Auli at a glance, month by month
Auli in December
- Days are about -2° to 7°C and nights well below freezing.
- The first proper snowfall usually comes after mid-December; early in the month the slopes can still be brown.
- Skiing depends on snow cover. In most years courses and lifts run from January; in a good year they start in late December.
- The week from Christmas to New Year is the busiest of the winter. Book stays early.
- The Jyotirmath-Auli road can close for a day after heavy snow; keep a spare day and carry chains if you drive.
- The Jyotirmath-Auli ropeway has been shut since January 2023 after the Joshimath land subsidence; reach Auli by road.
- Planning to ski? See our Skiing in Auli guide for courses, gear rent and lifts.
The four seasons in Auli
Winter
Best for snowSnow covers the slopes and ski courses run. January and February have the deepest, most reliable snow; March is softer with more sun. Roads above Jyotirmath can close for a day after a heavy fall.
Spring & summer
Best for meadowsSnow melts through April and the slopes turn green by May. Days are pleasant and nights cool. This is the best time for the Gorson Bugyal walk, and Badrinath is open for day trips.
Monsoon
AvoidHeavy rain brings landslides on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway, and clouds often hide the peaks. Travel is possible but delays are common.
Autumn
Good, coldRain clears by late September. October gives the clearest skies of the year and sharp views of Nanda Devi. November is cold and dry, and Badrinath closes mid-month.
Auli month-by-month details
| Month | Temp (°C) | Snow | Crowds | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -3° to 6° | Deep snow | High | Peak ski month. The Jyotirmath-Auli road can close for a day after heavy snowfall. |
| February | -2° to 7° | Deep snow | High | Most reliable snow. Ski courses and the national ski events usually run now. |
| March | 1° to 11° | Thinning | Medium | Snow on the upper slopes, softer days. Good mix of snow and sunshine. |
| April | 5° to 15° | Patches | Low | Snow melting. Quiet, cool and clear; some slopes look brown. |
| May | 8° to 18° | None | Medium | Meadows turn green. Badrinath opens, so the highway gets busy. |
| June | 11° to 20° | None | Medium | Pleasant days for walks. Pre-monsoon showers late in the month. |
| July | 12° to 18° | None | Low | Heavy rain and landslides on the highway. Peaks hidden in cloud. |
| August | 12° to 18° | None | Low | Monsoon continues. Frequent road blocks between Rishikesh and Jyotirmath. |
| September | 9° to 17° | None | Low | Rain eases in the second half. Fresh, green slopes. |
| October | 5° to 15° | None | Medium | Clearest skies of the year and sharp views of Nanda Devi. |
| November | 1° to 11° | Rare | Low | Cold and dry. Badrinath closes for winter on 16 November 2026. |
| December | -2° to 7° | Light, then more | Medium | First snowfall usually after mid-month. Busy around New Year. |
What to pack for Auli
Winter (Dec - Mar)
- Thermal inner layers
- Down or heavy jacket
- Waterproof gloves and boots
- Woollen cap and scarf
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for snow glare
Summer (Apr - Jun)
- Light jacket or fleece for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Cap and sunscreen
- A warm layer for early mornings
Monsoon & autumn (Jul - Nov)
- Rain jacket and umbrella
- Quick-dry clothes
- Shoes with good grip
- Warm layers from October
Auli Snowfall & Best Time: FAQs
What is the snowfall time in Auli?
Snowfall time in Auli is mid-December to March. Snow usually starts in the second half of December and is deepest and most reliable in January and February. Amounts vary every year, so check recent reports before a snow trip.
Is there snow in Auli in December?
Usually yes in the second half of the month, though early December can be dry. For skiing, January and February are safer bets.
What is the temperature in Auli in December?
Days are about -2° to 7°C and nights fall well below freezing.
When is the skiing season in Auli?
January to March, when there is enough snow cover. February usually has the best snow for courses.
How cold is Auli in January?
Nights usually drop well below freezing, sometimes to around -8°C, and days stay in single digits.
Should I visit in monsoon?
Most travellers avoid July and August. Heavy rain causes landslides on the Rishikesh-Badrinath highway and clouds hide the peaks.
Is Auli crowded around New Year?
Yes. Late December to early January is the busiest time. Book stays early and expect traffic on the last stretch.
