Varanasi, the spiritual city on the banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, serves as a unique starting point for travelers heading to Auli, a pristine hill station in Uttarakhand known for its snow-capped peaks and skiing opportunities. This route is popular among adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to explore the Himalayas and enjoy winter sports or serene mountain views.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Varanasi to Auli, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey to this enchanting destination.

Getting from Varanasi to Auli – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Varanasi to Auli is a scenic and economical option, though it requires combining rail with road transport due to Auli's hilltop location. Indian Railways connects Varanasi to nearby railway stations like Haridwar and Rishikesh, from where road travel begins.

• Key stations:

  Board trains from Varanasi Junction (BSB) to Haridwar (HW) or Rishikesh (RKSH), both well-connected hubs for onward travel to Auli. The distance to Haridwar is about 900 km, taking roughly 14–16 hours by train.

• Train types and fares:

  Options include express and superfast trains such as the Varanasi–Haridwar Express. Ticket prices range from ₹300 for sleeper class to ₹1,200 for AC 3-tier, booked via IRCTC.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Multiple trains run daily, but booking in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons like winter. Trains offer basic amenities; carry snacks and water for the long journey.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Haridwar or Rishikesh, taxis or buses cover the 280–300 km mountainous route to Auli. Road travel can take 8–10 hours depending on weather and traffic.

• Travel tips:

  Night trains help save daytime for road travel. Avoid monsoon months due to landslide risks on mountain roads.

Bus

Bus travel is a budget-friendly way to reach Auli from Varanasi, but it involves multiple changes and long hours on hilly roads. State transport and private operators serve routes up to Rishikesh or Joshimath, the gateway town to Auli.

• Route and operators:

  Take a direct or connecting bus from Varanasi to Rishikesh via UPSRTC or private Volvo buses. From Rishikesh or Haridwar, board local buses or shared taxis to Joshimath.

• Duration and cost:

  The bus journey to Rishikesh takes about 14–16 hours, costing ₹600–₹1,000. The onward trip to Joshimath can take 6–7 hours, with fares around ₹300–₹500.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer more comfort on the plains, but mountain buses are basic and crowded. Frequency reduces during winter; booking in advance is recommended.

• Road conditions:

  National Highway 7 and NH 94 connect Varanasi to Rishikesh, followed by NH 7A towards Joshimath. Roads are well-maintained but winding in the hills; avoid night travel in monsoon.

• Local quirks:

  Shared taxis from Joshimath to Auli are common and cost-effective. Carry warm clothing as temperatures drop sharply in the hills.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Varanasi to Auli offers flexibility and the chance to explore offbeat spots en route. The journey covers approximately 1,100 km through plains and mountainous terrain.

• Route details:

  The recommended route is via NH 19 to Kanpur, then NH 34 towards Rishikesh, and finally NH 7A to Joshimath and Auli. This route passes through scenic towns like Haridwar and Devprayag.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect 20–22 hours of driving spread over 2 days. Several toll plazas exist on the plains; keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Road conditions:

  Highways are smooth until Rishikesh, after which roads become narrow and winding. Drive cautiously on ghats, especially during rains or winter fog.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Frequent dhabas and petrol pumps are available on plains. Fuel stations become sparse in hills; refuel at Rishikesh or Joshimath.

• Vehicle suitability:

  Prefer a vehicle with good ground clearance and reliable brakes. Avoid night driving in mountainous stretches due to poor lighting and wildlife crossings.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover the long distance between Varanasi and Auli, though no direct flights exist to Auli. The nearest airports are Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport and Pantnagar Airport, followed by road travel.

• Flight routes:

  Fly from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) in Varanasi to Dehradun (DED) or Pantnagar (PGH) with a stopover in Delhi or other major hubs. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate these routes.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Total flight time including layovers ranges from 4 to 7 hours. Airfares vary between ₹3,000 and ₹7,000 depending on booking time and season.

• Onward road travel:

  From Dehradun, Joshimath is about 280 km away, requiring 8–10 hours by taxi or bus. Pantnagar is closer but has limited connectivity.

• Convenience and tips:

  Flights save time but add complexity with transfers. Book tickets early during winter ski season to avoid price hikes.

• Local transport on arrival:

  Prepaid taxis and Ola cabs are available at Dehradun airport for onward journey. Confirm fares beforehand and avoid unlicensed taxis.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers from Varanasi to Auli plan their journey efficiently, balancing comfort and time.

• Book train or flight tickets in advance:

  Use IRCTC for trains or airline websites for flights, especially during peak winter months to secure seats and better prices.

• Reach Varanasi station or airport early:

  Arrive at least 1 hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or gate easily.

• Travel to Haridwar or Dehradun:

  Depending on your mode, complete the first leg by train or flight, then arrange local transport to Joshimath.

• Hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath:

  Prepaid taxis from Haridwar or Dehradun are reliable; shared buses offer budget options but check schedules carefully.

• From Joshimath, take a cable car or taxi to Auli:

  The Auli ropeway is a scenic 4 km ride and the fastest way up. Alternatively, taxis cover the 16 km road with panoramic views.

• Pack warm clothes and essentials:

  Mountain weather changes quickly; carry water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for the road journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on mountain roads:

  Drive cautiously or hire experienced local drivers for the ghat roads to avoid accidents, especially during fog or rain.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks, as clean drinking water and hygienic food options are limited en route and in Auli.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC and airline websites for secure bookings. For taxis, prefer prepaid counters or trusted apps like Ola and Uber where available.

• Local commute in Auli:

  Walking is common within Auli, but taxis and shared jeeps are available for nearby sightseeing. Cable cars are the best for uphill travel.

• Luggage considerations:

  Pack light due to limited porter services and narrow roads. Use sturdy bags to protect against rough handling during transfers.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon (July–September) due to landslide risks. Winter months require warm clothing and snow gear.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to travel from Varanasi to Auli depends on your purpose—skiing enthusiasts prefer winter, while summer offers pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, making travel risky. Early mornings and weekdays are best to avoid traffic and enjoy clear mountain views.

• Avoid peak festival weekends in Varanasi (like Diwali) to escape crowded trains and roads.

• Winter (December to February) is perfect for snow sports but prepare for cold and possible travel delays.

• Summer (April to June) offers moderate temperatures and lush landscapes, ideal for trekking.

• Depart early morning from Varanasi to maximize daylight for road travel in hills.

Arrival at Auli & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Auli, travelers are greeted by breathtaking Himalayan vistas and a tranquil alpine environment. The town is compact, with cozy guesthouses and resorts catering to tourists.

Local transport includes taxis, shared jeeps, and the famous Auli ropeway connecting to Joshimath. Nearby attractions include the Auli Artificial Lake, skiing slopes, and trekking trails. Staying near the ropeway base or main market area is convenient for easy access to amenities and sightseeing.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Auli from Varanasi combines a train or flight to Haridwar or Dehradun followed by road travel to Joshimath and a cable car ride up to Auli. This blend balances speed, comfort, and scenic experience.

With proper planning, advance bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions, travelers can confidently embark on this journey to enjoy the serene beauty and adventure that Auli offers. Your Himalayan escape from the spiritual city of Varanasi awaits!