Auden's Col Expedition (5,490 M)
- Auden's Col Expedition
- situated in the north india's gangotri glacier.
- elevation 5,490 mtr from sea level
Overview
Price
₹93,499
Duration
13N / 14D
Region
Uttarakhand
Pick & Drop
Rishikesh – Rishikesh
Best Time
May, June, Sep, Oct
Trekking
75 KM
Route
Gangotri – Nala Camp – Gangotri III Base – Auden's Col – Zero Point – Mayali Pass - Kedarnath
Certified Guide
Certified and experienced mountaineering guides / sharpa.
Safety
Strict safety protocols, trained staff, and secure expedition experience.
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Get Full Detail Itinerary for Mount Auden's Col Expedition
Audens Col Trek – A High-Altitude Pass One of the Toughest Treks in the Indian Himalayas
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Auden’s Col Trek is an expedition for experienced trekkers seeking extreme adventure in the heart of the Indian Himalayas. Named after John Bicknell Auden, a British Geological Survey officer who explored this pass in 1935 and crossed it in 1939, this trek is a true test of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude.
Situated at a staggering altitude of 5,490 meters, Auden’s Col is one of the highest and most challenging mountain passes in the Garhwal region. The route connects the remote Rudragaira Valley to the wild and isolated Bhilangna Valley, creating a spectacular corridor amidst towering Himalayan giants. The trek traverses the northwest ridge of Gangotri III (6,580 meters) and the eastern ridge of Jogin I (6,465 meters).
Known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, Auden’s Col is one of the least explored treks in the Garhwal Himalayas. Trekkers must navigate vast moraines, knife-edged ridges, narrow rocky faces, crevassed glaciers, and high-altitude open stretches. This journey demands excellent acclimatization, glacier travel skills, and robust physical fitness. The landscape is dominated by vast snowfields, including the treacherous Khatling Glacier, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters.
The Route, Highlights, and Trekking Experience
Auden’s Col adventure begins from Gangotri (3,048 meters), one of the holiest pilgrimage towns in Hinduism and home to the revered Gangotri Temple. The initial trek to Nala Camp is a gradual 8 km ascent through dense pine and birch forests, offering captivating views of the Jogin and Kedartal ranges.
From Nala Camp, the trail climbs steadily for 7-8 km to Rudragaira Base Camp, where the true wilderness begins. Beyond this point, the route becomes more challenging, entering glacial terrain beneath the Gangotri group of peaks. The climb to Auden’s Col is steep, technical, and demanding, rewarding trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of endless Himalayan peaks. After crossing the pass, the trail descends rapidly towards the vast Khatling Glacier, leading to The Outpost, a rare alpine meadow surrounded by ice walls and snow-capped peaks. The journey then continues to the pristine high-altitude lakes of Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal, both hidden gems of the Garhwal Himalayas.
The final leg of the journey is an 8 km descent from Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath, the most remote and spiritually significant site of the Char Dham pilgrimage. The trek concludes in Rishikesh, reached via Gaurikund, Rudraprayag, and Devprayag.
Gallery
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Inclusions:-
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2. Meals while on trek (Veg.)
3. Equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent , toilet tent, utensils
4. All necessary permits and entry fees.
5. First aid medical kits, and oxygen cylinder.
6. Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide and Support staff.
7. Transport from Rishikesh/Dehradun and return
8. Mules to carry the central luggage
Exclusions:-
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1. Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Food during the transit.
3. Insurance
4. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
6. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
Note : Charges of offloading backpack:- INR 8000/- The backpack cannot weigh more
than 10 kgs.
Why Choose Us
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☑️ Recognised by Government of India.
☑️ Special focus on safety.
☑️ Local knowledge and experience.
☑️ Friendly and kind staff.
☑️ High operating equipment.
☑️ Value of time and money.
☑️ Guarantee foxed departures.
☑️ Save time and effort.
Cancellation Policy
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Cancellations prior to 30 days from the start of the Trip
a. Get 95% refund
B. 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
Cancellation between 30 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
• Get 70% cash refund
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 80% cash voucher for any trip till one year
Cancellation less than 15 days to the start of the trek
• No refund
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Rishikesh to Gangotri
A scenic mountain drive from Rishikesh takes you deep into the Garhwal Himalayas, passing through river confluences, forested valleys, and charming hill towns. The road follows the Bhagirathi River for most of the journey. On reaching Gangotri, check in to the hotel and rest after the long drive. In the evening, there is a detailed expedition briefing, gear inspection, and preparation for the trek ahead. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Gangotri to Nala Camp
Trek begins with a gradual ascent from Gangotri. The trail moves through dense pine and birch forests alongside the Rudragaira stream. This is a comfortable first trekking day, allowing the body to slowly adjust to altitude. As you gain height, the forest starts thinning and mountain views begin to open up. Reach Nala Camp by afternoon and relax. Overnight stay in tents..
Day 3: Nala Camp to Gangotri III Base Camp
Today’s trek climbs higher into alpine terrain. The trail becomes steeper and more rugged, crossing rocky patches and moraines. Vegetation is sparse now, replaced by wide open valleys and towering snow-covered peaks. Glimpses of glaciers and ice walls add to the dramatic landscape. By evening, reach Gangotri III Base Camp and settle into tents for the night.
Day 4: Gangotri III Base Camp – Acclimatization Day
This is an important acclimatization day to help the body adapt to the high altitude. Short acclimatization hikes are done around the campsite, along with basic glacier and rope training if required. The day is also used to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the demanding days ahead. Overnight stay at base camp.
Day 5: Gangotri III Base Camp to Auden’s Col Base Camp
The route today passes over loose moraine, rocky terrain, and glacial debris. The surroundings become more dramatic with massive ice walls and hanging glaciers. The trail demands careful footing but the distance is manageable. Auden’s Col Base Camp is located in a stark, high-altitude setting beneath the towering pass. Early dinner and rest are important in preparation for the next day. Overnight in tents.
Day 6: Auden’s Col Base Camp to Khatling Glacier Camp (via Auden’s Col)
This is the most challenging and crucial day of the expedition. An early morning start is required. The ascent to Auden’s Col involves steep snow slopes, glacier travel, and possibly fixed ropes. After reaching the col at 5,490 meters, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of endless Himalayan peaks. The descent is long and technical, leading onto the vast Khatling Glacier. By evening, reach Khatling Glacier Camp. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 7: Khatling Glacier Camp to Waterfall Camp (Zero Point)
The day begins with a long descent across the Khatling Glacier. The trail passes through icefalls, meltwater streams, and moraine zones. As altitude decreases, the landscape slowly changes from ice to rocky valleys. Reach Waterfall Camp, also known as Zero Point, by late afternoon. This campsite is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and cascading streams. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 8: Zero Point – Rest Day
A well-earned rest day after the demanding col crossing. This day allows the body to recover fully. Light walks around the campsite, photography, and relaxation are encouraged. The raw wilderness and silence of the region make this a memorable day. Overnight stay at Zero Point.
Day 9: Zero Point to Chowki
The trek continues with a gradual descent through rocky terrain and alpine meadows. The route becomes less technical compared to previous days. Streams, grasslands, and scattered wildflowers appear along the trail. Chowki offers a peaceful campsite surrounded by mountains. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 10: Chowki to Masar Tal
Today’s trek climbs steadily to Masar Tal, a beautiful high-altitude glacial lake. The trail ascends through open valleys with stunning mountain backdrops. Masar Tal sits in a natural amphitheatre of steep ridges and snowfields, making it one of the most scenic camps of the trek. Evening is spent exploring the lake area. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 11: Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal (via Mayali Pass)
The day involves crossing Mayali Pass, another high-altitude pass on the route. The climb is gradual but demanding due to altitude. After reaching the pass, the trail descends towards Vasuki Tal. This sacred alpine lake is set beneath massive Himalayan peaks and offers a calm, spiritual atmosphere. Overnight stay near Vasuki Tal.
Day 12: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath
A short but scenic descent leads to Kedarnath. The trail gradually merges with the pilgrimage route. After days of isolation in the high mountains, reaching Kedarnath feels both surreal and emotional. Visit the temple if time permits. Overnight stay in a hotel or guesthouse.
Day 13: Kedarnath to Gaurikund
The trek today follows a well-defined pilgrimage trail descending steadily to Gaurikund. The route is busy but comfortable. Lush greenery and river valleys replace the barren high-altitude terrain. Reach Gaurikund by afternoon and relax. Overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 14: Gaurikund to Rishikesh
Drive back to Rishikesh, marking the end of the Auden’s Col expedition. The journey offers time to reflect on one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas.
Experience
Auden’s Col Expedition with Great Adventure Gangotri
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