The Himalayas are full of hidden routes that connect sacred valleys and ancient trails. Among them, the Auden Col Trek stands as one of the most challenging and historic paths. This trek links Gangotri Valley with Kedarnath Valley, two of the most important pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand.
Walking across Auden Col is not just about adventure. It is a journey through history, geography, and faith. Let us explore this historic trail in detail and see why it is one of the toughest and most unique treks in the Indian Himalayas.
Introduction to Auden Col Trek
Auden Col is a high-altitude mountain pass in the Garhwal Himalayas. It lies at an elevation of about 5,490 meters (18,010 feet). The pass connects Gangotri, the origin of River Ganga, with Kedarnath, home to one of the holiest Shiva temples in India.
The Auden col trek was first discovered in 1939 by John Bicknell Auden, a British geographer and surveyor. Since then, it has gained a reputation as one of the hardest treks in Uttarakhand.
The Historic Route: From Gangotri to Kedarnath
1. Starting Point: Gangotri
The trek begins from Gangotri, a small town famous for the Gangotri Temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. For centuries, pilgrims have visited this temple before moving further into the high mountains.
Historical Importance: Gangotri is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites. The town has always been a gateway to Himalayan trails.
2. Towards Nala Camp and Rudugaira
From Gangotri, trekkers move towards Nala Camp and then climb up to the meadows of Rudugaira Base Camp. This stretch is filled with dense forests, mountain streams, and steep ascents.
Historical Use: These paths were once used by shepherds to take their cattle to high-altitude meadows.
3. Gangotri Base Camp to Auden Col
The trail then leads to Gangotri Base Camp and moves higher towards the Auden Col Pass. The path here is extremely challenging, with glaciers, snowfields, and moraines. Trekkers use ropes and technical gear to cross this part.
Historical Significance: When John Bicknell Auden discovered this pass, he realized it was a natural link between Gangotri and Kedarnath Valleys, though rarely used because of its difficulty.
4. Crossing Auden Col
At 5,490 meters, crossing Auden Col is the toughest part of the trek. The weather is unpredictable, and snow remains throughout the year. The view from the pass is breathtaking, with Gangotri peaks on one side and Kedar Dome on the other.
Cultural Value: This crossing connects two of the holiest valleys in Uttarakhand. Pilgrims of earlier times may have attempted similar routes while traveling between temples.
5. Descending to Khatling Glacier
After crossing the pass, trekkers descend to the massive Khatling Glacier. This section is full of crevasses and ice walls, making it very technical.
Historical Role: Glaciers like Khatling have always been barriers for trade and travel, which is why Auden Col remained hidden for so long.
6. Moving into Kedarnath Valley
The trail finally moves from Khatling Glacier into the Kedarnath side. Trekkers pass through remote villages and forests before reaching Kedarnath.
Spiritual Importance: Kedarnath is one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva, and this valley has been walked by pilgrims for thousands of years.
Why the Auden Col Path is Historic
Discovered by John Bicknell Auden in 1939, it remains one of the few high passes connecting two major pilgrimage regions.
Ancient Shepherd Trails were already present in parts of the route, used by locals for grazing cattle.
Links Gangotri and Kedarnath, both part of Char Dham, giving it spiritual and cultural importance.
Rarely Used because of its extreme conditions, keeping the trail raw and untouched.
Challenges of the Trek
The Auden Col Trek is not like other treks in Uttarakhand. It comes with serious challenges:
High Altitude (5,490 m): The thin air makes acclimatization critical.
Technical Terrain: Requires ropes, crampons, and glacier-crossing skills.
Unpredictable Weather: Sudden snowstorms and freezing winds are common.
Long Duration: The trek takes 12–15 days, longer than most treks in the region.
Best Time to Trek Auden Col
The best seasons for Auden Col are:
May to June (Summer): Snow remains but weather is manageable.
September to Early October (Post-Monsoon): Clear skies and stable conditions.
Winter and monsoon are not suitable due to avalanche risk and heavy snow.
Who Should Attempt This Trek?
Auden Col Trek is suitable only for:
Experienced trekkers with high-altitude experience.
People who can use technical gear like ice axes and crampons.
Physically fit trekkers who can walk long distances every day.
? Beginners should avoid this trek and start with easier trails like Kuari Pass or Har Ki Dun.
Scenic Highlights Along the Route
Gangotri Temple and Valley – Sacred origin of River Ganga.
Rudugaira Meadows – Green pastures with mountain views.
Auden Col Pass – Breathtaking views of Gangotri and Kedarnath peaks.
Khatling Glacier – Vast ice fields and dramatic landscapes.
Kedarnath Temple – The final destination, deeply spiritual and historic.
Conclusion
The Auden Col Trek is more than just a high-altitude adventure. It is a historic path that connects two sacred valleys of Uttarakhand – Gangotri and Kedarnath. Discovered in 1939 by John Auden, the route is still one of the toughest in the Indian Himalayas.
While treks like Roopkund or Kuari Pass are popular for their beauty, Auden Col stands apart because of its difficulty, history, and spiritual connection. It is a journey for those who wish to test themselves and walk a trail that few have dared to complete.
