Camping In Auli - A Detailed Guide 2024-25
Mohit Bangari
Explore Himalaya With Me!!
Camping in Auli is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas. If you’re looking for an escape into the wild, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and meadows, Auli camping is perfect for you. Auli is known for its scenic views, cool weather, and adventure activities like skiing and trekking.
If you’re planning a trip to Auli, we recommend checking out our previous blog post, Auli – A Detailed Travel Guide 2024, for a complete overview of Auli, how to get there, and what to do. It’s a great resource to help plan your trip.
There are two types of camping experiences here. One is adventure camping, which is all about getting close to nature and staying in dome tents. It’s ideal for those who love the rugged outdoors. Then, there’s the option of staying in luxury Swiss camps or cottages. These camps offer more comfort and a touch of luxury while still giving you the thrill of staying in nature.
This article will guide you through both options. We’ll also introduce you to Hemant Bhandari, an experienced camp and trek organiser from Auli. Whether you’re interested in adventure camping, staying in Swiss tents, or even skiing, this guide will help you choose the best option for your Auli camping experience.
Table of Contents
About Camping in Auli
Camping in Auli offers a raw and adventurous experience, especially if you choose the rugged camping option. Adventure camping in Auli means staying in dome tents right in the heart of nature. It’s not about luxury but about living close to the elements. You wake up to panoramic views of the Himalayas, and at night, you’re surrounded by the stars.
Rugged camping is different from typical holiday camping. The focus here is on adventure and nature, not comfort. There might be no attached bathrooms or luxury facilities. Sometimes, campsites might have basic toilets, but in some remote spots, you may need to use nature itself. The idea is to embrace the raw side of camping.
This type of Auli camping is ideal for those who are seeking an adventurous escape. If you’re someone who enjoys trekking, stargazing, and being one with nature, then this style of camping is for you. But if you prefer more comfort, there are other options like Swiss tents with proper facilities, which we’ll discuss later.
Hemant Bhandari- Camp organiser
Hemant Bhandari is a true mountain lover and adventure expert. Born and raised in Auli, he has spent his life exploring the rugged terrains of the Himalayas. With years of experience, he now organizes camps and treks in the Joshimath region, including popular trails like Satopanth, Valley of Flowers, and Kuari Pass.
What sets Hemant apart is his deep connection to the mountains and his passion for adventure sports. He’s not just a trek organizer; he’s also a skilled skier, having won a silver medal in the Khelo India Winter Competition in mountaineering ski. His dedication doesn’t stop there—he is currently preparing for the 2025 Asian Games in China, where he will compete in skiing.
Hemant’s camps are all about real adventure. He offers rugged camping experiences in Auli that take you closer to nature. But if you’re looking for luxury, Hemant can also arrange stays in Swiss tents and cottages along the Auli-Joshimath road. His versatility, knowledge of the region, and love for the outdoors make him the perfect guide for anyone seeking an authentic Himalayan experience.
To connect with Hemant, you can visit his website valleyofflower.in or call him at 8218246102.
What Type of Packages You Can Go For
When camping in Auli, you have several exciting options depending on how adventurous you want your trip to be. Here are some packages you can choose from:
1. 2 Nights Adventure Camping Package
This is perfect for those who want to fully soak in the beauty of Auli over a longer stay. You’ll camp in adventure dome tents, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and explore nearby areas.
- Inclusions: 2 nights in dome tents, basic meals, bonfire (weather permitting).
- Activities: Stargazing, nature walks, and camp games.
2. 1 Night Adventure Camping Package
For those short on time, this 1-night package gives you a taste of rugged camping in the Himalayan foothills.
- Inclusions: 1 night in dome tents, meals, and bonfire (weather permitting).
- Activities: Nature walk, sunrise views over the peaks.
3. Camping with Zipline Package
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, this package combines camping with a thrilling zipline experience. Auli’s famous zipline will add a spark of excitement to your camping trip.
- Inclusions: 1 or 2 nights in tents, meals, and a zipline ride.
- Activities: Zipline, bonfire, stargazing.
4. Camping with Hiking to Gorson Bugyal
For nature lovers and trekkers, this package includes an adventurous trek to Gorson Bugyal, one of Auli’s most stunning meadows. The trail offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable camping experience.
- Inclusions: 1 night in tents, meals, and guided trek to Gorson Bugyal.
- Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, and meadow exploration.
5. Winter Camping with Skiing
If you’re visiting during the winter months, combine your camping with an introduction to skiing. Auli’s snow-covered slopes are perfect for beginners.
- Inclusions: 1 or 2 nights in tents, meals, and a skiing session.
- Activities: Skiing, bonfire, and snow camping.
These packages offer something for everyone, from adventure seekers to nature lovers. You can pick the one that suits your time and interest, ensuring you have a memorable stay in Auli.
Winter Camping in Auli
Winter camping in Auli is a truly magical experience. As the snow blankets the entire landscape, Auli transforms into a white wonderland. Camping in such weather is for those who seek thrill and adventure in the heart of the Himalayas.
During winter, the temperatures in Auli can drop below freezing, so you must be prepared for cold weather. Adventure dome tents are set up with sleeping bags and insulation, but it’s still a raw experience. The chill in the air, the snow under your feet, and the stunning views of snow-covered peaks make it all worth it.
Winter camping in Auli often comes with snow-related activities. You can try your hand at skiing, take short hikes in the snow, or just enjoy the calm, serene atmosphere. The nights are cold, but sitting by a bonfire (if the weather allows) and gazing at the stars is an experience you won’t forget.
Unlike luxury Swiss tents, winter adventure camping is not about comfort. It’s about embracing nature in its wildest form. But if you are up for the challenge, it’s one of the best ways to experience the true beauty of Auli.
How to Reach Hemant’s Campsite, Auli
Hemant’s campsite is located at Tower 8 in Upper Auli, a serene spot surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Reaching the campsite is quite easy and part of the adventure itself.
To get there, you first need to reach Auli parking. From here, you can take the Auli Chair Lift, which is a popular way to reach Upper Auli. The chair car will drop you just before Tower 8, which is the final stop. Once you step off, Hemant’s campsite is a short walk away, making it convenient for anyone using the chair lift.
If you prefer, you can also hike up from Auli parking to Tower 8, enjoying the stunning views along the way. The campsite’s location near the chair lift makes it easily accessible while offering a peaceful camping experience surrounded by nature.
How to Reach Auli?
Reaching Auli is an adventure in itself, as it is located deep in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand. Whether you are travelling from Delhi, Dehradun, Rishikesh, or even the Kumaon region, multiple routes can lead you to this beautiful hill station. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get to Auli from various points:
By Road
Auli is well-connected by roads, and it is easily accessible from major cities in Uttarakhand. You can travel via car, bus, or taxi.
From Delhi: Auli is approximately 500 km from Delhi. You can take the NH58 route via Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Joshimath. After reaching Joshimath (around 12 km from Auli), you can either drive or take a cable car to Auli.
Route: Delhi → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Auli
From Dehradun: The distance between Dehradun and Auli is around 300 km. You can follow the same route through Rishikesh and Rudraprayag, as mentioned above.
Route: Dehradun → Rishikesh → Srinagar → Joshimath → Auli
From Rishikesh: Auli is approximately 260 km from Rishikesh. You can drive up to Joshimath and then proceed to Auli.
Route: Rishikesh → Devprayag → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Auli
By Air
The nearest airport to Auli is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 270 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Joshimath, and from there, either drive or take the ropeway to Auli.
Flight Options: Direct flights to Jolly Grant Airport are available from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Auli is Haridwar Railway Station, located around 275 km from Auli. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to Joshimath. Another option is Rishikesh Railway Station (approx. 260 km from Auli). Both stations are well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.
By Cable Car (Ropeway)
One of the most exciting ways to reach Auli is by taking the Auli Ropeway from Joshimath. The cable car covers about 4 km and offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks. It is one of the longest ropeways in Asia and takes around 20 minutes to reach Auli from Joshimath.
Distance: 12 km from Joshimath to Auli (by road), or 4 km by cable car
Timings: 9 AM to 4:30 PM (timings may vary depending on weather conditions)
Via Kumaon Region
If you’re coming from the Kumaon region, such as Nainital or Almora, you can reach Auli via Karnaprayag.
From Nainital: The distance from Nainital to Auli is around 328 km. The route is scenic, passing through several hill stations and river valleys.
Route: Nainital → Almora → Kausani → Garur → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Auli
From Almora: The distance between Almora and Auli is about 285 km. You can follow the same route as from Nainital, passing through Kausani and Karnaprayag.
Via Chota Char Dham Route
Auli is situated close to the Chota Char Dham route, making it accessible for those on pilgrimage trips.
From Kedarnath: After visiting Kedarnath, you can drive to Auli. The distance between Kedarnath and Auli is around 155 km. You’ll need to travel via Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag.
Route: Kedarnath → Guptkashi → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Joshimath → Auli
From Badrinath: Auli is just 46 km from Badrinath. You can drive directly from Badrinath to Auli via Joshimath.
Route: Badrinath → Joshimath → Auli
How to Reach Auli from Joshimath
Auli is about 10-12 km from Joshimath. You can take a local taxi or drive up to Auli. The road is well-maintained but can be steep at some points, so if you’re not familiar with hilly driving, it’s better to hire a cab. It takes around 30-45 minutes to reach Auli by road.
Auli Ropeway
One of the most scenic ways to reach Auli from Joshimath is via the Auli Ropeway. This cable car journey is about 4 km long and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. However, due to landslide problem in Joshiamth rope-way is closed. but it will operational soon.
Chair Lift to Upper Auli
Once you reach Auli parking, you can take the chair lift to get to upper Auli, which is the main spot for skiing and other activities. The chair lift is about 800 meters long and gives you a fun ride through the snow. The fare for the chair lift is approximately ₹500 per person for a round trip. It’s the fastest and easiest way to reach upper Auli from the parking lot.
Other types of Swiss camps and cottages in Auli
If you’re looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay while camping in Auli, several excellent Swiss camps and cottages are available. These camps provide modern amenities, including attached bathrooms, cozy bedding, and often offer beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. Here are three highly recommended options:
1. Nanda Devi Eco Resort Auli
Nanda Devi Eco Resort offers a blend of comfort and eco-friendliness with its Swiss tents and cottages. Located amidst nature, it provides a peaceful stay while ensuring you remain connected to the beauty of the Himalayas.
- Contact: +91 9717965229
- Website: nandadeviecoresort.com
2. Blue Poppy Resort
Blue Poppy is a popular option in Auli, offering luxury Swiss tents with attached bathrooms and stunning views of the valley. The resort is well-rated for its hospitality and is a great choice for travelers seeking a comfortable yet nature-connected stay.
- Contact: +91 7055100100
- Website: bluepoppyresort.com
3. Casa Himalaya Auli
Casa Himalaya offers a blend of modern comforts and rustic charm with its cottages. Known for its serene surroundings and excellent service, it’s ideal for families and couples looking for a peaceful retreat in Auli.
- Contact: +91 7500736651
- Website: casahimalaya.com
If you’re unsure which option to choose, you can always seek assistance from Hemant Bhandari. He can help you book one of these Swiss camps or cottages, making your Auli camping experience smooth and enjoyable, whether you’re after luxury or adventure.
What If You Have Your Own Camping Stuff?
If you already have your own camping gear and want to set up your own tent in Auli, you can still reach out to Hemant Bhandari. He can assist you in finding the perfect camping spot, ensuring that you get a safe and scenic location. Whether you need a camping site near Tower 8 or a more secluded spot, Hemant can help you with space management.
Additionally, if you’re interested in combining your camping with adventure activities like skiing, hiking, or even a zipline experience, Hemant can organise everything for you. Having a local expert to guide you through your Auli camping experience ensures that your trip is both enjoyable and hassle-free. You can contact him directly, and he’ll take care of the rest.
Skiing Packages for Auli
If you’re planning to mix camping with skiing in Auli, you’re in for a great experience. We’ve covered everything you need to know in our detailed article on Auli Skiing Packages. It includes information about the types of packages, skiing providers, and tips for both beginners and advanced skiers.
To get all the details, visit the full guide here:
Auli Skiing Package – A Detailed Guide for 2024-25
This guide will help you choose the perfect skiing package for your adventure!
Conclusion
Camping in Auli offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to connect with nature and seek adventure. Whether you choose rugged dome tents or prefer the comfort of Swiss camps, Auli has something for everyone. With breathtaking views, exciting activities like skiing and hiking, and the guidance of experienced organizers like Hemant Bhandari, your trip will be filled with memorable moments.
If you want more information on planning your trip to Auli, be sure to check out our Auli – A Detailed Travel Guide 2024. It covers everything from how to reach Auli to the best things to do. No matter how you choose to experience Auli, camping here is sure to be a highlight of your Himalayan adventure.
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Mohit Bangari
Explore Himalaya With Me!!