Bareilly, a bustling city in Uttar Pradesh, serves as a gateway for travelers heading towards the serene hill station of Auli in Uttarakhand. Known for its snow-capped peaks and skiing opportunities, Auli attracts tourists seeking adventure and tranquility. This route is popular among weekend travelers and nature enthusiasts eager to explore the Garhwal Himalayas.

This guide covers all practical transport options from Bareilly to Auli, including train, bus, car, and flight. You will find detailed insights on travel times, routes, ticketing, and local tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this beautiful mountain destination.

Getting from Bareilly to Auli – Main Options

By Train

Traveling by train from Bareilly to Auli is partially feasible, as there is no direct rail link to Auli. However, trains connect Bareilly to nearby towns, from where road transport can be taken. This option suits travelers who prefer rail travel combined with scenic road journeys.

• Key stations:

  Bareilly Junction is well connected to Haridwar and Rishikesh, the nearest major railheads to Auli. The journey to Haridwar takes around 5–6 hours by train.

• Ticket costs and classes:

  Train fares from Bareilly to Haridwar range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class (Sleeper to AC 3-tier). Booking via IRCTC is recommended for confirmed seats.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple daily trains run between Bareilly and Haridwar, including express and passenger trains. AC coaches offer comfort, but sleeper class is economical.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Haridwar or Rishikesh, taxis or buses are available for the 280 km road journey to Auli. Hiring a private cab is advisable for flexibility.

• Seasonal tips:

  Trains can be crowded during winter holidays; book tickets early. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to potential delays and landslides on connecting roads.

By Bus

Bareilly to Auli by bus involves a combination of state transport and private operators, with no direct bus service to Auli. This mode is budget-friendly but requires planning for transfers and longer travel times.

• Route details:

  Take a UPSRTC or private bus from Bareilly to Rishikesh or Joshimath, the base town for Auli. The Bareilly to Rishikesh leg covers about 280 km and takes 7–8 hours.

• Ticket costs:

  Bus fares to Rishikesh range from ₹300 to ₹600 depending on the bus type (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo).

• Frequency:

  Several buses run daily from Bareilly to Rishikesh. From Rishikesh or Joshimath, local buses or shared taxis operate to Auli, especially during the tourist season.

• Comfort and challenges:

  Road conditions vary; the mountainous stretch from Joshimath to Auli is narrow and winding. Night travel is not recommended due to limited lighting and safety concerns.

• Scenic views:

  The route offers beautiful views of the Shivalik hills and river valleys. Plan stops at towns like Rudraprayag for refreshments and sightseeing.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bareilly to Auli is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and flexibility. The journey covers approximately 350 km and passes through picturesque landscapes.

• Route:

  The most common route is via NH9 from Bareilly to Haridwar, then NH7 towards Rishikesh, followed by the mountain road to Joshimath and Auli.

• Travel time and distance:

  Expect around 10–12 hours of driving depending on traffic and road conditions, with the last 70 km being hilly and slower.

• Road conditions:

  National highways are generally well-maintained. The mountain stretch to Auli has sharp bends and narrow roads; drive cautiously, especially during monsoon and winter.

• Fuel and rest stops:

  Fuel stations are available in major towns like Haridwar and Joshimath. Plan breaks at towns such as Rishikesh and Devprayag for food and rest.

• Permits and tolls:

  No special permits are required, but tolls apply on NH9 and NH7. Carry cash for tolls and local purchases.

By Flight

There is no direct flight from Bareilly to Auli, but air travel can be combined with road transport for a faster journey. The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.

• Flight route:

  Fly from Bareilly Airport (BEK) or nearby airports like Delhi to Dehradun (DED). Bareilly Airport has limited commercial flights, so Delhi is often preferred.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Delhi to Dehradun flights take about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000. Book early for best prices.

• From Dehradun to Auli:

  The road distance is approximately 270 km, taking 8–9 hours by taxi or bus. Private cabs are recommended for comfort.

• Airport facilities:

  Dehradun airport has taxi counters and car rental services. Prepaid taxis are available, but booking cabs via Ola or Uber apps ensures better rates.

• Seasonal advice:

  Flights can be delayed in winter due to fog. Check weather updates and plan accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Bareilly to Auli efficiently, combining transport modes and timing tips.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to Haridwar or Rishikesh, and airline websites or apps for flights to Dehradun. Early booking secures seats during peak seasons.

• Reach the station or airport early:

  Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to manage check-ins and avoid last-minute rush, especially at Bareilly station and Dehradun airport.

• Arrange local transport in advance:

  Pre-book taxis or cabs from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to Auli. Local shared taxis can be unreliable and crowded.

• Pack for mountain weather:

  Carry warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and rain gear. Weather in Auli can change quickly, especially from October to March.

• Plan your road journey during daylight:

  Start early to avoid night driving on mountain roads, which can be risky due to narrow stretches and limited lighting.

• Keep emergency contacts handy:

  Save numbers of local taxi services, hotels, and emergency services in Uttarakhand for quick assistance if needed.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on mountain roads:

  Drive carefully on the Joshimath-Auli stretch, as landslides and fog can reduce visibility. Use local driver knowledge if hiring taxis.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks for the road. Stop at hygienic eateries in towns like Rishikesh and Joshimath to avoid stomach issues.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC and airline websites for secure bookings. Avoid last-minute purchases to prevent price hikes and unavailability.

• Local commute in Auli:

  The area is best explored on foot or by cable car. Auto-rickshaws are limited; pre-arranged taxis are preferred for nearby sightseeing.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light due to multiple mode changes. Use sturdy bags with rain covers to protect against sudden weather changes.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months (July–September) due to landslide risks. Winter travel requires warm clothing and checking road conditions.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Bareilly to Auli depends on your preference for weather and activities. Winters attract skiers and snow lovers, while summers offer pleasant trekking conditions.

Monsoon season is generally avoided due to slippery roads and landslide risks. Planning your trip during clear weather ensures safer and more enjoyable travel.

• Avoid peak traffic during festivals like Diwali and New Year, as roads and trains get crowded.

• Early morning departures help bypass city traffic in Bareilly and Haridwar, making the journey smoother.

• Winter months (December to February) offer snow but require warm clothing and readiness for possible delays.

• Summer (April to June) is ideal for trekking and sightseeing with moderate temperatures.

Arrival at Auli & What to Expect

On arrival in Auli, travelers are greeted by breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a peaceful alpine environment. The town is small, with limited vehicle access, enhancing its charm and tranquility.

Local transport mainly consists of cable cars connecting Auli to Joshimath, which is the nearest town with hotels, markets, and bus stands. Prepaid taxis and shared cabs are available at Joshimath for last-mile connectivity. Popular stay areas include Auli’s ski resorts and guesthouses offering mountain views.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Auli from Bareilly combines train travel to Haridwar or Rishikesh with a private taxi for the mountainous road journey. This blend balances comfort, cost, and scenic experience. Alternatively, flights to Dehradun followed by road travel offer a faster but costlier option.

With proper planning and awareness of road conditions and seasonal factors, travelers can confidently embark on this beautiful journey from the plains of Bareilly to the serene heights of Auli, enjoying the best of northern India’s landscapes and culture.