11 Days 10 Nights
Daily Tour
13 people
Haridwar
If you’re a seasoned trekker seeking one of the most challenging yet breathtaking adventures in the Indian Himalayas, look no further than the Auden’s Col Trek. This high-altitude trail is not just a test of endurance—it’s an expedition that offers raw wilderness, glacial terrain, ancient temples, and surreal alpine landscapes. Connecting the lush Bhilangana Valley to the sacred Rudugaira Valley, Auden’s Col Pass is the gateway between Gangotri and Kedarnath, two of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
Auden’s Col is a mountain pass discovered by British geographer John Bicknell Auden in 1939. Nestled between Gangotri III and Jogin I peaks, the pass is often cloaked in snow and ice, requiring navigation over crevassed glaciers and moraine fields. The trail also includes a thrilling descent through the deadly Khatling Glacier and culminates at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, making this trek a blend of adventure and spirituality.
Perched at an altitude of around 5,490 meters (18,010 feet), this journey is a hidden gem for seasoned trekkers seeking adventure, solitude, and unspoiled natural beauty. Expect to traverse vast glaciers, remote alpine meadows, icy ridges, and pristine river valleys, all while surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks like Jogin I, Jogin III, Gangotri, Kedar Dome, and Thalay Sagar.
Whether it’s the thrill of crossing a glacier, the serenity of hidden alpine lakes, or the spiritual climax at Kedarnath, this trek offers an unparalleled experience in the Indian Himalayas. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and witness the raw, untouched beauty of Uttarakhand, Auden’s Col is your calling.
Why Choose Auden’s Col Trek?
• Traverse glacial crossings, high-altitude passes, and snowfields.
• Camp beside pristine alpine lakes and hidden meadows.
• Witness majestic views of Jogin peaks, Gangotri massif, and Thalay Sagar.
• Explore remote Garhwal villages and ancient temples.
• Ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a real Himalayan expedition.
•Distance: ~240 km
•Duration: 10–12 hours by road
•Start early from Dehradun and drive through Uttarkashi and Harsil. Reach Gangotri by evening. The scenic drive along the Bhagirathi River is captivating.
•Overnight: Guesthouse/Hotel in Gangotri
• Explore the ancient Gangotri Temple and nearby sights like Pandava Gufa or Surya Kund.
•Light hikes around Gangotri help with acclimatization.
•Overnight: Guesthouse in Gangotri
• Distance: ~8 km
•Duration: 5–6 hours
•Trail moves through dense pine forests and crosses several streams.
•First camping night in the wilderness.
•Overnight: Campsite near Rudugaira Nala
• Distance: ~7 km
•Duration: 5–6 hours
•Steep climb through alpine meadows with stunning views of the Gangotri Group of Peaks.
•Start noticing symptoms of altitude gain—hydration and slow pace are key.
•Overnight: Tent camping
• A critical day for acclimatization at high altitude.
•Short hikes and snow skills training if necessary.
•Prepare mentally and physically for the glacier walk ahead.
•Overnight: Tent camping
• Distance: ~6 km
•Duration: 6–7 hours
•Walk on boulders, moraine, and glacier sections.
•Views of Jogin III and surrounding peaks dominate the skyline.
•Overnight: Base camp at the foot of Auden’s Col
•Distance: ~10 km
•Duration: 10–12 hours
•The most challenging day of the trek. Start very early (pre-dawn).
•Steep climb to the Col, then a sharp descent onto the Khatling Glacier.
•Requires technical gear: ropes, crampons, and ice axe.
•Overnight: Glacier camp on Khatling
•Distance: ~12 km
•Duration: 8–9 hours
•Navigate one of the most dangerous glacier crossings in the Indian Himalayas.
•Icefall zones and deep crevasses require guided assistance.
•Camp at the snout of the Khatling Glacier.
•Overnight: Campsite near Zero Point
•Distance: ~8 km
•Duration: 5–6 hours
•Terrain softens with greenery returning to the landscape.
•Chowki is a beautiful alpine meadow with rejuvenating views.
•Overnight: Tent camping
• Distance: ~7 km
•Duration: 6–7 hours
•Gentle to steep climbs toward the sacred Masar Tal—a serene high-altitude lake.
•Rarely visited, it offers pristine reflections of surrounding snow-clad peaks.
•Overnight: Campsite near the lake
• Distance: ~10 km
•Duration: 7–8 hours
•Cross Mayali Pass (~5,000 m) en route—another tough but rewarding climb.
•Reach Vasuki Tal, associated with Hindu mythology and Lord Vishnu.
•Overnight: Campsite
•Distance: ~7 km
•Duration: 5–6 hours
•Descend to the Kedarnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a major Hindu pilgrimage site.
•Experience the spiritual vibe amidst majestic mountains.
•Overnight: Guesthouse or lodge in Kedarnath
•Trek down to Gaurikund (~14 km) and drive to Guptkashi
•End of trek.
After breakfast, drive to Haridwar / Rishikesh
A buffer day in trekking is crucial for ensuring flexibility and safety during an expedition. It acts as a contingency for unforeseen delays due to bad weather, health issues, or challenging trail conditions. Including a buffer day helps trekkers avoid rushing, reduces stress, and increases the chances of completing the trek successfully. It also allows time for acclimatization in high-altitude regions, minimizing the risk of altitude sickness. Overall, a buffer day adds resilience to the trekking plan, making the experience safer and more enjoyable.
Kindly note: A sum of INR 3,500/- per person will be charged extra if the buffer day used.
The trek connects Kullu Valley (Parvati side) with Spiti Valley (Pin side) in Himachal Pradesh. It starts from Barshaini (near Kasol) and ends at Kaza or vice versa.
The trek is about 110 km long and usually takes 10 to 12 days, depending on weather and acclimatization.
The best time is mid-July to mid-September. Before or after this period, the trail may be blocked due to heavy snow.
It is considered a difficult and challenging trek due to its altitude (up to 17,450 ft / 5319 m), river crossings, and unpredictable weather.
Yes. This trek is not recommended for beginners. Prior experience with high-altitude treks (above 14,000 ft) and good physical fitness are essential.
Absolutely. Acclimatization is critical to avoid altitude sickness, especially since the trek crosses the high-altitude Pin Parvati Pass.
Yes, if you're trekking with an organized group or agency, nutritious meals (veg) are usually provided. At Mountbuzz, we provide 4 times vegetarian meals with Daal and Vegetable dishes that changes it's type everyday, along with Soups, and sweet dishes everyday.
Absolutely. Acclimatization is critical to avoid altitude sickness, especially since the trek crosses the high-altitude Pin Parvati Pass.
It’s not advisable to trek solo due to the remoteness, river crossings, glacier sections, and lack of mobile connectivity. Trekking with a group or guide is safer.
Yes, permits from the Forest Department and possibly Inner Line Permits (for Spiti entry) are required. Trekking with a registered agency can simplify this process.
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