Auden’s Col Expedition Overview

Audens Col is a tough trek in the Indian Himalayas. It is so tough that people often compare it to Kalindi Khal and some even think it is tougher. This trek is a test of how strong your body is and how strong you are on the inside. Audens Col is very high up at 5,490 meters , it is a pass between the huge Gangotri and Jogin mountain ranges. It connects the valleys of Gangotri and Kedarnath. Audens Col is a challenge , because of its high altitude and it is a very famous trek. People talk about Audens Col a lot because it is so difficult to complete.

The journey starts in the town of Gangotri. This town is really special. It is one of the best places to start a high altitude trek in India. From Gangotri the trail goes up into the Garhwal Himalayas , it follows the Bhagirathi River as it comes down from the glaciers of Chaukhamba.

As you do the trek the terrain is always changing. You walk through oak and birch forests. Then these forests. You see big open alpine meadows. Eventually the meadows. You have to walk on harsh moraine fields and glacial stretches. There are also snow slopes that you have to climb. The Garhwal Himalayas and the Bhagirathi River are always there, as you trek.

The climb to Audens Col is really the part of the trek and it is also the toughest. When you get to the side of the pass you will be on the Khatling Glacier which is very icy and has a lot of deep cracks , the Khatling Glacier is one of the icy and hard to reach glaciers in the country. Then the path goes back to ground and valleys with trees, which takes you to beautiful lakes like Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal that are very high, up. You will see Audens Col and the Khatling Glacier. Then you will cross Mayali Pass and go down towards Kedarnath.

This route was first done by a geologist named J.B. Auden in 1939. It is still one of the attempted treks in India. The reason is that it has tough things like traveling on glaciers and camping in remote places. You also have to deal with high altitude and walk long distances every day. That is why Audens Col is for very experienced trekkers. These trekkers should be okay, with terrain and long trips. Audens Col is not easy to do.

This trek is really tough. There are no days at all. But for people who are ready to take on the challenge of Audens Col, Audens Col offers amazing Himalayan beauty, complete solitude and a real test of the mountaineering spirit of Audens Col.

Why Choose Auden’s Col Trek

Auden’s Col is one of the toughest high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas.
The trek reaches an extreme altitude of 5,490 meters, testing endurance and mental strength.
It connects the sacred valleys of Gangotri and Kedarnath.
The route includes glaciers, moraines, snow slopes, and remote camping.
The Khatling Glacier crossing is one of the most challenging glacier sections in India.
High-altitude lakes like Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal add to the expedition experience.
The trek offers complete isolation and true wilderness.
Suitable only for highly experienced trekkers looking for a serious Himalayan challenge.

Inclusions

Transport Pickup Time: Dehradun
From the scheduled pick-up point to the base camp, we arrange transportation in vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dzire, or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is shared by trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non-AC for mountain travel safety.
Accommodation Base Camp Stay: 1-night accommodation in a local homestay or guesthouse, offering a glimpse of authentic Himalayan lifestyle. (Single-sharing available at INR 5,000 extra per person for the entire trek)
On-Trek Stay: Twin-sharing tents (Vango Halo Pro / A-Shape) built to handle extreme weather while keeping you comfortable after a long day’s trek.
Camping Equipment High-quality sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Foam mattresses for added comfort.
Safety gear including microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ice axe (where required).
Medical Support Our team carries an extensive medical kit and is trained in high-altitude first aid.
Oxygen cylinders (checked before every trek) are available at campsites and with the team at all times.
Permissions & FeesAll forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included. (Additional charges apply for foreign nationals)
Meals Nutritious veg meals (with eggs) — Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner.
Jain and vegan meals available on prior request.
Dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and seating.
Our Team Certified Trek Leader (AMC/BMC/NIM-trained) for safety and smooth execution.
Local Guides with deep knowledge of the trail, culture, and biodiversity.
Support Crew including cook, helpers, porters, and mules for common equipment.
Cloakroom Facility You can leave extra luggage safely at our base camp free of charge.

During The Trek
Exclusion

Personal expenses like tips, medicines, and phone calls.
Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.
Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) — available for rent at affordable rates on prior request.
Backpack offloading (optional) – INR 400 per bag/day (up to 12 kg).
Trek insurance (mandatory) — to be arranged separately.
Buffer day cost (if used) — to be paid directly to the trek leader.
Any items not mentioned in the inclusions list.