5‑Day Snowfall Escape to Auli, Uttarakhand (December)

Day 1: Departure & Arrival in Joshimath

Morning: Catch an overnight train or budget flight from Mumbai to Dehradun, then a shared taxi to Joshimath. The journey offers scenic views of the foothills as you approach the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Check into a budget guesthouse in Joshimath and enjoy a simple lunch of local thali. Rest briefly before the short drive up to Auli.

Evening: Take the Auli Ropeway up to Auli (30 min) and settle into a modest chalet. Warm up with a cup of ginger tea while watching the first snowfall.

Day 2: Snow Adventures

Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast, then head to the Auli Ski Resort for beginner ski lessons and sledding. Rental gear is available at the base camp.

Afternoon: Explore the Gorson Bugyal plateau on snowshoes; the panoramic view of the snow‑capped peaks is unforgettable. Pack a light snack and stay hydrated.

Evening:
After returning to the chalet, enjoy a cozy dinner of dal‑makhani and rice. End the day with a bonfire (if permitted) under a clear starlit sky.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Visit the historic Narsingh Temple in Joshimath and the nearby Vishwanath Temple. The serene atmosphere offers a peaceful start.

Afternoon: Return to Auli for a guided walk to the Lake Gorson, where you can try ice‑fishing or simply admire the frozen surface.

Evening: Sample local Garhwali cuisine at a small eatery—try the Kafuli and Gahat dishes. Spend the night strolling along the snow‑covered pathways.

Day 4: Optional Trek & Relaxation

Morning: For the adventurous, embark on a short trek to the Gorson Peak viewpoint (2 km, easy). The trek offers breathtaking vistas of Nanda Devi.

Afternoon: Return to Auli for a relaxing session at the local Yoga & Wellness Center, perfect for unwinding after the trek.

Evening: Enjoy a movie night in the chalet’s common area with hot chocolate. Early to bed to prepare for the journey home.

Day 5: Return to Mumbai

Morning: Check out and take the ropeway down to Joshimath. Have a quick breakfast before the road trip.

Afternoon: Shared taxi to Dehradun, then board the train/flight back to Mumbai. Light snacks are provided en route.

Evening: Arrive in Mumbai by nightfall, carrying fond memories of the snowy Himalayas.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Travel (Mumbai‑Dehradun round trip, train/flight) – 2 days, approx. ₹4,000
• Joshimath‑Auli shared taxi & ropeway – 0.5 day, approx. ₹800
• Accommodation (budget chalet/guesthouse, 4 nights) – 4 nights, approx. ₹3,000
• Meals (local dhabas & guesthouse) – 5 days, approx. ₹1,200
• Ski/Snow equipment rental – 1 day, approx. ₹500
• Guided trek & local transport – 1 day, approx. ₹400
• Miscellaneous (entrance fees, souvenirs) – 5 days, approx. ₹200
• Total Estimated Cost: ₹9,900

Tips

To extend the trip, add a day in Rudraprayag for river rafting or a visit to the Haridwar temples; budget an extra ₹2,000–₹3,000. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip the optional trek on Day 4 and replace it with a leisurely morning in Auli, saving about ₹400 on guide fees.