Auden’s Col Expedition

All photos

Loading available options...

Overview

Duration:15 days 14 nights

Auden’s Col Trek is one of the most challenging high-altitude trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the Indian Himalayas. Located in Uttarakhand, the route connects the Gangotri Valley with the Bhilangana Valley, crossing the dramatic Auden’s Col Pass at approximately 5,490 metres (18,010 feet).
The expedition features massive glaciers, steep rocky terrain, snow-covered mountain passes and spectacular views of the Garhwal Himalayas. It is recommended only for experienced trekkers and mountaineers with excellent fitness, glacier-travel skills and appropriate technical equipment.
Location
Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand, India

Maximum Altitude
Approx. 5,490 m / 18,010 ft

Duration
Usually around 12–14 days, depending on the route and conditions

Difficulty
Extreme – technical glacier expedition

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri

Drive through Uttarkashi and the scenic Bhagirathi Valley to reach Gangotri. Check into accommodation and prepare for the expedition.

Day 2: Acclimatisation at Gangotri

Rest, complete equipment checks and take a short acclimatisation walk under the guidance of the expedition team.

Day 3: Gangotri to Nala Camp

Begin trekking through forested slopes and rugged mountain terrain towards Nala Camp. Overnight in tents.

Day 4: Nala Camp to Rudugaira Camp

Ascend through rocky trails and alpine terrain to the higher campsite, enjoying views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks.

Day 5: Acclimatisation at Rudugaira Base Camp

Spend the day resting, hydrating and preparing for glacier travel. Complete safety briefings and technical equipment checks.

Day 6: Rudugaira Base Camp to Auden’s Col Base Camp

Cross rugged moraine terrain towards the high camp, passing through the Gangotri Base Camp region. Overnight in tents.

Day 7: Cross Auden’s Col to Khatling Glacier Camp

Start early for the demanding pass crossing at approximately 5,490 metres. With technical equipment and expert guidance, cross the pass and descend towards Khatling Glacier Camp if conditions permit.

Day 8: Khatling Glacier to Zero Point

Navigate the challenging glacier and moraine terrain, following the rope team's instructions and established safe route.

Day 9: Buffer and Recovery Day

Keep this day for recovery, route delays or adverse weather. The expedition leader decides whether it is safe to proceed.

Day 10: Zero Point to Chowki

Descend from the glacial region towards lower camps, gradually transitioning from rocky terrain to alpine landscapes.

Day 11: Chowki to Masar Tal

Continue through remote Himalayan terrain towards the beautiful high-altitude lake region, subject to the selected route.

Day 12: Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal via Mayali Pass

On the extended itinerary, cross the demanding Mayali Pass and continue towards Vasuki Tal. This additional pass requires suitable conditions and a separately assessed route plan.

Day 13: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath

Descend towards Kedarnath through high mountain trails. Overnight accommodation depends on local availability and the expedition schedule.

Day 14: Kedarnath to Gaurikund

Descend on foot along the established trail to Gaurikund and transfer towards the roadhead for the return journey.

Day 15: Return to Dehradun

Complete the return transfer to Dehradun, concluding the expedition.

Highlights

Cross the spectacular Auden’s Col high-altitude mountain pass.
Explore the Gangotri and Khatling Glacier regions.
Experience the rugged beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Witness dramatic snow-covered peaks, ice formations and glacial valleys.
Trek through remote alpine landscapes far from regular tourist trails.
Experience a demanding expedition designed for skilled and experienced adventurers.

Includes/Excludes

Dehradun to Gangotri and return transportation as per the final itinerary.
Accommodation in guesthouses or hotels during designated roadhead nights.
High-altitude camping equipment and tents.
All meals during the trekking and camping period, as specified.
Experienced expedition leader and qualified mountain support team.
Technical rope support and glacier-crossing equipment for group use.
Cook and camping support staff.
Camping and forest permits, subject to approval and package terms.
First-aid kit and emergency communication arrangements, as specified by the operator.

Airfare, train tickets and personal travel expenses.
Personal trekking equipment, mountaineering boots and clothing.
Personal technical equipment unless specifically supplied.
Travel, medical and high-altitude evacuation insurance.
Personal expenses, snacks, beverages and meals outside the package.
Additional accommodation caused by delays or early arrival.
Porter or personal load-carriage charges unless included.
Rescue, evacuation and emergency medical costs not covered by insurance.
Expenses arising from weather disruptions or itinerary changes beyond the operator's control.
Any service not expressly mentioned under inclusions.

Book now

+5% GST
Offload Charge 400 Per Day

Trekking Food Chart

Day 1 (Arrival – Base Camp)

Lunch: Veg Thali (Dal, Rice, Roti, Sabzi)
Evening Snacks: Tea + Pakora / Biscuits
Dinner: Roti, Dal, Mix Veg, Rice + Sweet

Day 2 (Trek Start)

Morning Tea: Tea/Coffee + Cookies
Breakfast: Paratha + Pickle / Poha
Packed Lunch: Puri Bhaji / Sandwich + Fruit
Evening Snacks: Soup + Tea
Dinner: Roti, Dal, Paneer/Vegetable, Rice

Day 3 Food Meal

Morning Tea: Tea/Coffee
Breakfast: Upma / Oats / Boiled Eggs
Packed Lunch: Chapati + Sabzi / Veg Pulao
Evening Snacks: Tea + Snacks
Dinner: Soup, Roti, Dal, Mix Veg, Rice

Day 4 Food Meal