Auden’s Col Trek

Weather and Climate Info:

Summer (April – June)

Accessibility
The trail is accessible.

Weather Conditions
The weather is cool with favourable temperatures which range from 10°C to -5°C.

Overview
Best time for trekking because of clear skies, lush green meadows and colourful wildflowers.

Monsoon (July – September)

Accessibility
Tough conditions during the monsoon season.

Weather Conditions
Moderate to heavy rainfall is common and temperature ranges from 10°C to -10°C.

Overview
Trails can be slippery and increase the risk of skidding. Overflowing of the rivers and landslides are common as well.

Autumn (October – November)

Accessibility
You can visit the Auden’s Col Trek in the Autumn.

Weather Conditions
Freezing temperatures which range from 5°C to -15°C.

Overview
The natural beauty is mesmerising. An ideal time for photography and spotting the wide variety of flora and fauna in the Gangotri and Kedarnath valleys.

Temperature Overview

Summer (May to June)
Daytime temperatures: 10 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -5 °C Monsoon (July to September)
Daytime temperatures: 10 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -10 °C
Autumn (September to November)
Daytime temperatures: 5 °C
Nighttime temperatures: -15 °C

Mountain Ranges, River Valley & Lake

Mountain Ranges
The trail of the Auden’s Col Trek is surrounded by many mountain ranges which contrasts well with the white snowfields. The ranges include Gangotri I, II, III and IV, Bhagirathi I, II and III. The Jogin peaks and the Kedarnath dome also make up the mountain landscape at the tail section of Auden’s Col Trek.

River Valley
The Bhagirathi and Mandakini River valleys make up the primary river valleys in the Auden’s Col Trek. The trekkers can get the opportunity to witness the vast greenery if they are travelling in June as the weather is favourable. The wildflowers also add a variety of colours to the green landscape.

Lake
The entire trail has 3 major lakes – the Sukha Tal, the Masar Tal and the Vasuki Tal. The Sukha is the smallest of the three and is situated on the trail between Rudgaira Base Camp and Auden’s Col Base Camp. The Vasuki Tal holds the highest spiritual value as it is named after the Snake God, Vasuki. The Masar Tal is the most peaceful lake as it is in the midst of a valley and is surrounded by towering mountains.

Geographical Highlights

Glacial Moraines
The Auden’s Col Trek is an extremely challenging trek and therefore, glacial moraines are common throughout the trail. The trekkers should look forward to some of the major moraines which include Rudgaira Glacier, Khatling Glacier and Gangotri Glacier. The Gangotri Glacier is among the largest glacial moraines in India. The Khatling Glacier is filled with ice ridges and wide crevasses, making the journey more strenuous and exciting. The Rudgaira Glacier form the foot of the Jogin peaks.

Alpine Meadows
The meadows near the Chowki campsite are known as the Chowki Bugyal. It is filled with pink, red and white coloured flowers and lush greenery. The winter covers the wide grasslands with a thick sheath of snow, making it a white snowfield.

High-altitude Passes
The Auden’s Col is the primary high-altitude pass located on this trek. It sits at an altitude of 5490 m. The trail from the Auden’s Col Base Camp is steep towards the pass. There is another pas called the Mayali Pass, which is an alternate route towards Kedarnath. The trekkers can explore the Mayali Pass if they wish to.

Flora and Fauna

Flora

Forests
The lower parts of the trek are filled with dense coniferous forests. The large canopies of the trees protect the trekkers from the scorching heat. The trees include pine, fir, birch and oak.

Flowers
The flowers are mostly seen in the meadows. Occasional sights of the colourful wildflowers can also be found along the trail. Bright red Rhododendrons are common in the Auden’s Col Trek. Brahma Kamal can also be found, which is the State flower of Uttarakhand.

Fauna

Mammals
The Himalayan Black Bear is quite common in Auden’s Col Trek, especially in the lower sections. These bears can be spotted alone or with their young ones. The Musk Deer can also be seen in the forest areas but are quite rare. The Himalayan Blue Sheep are common on rocky terrains in the higher altitudes. Their predators, the Snow Leopard, which is very rare, can also be spotted in the rocky patches of the Auden’s Col Trek.

Birds
The Himalayan Monal, the State Bird of Uttarakhand, is the most common in the entire trek. It is characterized by its beautiful coloured feathers. The massive Golden Eagle also attracts attention because of its large wing span and size. The mammals living in the valleys fall prey to these eagles. The Bearded Vulture is common in the higher altitude, scavenging across the entire terrain.

Photography Tips

Golden Hours for Lighting:
Tip: Leverage the stunning lighting conditions during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. Capture soft and golden light that enhances the beauty of the landscape. Avoid midday when the light can be harsh, but it can also create compelling contrasts in the rugged terrain.

Flora and Fauna Focus:
Tip: Explore the rich biodiversity. Capture vibrant rhododendrons in spring, lush greenery in monsoon, and snow-covered trees in winter. Use a zoom lens for wildlife shots, maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals.

Landscape Photography Essentials:
Tip: The panoramic views of the Himalayas are breathtaking. Keep a wide-angle lens handy to capture the vast landscape. Add depth and scale by incorporating elements like trekkers or tents in the foreground.

Experiment with Perspectives:
Tip: Vary your angles and perspectives for unique shots. A low-angle shot of a trail leading into the mountains can add depth and intrigue to your photos. Experimentation can lead to captivating compositions.

Rule of Thirds:
Tip: Compose balanced and interesting shots using the rule of thirds. Divide your frame into nine equal segments and place key elements along these lines or their intersections. This simple rule can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your photographs.

Capture Local Culture:
Tip: As Auden’s Col Trek passes through quaint villages, document local architecture, people, and daily life. Seek permission before photographing individuals to respect their privacy and cultural norms.

Night Sky Photography:
Tip: Utilize the clear skies at high altitudes for astrophotography. Set up a tripod and use long exposure settings to capture the stars, and potentially the Milky Way. The serene nights in the Himalayas offer a canvas for stunning celestial shots.

Be Weather Prepared:
Tip: The Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Protect your camera equipment from rain and snow using weather-resistant gear. Keep batteries warm in cold weather to prevent quick drainage. Consider using lens hoods and covers for additional protection.

Travel Light:
Tip: Prioritize essential gear for high-altitude trekking. Minimize equipment to reduce the weight you carry. A lightweight and versatile camera setup will ensure you are agile and ready to capture spontaneous moments.

Respect the Environment:
Tip: Be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid damaging the natural environment or disturbing wildlife while capturing your shots. Leave no trace and follow the principles of responsible trekking and photography.

Bonus Tip – Patience is Key:
Tip: Sometimes, waiting for the right moment, light, or movement can make a significant difference in capturing a memorable photograph. Practice patience during your trek, and you might be rewarded with extraordinary shots that tell a unique story of your Auden’s Coladventure.

Things to Carry

Hiking Shoes

Type: We recommend that you have to look for shoes that are water-resistant and have a deep yet flexible sole to sustain on Himalayan terrains.

Note: Dynamic rough terrains hold uncertain threats. The pair of shoes that has the advantage of overcoming those threats will help you to maintain your confidence in balancing.

Backpack

Type: It purely depends on the kind of Trek you are planning to do.
(15-20) litres will be ideal for short treks of (1-3) days.
(40-60) litres will be ideal for long treks of (3-10) days.

Note: A backpack comes under very essential for the activity like trekking. You will have a requirement of your Backpack throughout the journey for your belongings and all the essentials you need. We recommend you test the bag and choose it according to your height, the Trek where you are taking it & and the comfort it provides.

Daypack

Type: A (10-15) litres waterproof daypack is all you need to have with you for the Summit.
Note: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your essentials (wallet, small water bottle, sunglass, power bank, etc.) with you.

Clothing

Collared T-shirts – Carrying 2 – 3 units of collared T-shirts will be ideal. The collar will help you to keep your neck away from direct sunlight and not too exposed to the Sun and getting sunburnt.

Padded Jacket – Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & and capable of keeping you warm at -10 °C to -12 °C temperature.

Fleece Jacket – Fleece jackets are made of very soft and cosy material. It helps you to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Keep 2 Fleece Jackets with you.

Thermals – You will have a requirement of only 1 pair of this in the Winter, For Summer it could be under consideration. It is made of pure cotton and designed in such a way that body heat is blocked between its layers. It will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature falls.

Trek Pants – You will have a requirement of 2 units of Trekking Pants with you always. Between them, one must be convertible. Ensure it is made of Cotton or windproof light material & and provides maximum durable comfort.

Sun Caps –The Sunlight might be harsh at higher Altitudes and the direct exposure of sunlight to your head harms your skin. Carry Sun Caps to keep your head cool.

Woollen Caps – You will need woollen caps during the nights to keep your ears and head warm from the very cold breeze.

Waterproof Gloves – You will require waterproof gloves for cold and wet sections of the Trek. Always keep your hands clean and warm, avoid letting your hands wet to get the supporting grip and balance.

Trek Accessories

Trekking Pole: The Trekking/Hiking Pole saves 60% of your energy for conquering a steep slope at a higher altitude. It is advisable to carry a trekking pole with you for the treks.

Head-lamp or Torch: A head-lamp is another important thing that also comes under mandatory items for our Treks. It will help you to deal with the dark. Headlamps become more effective to walk in dark cold weather without approaching through your hand. Featured Torch is also ok for uphill.

Daily essentials

Toiletries: We recommend you carry all your Toiletries essentials and all other personal belongings by yourself to avoid borrowing. Here are some items you could take- tooth-cleaning paste, dental brush, lip moisturizer, skin hydrating cream, facial cleanser, a range of vital creams and items, bathroom tissue/toilet paper, menstrual pads, along with other important personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and shaving supplies.

Containers & Vessels: It’s advisable to bring your water containers; we recommend two bottles each with a capacity of 1 litre. Additionally, for both ease and hygiene reasons, please carry your food containers to use for the meals we supply. The metal bottle comes in handy for hot water served in the camps.

Recommended Medicines:

Gauze 1 small roll, Dexamethasone one strip, Nifedipine 5 tablets, Band-aid 10 strips, Avomine 4 tablets (motion sickness), Avil 25mg 4 tablets (allergies), Combiflam 4 tablets (Pain killer), Crepe bandage 3 to 5 meters, Disprin 6 tablets (headache), Crocin 6 tablets (fever), Digene 10 tablets (acidity), Omez/ Rantadine 10 tablets (antacids), Norflox TZ & Lomofen 6 tablets each (diarrhoea), Diamox 10 tablets (to prevent AMS), Cotton 1 small roll

Essential Documents Required:

For the Auden’s Col Trek, you must bring specific documents and submit them to the trek leader at the base camp. These include a copy of the Disclaimer, along with one photocopy and the original of a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a doctor’s medical certificate confirming your fitness for high-altitude conditions is required.

Risks and Precautions

Here are the risks or challenges you might face on the Auden’s Col Trek.

Risk of Slip/Skid:

Nature of Risk: The trail, particularly in winter (December and January), may be scattered with black ice, leading to a risk of slipping or skidding. Additionally, the unpredictable Himalayan weather adds to the challenge.

Safety Precautions:

Briefing session at the base camp regarding slip/skid risks.
You will get a trained trek leader’s guidance on maintaining balance and proper use of trekking poles.
Provision of crampons by Discovery Hike for snow-filled trails, reducing skidding risk by up to 95%.
Continuous awareness communication from the trek leader during the trek.
Choosing trekking shoes with a good grip is crucial.

High Altitude Risks:

Nature of Risk: Ascending from 6,400 feet to 11,500 feet over 4-5 days may lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), especially at higher camps.

Safety Precautions:

Start DIAMOX from the first day to reduce AMS risk.
Trained leaders are recognizing AMS symptoms and equipped with a high-altitude medical kit.
Oxygen cylinders are available for safety.
Immediate descent if conditions worsen.

Dealing with Blisters and Cramps:

Nature of Risk: Blisters, cuts, and cramps can occur on uneven trails.

Safety Precautions:
Trekkers to inform the trek leader promptly.
Well-fitting, breathable trekking shoes are recommended.
Treatment kit with trek leader and application of cramp spray for leg cramps.

Weather Risks at High Altitude:

Nature of Risk: Unpredictable weather, particularly in the Himalayas, can worsen quickly.

Safety Precautions:
Trek leader’s decision on continuing or waiting for better weather.
Provision of all-weather tents to cope with different weather challenges.

Communication Risks:

Nature of Risk: Communication signals weaken and may be lost completely at higher altitudes.

Safety Precautions:
Use of walkie-talkies for alternative communication between different campsites.

Emergency/Immediate Rescue:

Nature of Risk: Severe health issues or emergencies may necessitate immediate rescue.

Safety Precautions:
Quick utilization of resources like porters and mules for rescue. *Rescue cost is not included in the package.
Standby team at different campsites for assistance.
Airlifts are arranged in acute cases. *The cost of airlift is not included in the package.

Risk of Low Oxygen at Higher Altitudes:

Nature of Risk: Oxygen levels decrease with altitude, potentially causing breathing difficulties.

Safety Precautions: Availability of oxygen cylinders with the trek leader and staff.
Affected trekkers to inform the leader or descend to a lower campsite for immediate help.

Overall Safety and Cooperation:

Cooperation is essential for safety and enjoyment during the trek. Discourage the use of objectionable substances during the trek for overall safety and well-being.

Cancellation Policy

Initiating Cancellation:
To cancel your booking, please send an email to: [email protected]

Cancellation Due to Unforeseen Events:
In case of trek cancellation by Discovery Hike owing to unexpected events such as natural disasters, floods, or political unrest, we will issue a trek voucher. This voucher is valid for one year and can be used for the same or a different trek.

Cancellation Due to Personal Reasons:
If you decide to cancel your trek for personal reasons, the following terms apply under our cancellation policy:

No Cash Refunds:
We do not offer cash refunds once a booking is completed. Instead, a voucher for the same or a reduced amount will be provided.

Cancellation 30 Days or More Before Trek:
If you cancel 30 days or more before the trek start date, a voucher for the full booking amount will be issued.

Cancellation 20-29 Days Before Trek:
For cancellations made between 20 to 29 days before the trek start date, 50% of the booking amount will be deducted. The remaining amount will be provided as a voucher.

Cancellation Less Than 20 Days Before Trek:
No voucher will be issued for cancellations made less than 20 days before the trek start date.

Seasonal and Occasional Activities

The seasonal and occasional activities are important to understand as they may help the trekkers to understand the region and its culture better. The trekkers can also engage in several local activities and explore different opportunities to connect with people and their traditions. Some of the activities have been explained for the trekkers to gain a new perspective about the Auden’s Col Trek.

Seasonal Highlights

Summer (June to August)
The snow melts during the summer season which allows the trekkers to have clear visibility of the trail and the surroundings. The meadows are filled with greenery and blooming wildflowers. The streams and rivers also flow rapidly because of the melting snow.
It is a good opportunity to spot various wildlife, especially some of the rare animals like Snow Leopard and Musk Deer. The summer unveils a different layer of nature’s beauty before the trekkers.

Autumn (September to November)
The Autumn offers the best views of the different peaks and mountain ranges around. This is the best time for birdwatching and photography as well. The skies are clear and the weather is favourable. The meadows turn brown which looks amazing, especially through a lens.
The temperatures can be low, therefore, the trekkers should visit Auden’s Col Trek in the Autumn with enough prior preparation. Extra warm clothes should be carried and layering should be given importance.

Monsoon (June to September)
The Monsoon Season should be strictly avoided for visiting the Auden’s Col Trek or any other trek as the trails become slippery and visibility is reduced. Landslides are common and the rivers and streams turn aggressive as well.

Occasional Activities

Ganga Dussehra
The downpour of the holy Ganga River from heaven is celebrated on this occasion. The devotees offer their tribute by taking a dip in the Bhagirathi River, which symbolises cleansing. Multiple fire rituals also form a part of the Gaga Dussehra.

Badri-Kedar Utsav
The festivals mainly focus on the cultural celebration of Lord Shiva. Rituals and traditional music are performed at the Badrinath and Kedarnath Temples. Classical dance and religious chants are also done as an offering to Lord Shiva.

Camping
There are many camping destinations in the entire trek. Therefore, camping lovers will enjoy Auden’s Col Trek to the fullest. Star gazing and enjoying local food at the campsites can notbe put into words, if not experienced.

Photography and Birdwatching
Along the way, the trails offer many opportunities for the trekkers to capture endless memories. The rest days at the campsites can be used primarily for astrophotography and Birdwatching. If one is patient, he can easily capture the Himalayan Monal or the Golden Eagle.

Local Language Phrases:

Hello – “नमस्कार” (Namaskar)

How are you? – “तुम कसै छौ?” (Tum kase chau?)

My name is – “मेरु नाम …” (Meru naam …)

I am fine. How are you? – “मी ठीक छौं. तुम कसै छौ?” (Mi theek chaun. Tum kase chau?)

Please help me. – “कृपया, मेरी मदद करें.” (kripya, Meri madad karen.)

Tell me the route. – “मुझे रास्ता बता.” (Mujhe rasta bata.)

Where am I right now? – “मी अभी कख छौं?” (Mi abhi kakh chaun?)

Please rescue me. – “कृपया मुझे बचाओ.” (Kripya mujhe bachao.)

Do you have medical kits? – “क्या तुमरे पास मेडिकल किट छै?” (Kya tumre paas medical kit chhai?)

Will you join me? – “तुम मेरु साथ द्याओलु?” (Tum meru sath dyaolu?)

How long will it take to reach the summit? – “शिखर तक पहुंचण मा कती समय लगोलु?” (Shikhar tak pahunchan ma kati samay lagolu?)

Where is the next Maggi point? – “अगला मैगी प्वाइंट कख छ?” (Agla Maggi point kakh ch?)

Will there be too much cold? – “क्या ज्यादा ठंड ह्वालि?” (Kya jyada thand hwaali?)

What is the name of the nearest village? – “नजीकी गांव का नाम क्या छ?” (Naziki gaon ka naam kya ch?)

Is there any update of heavy snowfall? – “क्या भारी हिमपात कु अपडेट छ?” (Kya bhari himpaat ku update ch?)