Reasons Why You Should Visit Auden’s Col

Are you an experienced trekker who thrives on the adrenaline rush and excitement of challenging terrains? Welcome to Auden’s Col, one of the toughest passes to cross in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas. At 5,460 m (17,913 ft), this glacial corridor marks the lowest point on the ridge that separates Jogin I and Gangotri III peaks.

Auden’s Col expedition takes about 15-16 days to complete and starts from the holy town of Gangotri in Uttarakhand. It ends at another pilgrimage site, Kedarnath, giving a perfect divine closure to the trek. The total distance from Gangotri to Kedarnath covered in Auden’s Col expedition is about 95 km. Although arduous, the journey through this pass offers you a spiritual yet adventurous experience that is one-of-a-kind.

Whether it is rough boulder patches at Rudugaira or wide-open crevices at Khatling, Auden’s Col gives you the ultimate Himalayan experience. Let us discuss the special features of this trek and why you must add it to your trekking list:

Geological and Historical Significance of Auden’s Col

Before proceeding to the unique features of Auden’s Col that make it every trekker’s dream destination, let us discuss the geological and historical facts of this high-altitude pass in detail:

The Geology and Geographical Location of Auden’s Col

The strategic location of Auden’s Col offers significant insights into the Himalayan geology. The pass connects the ridge of Gangotri III from the northwest to the ridge of Jogin I from the east. It also shows the interconnectivity of valleys and glaciers. The pass joins the glacier on the north of Rudugaira Valley to the Khatling Glacier from the south of Bhilangana Valley.

The key highlight of Auden’s Col is the dangerous Khatling Bamak, a compound glacier formed from the confluence of two major glaciers. The nearest glacier is Sangli Bamak which flows down from Bhetiara-ka-Danda Peak and the other is Mecha Bamak below the Draupadi-ka-Danda Peak. The expansive Khatling Glacier is riddled with deep crevices, making it tricky and often life-threatening.

Overall, Auden’s Col introduces you to the various landforms throughout its trekking route. You will experience the beauty of the Himalayan forests at Gangotri and the vast snowfields surrounded by towering peaks at Rudugaira and Khatling. The Bhilangana River that originates at Khatling forms a scenic exit along a path that winds through the alpine lakes of Masari Tal and Vasuki Tal.

The History of Auden’s Col

Historically, this is said to have been a common route used by pilgrims to reach Gangotri via Mayali Pass from Kedarnath in ancient times. However, John Bicknell Auden, a geologist at the Geological Survey of India discovered this high-altitude mountain pass in 1935. He successfully crossed the pass in 1939 from the Gangotri side. He climbed the Rudugaira Valley, and traversed the col and the Khatling Glacier, before descending towards Bhilangana Valley. This notable achievement in the history of mountaineering led to this mountain pass being named Auden’s Col.

You can imagine the difficulty level of this expedition as it remained unexplored for the next 44 years after Auden’s attempt. In 1983, Harish Kapadia and Romesh Bhattacharjee of the Himalayan Club achieved the second successful crossing. Since then, several teams have traversed Auden’s Col, although many others were forced to turn back after unsuccessful attempts.

Special Features of Auden’s Col That Make it a Must-Visit

The Auden’s Col presents a unique opportunity for trekkers to witness the might of nature in front of human existence. Here are some of the features of this adventurous expedition, that you must know:

1) Unique Landscape and Scenery

Hailed as one of the most scenic yet isolated treks in Uttarakhand, Auden’s Col features a scenery witnessed by a few. The trek takes you through multiple landscape transitions, as discussed below:

• Your trek starts from the Gangotri Dham, where you can start your journey after seeking Maa Ganga’s blessings. Here, you will find forest trails with dense greenery. The route running parallel to the Rudugaira River, takes you to Nala Camp. 
• Further, it takes you to Rudugaira Base Camp, where you climb the path full of scree and loose boulders. Here, the first glimpse of Jogin peaks and ridge of Auden’s Col will fill your heart with joy.
• From Rudugaira, you climb over a steep section to reach Auden’s Col base. Here, the views will remind you of a heaven within a heaven. While camping at night, the glowing snowy peaks seem to touch the clear starry sky, a sight to behold. 
• Climbing to the Auden’s Col summit, you will tackle a neverending near-vertical trek on a vast expanse of snow. The thrill of this section cannot be matched with any other trek. The panoramic view from the top and the ridge walking will give you a great sense of achievement. 
• The next lap of trekking covers Khatling Glacier, which adds an element of danger and excitement to the Auden’s Col expedition. The descent to the zero point requires you to rappel with your climbing team over a trail section full of crevices and boulders. Further, crossing the loose moraine and rocky section you will arrive at your campsite along the flowing Bhilangana River.
• In the remaining days of Auden’s Col itinerary, you will visit Marsar Tal (15,711 ft) and Vasuki Tal (13,849 ft) via Mayali Pass (more than 16,000 ft). This section takes you through the crystal-clear lake of Marsar, a steep climb over rocky terrain to reach Mayali Pass, and a descent to finally arrive at Vasuki Tal. The Vasuki Ganga originates here.
• Before reaching Kedarnath, you will witness the heavenly beauty of Bhilangana Valley, water streams and waterfalls, and villages like Gangi and Ghuttu. The sequence of the Bhilangana Range will keep you company throughout this section. You will cross the lush Himalayan forests and green meadows. This change in scenery will make you appreciate the wonders of nature.

2) Non-Technical Challenges and High-Altitude Trekking Experience

Auden’s Col expedition comes with challenges unique to the mental and physical preparedness of the trekker and the season they are attempting in. The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), HAPE, and HACE combined with dangerous crevices, if ignored may become life-threatening. Given the physical dangers that trekkers might encounter on Auden’s Col trek, you must acquire permission from official authorities before going on this trek.

The non-technical challenges of Auden’s Col Trek excite seasoned trekkers but come with a few challenges that can be tackled with thorough planning and safety precautions. Let us analyze the difficulties you may encounter on this expedition and how you can prepare well:

a) Difficult Terrain that Suits Experienced Climbers and Adventurers Alike

Even as an experienced trekker, you may find the tracks at Auden’s Col difficult throughout the section from Rudugaira Valley to Khatling Zero Point. The entire route has no predetermined path, you will have to take the way that allows the least resistance. The receding of glaciers in the recent decade has opened up wide cracks in rock beds and the thick sheet of snow often masks these crevices. This poses a serious threat to the climbers. 

Despite these dangers, you can successfully navigate the challenging sections of Auden’s Col Trek with careful precautions. Follow these steps to mitigate these risks:

• Climb with a team of porters, an experienced guide, and a physically fit team. 
• Along the moraine and scree tracks, be extra mindful of your footing and climbing stance. Carefully walk over the loose boulders, one wrong move and they may tumble and roll down, making it dangerous to the people behind you.
• When walking over the thin ice on glaciers, make sure they are strong enough to carry your weight. They might crack otherwise, posing a great risk.
• Carry sunscreen and a hat to avoid getting sunburnt from the glaring sun in the snowfields.
• Ensure that you navigate the crevice section with focus and with the help of a rope for your safety. 
• Wear good quality trekking boots, preferably with spikes to cross the snowy and icy sections. Use an ergonomic backpack to avoid any discomfort on your shoulders and spine.

b) Impressive Altitude Gain

Located at about 17,913 ft, Auden’s Col requires you to gain significant altitude each day of the expedition. Crossing several high-mountain passes like Mayali Pass and Doda Pass before you reach Kedarnath keeps you excited throughout the journey. Between Gangotri and Rudugaira base camp, you gain more than 3,000 ft. You further cover more than 4,000 ft at the Col’s summit in 2-3 days. For this, you must add proper pauses and acclimatization days in your itinerary.

Being an isolated location, medical help is not available throughout the route. Attempting this trek without proper preparedness will jeopardize your journey and slow down your team of climbers. You may need supplementary oxygen or fixed ropes to climb over some of the near-vertical sections. Keep yourself hydrated and have energy-dense food to avoid weakness and getting sick.

c) Manageable Weather and Temperature with Safety Precautions

The thrill of climbing this high-altitude corridor in challenging weather is another factor that attracts many seasoned trekkers. However, taking proper safety precautions is a must to make this journey memorable.

No matter which season you choose, the weather near Auden’s Col remains very unpredictable throughout the year. The inaccessible nature of the trekking route makes it dangerous for the trekkers if they get stuck in a rainstorm or snowstorm. You will experience sub-zero temperatures at the Auden’s Col even in summer. In autumn, the knee-deep snow post-snowstorm may act as a blind spot for the tricky crevices at Khatling Glacier. 

For the best experience, refer to weather forecasts to ensure the stability of weather conditions. Attempt Auden’s Col expedition when the snow is less and hard, and the cracks are exposed. Avoid doing the trek when the snow is soft and fresh, making it trickier for you to navigate. Carry a raincoat and a rain cover for your backpack to avoid getting wet. Wear four layers of thermals and warm clothing, choosing water-resistant shoes is a must.

3) Flora and Fauna at Auden’s Col

Located inside the premises of the Gangotri National Park, the rich Himalayan biodiversity at Auden’s Col trek will surely mesmerize you. In the forested sections of the trail, you will find tall trees of Pine, Birch, Cypress, and Chir filling the canopies. The blooming Rhodendrons and Brahma Kamal add another touch of beauty. 

In the latter part of the Auden’s Col Trek, beyond Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal, you can find cattle, sheep, and mules grazing the meadows of small villages. If you are lucky, you may encounter notable Himalayan faunal species like Blue Sheep, Black and Brown Bear, Himalayan Monal, and many more. 

The Best Time to Visit Auden’s Col

The ideal time to summit the Auden’s Col is between May to June and September to October. Let us have a detailed look at the weather conditions of Auden’s Col:

• Summer Season (May to June)

Auden’s Col in the summer season offers the most favorable conditions for trekking with less chance of rainfall and snow. You may find some residual snow at the base camps of Gangotri and Rudugaira Valley. However, you can still find snowy areas beyond the Col at Khatling, but the thawed snow reveals many crevices, making it easier for you to navigate this tricky section. Summer is the best time to experience the beauty of lush alpine greenery and small Himalayan villages on the way.

• Monsoon Season (July to August)

The monsoon season brings uncountable risks on the trekking route of Auden’s Col. The unpredictable rain amidst the sub-zero temperature and rocky terrain makes it life-threatening for the trekkers. The loose bolder and scree sections become very slippery during this time, increasing the occurrences of landslides, mudslides, and avalanches.

• Autumn Season (September to October)

This is the best time to visit Auden’s Col if you are a seasoned trekker who seeks the thrill of winter trekking. The autumn in October marks the onset of winter with occasional snowfall. However, it is less risky due to comfortable weather and visible crevices. 

The brown hues engulf the scenery of the Gangotri region and the Bhilangana Valley as the fall sets in. The scenic views of the snow-covered upper reaches of the Jogin and Gangotri Ranges under the clear skies make the overall experience ethereal.

• Winter Season (November to April)

Auden’s Col is not possible in winter. The weather during winter becomes extremely harsh in the Gangotri region and its higher altitudes. The trekking route to Auden’s Col comes inside the Gangotri National Park and GNP is closed in winter. Snowfall becomes frequent, blocking the trails and covering the crevices with thick sheets of soft snow. This makes it riskier as one might fall inside these crevices, mistaking them as solid ground. 

Attractions Near Auden’s Col

The attractions near Auden’s Col that you must check out are:

• Gangotri National Park
• Harsil Valley
• Nelong Valley
• Gangotri Dham
• Kedarnath Dham
• Kedar Tal Trek
• Vasuki Tal Trek
• Nandanvan Vasuki Tal Trek
• Gaumukh Tapovan Trek
• Jogin Advance Base Camp Trek

Wrapping Up!

Auden’s Col offers you an exciting journey that perfectly blends excitement, adventure, and spirituality. This high-altitude expedition requires you to push your limits, brave all the storms, and conquer your will. From dense rhododendron forests at lower altitudes to the expansive Khatling Glacier, from treacherous moraine ridges to endless snowfields, it has everything an experienced climber desires to experience. Auden’s Col, if covered with prior preparedness, gives you an unforgettable memory that will last you a lifetime.