Kedarkantha Trek Details and Best time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek 2024 – 2025
One of the most adventurous and exciting treks in India is the Kedarkantha Trek in the mountain land of Uttarakhand. The state of Uttarakhand is the land of several mountain ranges including the Garhwal Himalayas, which is the parent range of Kedarkantha. It also falls within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. Every year people from all across the world visit the beautiful winter capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun, to embark on the trek to the Kedarkantha Peak. The trail is a mesmerizing mix of enchanting looking oak and pine forests with streams and brooks often cutting across the way, and shining with white layers of snow on the ground for as far the eyes can see. The course of the trek also lets you fill your heart with abundant views of several other mountain peaks.
The Kedarkantha trek route starts from a charming little village called Sankri, which is a trekker’s delight as it is the doorway to many Himalayan treks. En route is the Juda-ka-Talab just 4 kms away, a glacial lake surrounded by pine trees. During Winter, the lake is frozen and the pine trees become triangular standing blocks of ice. The peace and serenity around this place takes you to a different world altogether. Apart from being a trekking destination, it is also a picnic and camping site as it offers unparalleled views of the mountain. Summiting the Kedarkantha Peak feeling of accomplishment makes you proud, it is also extremely humbling to witness the beauty of nature’s creations so closely.
Best time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha trek is one of the best winter treks in India. Naturally, the best time to visit Kedarkantha is in Winter during December to March, although the trek is accessible throughout the year except during monsoons. The months of December-January-February are the coldest and there will already be thick snow on the ground. Chances of experiencing fresh snowfall are also high. The stretching blanket of snow creates a quiet heavenly atmosphere as if the hills are sleeping. The snow makes for an adventurous and challenging climb to the peak. Days are gently cold and nights are harsh with freezing subzero temperatures.
During Spring in April, the scene starts to change as the snow begins to melt in certain places. Although you will still find residual snow, the dark colours of the oak forests and the green of pines start to become visible. The changing scenery looks like a giant waking up from sleep as the mountains start to come alive once again. The mornings are warm and bright while nights are cold.
The Summer and Autumn months drastically change the view. Suddenly the mountains are more colourful without any traces of snow. The meadows are a dense shade of green and the pine trees again stand tall without being burdened by the snow. Each season offers its unique touch to the hills. But, admittedly, the Kedarkantha trek in December is the best time to experience its majestic beauty. It is equally loved by first-timers and seasoned trekkers who often come here for moments of bliss.
Some quick guide about Kedarkantha Trek
Region: Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand
Maximum trek altitude: 12,500 feet
Difficulty level of trek: easy to moderate
Duration of trek: 6 Days
Distance covered: 24 kms
Kedarkantha Trek cost: INR 7000 to INR 9000 Per person
Starting point: Sankri
Ending point: Sankri
Base camp: Sankri
Average temperature: +8 to +20 degrees Celsius in the day, -10 to +3 degrees Celsius at night
Nearest railway station: Dehradun
Nearest airport: Jolly Grant, Dehradun
Last ATM location: Purola
Kedarkantha trek itinerary in short
Day 1: Pick up from Dehradun Railway Station. and drive to Sankri
Day 2: Trek starts from Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab, overnight camping at site
Day 3: Trek from Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha camp, overnight stay at base camp
Day 4: Trek from Kedarkantha Base campsite to the Kedarkantha summit and back to Hargaon. overnight stay at camp
Day 5: Trek from Hargaon camp to Sankri base camp, overnight stay at Sankri
Day 6: Drive back to Dehradun from Sankri
Kedarkantha Trek itinerary in detail
Day 1: Dehradun – Sankri (200 Kms / 8 Hrs)
Distance: 210kms
Time: 8-9 hours
Altitude reached: 6398 feet
The first leg of the Kedarkantha Trek starts with the drive from Dehradun to Sankri. Early morning around 6:30-7:30 AM, we pick you up from Dehradun and the drive to Sankri takes about 9 hours. Sankri is a beautiful village in Uttarkashi district sitting right in the lap of the mountains at an altitude of 1950 metres above sea level. The tall pine forests flank the road throughout the drive taking us through Mussoorie and Dehradun making it one of the best long drive routes. Upon reaching Sankri, take some time to explore the peace and serenity of this misty hamlet. Sankri is the perfect vantage point which provides views of mountains like Ranglana, Kalanag and Bandarpoonch. Overnight stay at Sankri.
Day 2: Sankri – Juda-ka-Talab (5 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Distance: 5 kms
Time: 4-5 hours
Altitude reached: 9100 feet
The second day we start trekking to Juda-ka-Talab from Sankri. Juda-ka-Talab is a lake that has mythical roots to its name. It is said that once upon a time, when Lord Shiva had meditated at Kedarkantha, a droplet that fell from His hair had created the lake, hence the name Juda-ka-Talab. The trek route takes us on an uphill climb towards moving into the dark dense oak and pine forests littered with little streams and brooks. The sound of the flowing water and chirping of little birds create a beautiful harmony. You will also catch sight of the rarely seen maple forests that are exclusive to this region. After scaling an altitude of 9100 feet we finally reach Juda-ka-Talab where we camp for the night.
Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab – Kedarkantha base camp (4 Kms / 3 Hrs)
Distance: 4 kms
Time: 3 hours
Altitude reached: 11, 250 feet.
This is the day we trek to Kedarkantha base camp. The Kedarkantha base from Juda-ka-Talab is 2.5 kms which takes about 4 hours to cover. The trek path takes us on a steep ridge passing through the oak and pine forests which gradually grow dense as we move upward. Since the trek is easy, you can catch a little break to enjoy the gorgeous views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The Ranglana, Swargarohini,Kalanag and Bandarpoonch peaks stand tall and majestic in a way forming a beautiful arc. After reaching Kedarkantha base by afternoon or early evening we set up our tents. At night, you can see the sky full of stars and the vibrant Milky Way splashed across it. The feeling is to being in space and floating among the stars!
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base – Kedarkantha Summit – Hargaon base (9 Kms / 7 Hrs)
Distance: 9 kms
Time: 7 hours
Altitudes reached: 12, 500 feet followed by descent to 8, 900 feet
This is the most important day of the trek as we start for the long-awaited Kedarkantha Summit from the base camp. The distance to the Summit is not too long. As we head out for a while, the trail becomes clearly visible and the Summit comes right into your view. The route again goes through the oak forests with shepherd log huts along the way. Towards the end the trail becomes a little steep and the climb might get strenuous, especially if you’re a first-timer. But once you reach the Summit, the view from the top will leave you speechless. You will forget all your worries and fatigue from the climb as the raw beauty of the mountains enthralls your heart and mind. The highest Kedarkantha Trek height you will scale on this tour is 12, 500 feet.
On the Summit you’ll find an arrangement of stones with a Trishul(trident) pointing towards the sky as a nod to the mythological history of the place. After all, Kedarkantha literally means the throat of Lord Shiva. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the famed Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges, the Har ki Dun and Rupin range, Chaainsheel Pass, and the Kinnaur Kailash ranges from the Kedarkantha Summit. From here we trek back to Hargaon base camp at an altitude of 8, 900 feet and stay the night.
Day 5: Hargaon – Sankri (5.5 Kms / 4 Hrs)
Distance: 5.5 kms
Time: 4 hours
Altitude reached: 6,400 feet
Today we begin the descent from Kedarkantha Summit to Sankri through Hargaon. The trail takes us through the same picturesque forests of oak and pine trees, sunlight gleaming through them. It takes us about 4 hours to reach Sankri, which is the last road head to the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi. You can explore the place, mingle with the very humble and welcoming locals, try the local food and last but not the least, gaze endlessly at the mountain ranges. You can also go zip lining if you’re feeling up for it. Overnight at Sankri.
Day 6: Sankri – Dehradun (200 Kms / 8 Hrs)
Distance: 210 kms
Time: 8-9 hours
This day marks the end of the exciting and adventurous Kedarkantha Trek as we drive back to Dehradun from Sankri post breakfast.
Inclusions
- Transportation on Day 1 – Dehradun to Sankri and Day 6 Sankri to Dehradun
- Accommodation in Sankri (1st and 5th nights only) and camp tents on twin or triple sharing basis (Day 2 to Day 4)
- Meals on trek: Breakfast, lunch, Evening beverages (hot), snacks, soup and dinner
- Experienced and qualified professional trek guide and support staff
- All camping gear Like –
- High quality tents
- Sleeping bags
- Mattress
- Liner
- Pillow
- Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
- Dining Tent
- Dining table
- Helper
- Kitchen team
- First aid medical kits
- Oxygen Cylinders
- Gaiters or Crampons
- All permits and entrance fees
Exclusions
- Breakfast and lunch on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day
- Personal insurance
- Individual toiletries and medicine kits
- Porters or mules for carrying personal luggage
- Any expenses borne by trekker on their own
- Train or Flight tickets charges
- 5% GST
- Anything not mentioned in Inclusions
Documents needed to carry
1. Government photo ID card (Aadhar/Driving License/Voter ID): original and photocopy
2. Passport and VISA for foreign participants
4. Declaration certificate
Things to Carry for Kedarkantha Trek
1. 1 pair of Thermals
2. 3 pairs of socks and 1 pair of woolen socks
3. 2 pairs of waterproof gloves made of fleece
4. 1 woolen cap and neck warmer
5. 1 sun cap, UV glasses, sunscreen, lip balm and moisturizer
6. 2 fast drying full-sleeve t-shirts and 1 full sleeve fleece
7. 1 windcheater or heavy jacket(windproof)
8. 2 track pants – avoid cotton or jeans
9. Torch
10. Trek pole
11. Only trekking shoes (sport shoes will not do)
12. Poncho for protection from rain
13. 1 small day pack
14. 1 backpack of 60 litres with rain cover
15. 2 water bottles
16. Toilet paper and wet wipes
17. Hand sanitizer
18. Antibacterial powder
19. Tooth brush
20. Quick drying towel
Medicines to carry
Diamox – for altitude sickness
Digene – for indigestion issues
Crocin Advance – for fever
Disprin – for headache
Avomine – for vomiting tendencies from motion sickness
Ranitidine – for acidity issues
Volini/Moov spray – for relieving muscle aches and sprains
Betadine/Savlon – antiseptic solution in case of injuries
ORS – for dehydration issues
Band aid, Cotton, and Gauze
Stretchable/elastic bandage
How to reach Dehradun for Kedarkantha Trek
1. By train
Most people travelling to Dehradun from major cities take one of the many express trains available.
New Delhi – Dehradun: Dehradun Jan Shatabdi Express
Mumbai – Dehradun: Dehradun Express starting from Bandra Terminus
Varanasi – Dehradun: Varanasi Dehradun Express
Amritsar – Dehradun: Dehradun Amritsar Express
Kolkata – Dehradun: Doon Express starting from Howrah Junction
Rajasthan – Dehradun: Nanda Devi Express starting from Kota Junction
Kochuveli – Dehradun: Kochuveli Dehradun Superfast Express that connects Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, U.P, Uttarakhand
From Dehradun Railway Station we will pick you up and take you to Sankri.
2. By air
Many flights from different cities fly regularly to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. You can take a taxi or cab to Dehradun city from the airport which is only 27 kms away. There are direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow and Srinagar.
3. By road
If you want to reach Dehradun by road you have to come to Delhi. From Delhi, there are several private and state-run buses plying frequently to Dehradun. The journey takes about 6-8 hours over a distance of 245 kms. You can either book in advance or come early to the bus station and book yourself a seat. You will get a lot of options and amenities for a comfortable ride to Dehradun. For convenience, you can board a bus from ISBT Kashmere Gate in New Delhi.
FAQ about Kedarkantha Trek
1. What is the best time to visit Kedarkantha Trek ?
The best time to embark on the Kedarkantha Trek is in winter between December – March. Although the trek remains open for most of the year, the monsoon months are better avoided.
2. What is the Kedarkantha trek altitude?
The highest altitude reached during the trek will be 12,500 feet which is the Kedarkantha Summit. The trek from the Kedarkantha base camp to the peak is taken on the fourth day of the trip.
3. What is the Kedarkantha trek cost ?
The Kedarkantha Trek cost is INR 7500 to INR 9500 per person. Trek cost is depend on quality of service. The cost includes pick-up and drop from Dehradun, all meals starting during the 5 days of trek, permits and entry fees and accommodation. Refer to the Inclusions section for details.
4. Is Kedarkantha trek easy for beginners?
The Kedarkantha Trek is broadly easy trek. It is very suitable for first-timers & beginners and can be easily completed by ensuring minimum fitness. The trek is covered at a moderate pace making it convenient for trekkers of all levels.
5. How many days does it take for the Kedarkantha Trek?
Kedarkantha trek is 22 kms long from Sankri and takes 4 days. It takes about two and a half days for the ascent and one and a half days for descent. One day each for travelling to and from Dehradun makes the entire trek of 6 days.
6. What shoes should I bring on the Kedarkantha tour?
Buy only very good quality trekking shoes with excellent grip and water resistance features. Ordinary sports shoes or walking shoes will absolutely not do. We recommend good waterproof shoes. If you want to rental shoes, you can take it in Sankri Village.
7. Is Kedarkantha Trek safe?
The Kedarkantha winter trek is one of the safest treks that is accessible during the winter months. It is absolutely safe for beginners as well. You will have certified and experienced trek guides with you along with support staff. Although if you have any respiratory disorders or any other medical conditions, then its best not to attempt this trek.
8. What is the difficulty level of the Kedarkantha Trek?
The reason why many first-timers begin their affair with trekking with the Kedarkantha Trek is because it’s easy to moderate level. Most of the trail is easy to climb, only a couple of ascents before submitting the Kedarkantha trek are steep.
9. What’s the weather of Kedarkantha in December?
The temperature in December ranges from -3°C to 5°C. With increasing altitudes the temperature keeps dropping with chilling winds. You might also get to experience snowfall on the way which makes the journey even more magical.
10. What is the fitness required for Kedarkantha Trek?
Ensuring an optimum fitness level is must for this trek. People with respiratory problems and asthma are not allowed. Don’t overtrain just before the trek. If you want to enjoy this trek then do daily wise yoga, morning Walk and exercise. Focus on a lot of cardio and breathing exercises.
11. Can we have liquor or smoke while on the trek?
Absolutely not! Intaking alcohol during the whole journey is strictly prohibited since it can cause nausea and vomiting.
12. What kind of food will be provided during the Kedarkantha trek?
Mostly vegetarian meals that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, soup, and hot beverages in the morning and evening with light snacks are provided. Refer the Inclusion section for more details.
13. Are Kedarnath and Kedarkantha Trek the same?
No, Kedarnath and Kedarkantha are not the same. In fact they are separated by a distance of a hundred kms. Kedarnath is one of the four Char Dham and also one of the 12 Jyotirlinga sites in India known for the Kedareswar temple. Kedarkantha is a mountain peak in Uttarakhand of the Garhwal Himalayan range.
14. Will there be snow on the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha winter trek is known for its layers and layers of snow on the ground, tree-tops, and the mountain peaks. You will definitely find snow, may even experience fresh snowfall if you’re travelling between December to February.
15. Will there be mobile connectivity on Kedarkantha Trek?
No, there will be no mobile network during the trek. The last point of mobile network is Purola.
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