How to Reach Kedarkantha
How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek: Complete Guide to Reaching Kedarkantha Base Camp
Are you looking for a winter trek that will capture your heart forever? A trek that will surprise you every day? If yes, then your search ends with the Kedarkantha Peak Trek.
Standing at 12,500 feet above sea level, surrounded by a pristine blanket of snow that sparkles like diamonds under the morning sun, that’s the view from the Kedarkantha summit. The majestic peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kala Nag stand tall before you like ancient guardians of the Himalayas. But before you can conquer this jewel in Uttarakhand’s trekking crown, you need to know how to reach the Kedarkantha trek base camp from wherever you are in India.
Kedarkantha, literally meaning “throat of Lord Shiva,” is a pilgrimage-like journey that transforms every adventurer who dares to undertake this adventure of a lifetime. This comprehensive guide by Cliffhangers India will help you explore every possible route to reach the Kedarkantha Peak Trek. It’s your chance to be transported from crowded metros to the peaceful base camp in Sankri village. We’ll uncover every transportation secret, timing trick, and cost-saving strategy to make your journey as smooth as the pristine snow you’ll soon be walking on.
Let’s discover together the best ways of reaching the Kedarkantha Trek.
Kedarkantha Basic Itinerary
The Kedarkantha trek is a 6-day adventure that begins and ends at Sankri village that is situated at an altitude of 6,400 feet. This moderate-grade trek covers approximately 20 kilometers and is perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers seeking winter wonderland experiences.
- Day 1: Arrival at Sankri village (6,400 ft) – Base camp preparation and local exploration
- Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (9,100 ft) – 4 km trek through dense pine forests
- Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 ft) – 4 km gradual ascent through meadows
- Day 4: Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 ft) and descent to Hargaon Camp (8,900 ft) – Summit day covering 6 km
- Day 5: Hargaon Camp to Sankri (6,400 ft) – 4 km descent through diverse terrain
- Day 6: Departure from Sankri
The trek is accessible year-round, but winter months (December to April) offer the most spectacular snow-covered landscapes. The Kedarkantha trek distance from Sankri to summit is approximately 20 kilometers round trip, making it an ideal weekend adventure for urban dwellers seeking Himalayan thrills.
Want to know the detailed itinerary? Click here to for the Kedarkantha Tour Package!
How to Reach Kedarkantha from Major Cities of India
Delhi – The Capital Connect
Delhi serves as the primary gateway for most trekkers planning the Kedarkantha trek. With excellent connectivity to Dehradun, the journey from India’s capital to the base camp involves multiple transportation modes and scenic routes.
By Flight
Route: Delhi → Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) → Sankri
- Flight Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet operate daily flights
- Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹8,000 depending on season and booking time
- Airport to Dehradun City: Pre-paid taxis available (₹500-800) or airport shuttle services
- Dehradun to Sankri: 210 km by road (6-7 hours), shared taxis available for ₹800-1,200 per person
The flight option is fastest but requires advance booking for better prices. Morning flights are recommended to complete the Dehradun to Sankri journey in daylight.
By Train
Route: Delhi → Dehradun Railway Station → Sankri
- Popular Trains:
- Nanda Devi Express (12205) – Departure: 11:50 PM, Arrival: 5:40 AM
- Mussoorie Express (14041) – Departure: 10:10 PM, Arrival: 4:25 AM
- Journey Time: 6-7 hours
- Cost: ₹300-1,500 (Sleeper to AC classes)
- Frequency: Daily services available
For those wondering how to reach Kedarkantha trek by train, the overnight journey to Dehradun is most convenient, allowing morning departure to Sankri.
By Bus
Route: Delhi → Dehradun ISBT → Sankri
- Departure Points: Kashmere Gate ISBT, Anand Vihar ISBT
- Bus Types: Volvo AC, ordinary state buses, private operators
- Journey Time: 6-8 hours to Dehradun
- Cost: ₹400-1,000
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes during peak season
Government and private buses run throughout the day. Night buses are popular among budget travelers.
By Road
For those planning how to reach Kedarkantha trek by car, the Delhi to Sankri route offers scenic drives through Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Route: Delhi → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Dehradun → Purola → Sankri
- Total Distance: 460 km
- Driving Time: 8-10 hours with breaks
- Fuel Cost: ₹3,000-4,000 (petrol)
- Route Highlights: Views of Shivalik hills, Yamuna river crossings
Important Stops:
- Muzaffarnagar: Fuel and refreshments
- Roorkee: Lunch break and vehicle check
- Dehradun: Last major city for supplies
- Purola: Local permits and guide arrangements
What is the best time to visit Kedarkantha Trek? It’s winters!
Mumbai – The Financial Hub Gateway
Mumbai trekkers have limited direct connectivity but excellent flight options to reach the Kedarkantha base camp efficiently.
By Flight
Route: Mumbai → Dehradun (via Delhi connection) → Sankri
- Direct Flights: Currently no direct flights available
- Connection Options: Via Delhi (2-3 hours layover recommended)
- Total Travel Time: 5-7 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹8,000-15,000 for round trip
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara offer connecting flights
Alternative Route: Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun Morning departures from Mumbai allow same-day arrival in Dehradun, enabling next-day Sankri departure.
By Train
Route: Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Mumbai to Delhi Trains:
- Rajdhani Express (12951/12953) – 16 hours
- August Kranti Rajdhani (12955) – 17 hours
- Total Journey Time: 24-26 hours including Delhi-Dehradun connection
- Cost: ₹1,500-4,000 depending on class
This option requires overnight stays but offers budget-friendly travel for extended trips.
By Bus
Route: Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Mumbai to Delhi: 24 hours by Volvo AC buses (₹1,200-2,000)
- Operators: RedBus, MSRTC, private operators
- Total Journey Time: 30-35 hours
- Budget Option: Most economical but time-consuming
Only recommended for budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Kolkata – The Eastern Approach
Kolkata presents unique challenges due to distance but offers reliable railway connectivity for reaching Kedarkantha trek.
By Flight
Route: Kolkata → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Flight Options: Multiple daily connections via Delhi
- Total Travel Time: 6-8 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹10,000-18,000 for round trip
- Recommended Layover: 3-4 hours in Delhi for comfortable connection
Early morning departures from Kolkata allow evening arrival in Dehradun.
By Train
Route: Kolkata → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Primary Options:
- Poorva Express (12381) – Kolkata to Delhi (17 hours)
- Rajdhani Express (12313/12314) – 17 hours
- Total Journey Time: 26-30 hours including connections
- Cost: ₹1,200-3,500
Direct Route Alternative: Kolkata → Haridwar → Dehradun
- Kolkata-Haridwar Express: Limited services, 20+ hours
- Haridwar to Dehradun: 1 hour by bus/taxi
By Bus
Route: Kolkata → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Journey Time: 35-40 hours total
- Cost: ₹1,500-2,500
- Feasibility: Not recommended due to excessive travel time
Only suitable for extremely budget-conscious travelers with ample time.
Kedarkantha Trek is an easy to moderate level difficult rek.
Chennai – The Southern Gateway
Chennai trekkers face the longest journey but have excellent flight connectivity for efficient Kedarkantha trek access.
By Flight
Route: Chennai → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Flight Frequency: 8-10 daily connections via Delhi
- Total Travel Time: 6-9 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹12,000-20,000 for round trip
- Optimal Layover: 2-4 hours in Delhi
Alternative Route: Chennai → Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun Some travelers prefer Mumbai connections for better timing alignment.
By Train
Route: Chennai → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Primary Trains:
- Tamil Nadu Express (12621) – 28 hours
- Grand Trunk Express (12615) – 32 hours
- Total Journey Time: 35-40 hours including connections
- Cost: ₹1,800-4,500
This option requires 2-3 days of travel but offers cultural diversity experiences.
By Bus
Route: Chennai → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Journey Time: 40-45 hours
- Cost: ₹2,000-3,500
- Recommendation: Not advisable due to extreme travel duration
Bangalore – The IT Capital Connection
Bangalore offers multiple connectivity options with reasonable travel times for Kedarkantha enthusiasts.
By Flight
Route: Bangalore → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Flight Options: 6-8 daily connections via Delhi
- Total Travel Time: 5-7 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹10,000-18,000 for round trip
- Best Connections: Morning departures allow evening Dehradun arrival
Alternative: Bangalore → Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun (for better fare options)
By Train
Route: Bangalore → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Primary Options:
- Rajdhani Express (12429) – 34 hours
- Karnataka Express (12627) – 36 hours
- Total Journey Time: 40-45 hours including connections
- Cost: ₹2,000-5,000
Direct Alternative: Bangalore → Haridwar → Dehradun
- Haridwar Express: Weekly service, 32 hours
- Advantage: Reduces Delhi connection complexity
By Bus
Route: Bangalore → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Journey Time: 38-42 hours
- Cost: ₹2,500-4,000
- Operators: VRL Travels, SRS Travels, government buses
Suitable for budget travelers with flexible schedules.
Pune – The Cultural Hub Route
Pune’s proximity to Mumbai provides excellent connectivity options for Kedarkantha trek aspirants.
By Flight
Route: Pune → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Flight Frequency: 4-6 daily connections via Delhi
- Total Travel Time: 5-8 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹9,000-16,000 for round trip
- Optimal Timing: Morning departures for same-day Dehradun arrival
Alternative Route: Pune → Mumbai → Delhi → Dehradun (budget option)
By Train
Route: Pune → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Primary Trains:
- Pune-Delhi Duronto (12295) – 18 hours
- Sinhagad Express (11401) to Mumbai, then Mumbai-Delhi trains
- Total Journey Time: 25-30 hours including connections
- Cost: ₹1,500-3,500
Direct Route: Pune → Haridwar → Dehradun
- Haridwar Express: Limited weekly services
- Journey Time: 22-25 hours
- Advantage: Avoids Delhi congestion
By Bus
Route: Pune → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Journey Time: 28-32 hours
- Cost: ₹1,800-3,200
- Operators: Private Volvo services, state transport
More feasible than other southern cities due to shorter distance.
Thiruvananthapuram – The Southern Tip Journey
The longest journey among all cities, requiring strategic planning for efficient Kedarkantha trek access.
By Flight
Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Flight Options: 2-4 daily connections via Delhi
- Total Travel Time: 7-10 hours including layovers
- Cost: ₹15,000-25,000 for round trip
- Recommended Layover: 4-6 hours in Delhi for comfort
Alternative Connections: Via Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai based on fare availability.
By Train
Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Primary Options:
- Rajdhani Express (12431) – 42 hours
- Kerala Express (12625) – 48 hours
- Total Journey Time: 48-52 hours including connections
- Cost: ₹2,500-6,000
Direct Alternative: Thiruvananthapuram → Haridwar → Dehradun
- Limited Services: Weekly trains available
- Journey Time: 45-48 hours
By Bus
Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Delhi → Dehradun → Sankri
- Journey Time: 45-50 hours
- Cost: ₹3,000-5,000
- Feasibility: Only for extremely budget-conscious travelers
How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek from Dehradun
Once you reach Dehradun through any of the above routes, the final leg to Sankri village (Kedarkantha base camp) requires careful planning. The dehradun to kedarkantha distance is approximately 210 kilometers through mountainous terrain.
Once you reach Dehradun through any of the major routes, the final stretch to Sankri village, the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek, requires careful planning. The Dehradun to Kedarkantha distance is approximately 210 kilometers, passing through winding mountainous terrain. Travelers can choose from different transportation options depending on their budget and preference.
Shared taxis are a popular choice, costing around ₹800–1,200 per person, with a journey time of 6–7 hours. These usually depart from Dehradun Railway Station or ISBT, with early morning slots between 6–8 AM being the best for daylight travel. For those traveling in groups of 4–6, hiring a private car is a convenient option, costing ₹4,000–6,000 for a round trip, offering flexibility and ample luggage space while cutting down the travel time to about 5–6 hours.
Budget travelers can opt for local buses, which cost between ₹300–500 per person and take 7–8 hours, with 2–3 services operating daily on the route via Dehradun → Purola → Mori → Sankri. The journey itself is a scenic delight, offering mesmerizing views of the Yamuna River near Barkot, lush apple orchards around Purola, charming Garhwali villages, and dense pine and deodar forests along the way.
Transportation Summary
| Origin City | Best Mode | Total Time | Approximate Cost | Recommended Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Delhi |
Train + Bus
|
12-14 hours
|
12-14 hours
₹1,500-3,000
|
Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri |
|
Mumbai |
Flight + Bus
|
8-10 hours
|
₹10,000-18,000
|
Mumbai→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri
|
|
Kolkata |
Flight + Bus
|
9-12 hours
|
₹12,000-20,000
|
Kolkata→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri |
|
Chennai |
Flight + Bus
|
10-13 hours
|
₹14,000-22,000
|
Chennai→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri |
|
Bangalore |
Flight + Bus
|
8-11 hours
|
₹12,000-20,000
|
Bangalore→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri
|
|
Pune |
Flight + Bus
|
8-10 hours
|
₹11,000-18,000
|
Pune→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri |
|
Thiruvananthapuram
|
Flight + Bus
|
10-14 hours
|
₹17,000-27,000
|
TVM→Delhi→Dehradun→Sankri |
Table Note: Costs are approximate and vary based on season, booking time, and service class. Times include all connections and road travel to Sankri base camp.
Kedarkantha Trek Package Options
For those seeking comprehensive solutions, several kedarkantha trek package options are available:
Budget Packages (₹8,000-12,000):
- Basic accommodation
- Simple meals
- Group equipment
- Local guide
Standard Packages (₹12,000-18,000):
- Comfortable stays
- Quality meals
- Personal gear support
- Experienced guides
- Transportation from Dehradun
Premium Packages (₹18,000-25,000):
- Luxury camping
- Gourmet meals
- Professional photography
- Personal porter service
- Complete gear provision
FAQ's
What is the best time to attempt the Kedarkantha trek?
The best time for Kedarkantha trek is from December to April for snow experiences, while May to June and September to November offer clear weather conditions. Winter months provide the classic snow-covered landscape that makes this trek famous, but require appropriate gear and experience. Post-monsoon months (September-November) offer clear mountain views and pleasant weather.
How difficult is the Kedarkantha trek for beginners?
Kedarkantha is classified as a moderate-grade trek, making it perfect for beginners with basic fitness levels. The gradual altitude gain, well-marked trails, and relatively short daily distances (4-6 km) make it accessible. However, winter treks require additional preparation for cold weather and snow conditions. First-time trekkers should focus on cardio fitness and basic hiking experience.
What permits are required for the Kedarkantha trek?
No special permits are required for Indian citizens to attempt the Kedarkantha trek. Foreign nationals need valid visas and may require additional documentation. However, local forest permissions are sometimes needed, which trek operators usually arrange. It’s advisable to carry valid ID proofs and inform local authorities about your trekking plans.
What should I pack for the Kedarkantha trek?
Essential items include: layered clothing system, waterproof jacket and pants, insulated sleeping bag (-10°C rated), trekking boots with good grip, headlamp, sunglasses, sunscreen, first aid kit, and personal medications. Winter treks require additional warm clothing, gloves, and snow gaiters. Many trek operators provide group equipment like tents and cooking gear.
Are there accommodation facilities available on the trek route?
Accommodation on the Kedarkantha trek is primarily camping-based. Sankri village offers guesthouses and homestays for the first and last nights. During the trek, you’ll camp at designated sites: Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp, and Hargaon Camp. Most trekkers use provided tents or carry their own camping equipment.
What is the cost breakdown for a complete Kedarkantha trek?
A typical Kedarkantha trek budget includes: Transportation to/from Sankri (₹2,000-8,000 depending on origin city), trek package or local guide (₹8,000-25,000), personal gear purchase/rental (₹3,000-8,000), food and accommodation in Sankri (₹1,000-2,000), and miscellaneous expenses (₹2,000-3,000). Total costs range from ₹16,000-46,000 per person based on choices and origin city.
The journey to Kedarkantha base camp is as rewarding as the trek itself, offering glimpses of India’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Plan wisely, pack appropriately, and prepare for an adventure that will etch itself into your memory forever.
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