At a Glance: Essential Visitor Information
Why Visit Joshimath–Auli Ropeway?
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Current status
Closed since January 2023 – no reopening date announced as of October 2026.
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How to reach Auli now
By road from Joshimath, about 14–16 km (40–60 minutes) by taxi or shared jeep.
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What it was
A cable car of about 4 km between Joshimath and Auli, once among the longest in Asia.
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Views without the ropeway
The Nanda Devi panorama is still seen from Auli's upper slopes and Gorson Bugyal.
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Check before you travel
Confirm the latest status with GMVN or Uttarakhand Tourism.
About Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
The Joshimath–Auli ropeway is a cable car of about 4 km that linked Joshimath with the upper Auli slopes, above oak and conifer forest, with views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri and other Garhwal peaks. For years it was one of the best-known ways to arrive in Auli.
Current status: the ropeway has been closed since January 2023, when land subsidence in Joshimath damaged buildings and infrastructure in the town. As of October 2026 it had not reopened, and no reopening date had been announced. A replacement project has been proposed by the state.
Until it reopens, travel from Joshimath to Auli by road – about 14–16 km, or 40–60 minutes by taxi or shared jeep.
Things to Do at Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
Practical experiences you can include while visiting this attraction.
- 1 Travel up to Auli by taxi or shared jeep from Joshimath
- 2 See the Nanda Devi panorama from Auli's upper slopes
- 3 Walk to Gorson Bugyal for the views the ropeway used to give
- 4 Visit Auli Artificial Lake and the ski slopes
- 5 Check GMVN or Uttarakhand Tourism for news on the ropeway's reopening
Plan Your Visit
Facilities
Visitor Tips & Restrictions
Visitor Tips
- Do not plan your trip around the ropeway – it has been closed since January 2023
- Book a taxi from Joshimath to Auli in advance during snow season
- Start early: roads above Joshimath can be icy and slow in winter
- Ask your hotel about road conditions after fresh snowfall
Restrictions
- Do not enter the closed ropeway stations or towers
- Follow local administration advisories in subsidence-affected parts of Joshimath
How to Reach Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
History & Significance of Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
The Joshimath–Auli ropeway, built and run by the state's Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), connected Joshimath with the upper Auli slopes for decades and became part of Auli's identity as a ski destination.
In January 2023, land subsidence in Joshimath forced the evacuation of affected areas and the closure of the ropeway. A new ropeway has since been proposed, but no construction or reopening timeline had been announced as of October 2026.
Festivals & Special Events
- No ropeway operations during events while it is closed. Auli's winter sports events (January–February) bring more road traffic from Joshimath.
Frequently Asked Questions about Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
Is the Joshimath–Auli ropeway open?
No. It has been closed since January 2023 after land subsidence in Joshimath, and had not reopened as of October 2026.
When will the Auli ropeway reopen?
No reopening date has been announced. A replacement project has been proposed; check with GMVN or Uttarakhand Tourism for news.
How do I reach Auli without the ropeway?
By road from Joshimath – about 14–16 km, 40–60 minutes by taxi or shared jeep.
How long was the Auli ropeway?
About 4 km, making it one of the longest cable cars in Asia.
Is the Auli chair lift the same as the ropeway?
No. The chair lift is a separate, shorter lift between Auli's slopes; it runs seasonally when conditions allow.
Photos of Joshimath–Auli Ropeway
Find it on the Map
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
More places in Auli to see on the same trip, nearest first.
≈ 50 m
≈ 2.5 km
≈ 2.9 km
≈ 3.3 km
≈ Straight-line distance from Joshimath–Auli Ropeway. The road route is usually longer.
See all places to visit in Auli →
