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Auden Col Trek 2025
The Auden Col Trek is one of the most difficult treks in India. Auden Col Trek Within the Garhwal Himalayan region of India is a trek of roughly 120 kilometeres from Kedarnath to Uttarkashi, which goes through the Auden Col. This col is situated at a staggering height of 5,490 meters. The trek is famous for the Rudragaira, Jogin, and Bhagirathi, which are also tall mountains, along with some glacial valleys and rytes. This trek is suggested for the highly trained trekkers, since dealing with elevation is demanding yet rewarding at the same time.
The Auden Col Trek is a captivating trek with a blend of sheer difficulty, untouched beauty, and deep-rooted spirituality. The trek gives a stunning view from Mayali Pass and also the Khatling Glacier. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trek, and this is a guide to all the latest information for 2025, including the latest information for itinerary, the most preferred time, an in-depth safety review, and some latest hot questions.
Summary of the Auden Col Trek
The Auden Col Trek commences at Gangotri at an altitude of 3,048 meters, and concludes at Kedarnath, which is located 3,583 meters above sea level. It is a sacred Char Dham site, making the trek a pilgrimage route, one perfect for devotees and adventure-seekers alike. This trek incorporates Auden Col (5,490 meters) and Mayali Pass (5,300 meters) alongside the notorious Khatling Glacier.
It covers a total of 120 km, with the crevasses and snowfields, offering marvelous views of jogin, Rudragaira, and Bhagirathi. The trek is an extreme form of the Garhwali culture blended alongside the nature of the region, with ancient and modern civizilations, allowing one to experiencen raw adventure. The trek is rated extremely difficult and best suited for expert trekkers and mountaineers. It has thus, become a legendary Himalayan challenge for 2025.
Complete Itinerary for Auden Col Trek
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (Drive: 245 km, 7–8 hours)
The first part of the Auden Col Trek involves traveling 245 km from Dehradun to Gangotri, which stands at 3,048 meters. This 7 to 8 hour journey starts with a drive through Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, and Harsil. Along the way, you can see the Bhagirathi River. In Gangotri, you can find guesthouses, and homestays, and the famous Gangotri Temple.
You can book transportation through agencies for a fee of INR 1200 to 1800 or through shared taxis for 600 to 1200. Make sure to bring cash since Uttarkashi is the last point with an ATM. There are also BSNL and Jio signals. Along the way, make sure to arrive early to adjust, tour, and have garhwali food, and also make sure to bring cash since Uttarkashi is the last point with an ATM.
Day 2: Gangotri to Nala Camp (Trek: 8 km, 5–6 hours)
From Gangotri, trek 8 km to Nala Camp which is located at 3750 meters. The Nala Camp Trail is next to the Rudugaira River and the trek goes through dense forests of pine and cedar. During the summer novelties, you can see irises and many other flowers. There are also streams which you have to cross. View of Rudragaira peak can also be enjoyed.
Nala Camp serves as a meadow campsite for acclimatization. You only have to bring 1 to 2 liters of water. Make sure to wear trekking shoes since the path is full of rocks and don’t forget to rest early. It is also suggested that Nala Camp is enjoyed as one and half to two liters is a good trek water to carry. Also rest early to make sure your trek is pleasant, and don’t forget to carry a first aid kit.
Day 3: Nala Camp To Rudugaira Base Camp (Trek: 6 km, 4–5 hours)
Start at an altitude of 4,350 meters and trekk 6 km to reach Rudugaira Base Camp, which is a campsite on a glacial altitude. The trek includes a medieval alp area and boulder zones. Along the trek, you can get a sight of Bhagirathi and Jogin. Rudugaira Base Camp needs to be reached at the beginning of the night to avoid the cold night temperature of 0 degrees centigrade.
After reaching the campsite, you can practice with guide ropes, take a sip of water and get ready for the altitude trek. Keep a check on yourself for altitude sickness and take necessary measures to avoid falling sick to be more comfortable for the journey onwards.
Day 4: Auden Col Base Camp To Rudugaira Base Camp (Trek: 5 km, 4–5 hours)
Start the trek on a more positive note of reaching an altitude of 4800 meters and Auden Col base Camp. The trek to reach the camp is tiresome but contains moraines and snow patches, so the trek is not bland. While ascending note that the altitude of 4800 meters, snow patches and water can be scarce, so be sure to take at least 2 liters. Following the guide will lessen the chances of a bad experience. Despite the cold, the campsite is a great sight to star gaze which in turn should be great motivation for the journey ahead.
Day 5: Auden Col Base Camp to Auden Col Advance Camp via Auden Col (Trek: 7 km, 7-8 hours)
Today’s adventure takes you up the 5,490 meter Auden Col, and then down to Auden Col Advance Camp at 4,800 meters, a total of 7 km trekked. This is the most strenuous day requiring you to spend 8 hours of walking. Starting at 3 AM, you will need to navigate through a steep and fully snowed incline which will demand and ice axes, crampons, and ropes.
As a reward for all your struggles, you will be rewarded with 360 views of Bhagirathi, Jogin, and Gangotri. We need to carefully descend through the Khatling Glacier’s the crevasses to reach advance camp. Make sure to avoid all crevasses and follow your guide so you don’t get lost. This day will be the most physically demanding so ensure you consume a lots of water, follow your guide and be cautious of AMS. The moment the guide gives you to reach the the top is most certainly a highlight of the day.
Day 6: Auden Col Advance Camp to Khatling Glacier Camp (Trek: 10 km, 6-7 hours)
Similar to Day 5, you will be working five the 4,200 meter Khatling Glacier Camp 10 kilometers away. Now you will need to carefully navigate through the crevasses and steep snowidded moraines, pavements and snowfields. This is physically demanding requiring immense focus. You will face additional challenges during the summer o melt snow.
During the summer, you will also face melted snow which will make areas excessively slippery. The view once you reach Khatling has its perks, with tall cliffs that are sinilar to the forbiddens that surround you. The temperatures are frightening which will make need water and clothing for zero degrees. Make sure you follow your guide for the most optimal route and rest well in order to recharge for this tiring journey.
Day 7 of Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point 8 Km Trekking 5-6 Hours
On this section of scenery, trekkers will be taken up to 3,800 meters and 8 km southwest to Zero Point, passing through meadows and descending through moraine gravel piles. During the summer season the Khatling Glacier and the other landscape parts are painted with flowers. Zero Point, hailed as uiterste punt, means the farthest point and continues to meadows marking the start of the luscious valleys.
Do not forget to pace yourself as it’s intended to energize the body, and remember to consume the provided snacks for an extra energy boost. The serene setting allows reflects on the strenuous challenges this geographic area sets and the endless starry nights transcends the Himalayan experience.
Day 8 Zero Point to Chowki 10 km Trekking 5 – 6 Hours
This section will take trekkers up to 3,600 meters which means they will need to take 10 km stroll to Chowki. The area around chowki is covered with meadows and also has a forest. The road is shallow, thus the only obstructions will be streams, small flowers like rhododendron and other vegetation. Chowki, and kater on the mountain, offers fantastic scenery of other peaks mokking on the harsh trek around the mountains.
You may put up the tent and start cooking on the garhwal, but i recommend holding the food untill the dew is gone as the morning gale is harsh and invisible. Do not forget to trek with your raincoat as the weather can change. The most extraordinary blend of both is this day, rest and mountains.
Day 9: Chhawki to Masar Tal (Trek: 8 km, 4–5 hours)
Your trek today marks a journey of 8 km to Masar Tal, one of the high-altitude lakes with crystal clear water situated at an altitude of 4200 m. Framing the lake, Thalay Sagar Peak can be spotted. With the arrival of summers, the greenery and wildflowers make the view awe inspiring. After a trek, camp by Masar Tal lucky enough to inndulge in the peaceful atmosphere. While the lake brings a sense of tranquility, in relation to the legends tied to it brings a different essence, complementing Auden Col Trek. Don’t forget to hydrate and stay in ventilated, layered clothing to prep for the unpredictable summer weather.
Day 10: Masar Tal to Mayali Pass Base Camp (Trek: 7 km, 5–6 hours)
Your journey starts by climbing for 7 km to Mayali Pass Base camp (4600 m). This requires traversing meadows and rocky hills. While the path is steep, for the summer season clears up. Look out for Kedar Dome along the way, even in summer, views stay unmatched. Get familiar with the altitude as the trek is high-camp. Along with the altitude, be equipped with 2 decanters of water and some practice. At night 5, temperature is quite low, so keep a jacket and some warm blankets ready. Don’t forget to rest easy so wade to the steep trek to the Base Camp.
Day 11: Mayali Pass Base Camp to Vasuki Tal Via Mayali Pass (Trek: 12 km, 8–9 hours)
Vasuki Tal is 4,300 meters tall, while Mayali Pass is 5,300 meters tall, which makes this trek an uphill of 12 km. During early summer, the steep ascent alongside snowfields and rocky ridges to the pass demands the use of crampons and ropes. During the ascent, you are greeted with breathtaking views of Kedarnath and Chaukhamba peaks.
Vasuki Tal is a sacred lake which is associated with Lord Vishnu and is surrounded by meadows. After the long trek, you are rewarded by the spiritual and scenic beauty of the lake, which you can admire while camping by the lake. Make sure to stay hydrated and follow your guide closely to get the most out of your trek you will need to have a lot of stamina.
Day 12: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath (Trek: 10 km, 5–6 hours)
During this trek, you will also have the opportunity to climb 10 km to the revered Kedarnath temple. The trek starts with descending through meadows and forests. During the trek, there will be many streams and wild flowers, which is all a part of the scenic pilgrimage route. Kedarnath also has guesthouses to provide you with a calm and spiritual atmosphere after your trek, and you must not forget the beautiful temple which you must explore.
The temple is part of the Panch Kedar, which makes Kedarnath not just an adventure, but also a part of a pilgrimage. Make sure to carry your ID for the temple as well as some cash for the local markets.
Day 13: Drive to Kedarnath and Gaurikund (Treasure: 14 km, 5 to 6 hours) Then Drive to Rishikesh (6 to 7 hours, 180 km)
The trip is to go 14 kilometers (starting 1,982 meters altitude) downhill which is follows the Mandakini River. In the summer, the region enjoys a 10-20°C temperature range. Responders driving to Rishikesh from gaurikund should make a stop to fetch rusa . pilgrims fill the busy trekking routes and hiring a taxi will cost anything from INR 3,000-5,000. While the trek to Rishikesh takes about 6-7 hours, taxi drivers whose services are hired are expected to resume their duties in full upon arrival. Taxis and buses also provide these routes for budget travelers. INR 2,100 is also charged for 5% GST weather delay.
Days 14 – 18 (Reserve Days)
In case of unexpected weather conditions, glacier concerns, or a permit hold-up, rest days will most certainly be needed. While these are not the recommended off days, INR 2,000-2,500 is charged per rest a day spending these will mark exploring the region, their charging policies seemrather dubious to say the least, In the end, the prep might not be jazzing to see, but the extra day or two turns out to be a requirment do prove for more flexibility.
Best Time for Auden Col Trek
The best season for Auden Col Trek is during summer (May-June) and early autumn (September-October).
The weather during May and June is pleasant with blooming meadows alongside manageable snow at both Auden Col and Mayali Pass.
The temperatures are pleasant with 5-20 C at lower altitudes and -5 to 5 C at during the scenic passes. September and October bring crisp air, 0-15 C, alongside vibrant landscapes perfect for photos. The summer is a perfect for technical knee hiking and during autumn the views are greatly enhanced.
During winter (November to April) passes are closed due to heavy snow and the monsoon season (July and August) is not ideal due to the risk of landing and slippery glaciers. Don’t forget to check the weather forecasts and pack necessary waterproof gear.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Auden Col Trek joins two Char Dham sites, Gangotri and Kedarnath, which are spiritually considered sacred. As the starting point of the Ganges, Gangotri and the Kedarnath, a Panch Kedar temple, make the both of them pilgrimage sites of reverence. The paths show remote wooden homes showcasing the lifestyle of the people in Garhwali villages.
The two lakes, Vasuki Tal and Masar Tal, are crucial from a cultural standpoint and are associated with the Vishnu and certain myths of the region.
As a way of celebrating Auden, the trek was named after him in honor of a historic route trekked in 1939. Taste the Himalayan life by interacting with the locals and enjoy traditional Garhwali mandua roti and learn about their festivals!
Flora, Fauna, and The Summer Preview
The Auden Col Trek, located in Gangotri National Park, features varied biodiversity regions. These areas include broad meadows which in the summer are blossoming filled with colorful-eyed rhododendrons, primula, and budding irises. The forests are mixed with Pine and Bhojpatra and are home to Monal and Himalayan Pheasants.
They also host endangered species such as Snow Leopards and Bharal. Fuhermore, the center of attraction consist of the calm waters of Masar Tal, the spiritually enchanting Vasuki Tal, and the glacial views along Auden Col. Moreover, the stunning and rugged Khatling Glacier as well as the panoramic Mayali Pass are perfect for photography. A highlight for nature lovers are the stunning skylines and starry nights of summer which are perfect for camping along the trek.
Trek Difficulty and Preparation
The trek features technical difficulties including glacier and snow ascents, Auden Col, and Mayali Pass which are 2 high passes, one sitting at 5490 and 5300 meters above sea level. The maximum grade for a trekker usually puts Auden Col Trek at extremely difficult alongside other well known spots such as Borasu and Bali Pass, hence the trek is meant for well seasoned trekkers.
To prepare, cardio workouts such as running 10km within 50 minutes for 12 weeks alongside strength training, and the specialized tripod training involving crampons and iceaxes is a must. Alongside high ankle trekking shoes and a 60-70L backpack filled with temperature climbing poles and a down jacket, fully stocked first aid kit of diamox, and proper climbing gear is a must for the trek. The trek is highly recommended to be taken with a guided crew such as Indiahikes and Bikat Adventures for proper permits and safety.
How to Travel to the Auden Col Trek Starting Point
A flight to Jolly Grant Airport or a train to Haridwar or Rishikesh are the two options available to get to the Gangotri region. From Gangotri, you can take a 245 km, 7 to 8 hour taxi or shared cab ride through Mussoorie and Uttarkashi. Uttarkashi is where the last ATM is before the trek as well as the last place to get a phone signal. Plan to get to Gangotri a day early to visit the temple and to get acclimatized. Permits can be issued in Gangotri or through agencies for 200 to 500.
Additional Costs for the Trek
Some costs included in the 50,000 to 70,000 trek cost are: cover for bags, meals, and technical gear such as ropes and crampons. From January to December, the cost of the package can be tailored to everyones needs, you just have to make sure to book in advance. Using a trusted guide such as Indiahikes, Himalayan Hikers, or Bikat Adventures is also a plus. Don’t forget to check for travel insurance as these type of treks are guaranteed to have few last minute changes.
Important Regulations and Recommended Safety Equipment
To prepare for this physically demanding trek, please ensure you dedicate at least 10 to 12 weeks training for endurance and strength. Remember to bring high-ankle trekking shoes, a 60-750L backpack, layered trekking clothes including fleece thermals and down jackets, raincoats, trekking poles, ice axes, and crampons, a headlight, as well as a first aid kit with AMS medication.
It is also important to monitor and treat AMS symptoms of headaches and nausea. Remember to carry 2 to 3 liters of water as water sources can be rare during glacier days. Follow marked trails and ride with guides. You should also check for AMS symptoms and monitor the weather for anything like summer rains and snow. Avoiding littering is important to preserve the the national park’s ecosystem.
The Auden Col Trek is a powerful off the beaten path antidote and allows the adventurer to tackle off the beaten path for challenges like Bali Pass and Borasu Pass. This trek is demanding in every aspect including in it’s physical and mental nature due to glacier high pass ascents which require advanced trekking skills. It is also very spiritual due to the trek’s connection with Gangotri and Kedarnath temples.
Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled with the never ending views of rajathay, jogin, bhagirathi, rudragaira, and masar tal lakes. Vibrant summer meadows will also add to this paradise. It’s ideal for 2025 adventurers looking for Himalayan solitude, a long trek with exciting cross country variety, and cultural richness.
Conclusion
The Auden Col Trek combines all the elements of an epic Himalayan trek: breathtaking views, spirituality, and technical challenges. The trek starts with the rugged pass of Auden Col to the sacred temple of Kedarnath, spanning 15 to 18 days.
It demands incredible physical and mental endurance, but the views are immeasurable. Use this guide to get your 2025 trek plans ready, and remember to get a trusted agency to book for you, as well as pack for comfort and safety. I look forward to hearing your plans and questions in the comments as you get ready to tackle one of the iconic treks in Uttarakhand that is known for its stunning landscapes!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about the Auden’s Col Trek
What is your experience in the Auden Col Trek focusing on its difficulty level?
This trek is considered to be on the higher end of the difficulty spectrum as the trek covers a distance of approximately 120 km along with a few glacier remains. Both Auden Col and Mayali passes stand at 5400 meters and 5300 meters respectively. Due to the nature of the trek, only experienced trekkers with extensive high altitude experience, will be able to manage it.
What opptimal range is suggested for the Auden Col Trek?
This trek is best suited for you between the months of May to June along with September to October. During the summer, foliage and green meadows aid in trek assistance whereas in the autumn season, gives the best views you can have. Both periods are considered the best to trek because there is no strong winds or heavy snow to aid in sliding.
What prior experience is compulsory for Auden Col Trek?
In order to undertake this trek, you will need to have advanced experience in high altitude trekking. Some examples of it can be Bali Pass or Pin Parvati. Apart from these, skills of using a crampon and ice axe on glaciers and passes are a necessity.
What documentation is needed in form of Auden Col Trek?
Passengers will need to provide a form of documentation in the shape of a permit. Permits can be obtained from certain agencies as well as in gangotri or uttarkashi. Due to the nature of the trip suggested, there are certain merits that need to be fulfilled.
How much does the Auden Col Trek cost?
The cost for the trek is between INR 50,000-70,000 for a 15-18 day guided trek which includes transport, meals, tents, guides, and necessary permits. An additional INR 3,000-5,000 is added for offloading and INR 2,000-4,000 for renting gear.
What gear is essential for the Auden Col Trek?
Essential gear includes high-ankle trekking shoes, a 60-70L backpack, layered clothing including thermals, down jacket, and raincoat, trekking poles, ice axe, crampons, a headlamp, and a first-aid kit including AMS medication.
Is the Auden Col Trek safe for solo trekkers?
Due to the technical difficulties, crevasses, high altitude, and glacier risks, parts of the trek are not safe for solo trekkers. Tours are guided and mandatory through experienced operators.
How do I prepare physically for the Auden Col Trek?
Prepare to complete 10-12 weeks of cardio, weight training, and specific technical training. A day before the trek, resting in Gangotri is recommended for initial acclimitization.
What are the highlights of the Auden Col Trek?
Aside from the 360 degree views at Auden Col, highlights includes Mayali Pass, Masar Tal, Vasuki Tal, Khatling Glacier, and spiritual destinations like Gangotri and Kedarnath Temples.
Does the Auden Col Trek have risks for altitude sickness?
Yes, the risks of AMS from altitude sickness start at elevations of 4,800 meters. Make sure to acclimatize well, stay hydrated, have diamox on hand, and pay attention to symptoms such as headaches and nausea. Always follow instructions from your guide.
