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Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek

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LocationJoshimath, Chamoli

Duration4 days

Max Altitude11500 ft

Distance15 km

GradeEasy to Moderate

Support9520557784 xplorethedreams@gmail.com

Starting from

₹7,500

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Overview

A Look at the Trek

Perched in the Garhwal Himalayas of Chamoli district, the Auli Gorson Bugyal trek is one of India's most scenic, accessible, and awe-inspiring Himalayan journeys. Starting from India's premier ski resort of Auli, this trail takes you across rolling alpine pastures (Bugyals) that open up to an uninterrupted panoramic view of India's second-highest summit — Nanda Devi (7,816 m).

During winters, the entire landscape transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland under pristine powdered snow, making it ideal for snow trekking, skiing, and photography. In spring and summer, the meadows come alive with emerald green turf dotted with yellow and violet wildflowers, with towering views of Mt. Trishul, Dronagiri, Hathi-Ghodi Parvat, and Kamet.

Highlights

Close-up Nanda Devi PanoramaUnrivaled, dramatic front-row views of Mt. Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kamet, Dunagiri, and Nilkantha peaks.
Expansive Alpine MeadowsWander across the pristine, velvety rolling pastures of Gorson Bugyal stretching far beyond the tree line.
Auli Cable Car ExperienceRide one of Asia's longest and highest ropeways connecting Joshimath directly to the ski slopes of Auli.
Enchanting Forest TrailsWalk through ancient canopies of oak, deodar, and vibrant blooming rhododendrons.

Quick Facts

Base CampJoshimath

SeasonWinter, Spring, Summer, Autumn

Rail HeadRishikesh Railway Station (250 km) or Haridwar

AirportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (270 km)

Trail TypeMeadow & Ridge Trail | Ascends through oak & rhododendron forests into expansive alpine bugyals

Day by Day

The Itinerary

A carefully crafted journey ensuring you experience the best of the landscape while acclimatizing safely.

Drive from Rishikesh / Haridwar to Joshimath

Early morning pickup from Rishikesh / Haridwar (250 km, 8-9 hours drive).

Scenic journey alongside the Ganga, Alaknanda, and Mandakini rivers passing through the sacred Panchprayags (Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag).

Arrive at Joshimath (6,150 ft), check into hotel/guesthouse.

Evening briefing, gear inspection, and acclimatization walk.

Drive to Auli & Trek to Gorson Bugyal

Short drive or ropeway ride from Joshimath to Auli Ski Resort (9,200 ft).

Commence the trek passing Auli's artificial lake and ascending through dense oak and conifer forests.

Enter the vast open expanses of Gorson Bugyal (10,500 ft).

Marvel at the imposing south face of Mt. Nanda Devi standing right before you.

Set up camp or stay in alpine chalets with a breathtaking sunset over the Himalayan giants.

Trek to Tali Lake / Chhatrakund & Return to Auli / Joshimath

Wake up early to catch the golden alpine glow (Alpenglow) on Nanda Devi and Trishul.

Hike further towards Chhatrakund (a serene high-altitude forest pond) or the ridge towards Tali Forest (11,500 ft).

Spend peaceful moments taking in 360-degree views of Hathi Parvat, Ghodi Parvat, and Barmal.

Descend back along the trail to Auli and drive down to Joshimath for an evening of celebration.

Drive from Joshimath to Rishikesh / Dehradun Departure

Post breakfast, begin the return journey down the Alaknanda valley.

Stop for photos at the confluence at Devprayag (Bhagirathi and Alaknanda).

Arrive in Rishikesh / Haridwar by late evening (around 7:00 PM) for onward journeys.

Preparation

Eligibility & Fitness

High altitude treks require a baseline of physical fitness. Review the criteria below and check your readiness.

Age RequirementMinimum 7 years. Suitable for beginners, families, and seasoned trekkers.

Fitness Criteria

Ability to walk 4-6 km comfortably with mild uphill ascents.
Basic cardiovascular fitness (brisk walking or light jogging).

Health & Awareness

Standard blood pressure and pulse rate.
No severe respiratory or acute heart ailments.

Calculate Your BMI

Weight (KG)

Height (CM)

Logistics

How to Reach

Details on arriving at the base camp and meeting points.

Meeting Point

Rishikesh Railway Station / Haridwar Junction at 6:00 AM on Day 1

Drop Off

Rishikesh / Haridwar by 7:00 PM on Day 4

Travel Options

01Overnight trains (Jan Shatabdi, Nanda Devi Express) or Volvos from Delhi to Haridwar/Rishikesh.
02Fly to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun and take a 35-min cab to Rishikesh.
03Shared taxis and state transport buses operate regularly between Rishikesh and Joshimath.

Pricing

Cost Terms

What is included and excluded in the expedition cost.

Inclusions

Accommodation: Homestays / Hotels in Joshimath and alpine dome tents on twin/triple sharing.
Meals: Nutritious vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus tea and snacks.
Professional Guide: Certified mountaineering trek leader and local mountain guides.
Camping Gear: High-altitude tents, sub-zero sleeping bags, insulated mats.
Safety: Oxygen cylinder, first aid kit, oximeter, and stretcher support.
Permits: Forest entry permits and camping fees.

Exclusions

Transportation to and from Rishikesh to Joshimath (can be arranged on actual shared cost).
Auli Ropeway / Chairlift tickets.
Personal trekking equipment (boots, trekking poles, jackets).
Personal expenses, mineral water, and travel/medical insurance.

Equipment

Trek Essentials

A comprehensive packing list to ensure you are well-prepared for the expedition.

Basic Gear

40-50L Backpack with waterproof rain cover

Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support

Thermal base layers (top and bottom)

Warm fleece jacket and wind/waterproof outer jacket

UV-protection sunglasses, sun cap, and warm woolen beanie

Water bottle (2x 1L) and thermos flask for warm water

Personal toiletries, lip balm, and sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Headlamp or torch with extra batteries

Policies

Cancellation Terms

Review our cancellation policies and refund options before booking.

Prior to 25 days before departure

5% deduction
100% credit voucher valid for 1 year

Between 24 and 15 days before departure

30% deduction
85% credit voucher valid for 1 year

Between 14 and 7 days before departure

50% deduction
50% credit voucher valid for 1 year

Less than 7 days before departure

No refund
10% credit voucher

Emergency Cases

In cases of certified medical emergencies, a 90% refund or 100% full credit voucher is issued.

Important Notes

01Rescheduling requests made 10+ days prior are processed at nominal charges.

Visual Journey

Gallery

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and moments from the Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek expedition.

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FAQ

Know before you go

Yes! The Auli Gorson Bugyal trek has gentle gradients and well-defined trails, making it one of the absolute best treks in the Himalayas for beginners and families.

For deep snow and skiing, the best time is from late December through March. If you prefer green meadows and colorful blossoms, April to June and September to November are ideal.

You get clear, dramatic views of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kamet, Dronagiri, Nilkantha, Hathi Parvat, and Ghodi Parvat.

Yes, you can take the famous Joshimath to Auli ropeway, which covers 4 km and rises to over 9,000 ft, offering aerial views of the oak forests.