From Gangotri to Kedarnath: The Epic Journey of Auden’s Col Trek
Auden’s Col is a high mountain pass situated at an altitude of 18,010 ft above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas. Named after John Bicknell Auden of the Geological Survey of India, the pass was discovered in 1935 and first crossed in 1939.
It lies on the ridge connecting Gangotri III (21,590 ft) and Jogin I (21,210 ft)—a remote, wild corridor that tests both physical endurance and mountain judgment.
Auden’s Col Trek is widely regarded as one of the most challenging non-technical treks in India. The route involves long glacier walks, hidden crevasses, unstable moraines, exposed ridges, and extremely demanding days.
Yet, for experienced trekkers, the rewards are immense—towering views of the Gangotri, Jogin, Bhagirathi, Rudragaira, and Kedar Dome peaks, and the unforgettable crossing into the vast Khatling Glacier.
Why Auden’s Col Trek Is Exceptionally Difficult
Auden’s Col is not a commercial or beginner-friendly trek. The terrain is relentless and unforgiving.
- Numerous hidden crevasses
- Long stretches of loose moraine and boulders
- Steep snow and ice slopes
- Extremely long summit and glacier days
- Rapid altitude gain over multiple days
This trek is meant only for experienced Himalayan trekkers who are comfortable above 15,000 ft and can move confidently on glaciers and moraines—with an experienced guide.
Highlights of the Auden’s Col Trek
Rudugaira Campsite – First Grand RevealThe trek truly opens up at Rudugaira, where wide alpine meadows offer the first uninterrupted views of the mountains you will soon be walking among.
To the east rise the Gangotri peaks, forming a massive wall of ice. To the north, the Jogin group dominates the skyline. The ridges from both massifs converge at Auden’s Col—your first clear glimpse of the goal ahead.
View of the Khatling Glacier from Auden’s Col
After a long and exhausting ascent to the Col, trekkers are rewarded with a jaw-dropping view of the Khatling Glacier—a vast, heavily crevassed river of ice stretching endlessly through the valley below.
The descent may be treacherous, but the view from the top is one of the most dramatic in the Indian Himalayas.
Campsites of the Bhilangana Valley
After days on ice and rock, the lush greenery of the Bhilangana Valley feels almost unreal. Camps at Uddar and Jungle Camp (Chavni) are rich with vegetation and flowing streams.
From Uddar, you can even spot the route leading to Mayali Pass, with Kedarnath hidden beyond the mountains.
Short Itinerary Overview
Duration: 13 Days
Start: Rishikesh → Gangotri
End: Gangi → Rishikesh
- Day 1: Rishikesh – Gangotri (Drive)
- Day 2: Acclimatization at Gangotri
- Day 3: Gangotri – Nala Camp
- Day 4: Nala Camp – Rudugaira Base Camp
- Day 5: Rudugaira Base Camp – Gangotri Base (Moraine) Camp
- Day 6: Moraine Camp – Auden’s Col Base Camp
- Day 7: Auden’s Col Crossing – Khatling Glacier Camp
- Day 8: Khatling Glacier Camp – Zero Point
- Day 9: Buffer Day
- Day 10: Zero Point – Uddar Camp
- Day 11: Uddar – Jungle Camp
- Day 12: Jungle Camp – Gangi
- Day 13: Gangi – Rishikesh (Drive)
Trail Experience: What to Expect
Gangotri to Rudugaira Valley
The trek begins from Gangotri, a pilgrim town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Forest trails, river crossings, and steady altitude gain mark the first few days as you move into Rudugaira Valley.
Rudugaira to Moraine Country
Beyond Rudugaira Base Camp, vegetation disappears. The trail becomes increasingly rocky, crossing moraine ridges and boulder fields before reaching the moraine camps near the glacier.
Auden’s Col Crossing Day
This is the longest and most demanding day of the trek. Starting before dawn, trekkers navigate glacier terrain, ascend a 30°–50° gully, rope up due to crevasses, and finally reach Auden’s Col.
The descent involves rappelling down a steep 70° slope onto the Khatling Glacier—an extremely exposed and technical section.
Khatling Glacier to Bhilangana Valley
The glacier walk is slow and intense, with constant vigilance required. Moraines are unstable, and progress is laborious until the trail finally descends into greenery near Zero Point.
How to Prepare for Auden’s Col Trek
Auden’s Col demands serious preparation.
Cardiovascular Endurance
- Target: 10 km in 70 minutes
- Alternatives: Cycling (25 km in 60 min), stair climbing, swimming
- Track progress using apps like Nike Run or Strava
Strength Training
- Target: 4 sets of 20 squats
- Focus on leg strength for uneven terrain and backpack load
Flexibility
Stretch hamstrings, quads, hip flexors, lower back, and shoulders regularly to reduce fatigue and injury risk.
Essential Gear & Packing
Bare Necessities
- Trekking shoes (rocky & alpine terrain)
- 40–50 L backpack with rain cover
Clothing
- Minimum 3–4 warm layers
- Trek pants (no jeans)
- Full-sleeve t-shirts
- Optional thermals
Accessories
- Sunglasses, sun cap, gloves
- Woollen cap / balaclava
- Headlamp (mandatory)
- Trekking poles
Medical Kit
Includes Diamox, Dexamethasone, ORS, pain relief, and personal medication.
Most Difficult Sections of the Trek
- Rudugaira to Auden’s Col Base Camp – Moraine-heavy terrain
- Crossing Auden’s Col – Glacier, steep ascent, rappelling descent
- Khatling Glacier Traverse – Hidden crevasses and unstable moraine
An experienced guide is absolutely essential for this expedition.
Emergency & Connectivity Information
- Nearest Hospital: Uttarkashi / Ghansali
- Emergency Number: 112 (ERSS)
- Mobile Network: Very limited; weak signal only at Gangotri and Ghansali
- Last ATM Before Trek: Uttarkashi
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do this trek solo?
No. An experienced guide is mandatory.
Is Auden’s Col suitable for beginners?
Absolutely not. This trek requires prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Are permits required?
Yes, and these are usually arranged through your guide.
How to Plan Travel
- Nearest major hubs: Rishikesh / Dehradun
- Regular buses and shared taxis connect to Gangotri
- Return from Gangi via Ghuttu to Rishikesh
Book the Auden’s Col Trek
Ready to take on one of the toughest Himalayan expeditions?
If you’re an experienced trekker looking for a true test of endurance, skill, and mental strength, Auden’s Col is unmatched.
Book your Auden’s Col Trek with an experienced guide or trusted trekking organization
Ensure proper acclimatization, safety protocols, and logistics support
This is not just a trek—it’s an expedition.
