Chopta-Auli

Chopta:

Scenic Views: Chopta is known for its stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

Tungnath Temple: Visit the highest Shiva temple in the world (3,680 meters), which is a popular trekking destination.

Trekking: The Chopta-Chandrashila trek is famous for its ease and beautiful landscapes, ideal for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

Bird Watching: Chopta is home to various species of birds and is a haven for bird watchers.

Camping: The serene atmosphere and scenic beauty make it an excellent spot for camping, especially during summer and early autumn.

Winter Activities: In winter, Chopta transforms into a snow-covered paradise, offering opportunities for snow trekking, skiing, and other snow activities.

Auli:

Skiing and Snow Sports: Auli is renowned for its ski slopes, which are considered some of the best in India, especially for beginners and intermediates.

Cable Car Ride: Auli has one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Views of the Himalayas: Auli offers incredible views of some of the highest peaks in India, such as Nanda Devi, Mana, and Kamet.

Auli Lake: The artificial lake in Auli is a unique feature, often used for skiing in the winter. It’s also a scenic spot for a relaxed outing.

Trekking: Auli is a great base for trekking, especially to destinations like Gorson Bugyal, which offers vast meadows and panoramic mountain views.

Winter Wonderland: Like Chopta, Auli becomes a snow-covered paradise during winter, ideal for snow activities and a peaceful retreat.

Our adventure began with a flight to Delhi, where we rented a car to head towards Haridwar. The drive was smooth, with cool December air setting the tone for the journey ahead. We reached Haridwar by evening and checked into Hotel New Aditya. After freshening up, we ventured to Har Ki Pauri to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The spiritual ambiance of the aarti filled us with peace and excitement for the days ahead.

We started early from Haridwar, embarking on a scenic drive to Ukimath and further to Chopta. The winding roads took us through picturesque valleys and dense forests. By afternoon, we reached Chopta, popularly known as the "Mini Switzerland of India." The snow-covered meadows and towering Himalayan peaks welcomed us warmly.

We checked into Himrab Resort, a cozy retreat amidst the wilderness. As the sun set, the chilly air turned crisp, and we huddled around a bonfire, sharing stories and sipping hot tea. The serenity of Chopta enveloped us, making it an unforgettable evening.

The day started early as we prepared for the Tungnath trek. Wrapped in layers of warm clothing, we began our ascent to the highest Shiva temple in the world. The trail was blanketed with snow, and the panoramic views of the Himalayas kept us motivated.

After a few hours of trekking, we reached Tungnath. The temple's serene aura and the sight of the majestic peaks were awe-inspiring. Some of us continued a little further to Chandrashila, the summit offering a 360-degree view of the Garhwal and Kumaon ranges.

Exhausted yet exhilarated, we returned to Himrab Resort in the evening, where a warm meal and comfortable beds awaited us.

We woke up on Day 4 to a breathtaking sight—Chopta had transformed into a snowy wonderland overnight due to heavy snowfall. The entire landscape was cloaked in pristine white, with snow-laden trees creating a dreamlike scenery. While the beauty of the morning was enchanting, it also brought a challenge: the roads were completely blocked, and our journey was delayed by 3 to 4 hours as we waited for the roads to be cleared.

Given the situation, we had to cancel our plans for the Deoria Tal trek. While we felt a pang of disappointment, the adventure that lay ahead more than made up for it. Once the roads were passable, we resumed our journey to Auli.

The drive was nothing short of magical. The winding roads, blanketed in thick layers of snow, seemed like something out of a fairy tale. The tall pine trees stood majestically, their branches heavy with fresh snow, forming tunnels of white. Every turn revealed new, awe-inspiring vistas, and we couldn't help but stop frequently to capture the mesmerizing views.

The journey was slow due to the snowy conditions, but the beauty around us made every moment unforgettable. As we approached Auli, the sight of the snow-covered slopes and the towering Himalayan peaks left us in awe. By the time we reached our ski resort, we were filled with a sense of accomplishment and wonder.

That night, as we settled into the cozy warmth of our resort, we reflected on the day's incredible experiences. It was a journey unlike any other, one that would remain etched in our hearts forever.

The day was dedicated to exploring Auli, a skier’s paradise. We started with the famous cable car ride from Joshimath to Auli, which offered breathtaking views of the snow-draped peaks and valleys.

We spent the afternoon enjoying snow activities, from sledding to building snowmen. My son was thrilled, and even the adults couldn’t resist sliding down the snowy slopes. The evening was spent relaxing at the resort, where we watched the sunset paint the mountains golden.

Our last full day in Auli was all about soaking in the beauty of the place. We took leisurely walks amidst the snow and admired the towering peaks of Nanda Devi and Trishul. The serenity of Auli made us forget all our worries.

As the day turned to night, our resort hosted a small New Year's Eve celebration. We welcomed 2022 under the stars, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Himalayas—a truly magical experience.

Reluctantly, we left Auli and began our journey back to Haridwar. The drive was scenic, with snow-capped peaks bidding us goodbye. We reached Haridwar in the evening and checked into Hotel Aditya for a relaxed stay.