When it comes to trekking in the Western Himalayas, the adventure is incomplete without a visit to Auden’s Col. As fascinating as its name is the thrilling experience it offers to its visitors. It is a holy grail for trekkers and is regarded by many people as one of the most difficult and dangerous treks in India. It is considered to be more difficult than Kalindi Khal. It rests at an altitude of 5,490m and is a glaciated mountain pass situated between Jogin massifs and Gangotri. It is also the climax of the journey between Gangotri and Kedarnath where people mostly come for pilgrimage tours.
About Auden’s Col
The pass got its name from John Bicknell Auden who was part of the Geological Survey of India and discovered the pass in 1935. He crossed this challenging pass in 1939. The pass is dominant with a plethora of precarious ridges, crevasses, and boulder sections that form a long and strenuous trail. However, the entire difficulty of the trek is eventually rewarded successfully once you sight the mesmerizing views of the group of peaks belonging to Gangotri, Bhagirathi, Kedar Dome, Jogin, and Rudragaira. If you have an adventurous soul ready to experience a challenging trek with awe-inspiring views, you will like the pass.
About Auden’s Col Trek
Auden’s Col mountain pass is situated in Uttarakhand‘s Uttarkashi district which connects Rudragaira valley and Bhilangana valley. Although a famous trekking spot, it is also one of the least unexplored trekking spots due to its difficulty. Col refers to a ridge’s lowest point in the mountains as per mountaineering terminology. The trek takes an estimated 14 to 15 days for completion and trekkers have to trail through steep ridges, moraines, glaciers, boulders, and the like which increases the difficulty of the trekking session. The journey for the Trek starts from Rishikesh and ends at Ghuttu, a tiny hamlet where you can find numerous guest houses and campsites. The road from Ghuttu to Kedarnath is well connected and you can take a private vehicle or public transport from here.
The trek starts from Gangotri which is a high mountain town and is regarded to be one of the most exciting trailheads in India. During the trek, you can experience a thrilling journey across the high of Garhwal of the Himalayas and the massive glacial region of Gangotri. You can also witness the flows of Bhagirathi from its glacial source which is located at Chaukhamba’s foothills. The river continues to flow through the dense deodar forests and vast green meadows which allows you to immerse in the beauty of nature. Hence, you can expect to experience a diverse landscape here. From witnessing the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks to walking through the dense oak and birch forests, you will be mesmerized by the trekking session despite its challenges. Moreover, you will get to witness and walk through the Khatling Glacier which is one of the most glaciated regions in the country.
Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Rishikesh – Gangotri
- Day 2: Gangotri – Nala Camp
- Day 3: Nala Camp – Rudragaira
- Day 4: Reserved day for Rudragaira
- Day 5: Rudragaira – Gangotri
- Day 6: Gangotri – Auden’s Col
- Day 7: Auden’s Col – Khatling Glacier
- Day 8: Khatling Glacier – Zero Point/ Waterfall Camp
- Day 9: Zero Point – Chowki
- Day 10: Chowki – Masar Tal
- Day 11: Masar Tal – Vasuki Tal
- Day 12: Vasuki Tal – Kedarnath
- Day 13: Kedarnath – Gaurikund
- Day 14: Gaurikund – Rishikesh
Essentials
- Clothes: Be sure to carry at least four warm layers because you will be trekking in places located at high altitudes. The highest altitude is 18,050 ft and as such, it can be extremely cold and freezing. Therefore, carrying at least four warm layers is recommended. Along with warm layers, opt for trekking pants rather than regular pants or joggers.
- Trekking shoes: Since you will be trailing along with a wide variety of road textures, wearing trekking shoes is recommended for comfort. The road can be uneven and you may cross many tough terrains so a trekking shoe will be able to provide you proper comfort and support.
- Accessories: It is important to carry the basic trekking essentials such as sunglasses, synthetic hand gloves, sun cap, scarf, headlamp, trekking pole, and an extra pair of socks preferably woolen for the night.
- Backpack: Be sure to carry a durable and lightweight backpack so that you can store all your essentials in the bag and walk around easily. The bag should not be too heavy because the trail in itself is tiring and a heavy bag can be more burdensome. Hence, be sure to pack light and also carry items that you will be needing in actuality.
- Medicines and emergency contacts: Since Auden’s Col is notorious for being one of the most challenging trails, you must carry adequate medicines to be on the safe side. Be sure to consult a professional before you take the medicines. Saving some emergency contacts on your phone is also recommended in case you need help at any moment.
Final Thoughts
Auden’s Col is a trekking spot for experienced trekkers and if you’re willing to take this adventure, remembering the tips mentioned above is essential. You will surely have a memorable time in this mountain pass as it is nothing short of sublime and beautiful.
