Auden’s Col Trek

Maximum Altitude
18,011 ft
Total Trekking Distance
115 km
Tour type
Tough
Best season
Summer - May to June / Monsoon - July to August / Post-Monsoon - September to October
Fitness level
Able to run 5 km in under 38 mins before your trek.
Departure from
Haridwar Railway station
Transportation
Tata Sumo/Mahindra Bolero
Accomodation
Comfortable Camping tents with sleeping bags and mats/Guest house/Home stay
Meals
All meals during the trek
Minimum Age
10
Maximum Age
60

About Auden’s Col Trek

The Auden’s Col trek is a challenging and exhilarating high-altitude trek in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. Spanning over 5,490 meters, it connects the Gangotri and Kedarnath valleys, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine meadows.

The trek begins at Gangotri and traverses through picturesque forests, river crossings, and rocky terrains. It involves crossing the treacherous Auden’s Col, a high mountain pass renowned for its steep ascent and challenging terrain. The journey demands physical fitness, endurance, and prior trekking experience.

Along the way, trekkers witness the majestic Rudragaira and Jogin peaks, the glacier-laden Khatling Glacier, and the stunning views of the Gangotri and Jogin Group of peaks. The trek concludes at Kedarnath, a sacred town famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The Auden’s Col trek offers a unique and thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking an offbeat and remote trekking expedition in the Indian Himalayas. It is recommended to undertake this trek during the summer months of May to June and September to October, avoiding the monsoon and winter seasons.

The region is considered sacred by Hindus, and it is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata, passed through this region during their exile. The trek also takes you through several traditional mountain villages, where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.

Overall, Auden’s Col Trek is a journey that combines adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a truly unique and memorable experience for all who embark on it.

Auden’s Col Trip Highlights

Trekking through the stunning landscapes of Garhwal Himalayas
Crossing the high-altitude mountain pass of Auden's Col at 18,500 feet
Camping amidst the serene beauty of Khatling Glacier and Joginabot Glacier
Witnessing the mesmerizing views of Gangotri, Jogin, Thalay Sagar, and Kedartal peaks
Exploring the quaint villages and interacting with locals to learn about their culture and lifestyle
Crossing the thrilling snow bridges and icy streams
Trekking through dense forests of oak and pine trees
Admiring the beauty of Vasuki Tal and Masar Tal
Capturing the breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan peaks

Day 1 :

Arrival in Haridwar

Altitude: 295 meters Arrive in Haridwar, a holy city on the banks of the Ganges River. Transfer to your hotel and attend the spiritual Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.

Day 2 :

Haridwar to Gangotri

Distance: Approximately 250 km Duration: 10-11 hours Drive from Haridwar to Gangotri (3,048 meters), a sacred town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River.

Day 3 :

Gangotri to Nala Camp

Distance: Approximately 250 km Duration: 10-11 hours Altitude: 3,048 meters Drive from Haridwar to Gangotri, the source of the holy Ganges River. Experience the serene beauty and religious significance of Gangotri Temple.

Day 4 :

Nala Camp to Rudragaira Base Camp

Distance: Approximately 7 km Duration: 5-6 hours Altitude: 4,720 meters Trek to Rudragaira Base Camp, blessed with panoramic views of sacred peaks.

Day 5 :

Rest and Acclimatization at Rudragaira Base Camp

Altitude: 4,720 meters Take a day to acclimatize while soaking in the pristine spiritual environment.

Day 6 :

Rudragaira Base Camp to Auden's Col Base Camp

Distance: Approximately 5 km Duration: 4-5 hours Altitude: 4,930 meters Trek towards Auden's Col Base Camp, under the watchful eyes of the mountains.

Day 7 :

Auden's Col Base Camp to Auden's Col Advanced Base Camp

Distance: Approximately 4 km Duration: 3-4 hours Altitude: 5,300 meters Reach the Advanced Base Camp, where adventure blends with a spiritual journey.

Day 8 :

Cross Auden's Col and Descend to Khatling Glacier

Distance: Approximately 8 km Duration: 10-12 hours Altitude: 5,490 meters (Auden's Col) to 4,850 meters (Khatling Glacier) Cross the revered Auden's Col, connecting two valleys, and descend to Khatling Glacier.

Day 9 :

Khatling Glacier to Waterfall Camp

Distance: Approximately 10 km Duration: 6-7 hours Altitude: 4,850 meters to 4,200 meters Trek through the icy expanse of Khatling Glacier and camp at Waterfall Camp.

Day 10 :

Waterfall Camp to Chowki Camp

Distance: Approximately 8 km Duration: 5-6 hours Altitude: 4,200 meters to 3,600 meters Descend through rugged beauty and camp at Chowki Camp, surrounded by spiritual landscapes.

Day 11 :

Chowki Camp to Masar Tal

Distance: Approximately 7 km Duration: 5-6 hours Altitude: 3,600 meters to 4,200 meters Reach the serene Masar Tal, a sacred high-altitude lake reflecting the surrounding peaks.

Day 12 :

Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal

Distance: Approximately 10 km Duration: 7-8 hours Altitude: 4,200 meters to 4,800 meters Trek to Vasuki Tal, an ethereal glacial lake known for its spiritual aura.

Day 13 :

Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath

Distance: Approximately 8 km Duration: 6-7 hours Altitude: 4,800 meters to 3,584 meters Descend to the holy town of Kedarnath, known for the revered Kedarnath Temple.

Day 14 :

Kedarnath to Guptkashi and Departure

Distance: Approximately 15 km Duration: 6-7 hours Altitude: 3,584 meters to 1,319 meters Descend to Guptkashi and depart, carrying the spiritual essence of the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Expand all

What is Auden’s Col Trek?

Auden’s Col Trek is a high-altitude trek in the Indian Himalayas, named after John Bicknell Auden, a British geologist who first discovered the pass in 1935.

Where is Auden’s Col Trek located?

Auden’s Col Trek is located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

Auden’s Col Trek is a challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. It involves crossing high-altitude passes, traversing glaciers, and negotiating steep ascents and descents.

What is the best time to do Auden’s Col Trek?

The best time to do Auden’s Col Trek is during the months of May to June and September to October, when the weather is generally clear and dry.

What is the starting point of Auden’s Col Trek?

The starting point of Auden’s Col Trek is the village of Gangotri, which is accessible by road from the city of Dehradun

What is the average temperature on Auden’s Col Trek?

The average temperature on Auden’s Col Trek varies depending on the season and altitude, but can range from -5°C (23°F) to 20°C (68°F).

Is it necessary to have a guide for Auden’s Col Trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have a guide for Auden’s Col Trek, as the route is challenging and requires technical mountaineering skills.

What equipment is required for Auden’s Col Trek?

Equipment required for Auden’s Col Trek includes warm clothing, trekking boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, ropes, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking utensils.

Is it safe to do Auden’s Col Trek?

Auden’s Col Trek is considered a high-risk trek and requires proper planning, preparation, and precautions. It is important to have a qualified guide and appropriate equipment to ensure safety.

What permits are required for Auden’s Col Trek?

Permits required for Auden’s Col Trek include the Gangotri National Park permit, the Inner Line Permit, and the mountaineering permit.

Is altitude sickness a concern on Auden’s Col Trek?

Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on Auden’s Col Trek, as trekkers will be trekking at high altitudes. Proper acclimatization and precautionary measures should be taken to avoid altitude sickness.

Is there any risk of avalanches on Auden’s Col Trek?

Yes, there is a risk of avalanches on Auden’s Col Trek, particularly during the winter and spring months. Trekkers should be aware of the weather conditions and take appropriate precautions.

Trek Policies and Guidelines

Why trekkers should take Trek Insurance?

If someone falls or gets hurt during a trek, the appropriate course of action would depend on the severity of the injury and the location of the trek.

Note: – dbtrekker will not pay for any trekker’s rescue or medical expenses on trekking

All this cost will have to be paid by Trekkers or by whom you have got insurance done.

But we will do every measure to give safety or comfort to our trekkers, Himalayan Hikers team will help by calling the rescue team for trekkers and taking them to the main road head hospital

Guideline for Trekkers

If the injury is minor, such as a cut or scrape, the trek can usually continue with basic first aid treatment. The injured person should clean and bandage the wound and take any necessary pain relief medication. If the injury is more serious, such as a sprain or broken bone, the trek may need to be paused, and the injured person may need to be evacuated to receive medical attention.
The responsibility for paying for any costs associated with a trekker’s injury or accident will depend on a number of factors, such as the terms of the trekking company’s insurance policy and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. In some cases, the trekker may be responsible for their own medical expenses, while in others, the trekking company or insurance policy may cover some or all of the costs.
It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of any trekking company or insurance policy you’re considering and to ask questions if anything is unclear. Additionally, taking steps to minimize the risk of injury, such as following safety guidelines and being prepared with appropriate gear and supplies, can help reduce the likelihood of needing to pay for medical expenses.

However, in general, it is important to have travel insurance that includes coverage for medical expenses and emergency evacuation in case of injury or illness during the trek. This is especially important when trekking in remote areas like the Himalayas. It is the responsibility of the trekker to ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage and to be aware of the risks involved in trekking at high altitudes

Overview

Itinerary

Physical Fitness

Cost

FAQs

Map

Trek Policies

Refund Policy

About Auden’s Col Trek

Auden’s Col Trip Highlights

Auden’s Col Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Physical Fitness

Who can participate

Health Awareness

Note

What's Covered and What's Not

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Trek Policies and Guidelines

Why trekkers should take Trek Insurance?

Note: – dbtrekker will not pay for any trekker’s rescue or medical expenses on trekking

Guideline for Trekkers

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Here is the Cancellation Policy of dbtrekker

The cancellation charges are as follows –(Bank charges deducted are not Refundable)

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Contact Info

Destinations

Activities

Trip Types

About Auden’s Col Trek

Auden’s Col Trip Highlights

Auden’s Col Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Physical Fitness

Who can participate

Health Awareness

Note

What's Covered and What's Not

The Cost Includes

The Cost Excludes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Trek Policies and Guidelines

Why trekkers should take Trek Insurance?

Note: – dbtrekker will not pay for any trekker’s rescue or medical expenses on trekking

Guideline for Trekkers

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Here is the Cancellation Policy of dbtrekker

The cancellation charges are as follows –(Bank charges deducted are not Refundable)

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