Auden’s Col Trek Overview
The Auden’s Col Trek is one of the toughest high altitude treks in Uttarakhand.
It connects Gangotri to Kedarnath by crossing Auden’s Col Pass at 5,500 meters. The route takes you through glaciers, steep snow slopes, and remote Himalayan valleys.
This trek is a true expedition and includes glacier walking, rope sections, long trekking hours, and extreme weather conditions. Trekkers cross Khatling Glacier and later climb Mayali Pass
before descending towards Kedarnath.
Auden’s Col is suitable only for experienced trekkers with strong fitness and prior high altitude trekking experience. It is not a beginner trek, but a serious Himalayan challenge for adventure seekers.
Trek Highlights
Auden’s Col Pass Crossing
Cross Auden’s Col at an altitude of 5,500 meters, one of the highest and most difficult trekking passes in Uttarakhand.
Glacier and Snowfield Walking
Walk on massive glaciers and snow slopes using ropes and safety equipment, making it a true expedition-style trek.
Khatling Glacier Experience
Trek across the vast Khatling Glacier, surrounded by towering peaks and untouched Himalayan wilderness.
Mayali Pass Crossing
Cross Mayali Pass at around 5,000 meters, adding another high-altitude challenge to the expedition.
Remote Himalayan Terrain
Experience complete isolation for many days with no villages,
roads, or exit points on the route.
Gangotri to Kedarnath Route
A rare traverse trek that starts from Gangotri and ends at
the holy town of Kedarnath.
Important Trek Details
Region
Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand
Trek Duration
11 Nights / 12 Days
Starting Point
Gangotri
Ending Point
Kedarnath
Maximum Altitude
5,500 meters (Auden’s Col)
Trek Difficulty
Very Difficult
Best Season
May to June, September to October
Suitable For
Experienced trekkers only
Trek Cost
₹80,000 per person
Religious Significance
The Auden’s Col Trek passes through one of the most sacred regions of the
Indian Himalayas. The journey begins from Gangotri, the holy
origin of the River Ganga, and ends at Kedarnath, one of the
twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
Many sections of this route have been walked for centuries by sages, pilgrims,
and local shepherds. The mountains, rivers, and glaciers in this region are
considered living deities by the local people.
Camping near high-altitude lakes like Masar Tal and
Vasuki Tal adds spiritual depth to the trek. According to belief,
Vasuki Tal is associated with Lord Shiva and the serpent king Vasuki, making it
a place of deep religious importance.
Cultural Significance
The Auden’s Col region reflects the deep-rooted mountain culture of
Garhwal Himalayas. Though most of the trek stays in remote
wilderness, the journey begins and ends in towns that still preserve
traditional Garhwali customs and beliefs.
Villages around Gangotri and Kedarnath follow a simple mountain lifestyle
based on farming, cattle rearing, and pilgrimage services. Local people have
a strong respect for nature and follow seasonal movement patterns that have
remained unchanged for generations.
Stories of ancient trade routes, shepherd trails, and pilgrim paths are deeply
connected with this region. Trekking through Auden’s Col is not just a physical
challenge, but also a journey through the living culture and traditions of the
high Himalayas.
