Auden's Col

An advanced, high-altitude crossing between the Gangotri and Bhilangna valleys. It involves glacier travel and technical sections. Not for independent trekkers.

DifficultyDifficult
Duration12 days
Distancelong glacier route
Altitudecol about 5,500 m
SeasonMay-June and September-October for experienced teams

About this page: Compiled from general knowledge and secondary sources. Distances and times are approximate and were not checked against an official page. Confirm road, permit and opening status before you travel. Never trek high altitude alone or without a registered operator in snow.

Highlights

  • Gangotri glacier and surrounding peaks
  • High-altitude crossing

Getting to the start

Gangotri.

Itinerary (typical)

  1. Overview: Multi-day expedition. This is an expedition-level route. Plan only with a recognised mountaineering operator, experienced guides and required permits.

Stay and facilities

Camping.

None.

Permits

The Gangotri National Park permit rules apply (reported daily cap of 150 for Gaumukh-Tapovan); expedition-level routes need special permission. Confirm with the Uttarkashi forest office and a mountaineering operator.

What to carry

See the trek preparation and packing guide for day-hike, supported-trek and expedition lists.

Safety and acclimatisation

  • Glacier crevasses, rockfall, altitude and weather make this dangerous.
  • Do not attempt without mountaineering experience and an expedition operator.

Cost

Expedition-level costs. Budget estimator

Responsible trekking

  • Carry out all waste.

Who it suits

  • Experienced mountaineers

Map

Approximate area only. Do not navigate by this map.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do Auden's Col on my own?

No. It requires mountaineering skills and an expedition operator.

Sources and verification

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Prices, opening dates, road status and permits change often. Confirm with an official source before you travel.