Auden’s Col an Introduction Col is a mountain pass which connects Jogin I (6465m) and Gangotri III (6580m) peaks and is reportedly situated at a height of around 5400m. It also binds two glaciers on the opposite sides. One is Khatling glacier and the other one looks like the glacier belonging to Jogin I. Auden’s Col Trek is approachable from Gangotri and one can trek up to Kedarnath following Auden’s Col and Khatling glacier. Auden’s Col Trek gets its name from J B Auden, who first crossed it in 1939-40. Auden’s col trek pass was then explored only after late eighties. Auden’s Col Trek is arguably one of the most dangerous passes in Garhwal Himalaya as the pass and the Khatling glacier are heavily infested with crevasses. While the trek route to Auden’s Col Trek is a difficult one – with moraines, glaciers, boulders, steep ridges making things difficult, the reward is equally greater.
Auden’s col trek route, schedule, and plan depends on a trekker’s ability, experience, as well as prevailing weather condition. Since the trek is strenuous and dangerous, it is advisable to secure, well in advance, services of a guide who has firsthand knowledge of the trek, and possibly has done it several times. A typical route plan in good weather condition is as following. Yes, Auden’s col Trek is the toughest trek.
