Auden's Col Expedition
Auden's Col Expedition
Uttarakhand
Location
Uttarakhand
Duration
15 days
Max Altitude
18000 ft
Trekking
95 km
Grade
Challenging
Get in Touch with Our Trek Expert
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Location
Uttarakhand
Duration
15 days
Max Altitude
18000 ft
Trekking km
95 km
Grade
Challenging
Get in Touch with Our Trek Expert
Monday–Saturday: 10 AM to 06 PM (GMT +5:30)
Overview
Special Offer
Why Auden's Col Expedition Is A Must-Do Trek?
1. Historical Significance:
- Auden's Col holds a significant place in Indian literature and mountaineering.
- Named after John Bicknell Auden, a pioneering geologist and explorer who first crossed the pass in 1939.
2. Unique Geographical Features:
- Connects Rudragaira and Bhilangna Valley, offering a diverse and captivating landscape.
- Positioned between the imposing Khatling and Jogin I glaciers, providing a stunning backdrop for the entire trek.
- Beyond being a challenging trek, Auden's Col holds spiritual significance as it connects the Char Dham of Gangotri to Kedarnath.
- Culminates at Kedarnath, one of the Char Dhams and a revered Jyotirlinga, making the trek a spiritual journey.
- Presents an array of crystal-clear lakes like Sukhatal, Masar Tal, and Vasuki Tal along the route.
- The trek features mesmerizing meadows, offering picturesque camping sites beside the Rudragiara and Bhilangna river.
- Embarks on an expedition through knee-deep snow, high ridges, and treacherous crevasses, making it a tough but rewarding adventure.
- The route is characterized by steep ascents, demanding trekkers to navigate through snow-covered landscapes and rocky terrains.
- Descending from Auden's Col towards Khatling Glacier is considered challenging and nerve-wracking.
- Involves negotiating through large crevasses, adding an element of danger and excitement for adventure enthusiasts.
- Despite the challenges, Auden's Col promises breathtaking views, making every hardship worthwhile.
- Offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys, creating an immersive Himalayan experience.
- Immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Encounter diverse flora and fauna, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.
- Gain insights into the local culture and traditions as the trek passes through villages and settlements along the way.
- Interact with the inhabitants, experiencing the rich cultural tapestry that defines the region.
Dehradun to Gangotri
- Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,200 ft (Gangotri).
- Drive 240 km, 8-9 hours from Dehradun.
Rest and acclimatisation at Gangotri
- After breakfast visit Pandav gufa, Gauri and Surya kund.
- Post lunch can visit Gangotri temple or go for shopping.
Gangotri to Nala Camp
- Altitude: 3,750 m / 12,300 ft (Nala Camp).
- Trek: 8 km | 6-7 hours.
Nala Camp to Rudugaira Camp
- Altitude: 4,350 m / 14,300 ft.
- Trek: 7km, 7-8 hours.
Rest and Acclimatization
- An acclimatization day at this height is mandatory.
Rudugaira Base Camp to Audens Col Base Camp via Gangotri Base Camp
- Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,600 ft (Auden’s Col BC.).
- Altitude gain: 400 m / 1,300 ft.
- Trek: 8 km | 6-7 hours.
Audens Col Base Camp to Khatling Glacier Camp via Audens Col
- Altitude: 5,500 m / 18,000 ft (Auden’s Col). 5000 m / 16,400 ft (Khatling Glacier).
- Trek: 12 km | 10-12 hours.
Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point/Waterfall Camp
- Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,800 ft.
- Trek: 11k m, 9-10 hours.
Rest Day
- Mandatory Rest day.
Waterfall Camp/ Zero Point to Chowki
- Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,500 ft.
- Trek: 8 km | 5-6 hours.
Chowki to Masar Tal
- Altitude: 3,750m/12,300ft.
- Trek: 8km | 5-6 hours.
Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal via Mayali Pass
- Altitude: 5,000m/16,400ft (Mayali Pass)
- Altitude: 4,200m/13,800ft (Vasuki Tal)
- Trek: 12km | 7-9 hours.
Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath
- Altitude: 3,500m/11,600ft (Kedarnath).
- Altitude loss: 700m/2,200ft.
- Trek: 7km | 3-5 hours.
Kedarnath to Gaurikund
- Altitude: 1,950m/6400ft (Gaurikund).
- Trek: 14km | 6-7 hours.
Gaurikund to Rishikesh
- Driving Distance: 250km |10 hr.
- Reach Rishikesh by 6:00 - 7:00 pm.
Note:
- Keep a buffer day in your travel plan
- If buffer day is not used in the travel then it can be used to Explore Rishikesh
- Read the article Things to do in Rishikesh
- Distance, Altitude, and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off
- Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy
- Come one day early if planning to come by plane
- Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 100 beats per minute).
- Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 75 – 85, SYSTOLIC 100 - 130 mm Hg).
- Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
- Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
- Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
- No pacemaker implant.
- People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
- If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form
How to reach — Maps
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Pick-Up Information
- It is essential for everyone to arrive at Prince Chowk, Dehradun (06:00 am).
- Once you have reached Dehradun, TTH will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
Options to Reach Dehradun
First, you can arrive at Delhi, Dehradun Airport or Chandigarh. The journey from these locations to Dehradun is explained below.
1. Take an overnight train from Delhi to Dehradun.
2. Take a bus to Dehradun ISBT from Delhi Kashmiri gate ISBT or Chandigarh Sector 17 Bus stand, and then take local transport to the pickup point (Prince Chowk).
Delhi to Dehradun - 250km | 6hr.
Chandigarh to Dehradun - 220km | 5hr
The distance from the Dehradun Bus Stand (ISBT) to the Railway Station is 6 km, without traffic, it will take 15 minutes.
( We always recommend to go for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Dehradun at least by 05:30 am positively. )
3. Take a flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport), then from the Airport to Prince Chowk, Dehradun Distance is 30km and it will take around 1 hr( if coming by flight then reach one day early).
Drop-Off Information
- The designated drop-off point is Tapovan, Rishikesh.
- Reach in Rishikesh by 6:30 to 7:30 pm.
- Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 10:00 pm.
Note - In July and August month always have a buffer day in your Itinerary due to the Monsoon.
- It's highly advisable to keep a buffer day in your travel plan. If the buffer day is not used, it can be used to explore Rishikesh.
( If you prefer to travel independently to Base camp and don't want to take TTH's pick-up service, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab from Rishikesh. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking. )
- TTH offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.
1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):
- Guest houses on Day 1, Day 2, Day 13 and Day 14 (twin/triple sharing basis).
- Camping during the trek (Day3 to Day 12).
2. Meals (Veg + Egg):
- All meals Gangotri to Gaurikund.
- Day 1 Dinner to Day 14 Dinner.
3. Support:
- 1 Versatile base camp manager: handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
- 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
- 1 Experienced high altitude chef.
- Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
- Enough support staff.
4. Trek equipment:
- Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), Mattress, Utensils.
- 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
- Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
- Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & Crampon (if required).
5. First aid:
- Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.
6. Transportation (as per the itinerary)(If booked through TTH, available upon booking in add-ons):
- Prince Chowk, Dehradun to Gangotri (Day 1).
- Gaurikund to Prince Chowk, Dehradun (Day 15).
7. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage.
8. All necessary permits and
entry fees, up to the amount charged for Indians.
9. Services from Gangotri to Gaurikund.
10. Trek completion certificate from TTH.
Trek Essentials
Cancellation Terms
To request a cancellation, please email us at info@trekthehimalayas.com using your registered email ID.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 5% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 30% deduction of trek fee
- 100% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 85% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund Options
- 50% deduction of trek fee
- 80% trek fee cash voucher for same trip till one year
- 70% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
- Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek.
Refund Options
- No cash refund
- 20% trek fee cash voucher for the same trip till one year
- 10% trek fee cash voucher for any trip till one year
- Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend
- To reschedule a trek (same trek only), a 30 % rescheduling fee of the trek cost will apply.
Cancellation Policy (Emergency Cases):
In case of a death in the immediate family (parents, siblings, spouse, children) or if the trekker is hospitalized (min. 48 hours) or suffers a fracture (leg/arm) within a week before the trek, even if canceled a day before:
90% trek fee refund in cash & 10% as a voucher (valid for 1 year, for any India trek).
Valid documents required. We’re here to support you during tough times.
Note:
- Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
- In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
- TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
Booking and Payments
- The Participant is responsible for verifying the accuracy of all details, including Trip dates and personal documentation, at the time of booking.
- Payments must be made in accordance with the timelines and instructions provided by TTH. Late payments may result in cancellation of booking without refund.
- In the event of a cash refund, only the portion of the payment made in cash shall be eligible for refund in cash. Any booking made using voucher, discounts, promotional codes, or through any non-cash mode of payment shall not be eligible for a cash refund under any circumstances.
- Refunds, if applicable, shall be processed within 15–30 working days of confirmation.
- All add-on bookings are subject to the respective add-on cancellation policy, and refunds will be processed accordingly.
- Voucher Terms
- This is a non-transferable voucher
- The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
- The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
- To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
- All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
Itinerary and Modifications
- TTH reserves the right to modify, shorten, or cancel any part of the Trip due to transportation delays, weather, health emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances including Force Majeure.
Cancellations and Refunds
- No refunds or vouchers, partial or otherwise, shall be provided for voluntary withdrawal, non-utilisation of services, or removal from the Trip.
- If TTH cancels the Trip before arrival at the designated pick-up point due to unforeseen circumstances or Force Majeure, the Participant may choose from:
- An alternate Trip/date.
- A credit voucher valid for one (1) year.
- Transfer to another Trip, with cost differences payable by the Participant.
- If the Trip is abandoned post-arrival at the designated pick-up point, no cash refund or voucher shall be issued. The Trek Again Policy may apply at TTH’s discretion.
- TTH shall not be liable for any associated travel costs such as flights, accommodation, or visa fees.
Force Majeure
- Events beyond its control including but not limited to earthquakes, landslides, strikes, curfews, war, pandemic, government restrictions, heavy rainfall or snowfall, windstorms, road blockages, trail disruption, or withdrawal of permits, TTH shall not be held liable for any cancellation, delay, or service modification caused by Force Majeure.
Government employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per Pay Commission guidelines, up to 30 days of Special Casual Leave can be availed in a calendar year for trekking or mountaineering expeditions conducted through a registered organisation.
Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator with the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), making your trek eligible for SCL benefits.
To apply, email us at info@trekthehimalayas at least 20 days before the trek departure date, with the following details:
- Trek name and trek date
- Booking details
- Full name
- Designation
- Department and department address
This benefit is exclusive to Indian Government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Auden's Col Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek in the Indian Himalayas, named after the famous British poet W.H. Auden. It involves crossing a high mountain pass at an altitude of over 18,000 feet and traversing glaciers and steep ridges in remote and rugged terrain. The trek offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Kamet. It requires a high level of physical fitness and technical skills and is suitable only for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. Despite the challenges, Auden's Col Trek is a unique and unforgettable adventure for those who are up for the challenge.
Auden's Col Trek is considered to be a very difficult and challenging trek, suitable only for experienced trekkers and mountaineers. The trek involves crossing a high-altitude mountain pass at over 18,000 feet, which requires a high level of physical fitness and endurance. In addition, trekkers must traverse glaciers, steep ridges, and rugged terrain in a remote and isolated part of the Indian Himalayas. The trek also requires technical skills such as roping up and navigating crevasses, making it even more challenging. Overall, the Auden's Col Trek is a demanding adventure that should only be attempted by those with a lot of trekking and mountaineering experience.
Auden's Col Trek is a highly demanding and physically challenging trek, and it is essential to be in excellent physical condition before attempting it. To prepare for the trek, it is recommended to engage in regular cardiovascular exercise such as running, cycling, or swimming, as well as strength training to build core strength and endurance. It is also important to practice walking and hiking on uneven terrain, carrying a heavy backpack, and acclimatizing to high altitudes. Trekkers should be able to hike for several hours a day, carrying a backpack weighing up to 15-20 kg, and be comfortable with steep ascents and descents, traversing narrow ridges, and crossing glaciers. Good physical fitness, mental toughness, and the ability to adapt to changing weather and altitude conditions are crucial for a successful and safe trekking experience on Auden's Col Trek.
The Auden's Col Expedition is a challenging trek in the Indian Himalayas that requires specialized equipment to ensure the safety and comfort of trekkers. Here are some of the essential items that trekkers will need to bring on the expedition:
1. Trekking boots - sturdy and comfortable footwear that can handle uneven terrain, steep ascents and descents, and provide good ankle support.
2. Warm clothing - warm layers including thermal underwear, fleece or down jacket, waterproof jacket and pants, gloves, and a warm hat to protect against cold weather and high altitudes.
3. Backpack - a durable and comfortable backpack with a capacity of at least 50-60 liters to carry personal belongings, food, and water.
4. Sleeping bag - a high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold weather and high altitudes.
5. Tent - a sturdy and lightweight tent to provide shelter during camping.
6. Climbing equipment - including crampons, ice axe, harness, and ropes, for crossing glaciers and steep sections of the trek.
7. First aid kit - a well-stocked first aid kit with essential medicines, blister kits, and other medical supplies.
8. Navigation tools - including a map, compass, and GPS device to navigate the remote and rugged terrain.
9. Water filtration system - to ensure a safe and adequate supply of drinking water.
10. Headlamp - a high-quality headlamp with extra batteries to provide adequate lighting during early morning starts and late finishes.
The trek is suitable only for experienced trekkers and mountaineers who have prior experience of high-altitude trekking and are comfortable with glacier travel and roped climbing.
Participants must be in excellent physical condition and should be able to hike for several hours a day, carrying a backpack weighing up to 15-20 kg. They should also have good balance and coordination, as well as the ability to adapt to changing weather and altitude conditions.
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