Auli, renowned for its high-altitude meadows, mesmerizing Himalayan views, and some of India’s best skiing, lies in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district. Mussoorie—a cherished hill retreat above Dehradun—is perched amidst pine forests. Traveling from Mussoorie to Auli is a scenic Himalayan adventure, blending winding hill routes, riverside drives, and dramatic ascents into the Garhwal Himalayas.
Distance and Overview
- By Road: The distance from Mussoorie to Auli is approximately 310–350 km (depends on route and season).
- Travel Time: Minimum 11–14 hours of driving (not recommended in one shot—best split with an overnight halt).
- Aerial Distance: About 155–170 km (no direct air access).
There are no direct trains, flights, or buses—the journey is essentially overland, with the final section often including a cable car to Auli from Joshimath.
Step-by-Step Routes from Mussoorie to Auli
You have two main approaches: the quickest overland route via Dehradun–Rishikesh–Joshimath, or via a more scenic but longer Dhanaulti–Tehri–Rudraprayag detour.
1. By Road: Private Car, Taxi, or Self-Drive (Most Flexible)
A. Route and Driving Details
- Recommended Route:
Mussoorie → Dehradun → Rishikesh → Devprayag → Srinagar (Garhwal) → Rudraprayag → Karnaprayag → Chamoli → Joshimath → Auli- NH7/NH58 for most of the journey; last 16 km from Joshimath to Auli is mountain climb.
- Distance: 310–350 km
- Drive Time: 11–14 hours (without major halts; realistically, split over 2 days for enjoyment and safety)
- Road Conditions: Mostly well-paved national highways, but hilly, narrow, and winding in stretches after Rudraprayag.
- Recommended Night Stop: Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, or Srinagar for a midway break.
B. Taxi/Car Fare (July 2025)
- Sedan: ₹8,000–₹13,000 one-way (as full taxi/mid-size)
- SUV: ₹11,000–₹18,000 (suitable for groups, luggage, or difficult terrain)
- Self-Drive: Several agencies in Dehradun/Rishikesh/Joshimath; 4x4s recommended in winter or rainy months
C. Why Choose This Route?
- Door-to-door comfort
- Opportunity to stop at Devprayag (confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi), picturesque Garhwal towns, and riverbank cafes en route
D. Tips
- Start before dawn for best safety and to avoid hill traffic, especially on weekends/holidays
- Check weather/monsoon/landslide advisories, especially between July–September and Jan–Feb (snow)
- Carry some cash—card/UPI may be patchy in remote locations
- Refuel at major towns (Rishikesh, Srinagar, Karnaprayag)
- Avoid night driving in hills, especially post-Rudraprayag
2. By Bus + Shared Jeep (Backpackers & Budget Travelers)
No direct bus—from Mussoorie, all long-haul buses begin at Dehradun or Rishikesh.
Steps:
- Mussoorie to Dehradun:
- State/private buses or shared cabs (1.5–2 hours; ₹100–₹200)
- Dehradun to Joshimath/Joshi Math:
- UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corp), Garhwal Motor Union and private operators run regular buses (early morning, 4–5 am)
- Duration: 10–12 hours depending on traffic/weather
- Fare: ₹700–₹1,200 (ordinary, premium/Volvo types).
- Note: Seats fill up 1–2 days early in peak/holiday or yatri seasons
- Joshimath to Auli:
- Cable Car: (Asia’s highest/longest, recommended for the experience; ₹500–₹1,000, 15 min ride, 9am–4:30pm)
- Road: 14 km mountain road, hire a local taxi or shared jeep (₹300–₹700 per seat, 30–40 min; may not be motorable in heavy snow)
Tips:
- Overnight buses from Dehradun/Rishikesh are available, but day journeys offer better vistas and safety.
- For a more restful trip, overnight at Pipalkoti, Karnaprayag, or Joshimath.
- Buses and jeeps may not run at night or in adverse weather/winter—plan accordingly.
3. Train + Road (Not Practical; For Major City Connection Only)
- Nearest railway stations: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun (all 250–320km from Auli via same roads)
- From these, continue as above by bus/taxi
Additional Local & Travel Advice
Best Time to Go
- December–February: For snow/skiing, but allow buffer for road closures due to snow.
- March–June: Cool, clear, best for trekking and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (July–September): Avoid if possible—landslides or washouts are common, but meadows are lush.
What to Pack
- Winter: Heavy jacket, gloves, thermals, boots, scarf, sunglasses
- Summer: Light woolens, sun protection, trekking shoes, rain gear (June/July)
- Year-round: Power bank, cash, snacks
Must-See En Route
- Devprayag: Sacred confluence and river views
- Karnaprayag, Nandaprayag: Ancient shrines
- Joshimath: Narsingh Temple, Shankaracharya math
- Auli: Ropeway, ski slopes, panoramic view of Nanda Devi, Gorson trek
Booking & Practical Tips
- Book all buses/taxis/hotels days in advance in high/holiday seasons
- Cable car: Buy tickets early in winter; can sell out during peak
- Shared jeeps often wait to fill up, so schedule flexibly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I drive Mussoorie–Auli in one day?
A: Possible, but not relaxing (11–14 hours); best with 2 drivers or split over 2 days
Q: Cheapest way?
A: Bus to Dehradun, then UTC bus to Joshimath, then share jeep/cable car up to Auli
Q: Is the route family-friendly?
A: Yes—but plan for enough rest/food stops and avoid the hills after dark.
Q: Is Auli open year-round?
A: Yes! But best access/activities in Dec–March (snow) and March–June (green treks).
Q: When is the cable car closed?
A: Rarely shuts except for extreme weather or periodic maintenance (check locally in monsoon/winter).
Conclusion
The route from Mussoorie to Auli is an epic Himalayan journey—a blend of hill station romance, riverside drives, and high-mountain panoramas. With smooth connections via Dehradun and Joshimath, planning stops for rest and views, and arming yourself for changing weather, you’ll enjoy every leg. Advance booking ensures a smooth trip; pack for the season, travel early, and you’ll soon be gliding above meadows by cable car into Auli’s alpine magic.
