Are you looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure? Look no further than Auli, Uttarakhand, where snowboarding is the ultimate thrill. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli is a winter wonderland that attracts adventurers and nature lovers from all around the world. In this article, we will explore the exciting world of snowboarding in Auli, Uttarakhand, and all it has to offer.

Introduction to Auli

Auli is a picturesque hill station located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is famous for its scenic beauty, skiing, and snowboarding. The snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and vast meadows make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers. The winter season in Auli lasts from November to March, and during this time, the town is transformed into a winter sports paradise.

The History of Snowboarding in Auli

Snowboarding in Auli is a relatively new sport, but it has quickly gained popularity among adventure enthusiasts. The first snowboarding competition was held in Auli in 2011, and since then, the town has become a hub for snowboarding enthusiasts. The Indian government has invested in developing Auli as a winter sports destination, and it has hosted several national and international snowboarding events.

Snowboarding Terrain in Auli

Auli has a varied terrain, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced snowboarders. The slopes range from gentle to steep, and there are also off-piste areas for the more adventurous. The Auli ski resort has two chairlifts and a ski lift that takes you up to the slopes, making it easy to access the snowboarding areas. There are also several ski and snowboard schools in Auli that offer lessons for beginners.

Snowboarding Equipment

Snowboarding equipment is readily available for hire in Auli. You can rent snowboards, boots, and other necessary equipment from the ski and snowboard schools or the ski resort. It is recommended to hire equipment from a reputable place to ensure its safety and quality.

Snowboarding Techniques

Snowboarding requires some technique and practice to master. The basics of snowboarding include learning how to stand on the board, controlling the board's speed and direction, and turning. Once you have mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced techniques such as carving, jumping, and riding switch.

Snowboarding Safety

As with any adventure sport, safety should be a top priority while snowboarding in Auli. It is essential to wear appropriate clothing and safety gear such as a helmet, gloves, and goggles. It is also recommended to take lessons from a qualified instructor to learn the proper techniques and safety measures. It is also crucial to follow the guidelines and instructions given by the ski resort and authorities.

Accommodation in Auli

Auli offers several options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. The Auli Ski Resort has comfortable and affordable rooms with modern amenities, and there are also several homestays and guesthouses in the town. You can also stay in nearby towns such as Joshimath, which is just a 20-minute drive away from Auli.

Other Activities in Auli

Apart from snowboarding, Auli has several other activities to offer. You can take a cable car ride to the Auli Artificial Lake, which offers stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding forests. You can also go trekking, camping, and sightseeing in the nearby areas. Auli is also home to the Nanda Devi National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

How to Reach Auli

Auli is well connected by road and air. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 286 km from Auli. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Auli. The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, which is about 273 km from Auli. From Haridwar, you can take a taxi or bus to Auli.

Best Time to Visit Auli for Snowboarding

The best time to visit Auli for snowboarding is from December to February when the snow is at its best. The snowfall begins in November, and the snow cover lasts until March. During this time, the weather is cold, and the snow conditions are ideal for snowboarding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Auli is a must-visit destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Snowboarding in Auli is an exhilarating experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. With its picturesque landscapes, varied terrain, and modern amenities, Auli is a perfect destination for a winter vacation. So pack your bags, grab your snowboard, and head to Auli for an unforgettable adventure.

Auli is well connected by road and can be reached easily by bus or taxi. The nearest bus stand to Auli is in Joshimath, which is about 16 km away. From Joshimath, you can take a shared taxi or a private taxi to Auli.

If you are coming from Delhi, you can take a bus to Rishikesh, which is about 240 km from Auli. From Rishikesh, you can take a shared taxi or a private taxi to Auli. The journey from Rishikesh to Auli takes about 9-10 hours.

Alternatively, you can also hire a taxi from Delhi directly to Auli. The journey from Delhi to Auli takes about 10-12 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.

It is important to note that the roads to Auli can be steep and narrow, especially during the winter months. Therefore, it is recommended to hire an experienced driver and use a sturdy vehicle for the journey.

How to reach Snowboarding in Auli by train and nearest railway station?

The nearest railway station to Auli is in Haridwar, which is about 273 km away. Haridwar is well connected to major cities in India by train.

From Haridwar, you can take a shared taxi or a private taxi to Auli. The journey from Haridwar to Auli takes about 8-9 hours.

Alternatively, you can take a train to Rishikesh, which is about 250 km from Auli. From Rishikesh, you can take a shared taxi or a private taxi to Auli. The journey from Rishikesh to Auli takes about 9-10 hours.

It is important to note that there are no direct trains to Auli, and you will have to hire a taxi or take a bus from the nearest railway station to reach Auli.

How to reach Snowboarding in Auli by air and nearest airport?

The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 286 km away. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to major cities in India by domestic airlines.

From Jolly Grant Airport, you can take a taxi to Auli. The journey from Dehradun to Auli takes about 9-10 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Alternatively, you can take a helicopter from Dehradun to Auli. The helicopter service is operated by the state government and is available only during the winter months when the snowfall is heavy.

It is important to note that the helicopter service is subject to weather conditions and may get canceled at short notice. Therefore, it is recommended to have a backup plan in case the helicopter service is not available.

FAQs

What is the cost of snowboarding in Auli?

The cost of snowboarding in Auli varies depending on the season, duration, and type of package you choose. It can range from INR 500 to INR 3000 per day.

Is snowboarding in Auli safe for beginners?

Yes, snowboarding in Auli is safe for beginners if they take proper lessons from qualified instructors and follow the safety guidelines.

Can I rent snowboarding equipment in Auli?

Yes, you can rent snowboarding equipment in Auli from the ski and snowboard schools or the ski resort.

Are there any age restrictions for snowboarding in Auli?

There are no age restrictions for snowboarding in Auli. However, children should be accompanied by adults and take proper lessons before attempting to snowboard.

What are the other activities to do in Auli apart from snowboarding?

Apart from snowboarding, you can go trekking, camping, sightseeing, and take a cable car ride to the Auli Artificial Lake. You can also visit the nearby Nanda Devi National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.