<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\nMost people associate Auli with skiing in January and February. But the summer version of Auli \u2014 April through June \u2014 is a different experience entirely, and for many trekkers, a more rewarding one. The slopes that held snow in winter are now carpeted with alpine grass, oak forests come alive with colour, and the cable car continues to operate, giving non-trekkers access to the high meadows without the effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kuari Pass Trek (Grade: Easy-Moderate) \u2014 April to June<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nKuari Pass, at approximately 3,800m, is one of the most celebrated moderate treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek passes through rhododendron forests in April and open alpine meadows from May onward, with views of Nanda Devi (India’s second highest peak), Dronagiri, Kamet, and Hathi-Ghora Parvat on clear days. The route is typically 5\u20136 days, starting and ending near Auli or Joshimath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Trek duration:<\/strong> 5\u20136 days<\/li>
- Grade:<\/strong> Easy-Moderate (suitable for first-time trekkers with reasonable fitness)<\/li>
- Best months:<\/strong> April\u2013June 2026 (before monsoon arrives mid-June)<\/li>
- Starting point:<\/strong> Dhak village or Auli, both accessible from Joshimath<\/li>
- Permit required:<\/strong> Yes \u2014 forest department permit required; arrange in Joshimath<\/li>
- Ideal for:<\/strong> Couples, small groups, solo trekkers, first-timers to high-altitude trekking<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Gorson Bugyal \u2014 The Meadow Walk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nFor those who want alpine meadow views without the full multi-day commitment, Gorson Bugyal (Gorson meadow) is an easy 3km walk from Auli. In April and May, it’s covered in wildflowers, and on clear mornings, the panoramic view of the Garhwal Himalaya is extraordinary. The cable car from Joshimath reaches close to the meadow entry point, making this accessible even for non-trekkers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Entry fee:<\/strong> No direct entry fee; cable car charges apply (approximately Rs 1,000\u2013Rs 1,500 per person return)<\/li>
- Timings:<\/strong> Cable car 8 AM \u2013 5 PM (seasonal, confirm locally)<\/li>
- Best time to visit:<\/strong> April\u2013May for wildflowers; June before monsoon<\/li>
- How to reach:<\/strong> Joshimath is 253km from Dehradun; Auli is 13km from Joshimath by road or 4km by cable car<\/li>
- Time required:<\/strong> 3\u20135 hours for Gorson Bugyal walk; 5\u20136 days for Kuari Pass<\/li>
- Ideal for:<\/strong> Families, couples, trekkers at all levels<\/li>
- Pro tip:<\/strong> Start your Gorson walk before 8 AM for crystal-clear Nanda Devi views \u2014 clouds build from late morning onward in summer. Carry a windcheater even on warm days; temperatures drop quickly at 2,500m+.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n