Auli in December: Weather, Snowfall and Things to Do

Oct 12

11 min read

Planning an Auli trip in December? You may be hoping to see snow-covered mountains, enjoy skiing, and spend a few days away from busy city life. Auli, in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is a popular winter destination for couples, families, and groups of friends. But before booking your trip, it is important to understand the weather, travel conditions, and activities available during this month.

December brings cold weather to Auli, and snowfall is possible, especially later in the month. However, snow is not guaranteed on your travel dates. Road conditions, visibility, and access to walking trails can also change with the weather.

In this guide, you will learn why Auli is worth visiting in December, what you can do there, which nearby places to explore, and how to choose an Auli tour package. These tips will help you plan a comfortable winter holiday without unrealistic expectations.

Why Visit Auli in December?

December is a good time to visit Auli if you enjoy winter weather, mountain views, and outdoor activities. The destination sits at around 2,800 metres above sea level and offers views of the Garhwal Himalayas. During winter, the slopes and surrounding forests may receive snowfall, giving the region a different look from its summer landscape.

One important thing to remember is that snowfall varies each year. Early December may bring cold weather without much snow, while later dates may offer better chances of seeing snow. Check the latest local weather conditions before finalising your plans.

Here are five reasons to consider an Auli trip in December.

1. Enjoy Skiing in Auli

Auli is one of Uttarakhand's best-known destinations for skiing. Its slopes attract beginners and experienced skiers who want to enjoy winter sports against a Himalayan backdrop.

If you have never skied before, consider taking a lesson with a qualified instructor. You can learn basic balance, turning, and stopping before attempting longer slopes. Ask about equipment rental and lesson availability before booking your trip.

Skiing conditions depend on the amount of snow available. December can be cold enough for winter activities, but natural snowfall is not guaranteed throughout the month. Confirm whether the slopes are suitable for skiing on your travel dates.

Wear warm, comfortable clothing and follow the instructor's advice. Do not attempt steep slopes without proper training, and avoid skiing when visibility or snow conditions are poor.

2. Visit Auli Artificial Lake

Auli Artificial Lake is a popular sightseeing spot surrounded by mountain scenery. It was developed to support snowmaking for the ski slopes when natural snowfall is limited.

The lake area is worth visiting for photographs and views of the surrounding landscape. If fresh snow has fallen, the slopes may look white and create a beautiful winter setting. During dry periods, you may see more grass and exposed ground than snow.

Wear shoes with a good grip because icy paths can be slippery. Stay on safe walking areas and never step onto frozen water, even if the surface looks solid.

You can include the lake in a relaxed sightseeing day. Allow time to enjoy the views instead of rushing through several attractions. If you are travelling with children or older family members, choose accessible paths and avoid slippery sections.

3. Enjoy Himalayan Mountain Views

Auli is known for its views of the Garhwal Himalayas. On a clear day, you may see prominent peaks, including Nanda Devi, from suitable viewpoints.

The best views depend on visibility. Clouds, fog, and snowfall can cover the mountains, sometimes changing conditions within a few hours. If the sky is cloudy when you arrive, keep some flexibility in your itinerary and try again when the weather improves.

Morning and afternoon sightseeing can both be rewarding, but winter days are short. Plan your visits early enough to return before dark.

Carry a warm jacket even when the sun is shining. Wind can make exposed viewpoints feel much colder than sheltered areas. If you are travelling with family, choose a viewpoint that does not require a long walk over snow or uneven ground.

4. Explore Snow-Covered Meadows

The meadows and forest trails around Auli attract visitors who enjoy nature and short walks. After fresh snowfall, these areas can offer beautiful views and good photography opportunities.

Gurso Bugyal, also called Gorson Bugyal, is a popular meadow reached by a walking trail from Auli. However, the route may become more difficult when snow or ice covers the ground.

Beginners should not judge a winter walk only by its distance. Walking on slippery paths requires more energy and concentration than walking on dry ground. Wear suitable footwear, carry drinking water and snacks, and allow enough time to return.

Before leaving, ask a local guide or your accommodation provider about the latest trail conditions. Avoid the walk if visibility is poor, heavy snowfall is expected, or the path is unsafe.

If you are travelling with young children or older family members, choose a shorter walk that matches their comfort and fitness level.

5. Visit Joshimath and Narsingh Temple

Joshimath, also known as Jyotirmath, is an important town on the route to Auli. It offers accommodation, food, local transport, and access to essential supplies.

You can visit Narsingh Temple, an important religious site in the town, and explore nearby areas before travelling uphill to Auli. A stop in Joshimath can also be useful if you arrive late or need to arrange transport.

The Joshimath–Auli ropeway has been reported closed since January 2023. Do not assume it will operate during your visit. Check its current status before travelling and arrange road transport if required.

Winter road conditions can change with snowfall, frost, and other weather events. Keep extra time in your schedule, particularly if you have a fixed return journey.

Things to do in auli trip

An Auli trip offers more than skiing. You can enjoy sightseeing, photography, short nature walks, local food, and a relaxed stay in the mountains. Choose your activities according to the weather and the fitness level of your group.

Enjoy a winter walk: Choose an accessible route near your accommodation or a recognised sightseeing point. Snow-covered paths can be slippery, so wear shoes with good grip and avoid walking alone on unfamiliar trails. If you want to explore a longer route, ask a local guide about the current conditions.

Take photographs of the mountains: Auli's slopes, forests, and Himalayan views provide plenty of opportunities for photography. Carry a phone or camera with a fully charged battery. Cold weather can reduce battery performance, so keep your device warm when you are not using it.

Try local food: After spending time outdoors, enjoy a warm meal at your hotel or a local restaurant. Check meal timings and dining options before booking accommodation, as facilities may be limited in some areas.

Enjoy a relaxed mountain stay: You do not need to fill every hour with activities. Spend time enjoying the views, resting, and exploring accessible areas. If you are travelling with family, leave breaks between sightseeing stops so everyone can stay comfortable.

Prepare for cold weather: Carry thermal innerwear, a warm jacket, gloves, a woollen cap, thick socks, and suitable footwear. Lip balm and moisturiser can help protect your skin from cold, dry air. If you plan to walk on snow, ask a local guide whether additional footwear or equipment is needed.

Check conditions before outdoor activities: Mountain weather can change quickly. Check the forecast and ask local staff about road and trail conditions before leaving your accommodation. If skiing or a walk is not possible, visit an accessible attraction or spend more time exploring Joshimath.

Auli is not a destination where every activity is guaranteed on every date. A flexible plan will help you enjoy your trip even if the weather changes.

Best Places to Visit Near Auli

Auli is a useful base for exploring nearby mountain scenery and cultural attractions. Some places are suitable for short sightseeing stops, while others require walking on uneven ground.

In December, check road and trail conditions before setting out. Snowfall, ice, and limited daylight can affect how much you can comfortably cover in one day. If you have only a few days, choose the places that best match your interests rather than trying to visit everything.

1. Gurso Bugyal

Gurso Bugyal is a scenic meadow near Auli, known for its open landscape, forest sections, and Himalayan views. It is popular with visitors who want to enjoy nature without undertaking a multi-day trek.

The walking route can be enjoyable in good conditions, but winter weather may make it more demanding. Snow and ice can slow your pace, and the return journey may take longer than expected.

Before starting, ask locally whether the trail is open and suitable for your fitness level. Wear shoes with good grip, carry water and snacks, and consider hiring a local guide if the route is covered in snow.

Start early enough to return before daylight fades. If visibility becomes poor or the path is slippery, turn back rather than continuing towards the meadow.

Gurso Bugyal is best for travellers who enjoy walking and have enough time for a relaxed outing. If your group includes young children or older travellers who are uncomfortable on uneven ground, consider an easier sightseeing option around Auli.

2. Chattrakund Lake

Chattrakund is a small lake near Auli, surrounded by forest scenery. Visitors often include it in their plans for a peaceful walk away from busier sightseeing areas.

The journey is part of the experience, but the route may be slippery during December. Conditions depend on recent weather, so do not assume the path will be easy simply because the lake is nearby.

Check the route with local staff before leaving. Carry warm clothing, water, snacks, and a phone with enough battery. If you are unfamiliar with the area, ask a local guide for directions and advice about current trail conditions.

Avoid starting late in the afternoon. Winter daylight is limited, and returning on an icy trail after dark can be difficult. If the path is unsafe or access is restricted, skip the visit and enjoy other accessible places around Auli.

3. Joshimath

Joshimath is one of the most practical places to visit during an Auli holiday. It is a key town on the route to Auli and offers accommodation, food, local transport, and essential supplies.

You can visit Narsingh Temple, explore the town, enjoy a meal, or purchase anything you may have forgotten to pack. If you are travelling from Rishikesh or Haridwar, Joshimath may also be a useful stop before continuing uphill.

Plan your journey carefully during December. Snowfall, frost, traffic, or road work can increase travel time. Confirm your vehicle arrangements and avoid leaving your return journey until late in the evening.

The Joshimath–Auli ropeway has been reported closed, so plan to travel by road unless its operation has been confirmed for your dates. If you are travelling during Christmas or New Year, arrange your accommodation and transport in advance.

how to book auli trip package?

An Auli tour package can simplify your winter holiday by combining transport, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing. This is especially helpful if you are travelling from Delhi, Haridwar, or Rishikesh and are unfamiliar with mountain roads.

Before booking, compare the itinerary and inclusions rather than choosing only by price. Some packages may include transport and accommodation but charge separately for activities, meals, or local transfers.

Choose the right trip duration

A 3-day trip may work for a short visit, while four days can provide more time for sightseeing and a possible stop in Joshimath. If you are travelling from Delhi, allow enough time for the long road journey.

A sample Auli Itinerary 4 Days could look like this:

Day 1: Travel towards Joshimath and stay overnight, depending on your pickup point and travel time.
Day 2: Travel to Auli, check in, and explore accessible viewpoints.
Day 3: Visit Auli Artificial Lake, try skiing if conditions permit, or explore a nearby trail if it is safe.
Day 4: Visit Joshimath if time allows, then begin the return journey.

This is a sample plan, not a fixed schedule. Your actual itinerary will depend on road conditions, weather, accommodation, and the activities available during your visit.

Best tour Operators in Uttarakhand Offering Auli tour package

You can check the available tour options from these two travel brands before deciding which package suits your trip. Dehra Hikes: Visit Dehra Hikes to explore its available trekking and mountain-trip options. Contact the operator if you need an itinerary that is not listed on the website.

Confirm that the package is available for your travel dates. Do not assume that a particular activity, hotel, or transport service is included unless the operator confirms it in writing.

Northern Himalayas: Visit Northern Himalayas to explore its available tour options. Check the itinerary, accommodation, transport, and services included before booking.

Check these details before paying

Transport: Confirm pickup and drop-off points, vehicle type, and whether local transfers are included.
Accommodation: Ask about the hotel category, room-sharing arrangements, heating, and meal plan.
Activities: Check whether skiing, equipment rental, lessons, and sightseeing are included or charged separately.
Winter conditions: Ask how the itinerary will change if snowfall affects roads or walking trails.
Cancellation policy: Understand the refund terms if you cancel or a service cannot be provided.
Extra charges: Confirm whether parking, additional meals, or local transport will cost extra.

The ropeway should not be treated as a guaranteed part of your trip unless its operation is confirmed. Arrange road transport as your main option.

Book early for Christmas and New Year

The last weeks of December can be busy because many families and groups plan holidays around school breaks and New Year. If your dates are fixed, book accommodation and transport early.

However, early booking does not guarantee snowfall. Check local weather updates before departure and understand the cancellation policy before paying.

A well-planned Auli trip should fit your budget, travel time, and comfort level. Choose a package with clear inclusions and enough flexibility to handle winter weather.

FAQs

Is December a good time to visit Auli?

Yes, December is a good time to visit Auli if you enjoy cold weather, mountain views, and winter scenery. You may also be able to try skiing if suitable snow is available. However, snowfall is not guaranteed throughout the month. Check recent weather updates before travelling and keep alternative sightseeing plans in case snow activities are unavailable.

Does it snow in Auli in December?

Yes, Auli can receive snowfall in December, but the timing and amount vary each year. Early December may have little or no snow, while later dates may offer better chances. If seeing snow is your main reason for travelling, check local conditions shortly before departure rather than assuming that the area will be covered in snow.

Is Auli suitable for a family trip in December?

Auli can be suitable for families who are comfortable with cold weather and long mountain journeys. Families can enjoy accessible viewpoints, sightseeing, and skiing lessons when conditions permit. Icy paths and cold temperatures may be challenging for young children and older travellers, so choose suitable accommodation, plan regular breaks, and avoid difficult snow walks.

How many days are enough for an Auli trip?

Three days may be enough for a short visit, while four days can allow more time for sightseeing and a visit to Joshimath. Travellers coming from Delhi should allow enough time for the road journey. Your final itinerary will depend on your pickup point, road conditions, weather, and whether you want to explore nearby trails.

Is the Joshimath–Auli ropeway open in December?

The Joshimath–Auli ropeway has been reported closed since January 2023, and its reopening status should be checked before travel. Do not depend on the ropeway without confirmation from the relevant operator. Plan road transport as your main option and ask your tour provider about any changes to local transport services.

What should I pack for Auli in December?

Pack thermal innerwear, a warm jacket, gloves, a woollen cap, thick socks, and shoes with good grip. Carry moisturiser, lip balm, personal medicines, a power bank, and some cash. If you plan to walk on snow, ask a local guide about suitable footwear and additional equipment. Keep an extra pair of socks in case your feet get wet.