Audens Col Expedition

The Audens Col Expedition is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and technical high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of 5,490 m (18,012 ft), Audens Col is a legendary mountain pass connecting the Gangotri Valley to the Kedarnath Valley via the massive Khatling Glacier. Named after John Bicknell Auden of the Geological Survey of India, who first crossed this formidable pass in 1939, this 15-day expedition traverses glaciers, moraines, steep snow slopes, and two high-altitude passes — Audens Col and Mayali Pass. Designed exclusively for experienced trekkers, this expedition offers an unparalleled adventure through some of the most remote and pristine landscapes of Uttarakhand.

Looking for more high-altitude challenges? Explore our other expeditions: Bandaroonch Peak Expedition, Kalindi Pass Trek, and the Gangotri Glacier Trek.

Audens Col Expedition — Quick Facts

Attribute	Details
Maximum Altitude	5,490 m (18,012 ft) at Audens Col
Total Distance	~115 km (Gangotri to Kedarnath via Audens Col)
Duration	15 Days / 14 Nights
Difficulty	Challenging / Technical Expedition (Ice Axe + Crampons + Roped Glacier Travel)
Region	Gangotri → Kedarnath, Uttarakhand, India
Starting Point	Gangotri (3,100 m)
Ending Point	Kedarnath (3,583 m) via Gaurikund
Best Season	June — September (Pre-monsoon & Post-monsoon)
Technical Gear Required	Ice axe, crampons, climbing helmet, harness, rope, jumar, prusik cord
Permits Required	Forest Department Permit + ILP (Mandatory for Foreign Nationals)
Prior Experience	Mandatory — multiple 4,500 m+ high-altitude treks with glacier experience required

Why Choose the Audens Col Expedition?

• Legendary Pass Crossing: Conquer one of India’s most difficult high-altitude passes at 5,490 m — a true mountaineering achievement.
• Two High Passes: Cross both Audens Col (5,490 m) and Mayali Pass (~5,000 m) in a single expedition — double the challenge, double the reward.
• Khatling Glacier Traverse: Navigate the massive Khatling Glacier, one of the most remote and pristine glaciers in Uttarakhand, with crevasses and seracs at every turn.
• Sacred Journey: Trek from the holy town of Gangotri to the revered Kedarnath Temple, connecting two of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
• Unparalleled Himalayan Vistas: Witness breathtaking views of Gangotri I, II, III, Jogin I, II, III, Thalay Sagar, and the entire Kedar Massif.
• Remote & Untouched Trails: Far from crowded trekking routes, this expedition takes you through pristine valleys, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes like Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal.
• Expert-Led Expedition: Our certified expedition leaders bring years of Himalayan experience with proven safety protocols and high success rates.

Expedition Highlights

• Altitude Milestone: Cross Audens Col at 5,490 m (18,012 ft) — one of the highest trekking passes in India.
• Glacier Crossing: Traverse the formidable Khatling Glacier with professional roped travel.
• Mayali Pass: Conquer a second high-altitude pass at ~5,000 m on the way to Vasuki Tal.
• Alpine Lakes: Camp beside the stunning Masar Tal and Vasuki Tal high-altitude lakes.
• Kedarnath Temple: Conclude the expedition at the sacred Kedarnath Temple, one of the Char Dham.
• Technical Challenge: Ice axe, crampons, fixed ropes, and rappelling on a 70° ice gully descent.
• Rich Biodiversity: Dense forests of oak, pine, birch, and rhododendron in the Gangotri National Park.

Itinerary

A meticulously planned 15-day expedition designed for proper acclimatization, with dedicated rest days, technical sections, and buffer time for safe pass crossings.

Quick Overview

• Day 1: Gangotri to Nala Camp (7 km) — Forest trail through Gangotri National Park
• Day 2: Nala Camp to Rudragaira Base Camp (7 km) — Steep climb with panoramic views
• Day 3: Acclimatization at Rudragaira — Rest and acclimatization walk
• Day 4: Rudragaira BC to Gangotri BC (6 km) — Moraine terrain and technical surfaces
• Day 5: Gangotri BC to Audens Col BC (6 km) — Gradual ascent on moraine path
• Day 6: Audens Col BC → Pass (5,490 m) → Khatling Glacier Camp (12 km) — Summit crossing day
• Day 7: Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point (12 km) — Glacier traverse over crevassed terrain
• Day 8: Waterfall Camp to Chowki (8 km) — River valley and open meadows
• Day 9: Chowki to Masar Tal (8 km) — Ascents and switchbacks with Thalay Sagar views
• Day 10: Masar Tal → Mayali Pass → Vasuki Tal (12 km) — Second pass crossing day
• Day 11: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath (7 km) — Descent to the sacred temple
• Day 12-15: Buffer days and departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Gangotri to Nala Camp (7 km)

Start your trek after seeking blessings from the Gangotri temple. The trail goes through thick forests of oaks, birch, pine, cedar and rhododendrons of the Gangotri National Park. Just before reaching the campsite at Nala, you will get a glimpse of Gangotri III and Jogin peaks. The first day of the trek will end at the Nala Camp.

Day 2: Nala Camp to Rudragaira Base Camp (7 km)

This day, the hike is short but steep. From the Nala camp, the trail goes uphill. A strenuous climb will take you to the Rudragaira camp. From this camp you will get clear views of the Gangotri and Jogin groups.

Day 3: Acclimatization Day at Rudragaira

It is very important to get acclimatized when you are at higher altitudes. This day will be for some rest period as you will already gain around 5,000 feet in the last 2 days. You can trek to the Rudragaira peak for acclimatization walk. From the peak, you will get the first glimpse of Audens Col.

Day 4: Rudragaira BC to Gangotri BC (6 km)

In this trail, you will encounter a lot of moraines and technical surfaces. After ascending two moraine ridges, there is a short descent to the Gangotri Base camp. The trail is gradual, but challenging at times. From the camp, you will get magnificent views of Gangotri I, II & III peaks.

Day 5: Gangotri BC to Audens Col BC (6 km)

This hike is as challenging as previous day’s. But you will probably be accustomed by now. After crossing some moraine path, you will reach your destination for the day — Audens Col Base Camp.

Day 6: Audens Col BC → Audens Col Pass (5,490 m) → Khatling Glacier Camp (12 km)

This is the big day — the summit crossing. You must start as early as possible. A 5 km uphill trek for about 4 hours will take you to the Audens Col Pass at 5,490 m. The trek is quite difficult and at freezing temperatures, it becomes more about your mental strength. But once you are at the top, all your pains will go in a jiffy. You will feel proud to be on top of the mountain pass with panoramic views of the Gangotri and Jogin massifs. The descent is however more difficult than the ascent. It is a steep and narrow 70-degree ice gully. Ropes are used to negotiate the descent. Once you reach at the bottom of the gully, a short walk will get you to your campsite on the Khatling Glacier.

Day 7: Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point (12 km)

This hike is also going to be technical and a challenging one. The day is going to be one of the longest and demanding as well. The walk is on the Khatling Glacier quite infamous for its deep crevasses. Ropes will again be used to trek this glacial stretch. After passing through the glacial stretch, you will arrive at the moraine trail. From here, the trail moves downhill until you reach the campsite for the day.

Day 8: Waterfall Camp to Chowki (8 km)

The trek is along the river valley for about 3 km and it will lead you to an open meadow. From here, another 5 km of trek will bring you to Chowki.

Day 9: Chowki to Masar Tal (8 km)

This day’s trek will also involve a lot of ascents, followed by a series of switchback descents. You will get beautiful view of the Thalay Sagar peak and the overlooking valleys. Some parts of the trail will be quite steep, but well defined till you reach Masar Tal. This will be your campsite for the day.

Day 10: Masar Tal → Mayali Pass → Vasuki Tal (12 km)

If you had thought that the difficult days were over, you are wrong. This day’s hike also involves a strenuous ascent over boulders on a steep ridge to Masar Top. Then there is a little descent before climbing up the glacier again to the top of Mayali Pass (~5,000 m). The descent from Mayali Pass is quite steep and technical, quite like that of the descent from the Audens Col. You might have to fix ropes and rappel. Continue your descent till you reach Vasuki Tal — a stunning high-altitude lake.

Day 11: Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath (7 km)

Trek towards the famous pilgrimage of Kedarnath. The descent will take about 3 hours. Once you reach Kedarnath, rest in a hotel for the day and cherish the moments. Visit the sacred Kedarnath Temple and offer your prayers. The Audens Col expedition is now complete. From Kedarnath, you can return to civilization through Gaurikund.

Day 12-15: Buffer Days & Departure

Additional days are built into the 15-day itinerary as buffer for weather delays, extra acclimatization, or contingencies. The expedition concludes with your descent from Kedarnath to Gaurikund (by foot or helicopter) and the drive back to Rishikesh or Dehradun for departure.

Expedition Guidelines

Before the Expedition:

• Physical Preparation: Start cardio training 2-3 months prior — running, cycling, stair climbing. Practice carrying a 15-20 kg backpack uphill for endurance.
• Medical Check: Consult your physician for a high-altitude fitness assessment. Carry prescribed medications for AMS if recommended.
• Gear Familiarity: Practice using crampons, ice axe, harness, and jumar before the expedition. Know how to self-arrest on snow slopes.
• Pack Essentials: 4-5 layers of clothing, waterproof jacket/pants, high-ankle trekking boots (crampon-compatible), gaiters, UV sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp, and reusable water bottles.
• Inform Your Leader: Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or medications to your expedition leader during the Gangotri briefing.

During the Expedition:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 litres of water daily. Add electrolyte powder to prevent dehydration at high altitude.
• Follow the Leader: Always follow your expedition leader’s instructions — especially on glacier terrain and during pass crossings.
• Roped Travel: On glacier sections and technical terrain, you MUST remain roped to your teammates at all times. No exceptions.
• Watch for AMS: Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite. Report immediately — no shame in turning back.
• Leave No Trace: Carry out all waste. Use designated toilet tents. Protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
• Pole Pace: Walk at a steady, rhythmic pace. Breathe in sync with your steps. Do not overtake the lead guide.

After the Expedition:

• Rest & Recovery: Take 2-3 days of complete rest after returning to lower altitude. Your body needs time to recover.
• Health Check: If you feel unwell after the expedition, consult a doctor immediately.
• Share Feedback: Your feedback helps us improve. Share your experience and suggestions with our team.
• Stay Connected: Join our trekker community for future expeditions and updates.

Join Rope on Slope for the Ultimate Himalayan Expedition

The Audens Col Expedition is the ultimate test of Himalayan mountaineering — crossing one of India’s highest and most technical passes at 5,490 m, traversing the formidable Khatling Glacier, and conquering Mayali Pass, all while connecting the sacred sites of Gangotri and Kedarnath. With Rope on Slope’s expert guides, rigorous safety protocols, and decades of Himalayan experience, you are in the safest hands. Book your expedition today and etch your name among the few who have conquered the legendary Audens Col.

How to Reach

The expedition starts from Gangotri (3,100 m), one of the holiest towns in Uttarakhand. Here’s how to reach the starting point:

• By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (240 km from Gangotri). Regular flights from Delhi take ~1 hour. We provide pickup from Dehradun airport.
• By Train: Nearest major railway station is Rishikesh (220 km) or Dehradun (240 km from Gangotri). Overnight trains from Delhi to Dehradun/Rishikesh are convenient options.
• By Road: Scenic drive from Dehradun to Gangotri via Mussoorie and Harsil (8-9 hours). Regular buses and taxis are available. We can arrange shared or private transfers.
• Pickup Included: Pickup from Dehradun railway station/airport is included in the package. Drop to Rishikesh/Dehradun after the expedition is also covered.

Difficulty & Fitness Requirements

The Audens Col Expedition is rated as Challenging / Technical Expedition — one of the most difficult treks in India. It is suitable ONLY for experienced high-altitude trekkers with prior glacier experience. This is NOT a trek for beginners.

Grading Criteria

Criteria	Details
Grade	Challenging+ / Technical Expedition
Max Altitude	5,490 m (18,012 ft) at Audens Col
Daily Trekking	6-12 km, 6-12 hours per day (extremely long on crossing days)
Terrain	Glacier, moraine, snow slopes, ice gullies, scree, rocky trails, dense forest
Technical Gear	Ice axe, crampons, harness, ropes, jumar, helmet (all mandatory)
Prior Experience	Mandatory — multiple 4,500 m+ high-altitude treks REQUIRED; glacier experience preferred
Fitness Level	Excellent — must be able to run 5 km and carry 15-20 kg uphill continuously
Acclimatization Days	2 dedicated rest days + gradual altitude gain across 15-day itinerary

Best Time to Visit & Weather

Audens Col is accessible only during a narrow weather window due to extreme high-altitude conditions and glacier terrain:

Season	Months	Conditions
Pre-Monsoon	June — July	Best window. Stable snow conditions, clear mornings, moderate temperatures. Pass snow depth ideal for crossing.
Monsoon	July — August	Not recommended. Heavy rainfall, avalanche risk, trail damage, crevasses hidden under fresh snow.
Post-Monsoon	September — October	Second best window. Fresh snow possible. Clear skies, colder temperatures, stable weather patterns.
Winter	November — May	Closed. Heavy snow, extreme cold (-20°C), impassable glacier, high avalanche risk.

Temperature Range: Daytime 5°C to 15°C | Nighttime -5°C to -15°C at higher camps. Wind chill can make it feel significantly colder above 5,000 m, with pass winds potentially exceeding 50 km/h.

Essential Packing & Gear List

This expedition requires specialized mountaineering gear. Here is a comprehensive checklist:

Technical Gear (Provided by Rope on Slope)

• Ice axe (technical grade)
• Crampons (step-in compatible)
• Climbing helmet
• Harness with locking carabiners
• Dynamic climbing rope (8-10 mm)
• Prusik cords & slings
• Jumar (ascender)
• Descender / belay device
• Snow stakes & deadman anchors

Personal Gear (To Be Carried by You)

• Footwear: High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (crampon-compatible), camp shoes/sandals
• Upper Body: Base layer (merino), fleece jacket, down jacket, waterproof shell jacket
• Lower Body: Trekking pants (2 pairs), thermal leggings, waterproof over-pants
• Accessories: UV-protection sunglasses (category 4), balaclava, warm gloves + waterproof over-gloves, sun hat, woolen hat
• Backpack: 50-70 litre backpack with rain cover, small daypack (20-30L) for summit day
• Sleeping: 4-season sleeping bag (rated to -15°C), sleeping bag liner
• Hydration: 2 x 1-litre water bottles, hydration bladder, water purification tablets
• Other: Headlamp with extra batteries, sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm, trekking poles, personal first-aid kit, toiletries

Booking, Payment & Cancellation Policy

How to Book

• Click “BOOK NOW” on this page and fill in your details.
• Pay 25% advance to confirm your seat (non-refundable).
• Remaining 75% due 30 days before departure.
• Receive expedition kit — gear list, medical form, and detailed briefing via email.
• Attend pre-expedition briefing in Gangotri on Day 1 for final gear check and orientation.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Period	Refund Amount
60+ days before departure	75% refund (minus advance)
30-59 days before departure	50% refund
15-29 days before departure	25% refund
0-14 days before departure	No refund

Similar Expeditions

If the Audens Col Expedition excites you, explore these other adventures from Rope on Slope:

• Bandaroonch Peak Expedition — Technical summit at 6,316 m via Khagi Pass and Chaiyaan Glacier.
• Kalindi Pass Trek — Cross the legendary 5,950 m pass connecting Gangotri to Badrinath.
• Kedartal Trek — Challenging trek to the glacial Kedartal Lake at 4,750 m.