Delhi, the bustling capital of India, serves as a major gateway for travelers heading to 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, nature lovers, and winter sports enthusiasts.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Auli from Delhi, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this beautiful Himalayan destination.

Getting from Delhi to Auli – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Delhi to Auli is a combination of rail and road transport, as there is no direct train to Auli. The nearest major railway station is Haridwar or Rishikesh, from where you can continue by road. This mode is popular for budget travelers and those who prefer scenic rail journeys.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Haridwar (HW) or Rishikesh (RKSH). These stations are well connected by multiple daily trains including Shatabdi and Jan Shatabdi Express.

• Travel time and cost:

  The train journey takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹800 depending on class. Book tickets via IRCTC well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains are generally clean and punctual. AC Chair Car and Sleeper classes are available. Early morning trains are less crowded and offer pleasant views of the plains transitioning into foothills.

• Road onward from stations:

  From Haridwar or Rishikesh, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, the gateway to Auli, which is about 270 km away and takes 8–10 hours by road.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid traveling during monsoon due to landslide risks on the mountain roads. Winter trains can be chilly, so dress accordingly.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and economical way to reach Auli from Delhi, though the journey is long. State-run and private buses connect Delhi to Rishikesh or Joshimath, from where local transport can take you to Auli. This option suits budget travelers comfortable with overnight travel.

• Bus types and routes:

  MSRTC and private operators run Volvo and non-AC buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi to Rishikesh and Joshimath. Direct buses to Joshimath are limited; most travelers change at Rishikesh.

• Duration and fares:

  The bus journey to Rishikesh takes about 6–7 hours (₹400–₹700), while onward travel to Joshimath by bus or taxi takes 8–10 hours more. Total cost can range from ₹800 to ₹1500.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer better comfort but are less frequent. Non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys. Night buses help save daytime for sightseeing.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets online via MSRTC or private portals. Arrive early at the bus station to avoid last-minute hassles, especially during winter holidays.

• Road conditions:

  Mountain roads from Rishikesh to Joshimath are narrow and winding; bus rides can be bumpy. Carry motion sickness tablets if prone to travel sickness.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Auli offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic landscapes at your own pace. The route covers about 520 km and takes roughly 12–14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. This is ideal for families and groups who prefer comfort and stops along the way.

• Route details:

  The common route is via NH334 and NH7 through Haridwar, Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar, and Joshimath. The roads are mostly well-maintained but narrow in hilly sections.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect 12–14 hours of driving time with tolls on the expressways near Delhi and Haridwar. Plan for breaks at towns like Rishikesh and Devprayag.

• Vehicle choice:

  Prefer an SUV or vehicle with good ground clearance for mountain roads. Check weather forecasts and vehicle condition before starting.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Fuel stations are available in major towns en route. Popular rest stops include Haridwar and Rishikesh, where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving in the mountains due to limited visibility and wildlife crossings. Start early from Delhi to reach Auli before dusk.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Auli, but the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 270 km from Auli. Flying from Delhi to Dehradun saves time on the plains, but you will need to continue by road. This option suits travelers prioritizing speed and comfort.

• Flight details:

  Multiple daily flights operate between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Dehradun (DED), with a flight time of about 1 hour. Airlines include IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

• Airport to Auli:

  From Dehradun airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath (approx 8–10 hours). Prepaid taxis are available at the airport exit, and shared cabs can be booked via apps like Ola or Uber.

• Cost and convenience:

  Flight tickets range from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on the season. Booking early can secure better rates. Flights are more expensive but save significant travel time on the plains.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights can be delayed during foggy winter mornings. Check weather updates and allow buffer time for connecting road travel.

• Local transport from Joshimath:

  From Joshimath, take a cable car or taxi to Auli. The cable car ride offers stunning views and is the preferred last leg of the journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Auli, combining convenience and comfort for a smooth journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains to Haridwar or Rishikesh, or airline websites for flights to Dehradun. Early booking ensures availability and better prices.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at New Delhi Railway Station or IGI Airport at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and security checks.

• Plan your road transfer:

  Pre-book a taxi or bus from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to Joshimath. Confirm pickup times and vehicle condition, especially in winter.

• Stay overnight if needed:

  Consider staying in Rishikesh or Joshimath if your arrival is late. This breaks the journey and helps acclimatize to altitude.

• Use the Auli cable car:

  From Joshimath, take the cable car to Auli for a scenic and efficient ascent. Tickets can be bought on-site or online during peak season.

• Pack appropriately:

  Carry warm clothes, snacks, and water for the mountain journey. Keep chargers and ID proofs handy for all bookings and checkpoints.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on mountain roads:

  Always wear seat belts and avoid over-speeding. Mountain roads can be slippery during rains and icy in winters. Use local driver services if unsure.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, especially during long road stretches. Try local cuisine in Rishikesh or Joshimath for authentic flavors.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for trains and airline websites for flights. For buses, MSRTC’s site and apps like RedBus are reliable.

• Local commute in Auli:

  The cable car is the main transport within Auli. For short distances, local taxis or walking are common. Avoid late-night travel due to limited lighting.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light but include warm layers and rain gear. Carry a small daypack for hikes and cable car rides.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid monsoon travel due to landslides. Winter requires warm clothing and checking weather forecasts for snowfall or road closures.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Auli depends on your interests. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and snow activities, while summer (April to June) offers pleasant weather and lush landscapes.

Monsoon season (July to September) is generally avoided due to heavy rains and landslide risks on mountain roads.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or New Year to escape heavy traffic and fully booked accommodations.

• Start early in the day to avoid Delhi’s morning and evening peak traffic, especially on weekends.

• Winter mornings can have fog affecting flights; mid-morning departures are more reliable.

• Summer months offer clear roads and comfortable temperatures for road trips and sightseeing.

Arrival at Auli & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Auli, travelers are greeted by breathtaking views of the Himalayas and pristine alpine meadows. The cable car from Joshimath offers a panoramic ascent, making the journey memorable. Auli is a small town with limited vehicle access, so most movement is on foot or via local taxis.

Accommodation ranges from cozy guesthouses to luxury resorts, mostly clustered near the ski slopes. Local eateries serve Garhwali cuisine and popular Indian dishes. For local travel, walking is common, but taxis can be hired for nearby sightseeing.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Auli from Delhi combines a flight to Dehradun followed by a road trip to Joshimath and a cable car ride up to Auli. This option balances speed, comfort, and scenic experiences. For budget travelers, trains to Haridwar or Rishikesh plus road transport offer a practical alternative.

With careful planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on this journey to Auli. The stunning landscapes and adventure activities awaiting you make the trip truly worthwhile.