Audens Col
TREK DIFFICULTY
Difficult
TREK DURATION
14 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
18,000 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
96 Km
BASECAMP
Auden's Col, Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
June to September
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Auden's Col Trek Overview
A challenging trekking destination that qualifies onto every Trekker's bucket list is Auden's Col Trek. Auden's Col is one of the Highest Mountain passes . It spans between the valleys of Rudragaira and Bhilangana in Garhwal Himalayas at an altitude of 5490 meters. The pass is named after John Bicknell Auden of the Geological Survey of India, who first discovered it in 1935 and crossed it in 1939. This Trek tests ones Physical Endurance and bodily limits and hence falls under the category of one of the most difficult treks to conquer. It is ideal to have a prior trekking experience not just to accent toward high altitude but also to have Physical fitness to acclimatize to the high Altitude.
Auden's Col trek promises one of the most rewarding and spectacular views of the Himalayan Ranges for the adventure seekers. The trek to Auden's Col starts from Gangotri situated in Uttarkashi District in the State of Uttarakhand. As per the lengend, Lord Shiva is said to have released the almighty Ganga free from his Hair Locks at this point, thus the origin of Ganga. However, the river is called Bhagirathi at its source. It acquires the name Ganga (the Ganges) from Devprayag onwards where it meets the Alaknanda . Gangotri serves to be a Major pilgrimage location for Hindus as it houses Gangotri Temple believed to be the seat of Goddess Ganga. Gangotri forms an important starting point for Auden's Col Trek for body acclimatization at an altitude of 3100 meters.
The Route towards Auden Col's Trek follows the series of basecamping destinations in the order of Nala -Rudragaira-Gangotri Group and Auden's Col. While the path keeps getting tougher as one ascends towards the Pass, it sure offers some difficult trekking terrains encountered with steep and rocky climbs, Moraine landscapes and Crevasses needing Professional guidance to cross. The Views along this trail are beyond what words could describe. With Auden's Col being the highlight amongst the Group of Gangotri Peaks I, II and III being visible and slowly unfolding their magnificence to the approaching trekker. The Campsite during the Descend from Auden's Col pass is extremely rewarding with some of the Main highlights being the campsites along Masar and Vasuki Tal and visit to the famous Kedarnath Temple. The experience is packed with encounters with some wild Himalayan Flaura and Fauna, Green meadows and some Breathtaking Himalayan views. Thanking Lord Shiva for his blessings that help you endure and Conquer this challenging terrain, this trek gradually culminates and adapts you comfortably back to the road well-travelled as you hail goodbye to the witnessed Journey of a Lifetime!!
History Of Auden’s Col Trek
Auden’s Col is a very difficult and least explored high-altitude pass trek of Uttarakhand. This beautiful trek had played a crucial role in Himalayan exploration. The pass lies between Rudugaira and Bhilanga valley. It connects Gangotri to Kedarnath, which are the two prime pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand. This pass was first discovered by John Bicknell in 1935. He documented this pass and finally crossed it in 1939. He was a British geologist working with the Geological Survey of India (GSI). His work provided a great contribution to understanding the Garhwal Himalayan region.
Auden’s Col was very little known to people until the late 20th and early 21st century. Now this trek is gaining recognition among mountaineers and seasoned trekkers. The difficulty level of this trek is very high. The trek is more likely a mountaineer’s trek instead of a trekker’s trek. It is a rarely attempted trek by trekkers. The challenges are very high, but the landscapes are unmatched.
Highlights Of Auden’s Col Trek
- High-Altitude Himalayan Pass: Auden’s Col lies at 5490 m and is one of the highest passes of the Indian Himalayas. This pass is probably the most difficult pass in our country. The Auden’s Col connects Rudugaira Valley to the Bhilanga Valley. This is a crucial pass as it connects two main pilgrimages of Uttarakhand.
- Adventure And Thrill: The Auden’s Col Trek is only for mountaineers and seasoned trekkers. The level of difficulty is very high. You must be physically and mentally prepared for the trek. The trek is very thrilling as it tests your endurance and survival skills.
- Glacier Crossing: The Auden’s Col trek takes you through two massive glaciers. The Jogin glacier is a beautiful yet challenging glacier. Trekkers can feel the thrill while walking on this glacier. The trekkers walk on the Khatling glacier after crossing the Auden’s Col Pass. Descending Khatling glacier is very dangerous. It is a vast glacier and has a broken ice field with challenging crevasses.
- Unmatched Landscapes: The trail to Auden’s Col pass is very beautiful. Your landscapes will change within days. The dense forests change to alpine meadows. The meadows lead to moraines and then snowfields.
Difficulty Level Of Auden’s Col Trek
- High-Altitude Pass: The highest point of the trek is the pass lying at 5490 m. You should be physically fit to trek at this height. Many trekkers face AMS problems like headaches and nausea. You need proper acclimation and rest at the campsites to prevent any altitude-related problems.
- Challenging Terrain: The terrain of Audens Col Trek is not easy. You need good mountaineering technical knowledge to cross the difficult sections. Trekkers need ropes, harnesses, and even ice axes to pass the Jogin and Khatling glaciers. They must be comfortable walking with microspikes on the ice section.
- Trek Duration: The Audens Col is a very long trek. It usually takes 14-16 days to complete. The terrain is difficult, and the walking hours are also very long. The trek is about 100 km long, and every day is challenging. You will walk for at least 8-10 hours a day.
- Remoteness: This trek is located in a very remote location. The valleys are purely uninhabited, and you can’t find anything on the trail. There are no easy exit points for the Auden’s Col trek. If you have started your journey, then even walking back is not easy.
Best Time To Visit The Auden’s Col Trek
Auden’s Col Trek From Late May To June
This is the best time to plan your Audens Col Trek. The snow starts melting, and the lower altitude trails open to the trekkers. The glaciers remain stable and firm. The weather usually remains clear, and the meadows start turning green. This is a good time as the days start getting warmer.
Auden’s Col Trek From July To Early September
Monsoon is not a good time for trekking to Auden’s Col Pass. You can face landslides in various locations. River crossings also become dangerous, and the glaciers become unsafe to trek.
Auden’s Col Trek From Mid-September To Early October
Post-monsoon is also a good time for Audens Col Trek. The trail starts drying, and the sky remains clear. Visibility is excellent in autumn. You will see less snow, and the glacier crossing will become safer.
Auden’s Col Trek From November To April
A winter trek to Audens Col is not possible. The pass became inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. The temperature remains very low even in the daytime. Winter is not a good time for this trek.
How To Reach The Auden’s Col Trek?
The Audens Col Pass is the remotest trek of Uttarakhand. You have to reach Gangotri to start your trek.
- Delhi to Uttarkashi: The distance between Delhi and Uttarkashi is about 420 km. You can find direct buses for Uttarkashi from the Kashmiri Gate Station. It may take around 9 hours.
- Dehradun to Uttarkashi: Dehradun is the major city near Uttarkashi. You can find direct flights to Dehradun. After reaching Dehradun, look for the buses to Uttarkashi. The distance is about 160 km. There are a few direct buses for Gangotri also. The trip may take about 7 hours.
- Uttarkashi to Gangotri: Gangotri is about 100 km from Uttarkashi. You can take a shared taxi or jeep to Gangotri. The drive will take about 4-5 hours.
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangnani
Day 2: Gangnani to Gangotri
Day 3: Gangotri to Nala Camp
Day 4: Nala to Rugragaira Basecamp (4,350 meters)
Day 5: Rugragaira Basecamp to Gangotri Group Base camp (4,500 m)
Day 6: Rest Day
Day 7: Gangotri Group Base camp to Auden's Col Basecamp (4,720 m)
Day 8: Auden's Col basecamp to Auden's Col (5,490 m) to Khatling Glacier camp I (5,100 m)
Day 9: Khatling Glacier - Waterfall campsite
Day 10: Waterfall campsite - Chowki (3,800 meters)
Day 11: Chowki to Masar Tal (3000 meters)
Day 12: Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal
Day 13: Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath (3,583 meters)
Day 14: Kedarnath - Gaurikund (1,953 meters)
Day 15: Rudraprayag to Dehradun
Visit Gangotri Temple
The trek starts from Gangotri. You can visit the Gangotri temple and offer your prayers. This is one of the Char Dham of Uttarakhand. You can also explore the village and walk along the mighty Bhagirathi River.
Camping at Rudugaira Valley
Rudugraia is a beautiful valley with marvelous views. You can camp in the valley and enjoy the raw nature. Everywhere you look, it looks beautiful. This can be a great time to connect with yourself.
Visit Harsil Valley
Harsil is a small valley near Gangotri. You can use a day for acclimatization and visit the valley. This is a very beautiful valley and rich in Himalayan culture. You will see apple orchards everywhere in the valley.
Crossing The Glaciers
You will cross two big glaciers on the Auden’s Col Trek. Jogin Glacier is smaller but has many technical sections. The bigger Kgatling glacier is very challenging. You can feel the thrill while crossing these glaciers.
Clothing and Backpack
Get a good quality backpack (60L) for your trek. The bag should provide good back support and must be waterproof. Now start packing your clothes. Pack two pairs of thermals for the night. Pack 2-3 trekking packs. Now pack a fleece jacket or a woolen sweater. Pack an insulated jacket for sub-zero temperatures. You should also pack a rain jacket and pants. Get two pairs of gloves (one woolen + one waterproof). Pack a woolen cap and a balaclava. You should also pack a sun cap.
Footwear
You need a good pair of trekking shoes. Your shoes should be comfortable and waterproof. Pack high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip. Now pack gaiters to prevent snow from entering the shoes. Pack 5 pairs of woolen socks and 5 pairs of trekking socks. You can also pack a pair of sandals for campsites.
Personal Care
Pack your toiletries in a small zipper bag. Now pack 2 toilet rolls and a hand sanitizer. Pack a moisturizer, lip balm, and sunscreen. Get UV-protection sunglasses for snow glare. You should make a small medical kit with basic medicines for dehydration, headache, and AMS.
Prepare Yourself
Start building your stamina at least 2 months before the trek. You should do regular running and good cardio exercises. Do squats and lunges to strengthen your legs. Practice walking on stairs with a backpack. Plan small hikes every weekend.
Trekking Experience
Auden’s Col Trek is not easy. You should only plan Auden’s Col Trek when you have good experience in 4500 m Himalayan treks. Basic mountaineer training can be very helpful to cross the technical sections.
Pack Smartly
The trek is two weeks long, and you may need lots of items. Pack your bag smartly, as you have to carry your bag on your own on the trek. You can share items if you are trekking with friends. Pack only essentials to keep your bag manageable.
Proper Acclimatization
You must spend 1-2 days for proper acclimatization. Enjoy the Harsil valley and a good rest. Keep yourself hydrated and do not drink alcohol. Take a good nap at night and do some basic exercise in the morning before starting trekking.
Are you thinking of trekking to the most adventurous trek in Uttarakhand? Plan your Auden’s Col Trek with us. We are a team of experienced trekkers and mountaineers. Our skilled guides and support team will take care of everything for you. We ensure safety and comfort for you. From permits to stays, you don’t have to worry about anything.
Himalaya Shelter (HS) offers small batches so the trekkers can get personalized attention. We provide customized trekking services to our customers. You fix the dates, and we will tailor the itinerary for you. We can customize the stays, meals, and even the pace of the trek. Our company follows eco-responsible tourism. We work our best to not leave any trace and respect nature. Book your Auden’s Col Trek with Himalaya Shelter for an unforgettable experience.
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangnani
Early in the morning we start our drive from Dehradun to reach Gangnani. This place is famous for its natural hot water spring baths. Guests can take bath in them. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 2: Gangnani to Gangotri
After breakfast we drive to Gangotri via Harsil (approx 25 km before Gangotri). We can take a halt at Harsil, which is a small hamlet known for the Wilson’s cottage. We reach Gangotri early and can visit the famous pilgrimage. We stay in a guest house at Gangotri.
Day 3: Gangotri to Nala Camp
A picturesque gradual Climb amidst pine and birch wooded landscapes will end at the campsite at Nala. The campsite is Picturesque and is juxtaposed by the banks of River Rudragaira. This is our first spot for overnight camping that also gives us our first Glimpse of the Gangotri III peak.
Day 4: Nala to Rugragaira Basecamp (4,350 meters)
This Day we start our Trek towards the Rudragaira Basecamp crossing some beautiful green meadows along the trail towards the camp site. The highlights of this part of the trek are its Rocky trails sometimes challenging, crossing gurgling river and some steep climbs. Camp site offers views of Rudugaira peak, Gangotri I, Gangotri II, Gangotri III, and Jogin I.
Day 5: Rugragaira Basecamp to Gangotri Group Base camp (4,500 m)
The trail continues to be intermittently challenging till the Gangotri Group Basecamp. As the name suggest this campsite offers one of the most Stunning views of The Group of Gangotri Peaks I, II and III. We camp here overnight. During the days of clear skies one can get a Glimpse of Auden’s Col from this point.
Day 6: Rest Day
The day has been reserved for rest and acclimatisation.
Day 7: Gangotri Group Base camp to Auden's Col Basecamp (4,720 m)
This trail is extremely challenging with Moraine making it more difficult for trekking. A moraine is any glacially formed accumulation of unconsolidated glacial debris ( regolith and rock) that occurs in both currently and formerly glaciated regions on Earth. We need to nourish our body for facing the challenge for this day’s trek. Camping overnight.
Day 8: Auden's Col basecamp to Auden's Col (5,490 m) to Khatling Glacier camp I (5,100 m)
We start early by 5:00am, as the first part of the trek to Auden’s Col is the most challenging trails on this route. However the trails offers some magnificent views at the pass. Rope are required to be fixed to cross this part of the pass. Descend to Khalting and covered with scre and ice so might require rappelling. At the base of the descent, a deep crevasse runs all along and a couple of snow bridges. After descend, it is a long roped walk through crevasse infested Khatling glacier. Khatling Glacier Camp site offers amazing views of virgin unknown pass and valley on the west side. We camp overnight here.
Day 9: Khatling Glacier - Waterfall campsite
The trails remains full of Moraine and gradually decends towards riverside. As it is a difficult decend requires technical equipment and Professional supervision. We camp by the river tonite. The sound of water sooths the tired body and mind as we recuperate for the next day. We camp by the riverside overnight.
Day 10: Waterfall campsite - Chowki (3,800 meters)
The trail runs along the river-side for about 3-4 kms before it reaches an open green meadow. Chowki if further 4 kms approximately from here that leads to a beautiful campsite. We camp here overnight.
Day 11: Chowki to Masar Tal (3000 meters)
Masar Tal is one of the most isolated lakes in Garhwal region in Tehri , Bhilangana river being the source of its survival. The lake has been surrounded with mesmerizing meadows, snow clad mountains and dense green woods. Overnight camping besides the lake.
Day 12: Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal
This trek from one Tal ( Lake) to the other is a rather interesting one. Vasuki Tal is a sweet water Glacial Lake near Kedarnath. One can witness some exclusive Himalayan Flora and fauna around the placid Lake , Brahma Kamal being one of them. Vasuki Tal is located in Kedarnath Widlife Santuary. We camp here for the night.
Day 13: Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath (3,583 meters)
Kedarnath is one of the most worshipped and popular divine destinations in the Himalayan ranges. The temple of Kedarnath is the highlight of this place. The name “Kedarnath” means “the lord of the field”: it derives from the Sanskrit words “kedara”(field) and “natha”(lord). Close to the source of River Mandakini and open green field pastures set against the backdrop of the Snowclad Himalayan peaks is an experience of a lifetime. There are options for Guest houses and Hotel stay as this place sees a lot of tourists and piligrims. Enjoy the visit to the temple and spend a relaxing night in a hotel with spectacular views.
Day 14: Kedarnath - Gaurikund (1,953 meters)
Gaurikund is the basecamp for Kedarnath. The decent has a well defined path however the distance is more hence we need to start early in the morning. Gaurikund also is the last road access point for Kedarnath trek. We board the vehicle to Drive towards RudraPrayag. Rudraprayag is one of the Panch Prayag(five confluences) of Alaknanda River, the point of confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Mandakini. Stay overnight at a Hotel enjoying picturesque views of the town along the river banks.
Day 15: Rudraprayag to Dehradun
We start our drive towards Dehradun , the concluding destination for this TrillingAdventure of Auden’s Col Trek. We arrive to Dehradun early evening.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Inclusion
- Transportation – Day 1: Driver from Dehradun to Dehradun Pickup time: 7:30 am, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusion
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
Auden's Col Trek is a challenging expedition in the Garhwal Himalayas, connecting the Rudragaira and Bhilangana valleys at an altitude of 5,490 meters. Discovered by John Bicknell Auden in 1935 and first crossed in 1939, this trek is known for its demanding terrain, including steep ascents, rocky paths, moraine landscapes, and crevasses. Starting from Gangotri, the route offers trekkers breathtaking views of the Gangotri peaks and culminates near Kedarnath, making it a coveted journey for seasoned adventurers.
The Auden's Col Trek spans 14 days and covers approximately 96 kilometers. This duration includes acclimatization periods, challenging ascents, glacier traverses, and descents through dense forests, ensuring trekkers are well-prepared for the high-altitude conditions and varied terrains encountered throughout the journey.
The ideal window for the Auden's Col Trek is from June to September. During these months, the weather conditions are favorable, with clearer skies and more stable terrains, allowing trekkers to navigate the challenging paths safely and enjoy the stunning Himalayan vistas.
The trek commences from Gangotri, a significant pilgrimage site in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Trekkers typically reach Gangotri via a drive from Dehradun, passing through scenic locales like Harsil. Gangotri serves as an essential acclimatization point at an altitude of 3,100 meters before embarking on the rigorous journey ahead.
Key highlights of the trek include traversing the Rudragaira and Bhilangana valleys, crossing the formidable Auden's Col pass, and witnessing the majestic Gangotri peaks. Trekkers also encounter the Khatling Glacier, alpine lakes like Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal, and conclude the journey near the revered Kedarnath Temple, offering a blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Auden's Col Trek is categorized as one of the most difficult treks in India, demanding high physical endurance and prior high-altitude trekking experience. Trekkers must be prepared for steep climbs, glacier traverses, and navigating through crevasses, often requiring professional guidance and technical equipment. Comprehensive physical training and acclimatization are crucial for a successful expedition.
Himalaya Shelter offers the Auden's Col Trek at ₹105,000 per person, excluding 5% GST and a ₹180 trek insurance fee. This package encompasses accommodations, meals, guide services, permits, and necessary trekking equipment, ensuring a comprehensive and safe trekking experience.
The highest point of the trek is the Auden's Col pass itself, situated at an elevation of 5,490 meters (approximately 18,000 feet). This altitude presents challenges like reduced oxygen levels and requires trekkers to be well-acclimatized and physically fit to navigate the demanding conditions.
Accommodations during the trek include stays in hotels or guesthouses at base locations like Gangnani and Gangotri, and alpine tents during the trekking days. These arrangements are designed to offer comfort while immersing trekkers in the natural beauty of the Himalayas. All accommodations are arranged by Himalaya Shelter, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.
Yes, the trek begins from Gangotri, a significant pilgrimage site believed to be the origin of the River Ganga, where Lord Shiva released the river from his hair locks. The journey concludes near Kedarnath, home to the revered Kedarnath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This blend of challenging adventure and spiritual significance adds a profound dimension to the trekking experience.
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