Auden's Col
Auden’s Col is a high-altitude mountain pass at 5,490 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India. It connects the Rudugaira and Bhilangna valleys, linking the ridges of Gangotri III and Jogin I peaks. Known for its challenging terrain and crevassed glaciers, the pass is one of the most difficult in the region. Discovered in 1935 by John Bicknell Auden, it provides a route for trekkers crossing from Gangotri to Kedarnath, offering stunning views and a spiritual connection between two of India’s holiest sites.
Located at an elevation of 5,490 meters (18,010 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India, Auden’s Col is a high-altitude mountain pass that connects the Rudugaira Valley and Bhilangna Valley. Nestled between the towering peaks of Gangotri III (6,580 meters) to the northwest and Jogin I (6,465 meters) to the east, this rugged pass is surrounded by the Rudugaira Glacier to the north and the treacherous Khatling Glacier to the south. The pass stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty and danger of the Indian Himalayas.
A Historical Discovery
Named after John Bicknell Auden, a geologist with the Geological Survey of India, Auden’s Col was first discovered by Auden in 1935. His expedition successfully crossed the pass in 1939, marking it as one of the most significant geological discoveries of that era. The pass remained largely unexplored until the late 1980s, when Harish Kapadia and Romesh Bhattacharjee, members of the Himalayan Club, retraced Auden’s path, further cementing its place in Himalayan exploration history.
Trekking Auden’s Col
Auden’s Col is not for the faint of heart. The pass is known for its challenging terrain, steep ascents, and the ever-present threat of crevasses, particularly in the Khatling Glacier region. Trekkers venturing here need to have experience with high-altitude expeditions, as the conditions can be unforgiving. The trek is often described as one of the most difficult in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Despite its dangers, the journey through Auden’s Col is an adventure like no other, offering a rare opportunity to traverse one of the most remote and rugged parts of the Indian Himalayas. The trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys, immersing trekkers in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this trek is the opportunity to connect two of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites. By crossing Auden’s Col and the nearby Mayali Pass, trekkers can journey from Gangotri to Kedarnath, two of the holiest temples in Hinduism. This spiritual journey, combined with the physical challenge, makes the trek through Auden’s Col a deeply fulfilling experience.
Geography and Glaciers
The region around Auden’s Col is a geographic marvel. The Rudra Ganga stream, which originates from the Rudugaira Glacier, eventually flows into the Bhagirathi River, adding to the sacredness of the area as it leads towards Gangotri. On the opposite side, the Bhilangna River flows from the Khatling Glacier and joins the Bhagirathi near Old Tehri. The glaciers, streams, and high-altitude meadows of the region create a unique and dramatic landscape that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A Journey Worth the Challenge
Auden’s Col remains one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas. It offers trekkers a unique blend of adventure, history, and spiritual significance. While it requires physical endurance and mental fortitude, the rewards are immense – from the serene beauty of the surrounding glaciers and valleys to the spiritual fulfillment of walking the sacred route between Gangotri and Kedarnath.
For those who dare to take on the challenge, Auden’s Col offers a chance to explore a lesser-known corner of the Himalayas and to connect with the region’s natural and spiritual essence in a way few others ever will.
