7-Day Himalayan Escape: From Rishikesh to Auli

Do you long for calmness and serenity by the sacred Ganges or crave alpine adventure in the Himalayas? Why choose one when you can have both with a Rishikesh to Auli journey?

The Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand journey offers a perfect blend of adventure sports, spiritual experiences, and mountain magic. From river rafting in the sacred Ganges to skiing on pristine slopes, this 7-day escape promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover how to reach Rishikesh from Auli and experience the diverse landscapes that make Uttarakhand a traveller’s paradise. 

In this blog

• About Rishikesh and Auli: Yoga Capital Meets Skiing Paradise
• Best Time to Visit Rishikesh and Auli for Travel & Adventure
• Top Places to Visit in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
• Best Things to Do in Rishikesh- Yoga, Rafting & More
• How to Reach Rishikesh to Auli- Distance & Travel Guide
• Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Auli, Uttarakhand
• Exciting Things to Do in Auli- Skiing, Trekking & Cable Car Ride
• 7-Day Himalayan Escape: From Rishikesh to Auli Itinerary
• Club Mahindra Resorts in Uttarakhand- Best Hill Resorts for Families

About Rishikesh and Auli: Yoga Capital Meets Skiing Paradise

Rishikesh: The Gateway to the Himalayas

• Location: Dehradun district, Uttarakhand
• Elevation:372 meters above sea level
• Hottest Month and Temperature: May-June (45°C)
• Coldest Month and Temperature: December-January (5°C)

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the holy Ganges, Rishikesh stands as the undisputed Yoga Capital of the World. This sacred city, where the Beatles once sought enlightenment, weaves together ancient mythology with modern adventure. Legend says Lord Rama performed penance here, while the iconic suspension bridges echo with tales of spiritual seekers. The confluence of three sacred rivers creates an energy that transforms every visitor. From ashrams resonating with morning prayers to adventure camps buzzing with thrill-seekers, Rishikesh offers a unique duality that captivates souls seeking both inner peace and adrenaline rushes.

Auli: The Skiing Paradise of India

• Location: Chamoli district, Uttarakhand
• Elevation:2,800 meters above sea level
• Hottest Month and Temperature: May-June (20°C)
• Coldest Month and Temperature: December-January (-5°C)

Perched high in the Garhwal Himalayas, Auli transforms from a winter wonderland into a summer meadow paradise. This pristine destination offers panoramic views of Nanda Devi, India's second-highest peak, along with other majestic summits. During winters, Auli becomes India's premier skiing destination with perfectly groomed slopes, while summers reveal carpets of wildflowers across rolling meadows. The world's longest cable car connects Auli to Joshimath, offering breathtaking aerial views. Whether you're carving through powder snow or trekking through rhododendron forests, Auli provides an unforgettable Himalayan experience that showcases nature's grandest theatre.

Best Time to Visit Rishikesh and Auli for Travel & Adventure

Best Time to Visit Rishikesh

March to June and September to November offer ideal weather conditions for exploring Rishikesh. During these months, temperatures remain comfortable for outdoor activities like river rafting, trekking, and yoga sessions. The post-monsoon period brings crystal-clear views of the surrounding hills and perfect water levels for adventure sports.

Best Time to Visit Auli

For skiing enthusiasts, December to March provides excellent snow conditions in Auli. Summer months (April to June) are perfect for meadow walks and trekking, with pleasant temperatures and clear mountain views. The monsoon season should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.

Best Time for Rishikesh to Auli Trip

The optimal time for this Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand journey is from March to June and October to November. These months offer favourable weather conditions for both destinations, ensuring comfortable travel and clear mountain views throughout your adventure.

Monsoon Caution

Travel during the monsoon season (July to September) should be approached with care, as heavy rainfall can trigger landslides and make mountain roads slippery and unpredictable. Always check weather updates and road conditions before planning your trip in these months.

Top Places to Visit in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Lakshman Jhula

This iconic 450-foot suspension bridge across the Ganges connects Tapovan with Jonk village. Built in 1929, legend says Lakshman crossed here using jute ropes. The bridge offers stunning river views and connects numerous ashrams, temples, cafes, and spiritual shops, creating a vibrant hub of activity.

Ram Jhula

Built in 1986, this suspension bridge provides breathtaking Ganges views and spiritual significance. The surrounding area bustles with ashrams, yoga centres, and local markets. Evening hours bring alive the bridge with devotees, tourists, and vendors, creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for photography.

Triveni Ghat

The spiritual heart of Rishikesh, where the mesmerising Ganga Aarti occurs every sunset. This sacred confluence point creates an ethereal atmosphere with hundreds of floating diyas. Beautiful steps lead to the river, adorned with temples and ashrams, making it perfect for spiritual experiences.

Beatles Ashram (Chaurasi Kutia)

Once home to the Beatles during their 1968 spiritual journey, this abandoned ashram blends spirituality with pop culture history. Featuring unique dome-shaped meditation cells and colourful graffiti, the 14-acre property offers guided tours explaining the Beatles' influence on spreading Indian spirituality worldwide.

Parmarth Niketan Ashram

One of India's largest ashrams, Parmarth Niketan, sits beautifully along the Ganges banks. Founded in 1942, it houses over 1,000 rooms and hosts international yoga festivals. The ashram offers spiritual programs, meditation sessions, and stunning river views, attracting seekers from around the world.

Best Things to Do in Rishikesh- Yoga, Rafting & More

River Rafting

Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the holy Ganges through scenic rapids from Shivpuri to Rishikesh. Navigate through Grade I-III rapids, including "Three Blind Mice" and "Roller Coaster", while enjoying stunning Himalayan foothills views. Professional guides ensure safety while delivering unforgettable adventure experiences.

Yoga and Meditation

Join authentic yoga sessions at renowned ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram. Learn traditional Hatha, Ashtanga, and Vinyasa yoga from certified instructors. Morning meditation sessions by the Ganges offer profound spiritual experiences, connecting mind, body, and soul in peaceful surroundings.

Bungee Jumping

Take the ultimate leap of faith at India's highest bungee jumping platform, 83 meters above the ground. Located at Jumpin Heights, this adrenaline-pumping activity offers breathtaking valley views during the free fall. Professional equipment and trained staff ensure complete safety throughout this thrilling experience.

Temple Hopping

Explore ancient temples, including Trayambakeshwar Temple, Bharat Mandir, and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Each temple offers unique architectural beauty, spiritual significance, and mythological stories. The peaceful atmosphere and sacred energy provide perfect opportunities for prayer, meditation, and cultural immersion experiences.

Cafe Culture Experience

Discover Rishikesh's vibrant cafe with healthy organic food, fresh juices, and international cuisines while overlooking the sacred Ganges. These cafes blend spiritual ambience with modern comfort, perfect for relaxation and socialising.

How to Reach Rishikesh to Auli- Distance & Travel Guide

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh Railway Station, approximately 253 km away. From Auli, travellers must first reach Joshimath by road, then continue the journey to Rishikesh. Major trains connect Rishikesh to Delhi, Mumbai, and other metropolitan cities. The Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand distance by road requires careful planning as no direct rail connectivity exists to Auli.

By Road

The most convenient way involves taking a Rishikesh to Auli bus or hiring a private vehicle. The Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand distance by road is 253 km. It goes through scenic mountain roads, passing through Devprayag, Rudraprayag, and Joshimath.

State-run buses operate regular services, usually departing very early in the morning between 3:30 am and 4:30 am. This schedule ensures travellers reach Auli before evening, which is considered safer due to the winding mountain roads. The route itself showcases stunning Himalayan landscapes, river confluences, and traditional hill stations, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Auli, Uttarakhand

Auli Ropeway (Gondola)

India’s second-longest cable car stretches 4.15 km from Joshimath to Auli, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas, including Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Mana Parvat. This 25-minute engineering marvel transforms from valley views to alpine landscapes, operating year-round, weather permitting.

Gorson Bugyal

This pristine alpine meadow, located 3 km from Auli, offers spectacular mountain views through oak and rhododendron forests. During summer, it transforms into a colourful carpet of Himalayan flowers. The meadow serves as a perfect camping spot with unobstructed views of Dunagiri and Changabang peaks.

Chattrakund Lake

Sitting at an altitude of 3,300 meters, this small, pristine lake is accessible via an approximately 4-km trek from Auli. Local legends associate it with Lord Vishnu, adding spiritual significance. The crystal-clear lake offers perfect reflections of the surrounding peaks and freezes during winter, creating mirror-like surfaces.

Joshimath

This sacred town serves as the winter seat of the Badrinath shrine and the gateway to Auli. Founded by Adi Shankaracharya, it houses ancient temples, including Narasimha Temple with a self-manifested deity. The town offers stunning valley views and serves as a base camp for numerous Himalayan expeditions and pilgrhttps://www.clubmahindra.com/blog/images.

Kwani Bugyal

Located at 3,350 meters, this vast meadow offers panoramic views of Dunagiri, Changabang, and Kalanka peaks. Accessible through moderate trekking, it showcases diverse flora, including rare Himalayan flowers. The meadow transforms seasonally from a snow-covered winter landscape to a vibrant summer grassland with grazing opportunities.

Exciting Things to Do in Auli- Skiing, Trekking & Cable Car Ride

Skiing

Experience India's premier skiing destination with perfectly groomed slopes suitable for beginners and experts. Professional instructors provide lessons while modern equipment ensures safety. The 3-km slope offers thrilling descents with stunning mountain backdrops, making Auli comparable to international skiing destinations worldwide.

Cable Car Ride

Enjoy India’s longest cable car journey offering spectacular aerial views of snow-capped peaks and dense forests. Over 4 km of ride provides unique photography opportunities and connects Joshimath to Auli's main skiing area, operating throughout the year except during extreme weather conditions.

Trekking

Explore numerous trekking trails leading to Gorson Bugyal, Chattrakund Lake, and Kwani Bugyal meadows. These moderate to challenging treks pass through diverse landscapes, including pine forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, while offering close encounters with Himalayan wildlife and rare flora species.

Photography

Capture breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over Himalayan peaks, including Nanda Devi, India's second-highest mountain. The changing light conditions throughout the day create magical moments for landscape photography. Winter offers snow-covered scenes while summer provides colourful meadow shots with mountain backdrops.

Stargazing

Experience crystal-clear night skies at high altitude with minimal light pollution. The pristine mountain air offers exceptional visibility for observing constellations, planets, and meteor showers. Many resorts organise stargazing sessions with telescopes, creating unforgettable celestial experiences under the Himalayan night sky.

7-Day Himalayan Escape: From Rishikesh to Auli Itinerary

Day 1- Arrival in Rishikesh

• Morning: Arrive at the hotel/ashram, check in, settle down and explore the immediate surroundings.
• Afternoon: Walk along ghats, explore local markets for spiritual items and souvenirs.
• Evening: Attend Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, riverside stroll, street food tasting including chole bhature and lassi.

Day 2- Rishikesh Adventure

• Morning: Yoga/meditation session at Parmarth Niketan ashram with Ganges views.
• Afternoon: River rafting on the Ganga from Shivpuri; explore Lakshman Jhula & Ram Jhula with temple visits.
• Evening: Visit the Beatles Ashram for photography or café-hop at Little Buddha Café and Ganga View Café.

Day 3- Rishikesh Exploration

• Morning: Short hike to Neer Garh Waterfall for a refreshing dip and nature photography.
• Afternoon: Visit Trayambakeshwar Temple & Bharat Mandir for spiritual experiences and architecture.
• Evening: Relax with an Ayurvedic spa treatment or a sound healing session; attend satsang or enjoy sunset Ganga views.

Day 4- Rishikesh → Joshimath (Travel Day)

• Morning: Start early (7–8 AM), drive via Devprayag and Rudraprayag, witnessing river confluences.
• Afternoon: Scenic lunch stops at Karnaprayag; continue journey through mountain roads with photo stops.
• Evening: Arrive Joshimath, hotel check-in, rest and acclimatise to the higher altitude.

Day 5- Auli Sightseeing

• Morning: Take Joshimath–Auli cable car ride; enjoy panoramic Himalayan views and photography.
• Afternoon: Trek to Gorson Bugyal meadow, picnic lunch with mountain views and wildlife spotting.
• Evening: Sunset photography at Auli viewpoints; relax with a bonfire at the resort with local music.

Day 6- Auli Adventure

• Morning: Winter- skiing lessons on groomed slopes; Summer- trek to Chattrakund Lake through forests.
• Afternoon: Leisure walk in meadows or pine forests; tea with panoramic views of Nanda Devi peak.
• Evening: Return to the hotel, traditional Kumaoni dinner with local specialities, and stargazing session.

Day 7- Return Journey

• Morning: Depart Joshimath toward Rishikesh/Dehradun with breakfast and final mountain views.
• Afternoon: En route stop at Devprayag Sangam for sightseeing and photography of the river confluence.
• Evening: Reach Rishikesh/Dehradun for onward journey; reflect on the amazing Rishikesh to Auli adventure.

Club Mahindra Resorts in Uttarakhand- Best Hill Resorts for Families

Make your Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand journey even more memorable by exploring the charm of Club Mahindra resorts in Uttarakhand. Experience the colonial elegance of Club Mahindra Mussoorie Resort, where misty hills and old-world charm create a picture-perfect getaway. At Club Mahindra Kanatal Resort, unwind amidst apple orchards and panoramic Himalayan views. Discover cultural richness at Club Mahindra Binsar Valley Resort in Almora, set amidst tranquil pine forests and heritage surroundings. For a serene lakeside escape, head to Club Mahindra Patkote Resort near Nainital, offering cosy stays and breathtaking landscapes.

With these diverse hill resorts in Uttarakhand, Club Mahindra ensures a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic local experiences. Invest in a Club Mahindra membership today and unlock exclusive access to over 140+ resorts across India and abroad, turning every holiday into an extraordinary adventure.

Conclusion

This 7-day Rishikesh to Auli itinerary beautifully combines spiritual retreats, alpine adventures, and the charm of hill resorts in Uttarakhand. From yoga and rafting in Rishikesh to skiing and trekking in Auli, the journey showcases the state’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.

Whether you seek serenity or adrenaline, the Rishikesh to Auli, Uttarakhand journey promises unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.