Mount Auden’s Col

Auden’s Col, situated at an altitude of 5,490 meters, is one of the most dramatic and spiritually symbolic high-altitude passes in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Connecting the sacred pilgrim towns of Gangotri and Kedarnath, this route is steeped in mythology, mysticism, and mountaineering prestige. Named after British explorer John Bicknell Auden, who discovered the pass in 1939, this journey weaves together intense alpine challenges and profound spiritual resonance.

Traversing glaciers, steep ridges, moraine-filled valleys, and remote alpine terrain, Auden’s Col is not just a trek—it’s a sacred passage through Himalayan wilderness, where each step brings you closer to nature, self, and the divine.

Expedition Overview

• Altitude: 5,490 meters (18,011 feet)

• Duration: 16 Days / 15 Nights

• Best Time to Attempt: Mid-May to Late June & Late August to Mid-October

• Cost: ₹99,000 INR (per person)

Starting from Gangotri, the route passes through lush forests, glacial valleys, and remote high-altitude camps, leading up to the daunting traverse across Auden’s Col Pass, which connects the Rudugaira and Bhilangana valleys. The descent includes rugged terrain and leads down to Kedarnath, one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites.

This expedition requires high-altitude endurance, glacier navigation skills, and mental tenacity, making it ideal for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers seeking a blend of physical challenge and soulful reward.

Why Choose Auden’s Col?

1. A Sacred Journey Between Temples

Auden’s Col is unique in that it connects two of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites—Gangotri and Kedarnath. For many, this journey is not just geographical—it’s spiritual alignment, walking between shrines that have drawn sages, yogis, and seekers for centuries.

2. Untamed Himalayan Beauty

The route showcases dramatic contrasts—from the vibrant meadows of Gangotri to the stark glaciers of Rudugaira, and then to the desolate beauty of Bhilangana Valley. The isolation and rawness of this landscape evoke deep reflection and awe.

3. A Remote and Rewarding Adventure

Unlike popular trekking circuits, Auden’s Col remains less-traveled and wild. It’s a true test of self-sufficiency and exploration spirit, with ice crossings, crevassed terrain, and steep ascents/descents offering serious adventure without technical climbing gear.

4. Spiritual Silence and Solitude

Traversing Auden’s Col means immersing yourself in the timeless silence of the high Himalayas, where the only sounds are the wind, footsteps, and breath. The journey becomes meditative, ideal for those seeking clarity, introspection, and connection with nature.

Conclusion

The Auden’s Col Expedition is not just a high-altitude trek—it’s a sacred expedition through myth, terrain, and spirit. It tests your endurance while opening your heart to the Himalayan elements—the glaciers, the rivers, the sky, and the divine.

Whether you come for adventure or for inner growth, this route delivers a life-altering experience that stays long after the trek ends. In the solitude of Auden’s Col, you may just find a glimpse of your highest self.