Kedarkantha Trek Expedition-India’s Best Winter trek

Duration

6 Days

Max People

99

Min Age

16+

Pickup

Dehradun

Why Kedarkantha Trek? The Perfect Summit Climb for Beginners

Kedarkantha, distinct from the famed Kedarnath Temple, is a 6-day trek through the enchanting Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand. This includes travel from Dehradun to the base camp and back. Renowned as one of India’s most popular treks, Kedarkantha is a favorite among both experienced trekkers and beginners, making it a top choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The trek’s allure is largely due to its exhilarating summit climb. From the base camp, Kedarkantha’s towering peak dominates the horizon. As you set off early in the morning and tackle the snow-clad, steep slopes, the stunning vistas of the Himalayas gradually reveal themselves. The trail is lined with pristine snow, providing a surreal and picturesque setting that is perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Despite the climb’s challenging nature, with its consistent steep gradients and technical sections near the summit, the majestic Himalayan peaks remain a constant companion. Reaching the summit is a profound accomplishment, offering sweeping views and an unmatched sense of satisfaction. The panoramic views from the top include peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana, making it an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the summit, Kedarkantha stands out for its picturesque clearings. These thoughtfully positioned clearings serve as restful spots and scenic campsites, providing excellent vantage points to appreciate the trek’s natural beauty. The trek is also known for its beautiful campsites like Juda ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp, which offer stunning views and a peaceful ambiance.

Moreover, the trek is surrounded by breathtaking forests. The diverse and lush woodlands along all routes are immersive and captivating, making the journey a delight for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers pass through dense pine and oak forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna, adding to the trek’s charm.

Chalo Travellers has extensively explored and navigated this route, ensuring that every detail of the Kedarkantha trek is well-known and expertly managed. Our experienced guides and well-planned itineraries guarantee an unforgettable trekking experience, making Kedarkantha a must-do for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a sense of accomplishment in the Himalayas.

Included/Excluded

  • Accommodation: Guest houses and camps as per the itinerary.
  • Meals: Veg and egg meals from Sankri to Sankri
  • Transportation: Dehradun to Sankri and Sankri to Dehradun
  • Permits and Fees: All required permits and entry fees for Indians.
  • Medical Support: Includes medical kit, stretcher, oxygen, and monitoring equipment.
  • Insurance (Mandatory).
  • Food during the transit.
  • Any kind of personal expenses.
  • Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge or etc.
  • Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

Tour Plan

Day 1 Dehradun to Sankri | Drive - 220 km | Time -10 hours
  • Altitude: 1,950 m (6,400 ft)
  •  Drive Distance: 220 km | 10 hours approx.
  •  Pickup Time: Dehradun at 6:00 AM
  •  Type of Vehicle: Tata Sumo/Tempo Traveler or similar
  •  Network Availability: JIO
  •  Arrival Time at Sankri: 5:00 PM
  •  Accommodation: Sankri hotel

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Dehradun at 6:00 AM in a Tata Sumo or a similar vehicle. Please arrive on time at the pickup point. The drive to Sankri covers a distance of 220 km and will take approximately 10 hours, though it may be longer due to the bumpy mountain roads. The route offers scenic views, passing through charming locations like Mussoorie, Mori, and Naitwar. You'll travel alongside the picturesque Yamuna and Tons Rivers, with pine trees lining the way. The rivers vary in color from milky white to clear green, adding to the drive's allure.

The final stretch of the journey, about 22 km from Sankri, takes you through the stunning Govind National Park, known for its exotic flora and fauna. Upon reaching Sankri, we'll check into a hotel where you can freshen up and relax. Spend the evening exploring this quaint village, which serves as a base camp for numerous Himalayan treks, including the popular Har Ki Dun trek. JIO network is available but can be unreliable.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the village and take in a beautiful sunset against the Himalayan backdrop—ideal for capturing memorable photographs. Dinner options include the hotel restaurant or local village dhabas, where you can savor local flavors. Overnight stay at Sankri prepares us for the trek to start the following day.

Day 02 Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,100 ft) – Trek Distance: 4-5 km | 5 Hours
  • Altitude: 2,800 m (9,100 ft)
  • Trek Distance: 45 km | 5 hours
  • Altitude Gain: 800 m (2,700 ft)
  • Trail Description: Trek through dense maple and pine forests, cross streams, and pass through beautiful meadows.
  • Accommodation: Stay in tents

The trek to Kedarkantha’s summit begins from Sankri, our base village. After an early breakfast, we start the trek to Juda Ka Talab, an alpine lake situated at 9,100 ft. The distance is about 45 km, and the trek will take approximately 5 hours.

As you leave Sankri village, the trail first leads through the village extension of Saur. You'll follow a stream before ascending sharply into a forest of pine and maple trees. Along the way, you'll cross suspension bridges and pass through small mountain villages.

The trail is broad and gradually ascends for the first 23 hours. In summer, the path is lush with greenery and wildflowers, while in winter, it may be covered in snow, requiring gaiters for easier navigation. The forest floor is blanketed with maple and pine leaves, and you'll be treated to expansive meadows. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as Himalayan Langurs, boars, hares, and martens.

The Juda Ka Talab campsite offers breathtaking views, with the alpine lake on one side and a pine forest on the other. The lake's surreal beauty, especially in winter when it forms a sheet of ice, creates a picturesque setting. The lake also features a natural tunnel that provides water to local villagers. According to local legend, the lake is sacred, believed to have been formed by droplets falling from Lord Shiva’s hair as he meditated at Kedarkantha.

After setting up camp, enjoy the serene environment and take nature walks. A bonfire in the evening is perfect for warming up and sharing stories with fellow trekkers under a starlit sky. Overnight stay in tents.

Day 03 Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base (Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,100 ft) – Trek Distance: 4 km | 2.5 Hours
  •  Altitude: 3,100 m (10,100 ft)
  •  Trek Distance: 4 km | 2.5 hours
  •  Altitude Gain: 275 m (900 ft)
  •  Trail Description: Ridge trail under Oak cover, passing through meadows.
  •  Peaks Spotted: Bandarpoonch, Swargrohini peaks, Ranglana, Kala Nag
  •  Accommodation: Stay in tents

Begin your day early with a warm breakfast and a breathtaking sunrise view as you set off towards the Kedarkantha Base Camp. Located at 10,100 ft, the base camp is a 4 km trek from Juda Ka Talab, taking approximately 2.5 hours. The trail is wellmarked and easy to follow.

The route takes you through a forest of pine and oak trees, eventually opening up into expansive meadows dotted with shepherd huts. As you progress, you'll be treated to stunning views of towering Himalayan peaks such as Swargrohini, Bandarpoonch, Ranglana, and Kala Nag. These majestic peaks, like natural jewels, offer a spectacular backdrop that will remain etched in your memory.

The Kedarkantha trail is relatively easy and beginnerfriendly, even during peak winter. Whether covered in snow or lush greenery, the trail is enjoyable and accessible for everyone. Upon reaching the base camp, take some time to rest, refresh yourself, and explore the surroundings. The clear night sky, filled with twinkling stars, will add to the beauty of your evening.

Given the high altitude, temperatures can drop significantly, so make sure to layer up for warmth. Retire early to your tent to ensure a good night’s rest, preparing for the summit trek the following day.

Day 04 Kedarkantha Base to Kedarkantha Summit and Descend to Hargaon
  • Summit Altitude: 3,800 m (12,500 ft)
  •  Hargaon Altitude: 2,700 m (8,900 ft)
  •  Trek Distance: 6 km | 7 hours
  •  Altitude Loss: 1,100 m (3,600 ft)
  •  Accommodation: Stay in tents

Today's trek takes you from the Kedarkantha Base Camp to the Kedarkantha Summit, reaching an elevation of 12,500 ft. After spending some time at the summit, you will descend back to the base camp for lunch before continuing your descent to the Hargaon campsite. The total distance covered is about 6 km, and the trek takes approximately 7 hours.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out for the summit. The trek starts with a gradual incline through forests of towering oaks and pines, with the crunch of leaves underfoot and the soothing sounds of gushing streams. As you approach the peak, the trail becomes steeper, demanding more effort and fitness.

Reaching the summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the Himalayas, providing a sense of accomplishment and inner peace. At the top, you’ll find a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, adding a spiritual touch to the breathtaking scenery.

After soaking in the views, descend back to the base camp for lunch. Following lunch, continue your descent towards Hargaon. The downhill trek is relatively easier and faster, leading you to the Hargaon campsite at 8,900 ft. Upon arrival, set up your camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest for the night, reflecting on the day’s achievements.

Day 05 Hargaon Camp to Sankri (Altitude: 1,950 m / 6,400 ft) – Trek Distance: 6 km | 3-4 Hours
  •  Altitude: 1,950 m (6,400 ft)
  •  Trek Distance: 6 km | 34 hours
  •  Altitude Loss: 850 m (2,800 ft)
  •  Trail Description: Descend through dense pine thickets.
  •  Accommodation: Stay in a hotel

On the final day of the trek, you will descend from Hargaon to Sankri. Starting at an altitude of 9,200 ft and descending to 6,400 ft, the trek covers a distance of about 6 km, taking approximately 3 to 4 hours.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and enjoy the mesmerizing sunrise in the Himalayas. After breakfast, set out for your descent towards Sankri. The trail leads through dense forests and alongside gurgling streams, where you can refill your water bottles. As you descend, the forest gradually opens up to reveal a ridge with panoramic views of the Har ki Dun Valley. The lush green slopes of the valley provide a stunning visual treat.

Continuing the descent, the forest thickens again before finally opening up as you reach Sankri. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the evening, explore the village at your leisure. Though Sankri is small, you can find wooden handicrafts, toys, and home decor items as souvenirs. Engage with the locals to learn about their lifestyle and the strong religious traditions of the area.

Sankri is known for its relaxed pace of life, with about 120 families living in wooden huts. They subsist on staples like potatoes, rice, and apples. The village occasionally hosts fairs or melas featuring traditional singing and dancing. For dinner, you can choose between local dhabas offering delicious cuisine or dine at your hotel. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at the hotel after your rewarding trek.

Day 06 Sankri to Dehradun – Drive Distance: 220 km | 10 Hours
  •  Drive Distance: 220 km | 10 hours
  •  Dropoff: Dehradun Station in Tata Sumo or similar vehicle
  •  Meals: Breakfast and lunch not included
  •  Arrival Time: 5:00  6:00 PM

On the final day of your trek, we will journey back to Dehradun, cherishing the memories of your adventure. Depart from Sankri by 7:00 AM to start the 220 km drive, which will take approximately 10 hours.

We’ll travel via NH 123, enjoying the scenic beauty of the route with picturesque vistas. Expect to arrive in Dehradun by 5:00  6:00 PM. Please plan your onward travel accordingly.

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