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Auden’s col Trekking Expedition
Overview
The Auden’s Col Expedition is one of the most challenging and rewarding high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas. Connecting the Rudugaira and Bhilangna valleys in Uttrakhand, Auden’s Col is a high mountain pass situated at an elevation of approximately 5,490 meters (18,012 feet). This formidable trek is named after John Bicknell Auden, a British geologist who first discovered the pass in 1935 during his surveys with the Geological Survey of India.
The expedition typically begins from Gangotri and culminates at Kedarnath, traversing remote glaciers, steep ridges, and deep crevasses. Key highlights include crossing the Khatling Glacier, navigating through moraine fields, and experiencing the stark, majestic beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. Trekkers also pass by ancient pilgrimage sites, blending natural splendor with spiritual significance. Due to its technical difficulty, unpredictable weather, and remote terrain, this trek is best suited for experienced mountaineers.
The Heaven Riders India (HRI) plays a pivotal role in supporting such expeditions by providing critical research on high-altitude survival, weather patterns, and ecological conservation in the region. Their expertise contributes to safer trekking practices and enhances understanding of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Auden’s Col is not just a trek—it’s a test of endurance, a journey through some of the most untouched regions of the Indian Himalayas, and a profound immersion in both adventure and high-altitude research.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun. From Delhi there are frequent daily flights from different states such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata and Tamilnadu etc.
By Road: Dehradun is well connected with national capital Delhi through highway. Delhi is 251km from Dehradun.
By Train: Dehradun railway station is the nearest railway station and it connected with many cities of India such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Pune etc.
Facts about Auden’s col Trekking Expedition
Region: Uttrakhand | Garhwal Range
Total Duration: 15 days
Altitude: 5,486m | 18,000ft.
Grade: Challenging
Best Time: June, September
Trek Start/End: Gangotri
Network: Upto Nala Camp | Jio, BSNL & Airtel
ATM: Dehradun
Base Camp: Rudugaira Base Camp
Summit Camp: Khatling Glacier Camp
Tour Plan
Day 01
Dehradun to Gangotri (3,100 m | 10,200 ft.)
* Pick up from Dehradun
*Drive to Gangotri (240km, 8-9hours)
*Drive through the scenic views of Bhagirathi river
*Tehri Dam view from Chinyalisaur
*Gangotri temple (evening Aarti optional)
*Overnight stay in Gangotri, followed by dinner.
Includes: Pick up, Taxi, Dinner and stay
Day 02
Rest and Acclimatization at Gangotri
*After breakfast, visit Pandav Gufa (associated with the Mahabharata)
*Explore Gauri Kund and Surya Kund (Sacred waterfalls near the temple)
*Local market stroll in evening
Includes: Breakfast, guide, camp stay and dinner
Day 03
Gangotri to Nala camp (3,750m | 12,300 ft.)
*After breakfast, start a gradual ascent through pine, birch, and deodar forests
*Views of Sudarshan Parbat
*Abundant flora, especially rhododendrons
*trek 8km, 6-7hours
*Overnight stay in camps, followed by dinner.
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 04
Nala Camp to Rudugaira camp (4,350m | 14,300 ft)
*After breakfast, start a trek to rudugaira camp
*Steep climb with boulder sections and moraine trails
*Views of Gangotri I, II, III and Jogin peaks
*trek 7km, 7-8hours
*High altitude campsite with open sky views
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 05
Acclimatization at Rudugaira camp
*After breakfast, short hike for better acclimatization
*Rest and prepare gear for glacial and technical terrain ahead
*Overnight stay in camps
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 06
Rudugaira Base to Auden’s Col. Base camp (4,750 | 15,600 ft)
*After breakfast, Start a trek
*Moraines, glacial walk, and rugged high altitude terrain
*views of Jogin III, Kedarnath Dome, and Rudugaira peak
*Trek 8km, 6-7 hours
*Camping in glacial basin near Auden’s col
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 07
Auden’s col base camp to Khatling glacier camp via Auden’s Col (5,500 m | 18,000 ft)
*After breakfast, Climb Auden’s col
*Above the col, steep snow ascent to the pass; crevasse-ridden descent
*Most challenging day of the trek’; use of ropes and crampons likely
*Starting of Khatling Glacier- remote and dramatic icefield
*Very hard (technical snow climb), gentle rolling snow humps across a glacier
*Trek 12km, 10-12 hours
*Overnight stay in camps, followed by dinner.
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 08
Khatling Glacier Camp to Zero Point/ Waterfall Camp (3,900m |12,800 ft)
*After breakfast, start a trek to Zero point
*Boulders, lateral moraine, multiple river crossings
*Ice caves, glacial lakes, towering icefalls
*trek 11km, 9-10hours
*Overnight stay in camps
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 09
Rest Day at Waterfall camp
*After breakfast, rest and let your body recover for preventing altitude-related fatigue
*Short walks or nature photography (optional)
*Overnight stay in camps
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 10
Waterfall camp to Chowki (3500m | 11,500 ft)
*After breakfast, Descend through Alpine meadows and easier terrain
*Attractions: Khatling river views, wildflowers
*Chowki is a peaceful, scenic meadown campsite
*trek 8km, 5-6hours
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 11
Chowki to Masar Tal (3,750 m | 12,300 ft)
*After some breakfast, Walk down to Masar Tal
*Trail passes through forest and grassland (steep climb)
*Masar Tal- glacial lake surrounded by high cliffs
*Overnight stay in camps
*trek 12km, 5-6hours
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 12
Masar Tal to Vasuki Tal via Mayali Pass (5000 m | 16,400ft)
*After some breakfast, Snow climb to pass, rocky descent to Vasuki Tal
*Mayali Pass- Panormic views of Kedarnath range
*Vasuki Tal-Sacred lake mentioned in Puranas
*High pass crossing with epic views
*Overnight stay in camps
*trek 12km, 7-8 hours
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 13
Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath (3500m | 11,600 ft)
*After some breakfast, Moderate descent; well defined pilgrim trail
*Ancient Kedarnath Temple
*Confluence of spiritual aura and rugged wilderness.
*trek 7km, 3-5hours
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 14
Kedarnath to Gaurikund (1,950m | 6,400 ft.)
*After some breakfast, start a descend to pilgrim path
*Devotional vibe with Chanting pilgrims
*Scenic views of Mandakini River
*Reach road head at Gauri Kund
*overnight stay
Includes: Breakfast, guide, lunch, camp stay and dinner
Day 15
Gaurikund to Rishikesh
*After breakfast, Drive to Rishikesh (250km, 10hours)
*Views of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi confluence at Devprayag
*Lush Garhwal hills and charming Himalayan villages
*End of an epic Himalayan traverse
Includes: Breakfast, guide and Drop
Day 16
Buffer Day
*Reserved for the weather delays, extra acclimatization, or summit retry.
Included/Excluded
- Accommodation as per the itinerary
- * Meals on MAP basis Dinner & Breakfast at homestay All meals during trek itinerary Starting from day 1 dinner at Gangotri to last day Breakfast. High altitude pack foods
- Transportation as per the itinerary (Non-AC in hilly areas)
- Forest Camping permit & fees
- Expert Leader, Guide
- Mountain Staff: Cook, Helper, Porters, Mules & other support staff
- High Altitude Camping Equipment: Tents, Sleeping Bags, Mattress, Kitchen Utensils, etc.
- Mountain Medical Kit with portable oxygen cylinder
- Technical equipment: Ropes, Sling, Helmet, Ice Axe, Harness, Jumar, Pitons, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Carabiners, Descender, Anchors, Shovels.
- Porterage of all the equipment/ supplies to & from Base Camp.
- Any services not mentioned in the inclusions
- Any insurance, emergency evacuation or rescue charges, any cost of hospitalization, personal expenses.
- Any change in itinerary, cost arises due to road blockage, natural calamity, sudden halt or any cost beyond our control to be borne by climber/you.
- Personal equipment portage for trekking gear, clothes, sleeping bag, climbing gear, climbing shoes, personal medical kit etc. Available on Extra cost, ask while booking.
- Liability for or insurance against injury, loss of life, accidents or loss of goods.
- In case reserve day for summit attempt is utilized, an additional amount per climber would be charged.
- IMF Peak Booking Fee for foreign nationals (roughly USD 500 per person), and mandatory Liaison Officer Fee for foreign expeditions (USD 500) as per IMF.
- Liability for or insurance against injury, loss of life, accidents or loss of goods.
- Extra or sudden night stay accommodation/Fooding/Taxi
Things to Carry
Headwear & Accessories
- Woolen Cap – 1
- Sun Cap / Hat – 1
- Gloves – 1 pair
- Socks – 3 pairs
- Woolen Socks – 1 pair
- UV Protected Sunglasses – 1 (Mandatory)
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Headwear & Accessories
- Woolen Cap – 1
- Sun Cap / Hat – 1
- Gloves – 1 pair
- Socks – 3 pairs
- Woolen Socks – 1 pair
- UV Protected Sunglasses – 1 (Mandatory)
Read More
Clothing (Upper Body)
- Wind & Waterproof Jacket – 1
- Fleece Jacket – 1
- Jacket – 1
- Collared Full Sleeve T-Shirt – 2
- Neck Warmer – 1
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Bottom Wear
- Trekking Pant – 2
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Footwear
- Waterproof Trekking Shoes with good grip
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Food & Hydration
- Dry Ration (ORS, Dry Fruits, Chocolates, Protein Bars, etc.)
Read More
Medical Essentials
- Personal Medicines (as per medical advice)
- Inhalers (for asthma sufferers)
Read More
Personal Toiletries
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Face Wash
- Hand Sanitizer
- Cold Cream
- Sunscreen Lotion
- Lip Balm / Lip Guard
- Quick Dry Towel
- Toilet Paper
Read More
Equipment & Essentials
- Head Lamp – 1 (Mandatory)
- Four extra pairs of batteries
- Power Bank (for mobile & camera)
- Water Bottle – 2 (Mandatory)
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Bags & Storage
- Rucksack (40 Ltrs) with rain cover
- Daypack (20 Ltrs) with rain cover
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Rain Protection
- Poncho / Rain Suit – 1 (Mandatory)
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Mandatory Documents
Original & Copy of Valid Govt. Id (any of Passport/Aadhaar Card)
Medical Certificate from registered Medical Practitioner (Minimum MBBS)
Passport size photograph – Valid passport and visa required for Foreign
Health & Fitness
Trekking demands strong cardiovascular endurance, leg power, core stability, and overall stamina to handle long hours on steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. Depending on the difficulty level, trekkers should ideally be capable of jogging 4–7 km in 20–40 minutes.
Preparing your body in advance significantly enhances safety, performance, and enjoyment during the trek.
Core Physical Fitness Requirements
1. Cardiovascular Endurance
Strong heart and lung capacity are essential, especially for high-altitude treks where oxygen levels are lower.
Training Goal:
- 30–60 minutes of cardio
- 4–5 days per week
- Activities: Jogging, running, brisk walking, swimming, or cycling
2. Leg Strength
Powerful legs are crucial for ascending steep slopes and descending uneven, rocky paths.
Focus Exercises:
- Squats
- Lunges
- Step-ups
- Calf raises
3. Core & Upper Body Strength
A strong core and upper body help you carry a backpack comfortably for extended hours.
Recommended Exercises:
- Planks
- Push-ups
- Overhead presses
- Back extensions
4. Flexibility & Stamina
Flexibility reduces muscle stiffness, prevents injury, and improves endurance.
Include:
- Yoga
- Dynamic stretching before workouts
- Static stretching post-workout
Training & Preparation Tips
Stair Climbing
One of the most effective ways to simulate trekking conditions. It prepares you for both ascent and descent.
Load Training
Practice walking with a weighted backpack to replicate real trek conditions.
Rest & Recovery
Allow proper recovery time. Include at least 1–2 rest days per week to prevent overtraining.
Health Check-Up
Consult a medical professional before high-altitude treks, especially if you have:
- Asthma
- Hypertension
- Heart conditions
- Respiratory concerns
Sample Weekly Training Plan (Example)
Monday / Wednesday / Friday
→ 30–45 minutes brisk walk, jogging, or uphill walking
Tuesday / Thursday
→ Strength training (Squats, Lunges, Planks, Push-ups)
Saturday
→ Long-duration hike or extended stair-climbing session
Sunday
→ Rest day or light stretching / yoga
Key Preparation Goals
- Build endurance to comfortably carry a weighted backpack for 3–4 hours
- Achieve the ability to jog 5 km in under 30 minutes (for moderate treks)
Begin structured training 4–8 weeks before your trek
Policies
Auden Col Expedition Policies
Confirmation Policy
- The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking
- In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.
- Alternatively, the customer may choose to cancel their booking before confirmation and a full refund will be processed.
Cancellation Policy
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Booking amount is strictly non-refundable in all cases.
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Cancellation requests must be made via email only (reply to your payment receipt email). No cancellations will be accepted via call or WhatsApp.
Refund Structure:
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Up to 30 days before departure: 10% deduction (gateway & bank charges).
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30 to 15 days before departure: 50% deduction.
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Within 15 days of departure: No refund.
Important Notes:
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No refund will be provided for cancellations due to bad weather, natural calamities, government restrictions, roadblocks, strikes, landslides, lockdowns, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.
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If the trip is cancelled by us due to insufficient participants, a full refund will be issued (excluding add-ons such as rentals, insurance, porterage, transport, etc.).
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Any additional expenses due to delays, extended stay, weather, or emergencies must be borne by the participant.
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Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 10 working days to the original payment method.
For More Info: https://heavenridersindia.com/cancellation-policy/
Payment & Booking Policy
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To confirm your slot, an advance payment of INR 10,000 per person is required via Bank Transfer or UPI.
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The remaining balance must be paid at least 7 days prior to the pickup date.
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The booking amount is strictly non-refundable in all cases.
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After making the payment, please email the transaction details/receipt to:
heavenridersindia@gmail.com for booking confirmation.
For More Info: https://heavenridersindia/payment-policy/
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