How to Reach Auli From Delhi
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Train, Bus, Air & Road
Auli, often called the Skiing Capital of India, is a stunning hill station in Uttarakhand. Known for its snow-covered slopes, panoramic views of Nanda Devi, and thrilling cable car ride, Auli attracts adventure lovers and peace seekers alike.
If you are planning a trip from Delhi, you might be wondering: how to reach Auli from Delhi? The good news is that there are multiple travel options available — by train, bus, air, car, or even a Volvo coach. This guide explains each route in detail so you can choose the most comfortable and time-efficient option for your journey.
Best Way to Reach Auli from Delhi
Before diving into the detailed options, here’s a quick overview:
- By Train: Reach Haridwar/Rishikesh/Dehradun, then continue by road.
- By Air: Fly to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, then take a taxi/bus to Auli.
- By Bus/Volvo: Direct buses from Delhi to Joshimath, then a local taxi or cable car.
- By Road/Car: A scenic 500 km drive via Rishikesh, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.
Now, let’s look at each travel option in detail.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Train
Trains are one of the most budget-friendly and reliable options. Auli does not have a direct railway station. The nearest major stations are Haridwar (273 km), Rishikesh (250 km), and Dehradun (290 km).
Popular Trains from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh
- Shatabdi Express (Delhi → Haridwar)
- Jan Shatabdi Express (Delhi → Dehradun)
- Mussoorie Express (Delhi → Dehradun)
- Vande Bharat (Delhi → Dehradun)
Once you reach Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or board a bus to Joshimath. From Joshimath, Auli is just 16 km away and can be reached by road or the famous Auli Ropeway.
Travel Time: 14–16 hours (train + road).
Best For: Budget travelers, solo backpackers, and families looking for a safe and scenic journey.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Air
Flying is the fastest option if you want to minimize travel time.
- The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (approx. 280 km from Auli).
- Direct flights from Delhi to Dehradun are available daily with airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, and Air India.
After landing, you can hire a private cab or take a bus to reach Joshimath. The onward journey takes about 8–9 hours by road.
Travel Time: 1-hour flight + 8–9 hours road trip.
Best For: Travelers short on time or those who prefer a comfortable journey.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Bus
Government and private buses operate between Delhi and Joshimath. Most buses leave from ISBT Kashmere Gate in Delhi.
Options Available:
- Government Buses (GMOU, UTC): Affordable, basic comfort.
- Private Buses: More comfortable with sleeper/Volvo options.
Once you reach Joshimath, Auli is a short road or ropeway ride away.
Travel Time: 13–15 hours (Delhi to Joshimath by bus + 1 hour Joshimath to Auli).
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers and backpackers.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Volvo
If you want a comfortable bus journey, Volvo coaches are a great option. Several private Volvo buses run overnight between Delhi and Rishikesh/Haridwar. From there, you can hire a shared jeep, taxi, or another bus to Joshimath and finally to Auli.
- Delhi to Rishikesh by Volvo: 5.5–6 hours.
- Rishikesh to Joshimath: 7.5–9 hours.
- Joshimath to Auli: 30–60 minutes by road or ropeway.
Best For: Travelers who want both comfort and affordability.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Road
Auli is about 500 km from Delhi, and the road journey is long but scenic. The route takes you through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Chamoli, and Joshimath.
Suggested Route:
Delhi → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Auli
The roads are generally well-maintained, though they can be narrow and winding in the hills. It’s recommended to start early from Delhi and, if possible, break the journey with a night halt in Rishikesh or Joshimath.
Travel Time: 12–14 hours by car.
Best For: Road trip lovers, groups, and families.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Car
Driving your own car or hiring a cab is one of the most flexible ways to reach Auli. You can stop at picturesque spots, riversides, and temples along the way.
- Route: Same as road route (via Rishikesh and Joshimath).
- Tips for Drivers:
- Avoid night driving in hilly areas.
- Keep fuel and snacks handy, as petrol pumps are limited after Rishikesh.
- Winter months require snow chains for tires.
Best For: Adventure seekers and families who enjoy road trips.
How to Reach Auli from Delhi by Flight (Detailed)
Since Auli doesn’t have an airport, the most convenient way is:
- Delhi → Dehradun (by flight, 1 hr)
- Dehradun → Joshimath (by road, 8–9 hrs)
- Joshimath → Auli (by ropeway/road, 1 hr)
This is the fastest option if you want to save time and enjoy comfort.
Travel Tips for Delhi to Auli Journey
- Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow; April to June for pleasant weather.
- Break Journey: If traveling by road, consider halting at Rishikesh or Joshimath.
- Clothing: Carry warm clothes, especially during winter.
- Health Tip: Roads are winding; keep medicines for motion sickness handy.
- Advance Booking: Book trains, flights, and hotels in advance during peak season.
Conclusion
Now you know all the options for how to reach Auli from Delhi — whether by train, bus, air, road, car, Volvo, or flight. The choice depends on your budget, comfort preference, and time availability.
- Choose train or bus if you’re looking for budget travel.
- Opt for a flight to Dehradun + road trip if you want to save time.
- Pick a road trip by car if you enjoy scenic drives and flexibility.
Whichever option you choose, the journey to Auli is as beautiful as the destination itself. Snow peaks, river valleys, and mountain roads make the trip unforgettable. So pack your bags, plan wisely, and get ready to explore one of India’s most stunning hill stations.