Introduction of the trek
Auden ‘ col Trek is one of the most Toughest trek of Gharwal Himalayas In Uttrakhand. It is situated at an Elevation of 5460 metres.It was first discovered in 1935 by John Bicknell Auden an exploring Harshel and Gangotri valley.This expedition is perfect for seasoned adventurers looking to conquer steep ridges, cross dangerous crevasses, and experience the untouched beauty of remote Himalayan landscapes.The Trail to Auden ‘ col is highly Challenging over Glaciers,Steep moraines,crevasses and involves technical climbing on glacial sections.
Weather :
The weather is unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes. During the trekking season (June to September), daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C, while nighttime temperatures at high camps can drop to -5°C to -10°C. Snowstorms and sudden changes in weather are common, making preparation and gear essentials.
Preparation:
The high Altitude Trek require excellent Physical Fitness and experience in Mountaineering.The Trekker should have Experience of at least two high-altitude trek (4,500m- 5,000m) .The Trekker should carry a Backpack of 10-15 kg for upto 25 kms in continuity.
Trek Overview :
Day 1: Rishikesh -Gangotri
The road between Rishikesh and Gangotri is the nearest railhead. This is a 280-kilometer road, and the road is very safe to travel through.
The trip from Rishikesh to Gangotri is considered a pilgrimage by most of the visitors. Although this town is still not recognized as a tourist spot, the number of tourists who visit it is growing every year. Earlier, the town attracted only devotees, but now it has attracted adventure seekers, bike riders, and other travelers. The most popular trek from this destination is the Gaumukh trek, which takes you to the holy shrine at a height of 3,038 meters.
Day 2: Gangotri – Nalla camp
The trek from Gangotri to Nala Camp includes a walk to the Rudugaira valley, which is surrounded by pine trees. The trail also takes you past the remnant of the Rudugaira Glacier. You will be able to admire the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains, including the Gangotri group of peaks. During this hike, you will experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and the Himalayan landscape.
It’s a beautiful walk through the woods with a view of the Himalayas. The trip to Nalla Camp involves an overnight stay at a camp near the Rudugaira River.
Day 3 :Nalla Camp – Rudugaira Base Camp
Post Breakfast The trail from Nalla Camp to Rudugaira Base camps is not very long. It starts with a short climb from a small stream flowing to the right. Then it continues uphill through meadows. Eventually, the route will reach a false climb and a summit camp. However, the route down is fairly easy and you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
The route climbs up a moraine ridge before continuing to the east. The trail continues up the Moraine Ridge to the base of Gangotri. The ridge that separates the two massifs is called Auden’s Col. The peaks of Rudugaira are also visible from this route.
From the base camp, the rocky terrain is undulating and unforgiving. The trail is mostly rocky and uneven. The only vegetation you will see is a small patch of grass. The route is marked with several water sources. During the climb, you will also experience breathtaking views of the mountain peaks and the Jogin region. You will be able to make your way up the ridge to Rudugaira Base Camp after crossing Auden’s Col.
Day 4: Rudugaira Base Camp- Gangotri Base Camp
The hike to the Rudugaira Base Camp from the Gangotri Base Moraine is eight to nine hours long and crosses the Bhagirathi river. The trail then heads into the picturesque Rudragaira Valley where you will see Auden’s Col and the majestic Gangotri massif. From this camp, you will have a spectacular view of the entire massif and its famous lake.
The hike begins with a short break at Rudugaira Base Camp and then gradually climbs through the forest, crossing the stream and meadow below. Then, you’ll ascend two more moraine ridges and arrive at the Gangotri Base Moraine Camp. On the way, you’ll see the Gangotri massif, and the Rudugaira group rising to the east.
As you ascend, you’ll be greeted with the stunning views of Gangotri’s peaks to the north and northeast. The ridges descend from the two massifs, meeting at Auden’s Col, a small grassy patch amidst rocky terrain. After your initial rest in Rudugaira Base Camp, you’ll cross two moraine ridges before descending into the Gangotri Base Moraine Camp.
Day 5: Gangotri Base camp – Auden’ Col Base Camp
The next day’s adventure is a six-hour hike to the Auden’s Col Base Camp, which is located at the base of the Auden’s Col. It will take approximately eight hours to traverse the high altitude moraine, cross the Jogin group, and descend to Auden’s Col Base Camp. If you’ve done any kind of mountaineering before, you can consider completing this challenging expedition.
The trek from Gangotri to Auden’s Col begins at base camp and ascends to Auden’s Col. The ridge is steep, and difficult, with many rocky climbs and deep valleys. The route also passes through dense Moraine landscapes, which make this a difficult trek, but rewarding. This is one of the more challenging routes in the Garhwal Himalayan region.
After a six-hour hike to Auden’s Col Base Camp, you’ll cross the Jogin group and the Gangotri Range. From there, you’ll arrive at the base camp at the foot of Auden’s Coll. The next day, you’ll continue hiking to this ridge, and it’s worth it. The trail is not easy, but the views are spectacular.
Day 6: Auden ‘ col Base Camp – Auden’ col – Khatling Glacier Camp
The trek starts early and can take up to 10 hours depending on the conditions. You will pass dangerous moraines, rocky paves, and massive glaciers on your way up. Along the way, you’ll trek through meadows covered in wildflowers and gushing streams. The trek ends in the Khatling Glacier, at 4,200m/18000 feet.
The trail to Auden’s Col is steep, with a 30 to 50-degree slope. You’ll need ropes to avoid falling into crevasses and boulders. This route is steep and requires ropes. The trail to Khatling Glacier Camp is also steep. At times, you’ll have to rappel about 300 meters up a glacier.
The trek begins with an ascent over the Auden’s Coll Pass. It’s an extremely difficult route because it crosses the high point of the trek. In addition to the high altitude, the weather can change rapidly during the day, so make sure to bring a hydration pack and other equipment that will keep you dry. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be amazed by the scenery.
Getting to Khatling Glacier Camp involves a steep ascent up a gully. This is a long and rocky climb and requires a lot of ropes. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the glacier and the Khumbu valley below. A qualified guide can help you navigate the terrain safely and can make the trip more enjoyable for all parties.
Day 7: Khatling Glacier Camp- Zero Point
To trek to the Zero Point, you must first ascend the mighty Khatling Glacier. This is the longest glacier trek in the world. You will start your journey at the terminal moraine, which is covered with snow. Continue on your way to the Khatling Glacier Camp, which is situated at the end of the steep descent. Then, continue to descend towards the flat land below the moraine.
On the ascent, you will follow the icy Auden Col glacier .It will take you about 30 minutes to reach Khatling Glacier Camp. At this point, you will have to rappel for 300 meters, which is challenging, but worth it for the spectacular views. To get to Zero Point, you will have to climb up steep slopes.
Day 8: Buffer Day
Today is also an important day to give your body rest and reenergize your body to continue trek ahead. Or another reason to Keep buffer day is due to Harsh weather conditions if we are nor able to cover our assumed trek stretch’s than we can cover on this particular Day.
Day 9: Zero Point – Uddar Camp
After a long time, you’ll finally see some greenery during the trek today as you walk down the Bhilangana river valley. The lush greenery, despite being thin, will replenish your batteries after the long days of hiking through snow, ice and moraine. Uddar campsite (meaning “cave”) is an easy trek of three-four miles down the valley and the trail stretches all the way to the river valley at certain points. The river bed is full of Bharal dead bodies. There are two small villages on the route. Just to the right of the Uddar camp and across the river, is Chowki. The trekkers who are heading toward Mayali Pass camp here. There is even a climb up the hill to Mayali Pass. Kedarnath is located just behind the Pass. Take a break at the one of the most lush, green campsites in the days.
Day 10: Uddar Camp – Jungle Camp
Today you will pass through patches of snow, meadows, and streams. At some points, the trail stretches as far as the river valley. Eventually, you’ll reach an open clearing, where shepherds use a small stone shelter as a temporary shelter.
The trail stretches across the valley, and is lined with dead Bharal, which can be found in the river bed. It’s a very pleasant stroll, and there are shepherds to guide you. You’ll cross snowy patches and follow a well-defined path through the dense forest. You’ll pass small pools of water and meadows along the way. At one point, you’ll reach the campsite – a clearing in the middle of the jungle. The shepherds place a stone shelter to mark this spot. The structure provides an extra place to sleep.
Day 11: Jungle Camp – Gangi
Today is an extremely long day. It’s a long day due to the distance, not due to the terrain that is difficult. It is an extension of the jungle walk that you took the day before with the lush meadows and thick forests. When you reach Jungle Camp, the snow patches are gone. The trail is a gradual descent and ascent through the entire day. The final stretch to Gangi is steep slope.
Gangi is a charming village that has between 100 and 150 houses situated at an altitude of 8,700 feet. We will spend the night in the village.
Day 12: Gangi-Rishikesh
After Breakfast walk upto Ghuttu and From Ghuttu take an Cab to Rishikesh.
End of Memorable Trek
Inclusions:
Exclusions: