What is Auli Ropeway?
Auli Ropeway is one of the longest and highest cable cars in Asia, stretching 4 km from Joshimath (1890m) to Auli (3049m). The gondola ride offers breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks including Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Peak and Dunagiri throughout the 20-minute journey.
The ropeway was built in 1982 by the Uttar Pradesh government and is now operated by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) — the official government tourism body for Garhwal, Uttarakhand. It has 10 towers and runs for approximately 20 minutes each way. During winter, it is the primary transport link to the ski slopes. In summer, it operates as a scenic sightseeing attraction with unparalleled Himalayan panoramas.
What Are Auli Ropeway Timings and Best Time to Visit?
Auli Ropeway operates daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, operated by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam). The best time to visit is December to March for snow and skiing, or May to June for green meadows and clear Himalayan views. The ropeway may suspend operations during heavy snowfall, fog, or monsoon storms.
Key Facts
- Location: Joshimath to Auli, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
- Length: 4 km — one of the longest in Asia
- Altitude Gain: 1890m (Joshimath) to 3049m (Auli)
- Duration: ~20 minutes each way
- Operated by: GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam)
- Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (weather dependent, may close in bad weather)
- Built: 1982 by Uttar Pradesh government
- Towers: 10 support towers along the route
Best Time to Visit
Snow-covered peaks, white landscapes. Used as ski slope transport. Most dramatic views.
Green meadows, wildflowers. Pleasant weather. Good visibility on clear mornings.
Monsoon — may be suspended in heavy rain or wind. Check before visiting.
How to Reach Auli Ropeway from Haridwar, Rishikesh or Delhi?
The ropeway base station is in Joshimath, Chamoli district. Reach Joshimath first, then the ropeway station is easily walkable from the town centre.
Nearest major railheads are Haridwar (270 km) and Rishikesh (253 km). From there, take a private taxi or shared cab to Joshimath (~8 hrs), then proceed to Auli by ropeway or road.
UPSRTC and GMOU buses run from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun to Joshimath. From Joshimath, take the ropeway or local taxi to Auli (16 km).
Private taxi from Haridwar/Rishikesh to Joshimath is approximately 270 km (~8 hrs), then 16 km to Auli. From Delhi it is ~500 km (~14 hrs). Tour Venture India arranges private AC cabs — call +91-8057146497 for rates.
What is the Auli Ropeway Ticket Price?
The Auli Ropeway is operated by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam). Tickets are purchased at the Joshimath ropeway station. Below are the approximate fares — confirm current rates with GMVN or Tour Venture India before your visit as prices are revised periodically.
| Category | One Way | Return (Recommended) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | ~₹500–600 | ~₹1000–1100 |
| Child (below 12 yrs) | ~₹300 | ~₹550 |
| Child (below 3 yrs) | Free | Free |
How to Book Auli Ropeway Ticket
- At the Counter: Walk-in tickets available at Joshimath ropeway station. Carry valid ID proof.
- GMVN Online: Check the official GMVN website for online booking availability.
- Through Tour Package: Tour Venture India includes ropeway access in Auli tour packages — no standing in queues. Call +91-8057146497.
What to Expect — The Auli Ropeway Experience
The Auli Ropeway gondola ride is a 20-minute journey that most visitors describe as one of the most memorable moments of their Uttarakhand trip. Here is what to expect:
Buy your ticket at the counter, board the enclosed gondola cabin. The cabin holds approximately 25–30 passengers. As the gondola lifts off, the Joshimath town quickly shrinks below.
As the gondola glides over deep valleys and dense oak-rhododendron forests, the snow-capped peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana, Dunagiri and Trishul come into full view. On clear mornings, the visibility can extend over 200 km.
At the top, you step into a different world — in winter, a snow-white landscape; in summer, green alpine meadows. From here, ski slopes, Gurso Bugyal, and Chattrakund Lake are all within reach.
- Best photography light: early morning (8–10 AM) — clear sky, golden light on peaks
- Shoot from the left side of the gondola for Nanda Devi views going up
- Carry a wide-angle lens — the panorama spans 180° at many points
- In winter, the snow contrast against deep blue sky makes for stunning shots
What Should You Know Before Visiting Auli Ropeway?
Before visiting Auli Ropeway, arrive at the Joshimath station by 8–9 AM to avoid queues in peak season. Always carry a valid photo ID, dress in warm layers (Auli at 3049m is 5–10°C colder than Joshimath), and check the weather forecast — the ropeway suspends operations during heavy snowfall or strong winds.
Reach Joshimath ropeway station by 8–9 AM, especially in winter and weekends. Queues can be long in peak season (Jan–Feb, May).
The ropeway closes in heavy snowfall, fog, or strong winds. Call GMVN Joshimath in advance during winter and monsoon months.
Auli is at 3049m — always 5–10°C cooler than Joshimath. Carry a heavy jacket, gloves and warm cap, even in summer months.
A government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, driving licence) is required at the GMVN ticket counter. Keep it handy.
Wear sturdy shoes/boots. In winter, wear insulated snow boots — the Auli plateau can be icy and slippery.
The rapid altitude gain from 1890m to 3049m may cause mild dizziness in some people. Stay hydrated and walk slowly at the top.
Top 5 Things to Know About Auli Ropeway
Here are the five most important facts about Auli Ropeway that every visitor should know before planning their trip — compiled from our team's multiple on-ground visits across all seasons.
- It is one of Asia's longest cable cars at 4 km — Auli Ropeway covers 4 kilometres from Joshimath (1890m) to Auli (3049m) with 10 support towers, gaining 1159 metres of altitude in a single ride. Only a handful of cable cars in Asia match this length.
- Ticket price is approximately ₹1000–1100 per adult (return) — GMVN, the government operator, revises fares periodically. Buy tickets at the Joshimath counter (walk-in), or enquire about package inclusion with Tour Venture India. Always carry a valid photo ID.
- The ropeway is weather-dependent — always call ahead in winter or monsoon — Operations suspend during heavy snowfall, fog, or strong winds. GMVN Joshimath should be contacted a day before your visit during December–March and July–September to confirm availability.
- The 20-minute gondola offers 360° views of 6+ Himalayan peaks — Nanda Devi (7816m), Kamet (7756m), Mana Peak (7272m), Dunagiri (7066m), Trishul (7120m) and Nilkantha (6596m) are all visible on clear days. Morning rides (8–10 AM) offer the sharpest visibility and best photography light.
- Auli at 3049m is 5–10°C colder than Joshimath — dress in layers — Even in May–June, temperatures at the top can drop to 8–12°C. In winter (Dec–Mar), the top is at –5°C to –15°C. Heavy jacket, gloves, warm cap and snow boots are essential for winter visits.
What to See Near Auli Ropeway
Once at the top, explore these incredible destinations within easy reach of Auli.
What Travellers Say About Auli Ropeway
- What: 4 km gondola cable car from Joshimath (1890m) to Auli (3049m) — one of Asia's longest
- Ticket Price: ₹1000–1100 per adult (return trip, GMVN); ₹500–600 one way; children below 3 free
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (may close in heavy snow, fog or strong winds)
- Journey Duration: ~20 minutes each way; views of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana & Dunagiri peaks
- Best Time: Dec–Mar (snow + skiing) or May–Jun (green meadows + clear Himalayan panoramas)
- How to Reach: Joshimath is ~270 km from Haridwar (~8 hrs by road); ropeway station is in town centre
Frequently Asked Questions — Auli Ropeway
What is the ticket price of Auli Ropeway?
What are the timings of Auli Ropeway?
How long is the Auli Ropeway?
Is Auli Ropeway open in summer?
What peaks can be seen from the Auli Ropeway gondola?
How to reach Auli Ropeway from Haridwar or Rishikesh?
Is Auli Ropeway safe for children and senior citizens?
What is the best time to visit Auli Ropeway?
Can Tour Venture India arrange an Auli Ropeway trip?
This guide is authored by the Tour Venture India team — our travel experts have personally ridden the Auli Ropeway across all seasons. All timings, fare, and operational details are verified from on-ground visits and direct coordination with GMVN Joshimath.