Auden's Col and Mayali Pass Trekking Expedition, Uttarakhand
The Auden’s Col Trek in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand is one of India’s most challenging and awe-inspiring high-altitude expeditions. At the height of 5490m (18012 ft), Auden’s Col pass and the Khatling glacier are heavily infested with crevasses (deep, open cracks in the glaciers), making it a dangerous pass to cross. Mayali pass further adds to the challenges. Auden’s Col and Mayali Pass trek route connects the sacred towns of Gangotri and Kedarnath, offering a journey across vast glaciers, steep ridgelines, and pristine alpine valleys. Not for the faint-hearted, this trek is ideal for experienced trekkers seeking raw Himalayan adventure, solitude, and unmatched natural beauty. Auden's Col and Mayali Pass expedition promises a journey of a lifetime through some of the most untouched regions of the Indian Himalayas.
The pass, named after John Bicknell Auden of the Geological Survey of India, was first discovered in 1935 and crossed in 1939. It remained unexplored until the late 1980s. Years ago, when I read about this pass, I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to ascend it. Our dear trekker friend, a doctor, became obsessed with this trek and managed to convince “Team7” just a month before the plan. To ensure our safety, we needed a highly experienced guide who could lead us through the crevasses and prevent falls that could lead to futile search operations.
Difficulty level: Demanding Route: Gangotri - Nala Camp - Rudragaira BC - Gangotri BC - Auden's Col BC - Auden's Col - Khatling Glacier - Waterfall Camp/Zero Point - Chowki - Masar Tal - Mayali Pass - Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath - Gaurikund Total distance covered: 115 km Passes crossed: Auden's Col (5490m/18010 ft), Mayali Pass (5000m/16400 ft) No. of trekking days: Planned - 12 days, Actual - 11 days. Dates we trekked on: 1st Jun 2015 - 11th Jun 2015 Best time to attempt Auden's Col trek: June and September Prior Trekking Experience: Strongly recommended. There are crevasses, technical descends, and high altitudes to deal with. This trek should not be attempted by beginners. I would recommend prior experience of trekking to 5000-5500m before attempting Auden's Col. Physical Preparation: Very good stamina and endurance is required for this trek. One needs to walk long distances and elevations almost everyday. This trek begins at a temple and ends at another, completing two temples of the Chardham. I didn’t realize I was on a religious trip until I arrived—a trip I would have avoided altogether, except for the trek. Our road trip to the base commenced in Rishikesh. After traversing picturesque valleys of Uttarkashi, Bhaironghati, and Harsil Valley, we reached our base at Gangotri.
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AUTHORNamaste! I'm Medhavi Davda.
I travel to Evolve.. In Nature, I confide.. I find my calling in the Himalayas.. In the Oceans, I meditate.. A High-Altitude Trekker & PADI certified SCUBA Diver, I love exploring the heights and depths of the planet with my regular doses of mountains and oceans. Discovering myself & life through nature, adventures, travels, sports and dance has been an addiction since my existence! Recent PostsRavenousLegs on InstagramRavenousLegs on FaceBookRavenousLegs on X |