Have you ever wondered about the allure of Auden's Col Trek in the Himalayas? Nestled in the heart of the awe-inspiring Himalayas, Auden's Col stands tall at 5490 m, a hidden gem renowned in Indian literature and mountaineering circles. Discovered by John Bicknell Auden, this thrilling pass beckons daring mountaineers. Amid breathtaking spectacles lie steep ridges, knee-deep snow, and ominous crevasses—the challenge rewards with unforgettable vistas—a quintessential Himalayan journey for adventurers.

Trekking expeditions are always best enjoyed in the favourable climatic bloom all around that not only gives you the mood of adventure but also makes you feel encircled by the wonders of nature. Talking about this less explored trek has also some specific time frames to be explored as follows: Summers (May - June): In summer, Auden Col Trek provides a comfortable and delightful experience with pleasant weather. The visible Himalayan range offers breathtaking views, while the cool breeze adds to the charm. Additionally, the cool breeze that sweeps through the valleys enhances the overall trekking experience, providing a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.&nbsp; Post Monsoon (September - Mid-October): Post monsoon, Auden Col Trek unveils a serene and enchanting landscape. Heavy winter snowfall gives way to lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting. Limited accommodation is balanced by solitude and unparalleled beauty, offering a unique and harmonious trekking experience.

"What sort of level do you have to clear for trekking?" Such questions revolve around every mind. Well, it is relatively easy. Let's check out the criteria to be checked before heading to this adventure. High Altitude Trek Experience (Minimum 4,000m/13,100ft): Prior experience in at least one high-altitude trek helps climbers understand the challenges of hiking on elevated terrains.Physical Fitness and Stamina: Adequate physical fitness is essential for tackling demanding terrain and long distances during the trek.Ability to Cover 5 km in 30 Minutes: The ability to cover 5 km in 30 minutes without undue stress indicates a certain level of cardiovascular fitness.Endurance and Prolonged Activity: High-altitude treks involve prolonged periods of physical activity, often spanning several hours each day.Reduced Risk of Injuries: Physically fit climbers are less prone to muscle strains, injuries, and fatigue during the trek. Good stamina contributes to maintaining balance and stability on uneven and challenging terrains.

Fitness! Does it refer to big biceps and a heavy-weight personality? Fitness signifies the overall health scenario of a person. See what aspects of health are contemplated within: <ul><li>Resting Pulse Rate: Higher altitude can cause fluctuations in the pulse rate of the person which is the reason that it falls under the normal scale.</li><li>Blood Pressure Reading: The participant's blood pressure should be within the specified range, as prescribed by doctors.</li><li>Resting Respiratory Rate: The participant's respiratory rate at rest should be between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This signifies normal breathing patterns and lung function.</li><li>Absence of Specific Health Issues: Participants with heavy medications should not have pre-existing severe diseases.</li><li>Flexibility: Embrace the fluidity of your body and mind, displaying remarkable flexibility as you adapt to the varying demands of the trek, seamlessly transitioning from one challenge to the next.</li><li>Mental Resilience: Cultivate a resilient mindset, where determination and perseverance become your guiding companions, enabling you to overcome moments of fatigue and doubt, emerging stronger with each step taken.</li><li>Quick Recovery: Embody the remarkable ability to recover swiftly, allowing your body to rejuvenate and bounce back from physical exertion, ensuring that you remain energized and ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead.</li><li>Positive Attitude: Embody a positive attitude that radiates with every step, infusing the trek with a sense of joy, wonder, and gratitude, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and transformative power of the journey.</li></ul>

Before going for a trek, there are some essentials to be kept in mind. Here are some listed below… Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack with enough capacity for your gear.Navigation tools: Carry a map, compass, or GPS device to navigate the trail.Appropriate footwear: Invest in sturdy hiking boots or trekking shoes with ankle support.Clothing layers: Pack moisture-wicking clothing suitable for the expected weather. Include extra socks and a hat.Food and water: Bring enough food and water to sustain you throughout the trek.First aid kit: Assemble a compact kit with bandages, pain relievers, and personal medications.Trekking poles: Consider using trekking poles for added stability and support.Headlamp or flashlight: Carry a reliable light source for visibility during nighttime or low-light conditions.

<h3>Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri</h3>Arriving in Dehradun marks the start of an exhilarating journey to Gangotri, a spiritually significant place. En route, you pass through picturesque landscapes, including Uttarkashi with its NIM mountaineering institute, offering a serene setting by the river Bhagirathi, adorned with temples and lush forests. The journey from Dehradun to Gangotri is filled with scenic beauty, passing through Uttarkashi with its NIM mountaineering institute and serene river Bhagirathi. Gangotri's religious significance attracts pilgrims and foreign visitors alike. Rest in your hotel, preparing for a soul-enriching exploration of this holy town. <h3>Day 2: Gangotri to Nala Camp</h3>The trek from Gangotri to Nala Camp takes 8-9 hours and offers a thrilling experience with moderate to steep trails. Descend into the main valley alongside the Bhagirathi river, cross a log bridge, and venture into the enchanting Rudragaira valley with its lush forests. Prepare for a thrilling ascent through the rockfall zone, passing the BhojKharak campsite as a checkpoint. Witness the gradual transition from dense forests to breathtaking grasslands adorned with blooming flowers. Marvel at the majestic views of Gangotri III and Jogin II before embracing the serene meadows beside the Rudragaira River for a night under the stars. <h3>Day 3: Nala Camp to Rudugaira Camp</h3>Today's trek will be short yet challenging, with a steep and strenuous climb. Carry sufficient water as there are no water sources along the way. Traverse through Nala, heading towards high meadows, crossing streams and landslides cautiously. As you progress, expect snow patches and steeper trails, but the breathtaking views of Rudragaira Peak, Jogin Peak, and Auden Col Pass will uplift your spirits. Finally, find solace in your tents at Rudragaira camp after a fulfilling yet demanding day. <h3>Day 4: Rest and Acclimatization</h3>At 14,800 feet, acclimatization is crucial. Embrace the stunning Rudragaira campsite nestled amidst towering peaks and gushing rivers. Explore the surroundings, and consider a short hike on a nearby ridge to aid acclimatization. Spending time outside the tents helps your body adjust better to the altitude. Take in the breathtaking views and savour the beauty of this high-altitude haven. <h3>Day 5: Rudugaira Base Camp to Audens Col Base Camp via Gangotri Base Camp</h3>Get ready for an exhilarating day filled with surprises on your trek. Begin by traversing moraines, crossing landslides, and reaching the top of a ridge. Follow the ridge, descend to Bakriwala camp, and continue on another ridge, navigating through tricky loose scree. As you conquer the ridge, prepare for a descent towards Gangotri Base Camp, where a delightful surprise awaits—SukhaTaal, a serene lake. The Base Camp, situated on a flat moraine surface, offers breathtaking views of the gully leading to Auden's Col. <h3>Day 6: Audens Col Base Camp to Khatling Glacier Camp via Audens Col</h3>Day 6 is the most challenging and exciting day as you aim to cross Auden's Col. The journey starts with a walk on the moraine, offering views of Rudugaira glacier. Snow-laden ridges follow, and crampons might be needed. After the last ridge, you'll climb up to enter the gully. After the flat ground, you'll reach the Advanced camping site, where roping up becomes necessary. The Auden's pass offers breathtaking views of crevasses and snows up to knee-deep. The descent is steep, with a 70-degree slope, and leads to the Khatling Glacier with awe-inspiring crevasses. Camping on the moraine land of Khatling Glacier awaits. <h3>Day 7: Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point/Waterfall Camp</h3>Today's journey is arduous and lengthy as you forge ahead on the remaining stretch of Khatling Glacier towards Zero Point camp. Begin with a steep 50 m descent on snowy terrain, then cover 2 km across loose rocks and scree. The route exposes you to black ice, icefalls, and crevasses, demanding caution. As you approach the snout of Khatling Glacier, the Bhilangna River originates. Traverse through the rockfall and boulder section to finally reach the campsite, where you can rest and relish the spectacular surroundings. <h3>Day 8: Relaxation Day</h3>This designated relaxation day allows trekkers to rejuvenate and recover from the challenging journey. Additionally, it serves as a buffer day, providing flexibility in case of adverse weather conditions or any unforeseen circumstances, ensuring the trek remains safe and enjoyable.<h3> </h3><h3>Day 9: Waterfall Camp/ Zero Point to Chowki</h3>After a day of rest and rejuvenation, embark on a delightful journey through picturesque meadows. Follow the valley, covering 3 km, and cross the Bhilanga river on a wooden bridge.Enjoy a serene pause amidst lush meadows before continuing 4 km to the charming Chowki campsite, nestled amidst vast grasslands and towering mountains. The tranquil ambience and breathtaking scenery make it a perfect spot to spend the night in the lap of nature. <h3>Day 10: Chowki to Masar Tal</h3>In the company of clear views of Thalaysagar Peak, today's trek leads you to the mesmerizing Masar Tal. As you ascend, glimpses of Thalaysagar unfold. Crossing ridges and streams, the breathtaking Masar Tal appears, reflecting the stunning surroundings in its pristine waters. Camping beside this magical lake allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambience, where the serenity and beauty of nature are sure to leave you awe-inspired. <h3>Day 11: Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal via Mayali Pass</h3>Today marks an exciting journey as you head towards the last pass of the trek, Mayali Pass. The trail begins with a climb over boulders to reach Masar top, followed by another ascent to the pass's base—a place of exceptional beauty, graced by a semi-frozen lake with icebergs adrift. Afterwards, a long yet gradual walk awaits, with crevasse crossings like at Khatling, but easier. Reaching the pass's pinnacle brings a sense of triumph before descending through steep boulders. Along the way, you may spot the Peenya Tal twin lakes, eventually arriving at the picturesque Vasuki Tal. <h3>Day 12: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath</h3>Today marks the long-awaited finale, culminating at the majestic Kedarnath, a revered Char Dhaam and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Begin with an ascent to Vasuki Tal's top, navigating a ridge adorned with boulders. From there, a steep and continuous descent awaits, leading you to the lush greenery. As you approach the Kedarnath village, nestled beside the tranquil Mandakini River, a serene atmosphere envelops you. Embrace the evening with Lord Shiva's blessings. <h3>Day 13: Kedarnath to Gaurikund</h3>On this final day, embark on a thrilling 14 km descent, relishing the well-marked and easy trail. Cherish every moment, savouring the last day in the mountains to the fullest. <h3>Day 14: Gaurikund to Dehradun</h3>As the trek comes to an end, board the vehicle to return to Dehradun, carrying a treasure trove of memories. Bid farewell to the mountains, promising to return someday.

The trek starts its way from Dehradun, and so to visit the place you can have the following two options: <h3>Overnight Train/Bus:</h3>You can opt for an overnight train or bus journey to reach Dehradun. From there, you can hire a cab to the designated pickup point. It is advisable to choose government buses as they are more reliable than private ones. Ensure you reach Rishikesh by 5:30 AM. <h3>﻿Flight:</h3>If you prefer a quicker mode of transportation, you can book a flight to Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, which is located approximately 25 km away from the city.

Auden's Col Trek is an arduous and breathtaking high-altitude adventure in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trek offers stunning views of peaks and glaciers, but it demands physical fitness and mountaineering skills. With its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, the journey requires careful planning and experienced guides. The culmination of Auden's Col Trek rewards trekkers with a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring vistas. It is a testament to human resilience and the raw beauty of nature, leaving a lasting impression on those who undertake this incredible expedition.

Auden's Col Trek: Unforgettable Journey into the Himalayas

India > Uttarakhand

Muskan Choudhary 21 Mar 2024

Explore in Uttarakhand

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