Auden’s Col Trek, Uttarakhand
One of the most difficult treks in the Garhwal region, Auden’s Col trek joins two valleys, Rudragaira valley, and Bhilangana valley. Starting from Gangotri, the trail makes may to Nala camp, crossing birch and pine forests. Next is a day trek to the Rudra Gaira Base Camp offering amazing views of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
The next halt is at the Gangotri base camp from where the trek to the Auden’s Col base camp starts. The trek to the Khatling glacier is although strenuous but it is all worth it because of the stunning views. The descending trek begins after Masar Tal, Vasuki Tal, coming to an end at Kedarnath. The exhilarating experience makes it one of the best summer treks in Uttrakhand.
Lying at an altitude of 5,490 m, Auden’s Col is one of the high -altitude mountain passes in the Garhwal Himalayas. Embarking on its trek is truly a fascinating experience. Adore views of Rudragaira, Jogin, Bhagirathi, and Kedar Dome peak.
Highlights of Auden’s Col Trek
- High-altitude mountain pass at 5,490 m in Garhwal
- Connects major pilgrimage trails: Gangotri to Kedarnath
- Spectacular views of Jogin peaks and Bhagirathi massif
- Challenging glacier traverse including Khatling Glacier
- Remote campsites surrounded by untouched nature
- Rare & thrilling mountaineering-style expedition
Auden’s Col Trek Route Overview
The trek begins from Gangotri and passes through scenic forest trails, base camps, and glaciers before concluding near Kedarnath.
Key Stops:
- Gangotri
- Nala Camp
- Rudragaira Base Camp
- Gangotri Base Camp
- Auden’s Col Base Camp
- Khatling Glacier
- Masar Tal
- Vasuki Tal
- Kedarnath
This journey tests endurance but rewards trekkers with breathtaking Himalayan vistas at every stage.
Best Time to Visit Auden’s Col
- May to June
- September to October
These months offer stable weather and better trail conditions. Avoid the monsoon due to landslides and glacier instability.
Quick Facts: Auden’s Col Trek
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Trek Altitude | 5,490 m (18,012 ft) |
| Trek Distance | Approx. 70–90 km (varies by route) |
| Trek Duration | 14–18 days |
| Difficulty Level | Extremely Difficult |
| Region | Gangotri National Park, Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand |
| Starting Point | Gangotri |
| Ending Point | Kedarnath |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
| Requires Permit | Yes, from Forest & Local Authorities |
| Suitable For | Experienced trekkers & mountaineers |
Things to Do on Auden’s Col Trek
- Experience alpine camping under starry Himalayan skies
- Witness massive glaciers like Khatling Glacier
- Capture breathtaking photographs of high peaks
- Visit sacred Kedarnath Temple at the end of the trek
- Adventure-packed journey with technical terrain
Safety Tips for Auden’s Col
- Prior high-altitude trekking experience required
- Hire a certified guide or join a professional expedition group
- Carry proper mountaineering gear (crampons, ropes)
- Maintain physical and mental fitness before the trek
- Gradual acclimatization is crucial to avoid AMS
- Weather forecast monitoring is mandatory
How to Reach Auden’s Col Trek Starting Point (Gangotri)
| Mode | Route Details |
|---|---|
| By Air | Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (250 km to Gangotri) – Taxis & buses available |
| By Train | Nearest Railway Station: Rishikesh / Dehradun, well-connected to major cities |
| By Road | Regular buses & taxis from Dehradun, Rishikesh, Uttarkashi to Gangotri |
Note: Gangotri remains accessible only during the Char Dham season (May–Nov).
Detailed Itinerary for Auden’s Col Trek (14 Days)
| Day | Itinerary Plan | Highlights / Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Dehradun - Uttarkashi | Acclimatization |
| Day 2 | Uttarkashi - Gangotri | Temple visit |
| Day 3 | Gangotri - Nala Camp | Birch forest & streams |
| Day 4 | Nala Camp - Rudragaira Base Camp | Mountain views |
| Day 5 | Acclimatization at Rudragaira Base Camp | Rest & photography |
| Day 6 | Rudragaira Base Camp - Gangotri Base Camp | Snow terrain |
| Day 7 | Base Camp - Auden’s Col Base | Glacial approach |
| Day 8 | Cross Auden’s Col - Khatling Glacier Camp | Technical climb |
| Day 9 | Khatling Glacier - Waterfall Camp | Long glacier walk |
| Day 10 | Waterfall Camp - Chowki | Meadows & river valley |
| Day 11 | Chowki - Masar Tal | Alpine lake stay |
| Day 12 | Masar Tal - Vasuki Tal | Scenic lake region |
| Day 13 | Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath | Shrine visit |
| Day 14 | Kedarnath - Sonprayag - Rishikesh | Return journey |
This itinerary may vary based on weather & team pace.
Permit & Guide Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Trek Permit | Mandatory (Forest Division & Gangotri NP permit) |
| Guide | Compulsory – technical terrain |
| Group Size | Recommended min. 4–6 trekkers |
| Insurance | Must include high-altitude emergency coverage |
| Environmental Rules | Follow NGT & Forest guidelines, no littering |
Permits are generally managed by the trekking agency you register with.
Cost of Auden’s Col Trek (Approx.)
| Package Type | Cost Per Person | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Group Expedition | Rs. 45,000 – Rs. 60,000 | Meals, tents, guide, permits, basic equipment |
| Premium Expedition | Rs. 70,000 – Rs. 95,000 | Advanced mountaineering gear, porters, safety team |
Prices depend on group size, season & operator.
Best Travel Tips for Auden’s Col Trek
- Begin fitness training at least 2 months before the trek
- Carry proper mountaineering shoes & cold-weather gear
- Hydrate frequently to reduce altitude sickness
- Avoid monsoon season due to glacier instability
- Always follow your guide’s technical instructions
Auden’s Col Trek is a dream expedition for passionate and experienced trekkers. Its dramatic landscapes, challenging icy terrain, and spiritual ending at Kedarnath make it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. If you are ready to push your limits and embrace the raw Himalayan wilderness, Auden’s Col awaits with unmatched thrill and beauty.
