Delhi, the bustling capital of India, serves as the starting point for many travelers heading to the serene hill station of Auli in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli is famed for its snow-capped peaks, skiing slopes, and tranquil environment. This route is popular among adventure seekers, nature lovers, and winter sports enthusiasts looking for a refreshing escape from city life.

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 on the best time to travel, ensuring a hassle-free journey to this beautiful destination.

Getting from Delhi to Auli – Main Options

Train

While there is no direct train to Auli, rail travel forms an important part of the journey, especially to nearby hubs like Haridwar or Rishikesh. This option is popular for those who prefer comfort and scenic rail routes before switching to road transport.

• Key stations:

  The nearest major railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh, both well-connected to Delhi via multiple daily trains. Haridwar is about 280 km from Auli by road.

• Duration and cost:

  Delhi to Haridwar trains take around 4.5 to 6 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 (sleeper) to ₹600 (AC chair car). Booking through IRCTC well in advance is recommended.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Trains like the Shatabdi Express offer fast and comfortable travel. Frequent trains throughout the day make it flexible to plan onward travel.

• Seasonal tips:

  During winter, trains can get crowded due to tourist influx. Booking early is essential, especially for weekends and holidays.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Haridwar or Rishikesh, taxis or buses are available to reach Joshimath, the gateway town to Auli, but expect a 7-8 hour road journey with winding mountain roads.

Bus

Buses are a cost-effective and popular way to reach Joshimath from Delhi or nearby railway stations. State transport and private operators run services, but the journey is long and can be tiring.

• Delhi to Rishikesh/Haridwar buses:

  Several Volvo and deluxe buses operate overnight routes, taking around 6-8 hours. Tickets cost ₹400-₹800 depending on the service.

• Rishikesh/Haridwar to Joshimath:

  Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and Uttarakhand Transport run buses covering this mountainous stretch. The journey takes 7-9 hours, with ticket prices around ₹300-₹500.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Volvo buses offer better comfort but are limited on mountain routes. Regular buses are frequent but less comfortable due to narrow roads.

• Travel tips:

  Avoid traveling by bus during monsoon due to landslide risks. Booking tickets in advance during peak season is advisable.

• Scenic route:

  The road from Rishikesh to Joshimath passes through beautiful valleys and forests, making the long journey visually rewarding.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Auli offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. This option suits travelers comfortable with mountain driving and looking for a personalized itinerary.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH334 to Haridwar, then NH7 through Rishikesh, Devprayag, Srinagar (Uttarakhand), and finally Joshimath. The total distance is approximately 520 km.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Expect 12-14 hours of driving depending on traffic and road conditions. Multiple tolls apply on highways, costing around ₹300-₹400 one way.

• Road conditions:

  The highway from Delhi to Rishikesh is smooth and well-maintained. Mountain roads beyond Rishikesh are narrow and winding, requiring cautious driving, especially during rains or winter.

• Rest stops and fuel:

  Numerous dhabas and fuel stations are available on the plains. In the hills, stops are limited; plan fuel and food breaks accordingly, especially near Devprayag and Srinagar.

• Driving tips:

  Start early to avoid Delhi traffic and reach the hills before dusk. Carry chains or snow tires in winter months as roads to Auli can be icy.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to cover the initial leg from Delhi to Dehradun, the nearest airport to Auli. However, the journey from Dehradun to Auli still requires a long road trip.

• Delhi to Dehradun flights:

  Multiple daily flights operate from Delhi’s IGI Airport to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport. Flight duration is about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹4000 depending on the season.

• Airport to Auli:

  From Dehradun, taxis or buses cover the 300 km mountainous road to Joshimath, taking 8-10 hours. Pre-booked taxis are recommended for comfort.

• Flight tips:

  Book flights early during winter and holiday seasons to secure seats and better prices. Morning flights are preferable to avoid weather-related delays.

• Local transport:

  Ola and Uber are available in Dehradun city but not for the entire mountain route. Arrange private cabs or shared taxis for the hill journey.

• Weather impact:

  Flight schedules can be affected by fog in winter; keep buffer time for onward travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Auli, ensuring smooth connections and manageable travel durations.

• Book your train or flight tickets early:

  Secure your Delhi to Haridwar train or Delhi to Dehradun flight tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance via IRCTC or airline websites to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the station or airport early:

  Arrive at Delhi railway station or IGI Airport at least 1 hour before departure to navigate security and boarding procedures comfortably.

• Arrange onward transport to Joshimath:

  Pre-book a taxi from Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Dehradun to Joshimath. Shared taxis can be found but may be less reliable during peak season.

• Plan for overnight stays if needed:

  Given the long road journey from Joshimath to Auli, consider staying overnight in Joshimath to rest before ascending to Auli the next day.

• Carry essential supplies:

  Pack warm clothing, water, snacks, and any medicines, as amenities are limited on mountain roads and at Auli.

• Check weather and road conditions:

  Before starting the mountain drive, verify weather updates and road status with local authorities or online portals to avoid surprises.

Practical Travel Tips

• Book tickets via official portals:

  Use IRCTC for trains and airline websites or apps like MakeMyTrip for flights to get confirmed tickets and avoid scams.

• Stay hydrated and carry snacks:

  Mountain roads have few eateries; carry bottled water and light snacks to stay energized during long drives or bus rides.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services:

  At Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun, opt for prepaid taxi counters or apps like Ola for safe and fair-priced rides.

• Pack for cold weather:

  Auli is cold year-round, especially in winter. Carry thermal wear, gloves, and waterproof jackets to stay comfortable.

• Be prepared for altitude:

  Auli is at about 2,500 meters elevation. Take it easy on arrival to acclimatize and avoid altitude sickness.

• Travel insurance and emergency contacts:

  Consider travel insurance covering mountain trips and keep emergency numbers handy, including local police and hospital contacts.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Auli depends on your interests. Winters attract skiers and snow lovers, while summers offer pleasant weather for trekking and sightseeing.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslide risks, making travel challenging. Planning your trip outside July to September ensures safer and more enjoyable journeys.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or Holi when trains and roads are crowded.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reach mountain towns before nightfall.

• Winter months (December to February) require extra caution for icy roads; check weather forecasts regularly.

• Summer (April to June) offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures for road travel and outdoor activities.

Arrival at Auli & What to Expect

Upon reaching Auli, travelers are greeted by stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas and fresh mountain air. The town is compact, with limited vehicle access, so most visitors walk or use cable cars to explore ski slopes and nearby attractions.

Local transport options include shared taxis and ropeways connecting Auli to Joshimath. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, mostly clustered near the ski area. Basic amenities are available, but carrying essentials is advisable.

Conclusion

Among the various options, taking a train or flight from Delhi to Haridwar or Dehradun followed by a taxi to Joshimath and then ascending to Auli is the most efficient and comfortable way. This combination balances speed, convenience, and scenic travel.

With proper planning, early bookings, and awareness of mountain travel conditions, you can confidently embark on your journey from Delhi to Auli. The breathtaking landscapes and peaceful environment awaiting you make every effort worthwhile.