Auli is India's best-known ski slope: open, tree-free meadows between about 2,500 and 3,050 m above Jyotirmath, facing Nanda Devi. When the snow is good, the main slope gives a run of about 3 km with a long, steady gradient that suits beginners and intermediate skiers. A chairlift and a surface ski lift serve the main slope, and smaller portable lifts are set up on the beginner area near the GMVN complex.
You can ski here in two ways: join a structured course run by Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), the state tourism body, or hire a local instructor and gear by the day if you just want to try it for a few hours.
Ways to ski in Auli
GMVN 7-day course
Basic skiing over a week, with dormitory stay, meals, ski equipment, lift use and training included. Batches run from early January to March.
GMVN 14-day course
A longer certificate course with the same inclusions, for those who want to ski properly. Fewer seats per batch.
Day lessons with a local instructor
Book a certified instructor in Auli or Jyotirmath and rent skis, boots and poles for the day. Good if you only have a weekend.
Rough skiing costs in Auli
| Item | Rough cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GMVN 7-day course | ≈ ₹15,000-₹24,000 per person | Includes stay, meals, gear, lifts and training; lower rates for students |
| GMVN 14-day course | ≈ ₹30,000-₹42,000 per person | Certificate course; limited seats per batch |
| Private instructor | ≈ ₹1,500-₹2,500 per day | Usually about 4 hours on the slope |
| Ski set on rent | ≈ ₹800-₹1,200 per day | Skis, boots and poles |
| Snowboard on rent | ≈ ₹1,000-₹1,500 per day | Fewer available than skis |
| Waterproof jacket and trousers | ≈ ₹300-₹500 per day | Worth renting if you don't own any |
Rough ranges from GMVN's published rates and recent operator prices; they change every season. Confirm the current fee and batch dates with GMVN before you pay.
How to book a GMVN ski course
- Check the season's batch dates and fees with GMVN (Dehradun head office or a GMVN tourist office), or on the GMVN website.
- Send the application with an advance (in past seasons, 50% of the fee); pay the balance when you join at Auli.
- Students need proof of age and a bonafide certificate to get student rates.
- Reach Auli the evening before the course starts; registration is on day one.
- If a course is cancelled for lack of snow, GMVN has refunded the advance after a small deduction in past seasons.
Lifts and slopes
Main slope
About 3 km long with a vertical drop of roughly 400 m, served by a chairlift of about 800 m and a surface ski lift.
Beginner slope
A gentle area near the GMVN complex with portable baby lifts, where most courses start.
Jyotirmath-Auli ropeway
Shut since January 2023 after the Joshimath land subsidence, with no confirmed reopening date. Reach the slopes by road from Jyotirmath.
A 3-day plan for first-timers
- Day 1: Reach Jyotirmath by afternoon, drive up to Auli, rest and get used to the altitude.
- Day 2: Half-day lesson on the beginner slope with an instructor; walk to the snow viewpoint in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Second lesson in the morning, try a gentle section of the main slope, then head down before dark.
- Wear thermals, waterproof gloves and sunglasses; snow glare at this height is strong.
- See Auli snowfall time to pick your dates and Delhi to Auli for the route.
Skiing in Auli: FAQs
When is the skiing season in Auli?
Usually January to March, when there is enough snow on the slopes. February often has the best snow. In a dry winter the season can start late or end early.
How much does skiing in Auli cost?
A GMVN 7-day course has cost roughly ₹15,000-₹24,000 per person in recent seasons, including stay, meals, gear and lifts. A day with a private instructor plus gear rent costs roughly ₹2,500-₹3,500. Prices change every season.
Can beginners ski in Auli?
Yes. Auli's gentle beginner slope and day instructors make it one of the easiest places in India to try skiing for the first time.
Do I need my own ski equipment?
No. You can rent skis, boots, poles and waterproof clothing in Auli by the day. GMVN courses include equipment.
Is the Auli ropeway open?
Not right now. The Jyotirmath-Auli ropeway has been shut since January 2023. A chairlift serves the main slope when there is snow.
How do I book a GMVN ski course in Auli?
Through GMVN, the state tourism body. Check batch dates and fees on the GMVN website or at a GMVN office, then send the application with the advance.
