Auden's Col Trek Expedition

Auden’s Col is one of the most challenging and rewarding high-altitude passes in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. Situated at an elevation of 5,490 meters (18,010 ft), the pass connects Rudugaira Valley and Bhilangna Valley, forming a rugged corridor between the mighty Gangotri III (6,580 m) and Jogin I (6,465 m) peaks. It also links the Rudugaira Glacier on the north with the heavily crevassed Khatling Glacier on the south, making it a route of immense adventure and difficulty.

Geography & Rivers

• The region around Auden’s Col is defined by dramatic glaciers, sharp ridges, and deep river valleys.
• Rudugaira Glacier drains into the Rudragaira Gad (also called Rudra Ganga), which flows into the Bhagirathi River near Gangotri.
• On the southern side, the Bhilangna River originates from the Khatling Glacier and eventually joins the Bhagirathi near Old Tehri.

This unique positioning makes Auden’s Col both a geographical and spiritual link, as the trek can be extended via Mayali Pass to connect Gangotri and Kedarnath, two of the holiest shrines in Hinduism.

History

The pass is named after John Bicknell Auden, a geologist with the Geological Survey of India, who first discovered it in 1935 and successfully crossed it in 1939. In the late 1980s, noted mountaineers Harish Kapadia and Romesh Bhattacharjee of the Himalayan Club retraced Auden’s pioneering route, bringing wider recognition to the trek.

Trekking Challenges

Auden’s Col is regarded as one of the toughest non-technical treks in India. The challenges include:

• Numerous crevasses hidden in the snowfields.
• Precarious ridges and unstable scree slopes.
• Long stretches over boulders, moraines, and icefalls.
• The heavily broken surface of the Khatling Glacier, notorious for its difficulty.

Because of these conditions, only well-prepared and experienced trekkers with proper guidance should attempt this route.

Highlights of the Trek

1. Rudugaira Campsite: The trail opens into the high meadows of Rudugaira, surrounded by stunning views. To the east lies the massive ice wall of the Gangotri peaks, while to the north stand the Jogin group of mountains. From here, trekkers get their first glimpse of the ridges converging at Auden’s Col.
2. Crossing the Col: After a demanding climb, reaching the Col offers an overwhelming view of the Khatling Glacier. The vast expanse of snow and ice stretches endlessly, guarded by sharp peaks on every side. While treacherous to cross, this sight remains one of the most unforgettable moments of the trek.
3. Bhilangna Valley: Descending from the harsh glacier, trekkers are welcomed by the lush green campsites of Uddar and Jungle Camp in the Bhilangna Valley. Rich vegetation, alpine streams, and glimpses of trails leading toward Mayali Pass make this section a refreshing contrast to the icy heights above.

Due to the difficulty of crossing the crevassed Khatling Glacier, it is recommended to attempt Auden’s Col Trekking Expedition with a reputed expedition operator like Himalayan Dream Treks.

Why Attempt Auden’s Col?

• For seasoned trekkers, it is the ultimate test of endurance and skill.
• It offers a chance to experience the raw, unaltered beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.
• The trek combines both danger and reward — dangerous crevasses, but also breathtaking views of the Gangotri, Jogin, Bhagirathi, Rudugaira, and Kedar Dome peaks.