Valley of Flowers vs Auli
Pick Valley of Flowers for
nature, photography, a spiritual journey, a smaller budget
Pick Auli for
snow, family trips, first-timers, an easier walk, fewer days
| Valley of Flowers | Auli | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Ghangaria, Chamoli | Uttarakhand, Joshimath, Chamoli |
| Highest point | 3,658 m | 3,050 m |
| Difficulty | Easy–moderate | Easy |
| Trek distance | about 38 km | No trek needed |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 4–5 |
| Best months | Jul, Aug | Jan, Feb, Mar, Oct, Nov |
| Snow likely | Rarely | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹2,500 | about ₹3,500 |
| Gateway | Dehradun / Rishikesh | Dehradun / Rishikesh |
| With kids | Possible | Great |
| With seniors | Possible | Good |
| Permits | Entry permit at the forest check post in Ghangaria; day visits only, no camping inside. | None. |
Valley of Flowers: when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Auli: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- ❄︎Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely