The picturesque hill town of Auli, which is in the Garhwal Himalayas, has a truly magical winter wonderland. Auli is a dream place for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and people who want to escape it all. It has snow-capped hills, clean slopes, and a peaceful atmosphere. December is believed to be the best month to visit Auli because the weather is excellent for winter sports, touring, and just taking in the beauty of the Himalayas.
This detailed guide will review everything you need to know to plan your December trip to Auli. We will help you figure out why you should go to Auli in December and show you the must-see spots and things to do. So, let us start our trip to this winter paradise!
Table of Contents
Why The Auli Tour in December?
Snow-Covered Landscapes: December is the first month of winter in Auli, and a fresh layer of snow is covering the whole area. Snow-covered peaks, pine woods, and meadows are stunning to look at.
Perfect for Winter Sports: Auli is known for having great weather for skiing and snowboarding. The slopes are well-kept, and both new and expert skiers can find what they are looking for.
A Calm and Peaceful Atmosphere: There are fewer tourists in December than during the busy summer months. In Auli, you can have a more private and quiet time.
Festive Feelings: December is Christmas and New Year’s month, so Auli often has events and parties that are fun and festive. This beautiful mountain setting lets you feel the joy and cheer of the holiday season.
Cheaper Prices: Compared to the busiest months, December is a better time to stay in a hotel and pay for other things. This makes Auli a good place for tourists on a budget.
Places to Visit in and Around Auli in December
Auli is best known for its ski hills, but the area has a lot more to offer than just winter sports. There is a lot to see and do in and around Auli, from old churches to beautiful scenery. When planning your December trip to Auli, these are the must-visit places in Auli you should visit:
1. Auli Artificial Lake

Auli Artificial Lake is famous because it is one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. The lake partly freezes in December, creating a beautiful scene amidst the snow-covered mountains. Photographers and people who want to record the beauty of Auli in the winter should go there. The lake is also essential for keeping the ski slopes covered in snow during years when there is not much of it.
2. Joshimath

Joshimath is a very important pilgrimage place only 16 km from Auli. Joshimath is where Lord Badri spends the winter. It is home to the holy Shankaracharya Temple and the Narasimha Temple. If you go to this old town in December, fewer people will be there so that you can enjoy the culture peacefully. The ropeway between Auli and Joshimath is a beautiful ride that gives you amazing views of the snow-covered scenery.
3. Gurso Bugyal

Do not miss the chance to see Gurso Bugyal if you love nature. This lovely field is only a short hike from Auli and has a great view of many famous Himalayan peaks, such as Nanda Devi and Trishul. While it is snowing in December, the Bugyal is a great place to take pictures and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Himalayas. The hike to Gurso Bugyal is not too challenging, so even first-time hikers can do it.
4. Chenab Lake

If you want to see something off the usual path, you should definitely go on a hike to Chenab Lake. Even though the hike is challenging, the scenery of the frozen lake and snow-covered mountains makes it well worth it. Along the way, you will see the wild beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas as you walk through dense forests, open meadows, and towns at high elevations.
5. Nanda Devi National Park

Nanda Devi National Park is close to Auli and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the winter, some parts of the park are closed, but the area around the park has stunning views of India’s second-highest mountain, Nanda Devi. Many kinds of plants and animals live in the park. December might not be the best month to see wildlife, but the snowy scenery is stunning.
Things to Do in Auli in December
If you go to Auli in December, you can enjoy various winter activities that are great for people who like to explore, be in nature, or just rest. Auli has lots of different things to do, from skiing to hikes.
1. Skiing

Skiing is, without a doubt, the most popular thing to do in Auli in December. People come from all over the country and even other countries to ski. Skiing is excellent on the snow-covered slopes, with runs for newbies, intermediate skiers, and experts. There are several ski schools in Auli where people can rent gear and get lessons. There are easy-to-moderate hills, so it is excellent for both new and experienced skiers.
2. Trekking

Even though skiing is the main attraction in Auli in December, there are also several trekking choices for people who like to explore the outdoors on foot. As we already said, the Gurso Bugyal trek is a famous short hike with beautiful views of the snow-covered peaks. Trekkers can also go to the Kuari Pass, which has excellent views of the Garhwal range. Trekking through the snow-covered trails makes your trip more exciting and lets you discover new things.
3. Snowboarding

In addition to skis, you can also snowboard in Auli in December month. It is an excellent place for snowboarders to improve their skills because the hills are wide open, and the snow is soft and fresh. Like skiing, you can rent snowboarding gear and take lessons in Auli. It is thrilling to glide down snowy slopes, so action seekers should try it.
4. Cable Car Ride

The Auli-Joshimath cable car is one of the longest in India, and the views of the Himalayas are stunning. Snow covers the whole area in December, which makes the cable car ride a memorable experience. The ride is over 4 km long and gives you a bird’s-eye view of the dense woods, snow-covered meadows, and majestic peaks. People who want to enjoy the beauty of Auli without doing a lot of hard physical work should do this.
5. Camping

Camping in Auli is an excellent choice for people who want to be closer to nature. Several tour companies offer overnight camping trips in the winter, where you can sleep outside under the stars in the snow. In December, camping in Auli allows you to wake up to snow-covered hills all around you. The cold weather might be challenging, but the one-of-a-kind experience makes it worth it.
Weather in Auli in December
The weather is an essential part of planning any trip, but it is vital for trips to high-altitude places like Auli. When December comes around, winter in Auli starts. The weather can be both beautiful and hard to deal with.
1. Temperature
The temperature can drop a lot in Auli in December. During the day, it can be anywhere from 2°C to 10°C. Temperatures can drop below zero at night and often get as low as -8°C. The cold can be excruciating if you are not used to being cold. Layering clothes and bringing the right weather gear is essential to keep warm on your trip.
2. Snowfall
In December, Auli gets a lot of snow, which turns the area into a winter beauty. It generally starts to snow in late November, and by December, a thick layer of snow covers the whole region. Many people visit when it snows, especially those who want to ski or do other winter sports. However, it is essential to keep an eye on the weather predictions because heavy snow can close roads and cause traffic jams.
3. Visibility and Sunlight
Even though the days are shorter in December, Auli has clear skies and bright sunlight, which makes it a great time to go hiking and take pictures. But fog and mist can sometimes make it hard to see, especially early in the morning and late at night. Sunlight reflecting off snow can be harsh on the eyes, so it is best to bring binoculars.
Advantage of Travelling to Auli in December
Fewer Crowds: December is not as busy as summer, so it is a better time to visit Auli. In other words, you can have a calmer and more private experience.
Lower Prices: In December, accommodation and other costs are usually lower than during the busiest tourist season.
Winter Wonderland: In December, beautiful snow-covered scenery and fun events turn Auli into a magical winter wonderland.
Perfect for Winter Sports: Winter sports are at their best in December, when you can ski, snowboard, and do other winter sports.
Quiet and Calm Environment: Auli’s quiet and calm environment in December is ideal for unwinding and recharging.
The Bottom Line
A trip to Auli in December offers adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. Auli is one of the best places to visit in India in December because it has many things to do, from skiing down snowy hills to taking in the beautiful views of the Himalayas. It is a great place to get away for both action seekers and peace lovers because it is peaceful and exciting at the same time. The winter scene has a lot of beauty, and the cold weather only adds to it. Get ready for an exciting trip to Auli in December that you will never forget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Auli in December
When is the ideal time to visit Auli for snowfall?
December is the ideal month to visit Auli for snowfall because it is the pinnacle of winter in the region.
What kind of clothing should I bring to Auli in December?
Pack heavy woolen gear, thermals, waterproof coats, gloves, scarves, and sturdy boots to keep warm and comfortable in the cold and snowy weather.
What is the average temperature in Auli during December?
The average temperature in Auli in December is between -5°C and 5°C.
What are some must-see attractions near Auli in December?
Gulabi Garh, Nanda Devi Peak, Trishul Peak, and Hemkund Sahib are among the must-see attractions near Auli.
Is it safe to travel to Auli in December?
Yes, it is usually safe to travel to Auli during December. However, caution and adherence to local regulations are always advisable.
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