The cable car connecting Joshimath (1,890 metres) to Auli (3,050 metres) covers 4.15 kilometres and rises over 1,100 metres in about 25 minutes, making it one of the longest ropeways in Asia. It was built primarily to serve the ski resort but operates year-round, and riding it is one of the better experiences available at this altitude regardless of season.
At the top, the gondola deposits you at the ski area's upper station with an unobstructed view of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Dunagiri, and other Garhwal peaks stretching across the horizon. In winter the slopes are below; in summer the meadows around the top station are carpeted in wildflowers and make for easy high-altitude walking.
The gondola is operated by GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) and runs daily. Tickets can be bought at the base station in Joshimath. Queues build on weekends and during the skiing season.