrow road
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Time: ~30–45 minutes depending on weather
This is your only option if the ropeway is closed due to bad weather.
🏨 Where to Stay in Auli
You’ll find a range of stays in between Delhi to Auli Distance depending on your budget:
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Luxury: The Cliff Top Club, GMVN Auli
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Mid-range: Hotel Mount View, Blue Poppy Resorts
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Budget: Homestays in Joshimath
If you’re traveling in winter (December–February), book in advance—Auli is a skiing hotspot during this time!
🏂 Why Visit Auli?
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Skiing & Snowboarding (Dec–March)
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Auli Artificial Lake (One of the highest man-made lakes)
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Gurso Bugyal Trek
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Stunning Views of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat, and Kamet Peak
Whether you’re chasing snow in winter or scenic meadows in summer, Auli has something for every traveler.
📝 Travel Tips for Your Delhi to Auli Trip
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Start early from Delhi to avoid night driving in hills
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Check road conditions during monsoon and winter months
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Carry warm clothes even in summer—Auli can get chilly
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Book ropeway tickets early during peak season
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Fuel up in Joshimath—no petrol pumps in Auli
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Stay hydrated and carry motion sickness medicine if you’re not used to hilly terrain
FAQs – Delhi to Auli Distance
Q1. What is the total Delhi to Auli distance by road?
Ans: It’s approximately 500–520 km, depending on the route and starting point in Delhi.
Q2. Can I do Delhi to Auli in one day?
Ans: Yes, by private car or taxi. However, it’s a long drive (~12–14 hours), so an overnight stop at Rishikesh or Joshimath is recommended.
Q3. Is it safe to drive from Delhi to Auli?
Ans: Yes, the roads are safe but require experienced hill driving, especially in winter or during rains.
Q4. Is there a direct train or flight from Delhi to Auli?
Ans: No. The nearest train station is Haridwar/Rishikesh, and the nearest airport is Dehradun. From there, you must travel by road.
Q5. What’s the best time to visit Auli from Delhi?
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Winter (Dec–Feb): For snow and skiing
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Summer (Mar–Jun): For trekking and pleasant weather
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Avoid monsoon (Jul–Aug) due to landslides and slippery roads