Auli lies on the way to Badrinath and is surrounded by coniferous and oak forests, with a panoramic view of the lofty peaks of one of the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas. Rising above Joshimath, 14km by road – and only 4km by the gondola-style cable car – Auli is India’s premier ski resort. Auli is surrounded by high peaks like Mana, Kamet and tallest of all Nanda Devi. But you don’t have to visit in winter to enjoy the awesome views of Nanda Devi (India’s second-highest peak) from the top of the cable-car station.

Kuari Pass trek is the most famous trek which start from Auli. Kuari which means “doorway” is a Himalayan high mountain pass situated in the Garhwal region

As a ski resort, Auli hasgentle 5km-long slopes, one 500m rope tow, that runs beside the main slope, and an 800m chairlift that connects the upper and lower slopes. The snow is consistently good, though, and the setting is superb. The season runs from January to March, and equipment hire and instruction can be arranged.

There’s a cafe, of sorts, at the top, serving hot chai and tomato soup.

The Clifftop Club wouldn’t look out of place in the Swiss Alps, with its solid timber interior finish, cosy atmosphere and spacious rooms, some with views of the Nanda Devi.