Trek Difficulty
Easy-Moderate
Trek Duration
6 days
Highest Altitude
12,500 ft
Suitable For
12-62 years
Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha Trek is the finest and most famous winter trek in India. And the Kedarkantha Peak is a fascinating peak you will be beholding while being on this trek. As the snow starts falling in December, scores of trekkers throng this trek to enjoy the fantastic landscape that this trek offers. It offers an attractive view of the Himalayas with the snow-capped peaks and the white landscape of snow. The trek covers around 20 km and is at a height of 3810m.
What attracts so many trekkers to this trek is the fact that this is doable by even beginners and seasoned trekkers alike. This trek, apart from the snow wonderland, offers a bouquet of lush landscapes with a varied collection of flora, fauna, and frozen ponds. Nestled beautifully in the western Garhwal in Uttarkashi district, this trek is categorized as easy.
This beautiful trek begins from Deharadun from where there is a long drive of 220km to the base camp Sankri which is at an altitude of 6400ft. The drive takes around 10 hours of journey. The first trekking day starts from base camp Sankri and goes to Jadu Ka Talab which is around 5 hours of trek. The trail winds through thick forest, lush meadows, dancing streams, and a cluster of stunning maple trees.
From Jaju Ka Talab, the trek is around 4 km taking the trekkers to the base of Kedarkantha.
The trekkers walk through meadows and get a view of snow-capped mighty Himalayan peaks circling the area.
From the Kedarkantha base the trek winds towards Kedarkantha Peak. This day offers a bit of a challenge. However, the scenic beauty makes one forget all the tiredness of the journey. After summiting the peak, the trek goes back to Horegaon camp on the same day.
Trek Fee
₹6,500.00
Book the tour
What are the Highlights of the Trek?
- Kedarkantha Peak: The key highlight of Kedarkantha trek is truly the Kedarkantha summit which is located at an high-altitude og 12,500 ft. The way to the top does involve a lot of effort but is totally worth it. It feels amazing and peaceful when you are there.
- Temples: Small temples of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh are situated there at the summit. The peak holds a lot of religious importance in Hinduism.
- Juda ka Talab Lake: The beautiful camping location of the trek is this Juda ka Talab trek. There are beliefs that lord shiva used to meditate here and the droplets falling from his hair created the lake, hence the name. The serene lake freezes in the winter.
- Breathtaking Sunrises & Sunsets: The views in the early morning when sun has just rised is unparalleled. Even in the golden hour of the evening, the sky changes colour from bluish-white to golden and the surrounding turns into hues.
Fixed Departure
Date | Status |
---|---|
06 Jul - 13 Jul 2024 | Full |
07 Jul - 14 Jul 2024 | Full |
13 Jul - 20 Jul 2024 | Full |
14 Jul - 21 Jul 2024 | Full |
19 Jul - 26 Jul 2024 | Full |
22 Jul - 29 Jul 2024 | Full |
27 Jul - 03 Aug 2024 | Full |
28 Jul - 04 Aug 2024 | Full |
02 Aug - 09 Aug 2024 | Full |
03 Aug - 10 Aug 2024 | Full |
10 Aug - 17 Aug 2024 | Full |
12 Aug - 19 Aug 2024 | Full |
16 Aug - 23 Aug 2024 | Full |
19 Aug - 26 Aug 2024 | Full |
23 Aug - 30 Aug 2024 | Full |
26 Aug - 02 Sep 2024 | Full |
30 Aug - 06 Sep 2024 | Open |
01 Sep - 08 Sep 2024 | Full |
Kedarkantha Trek- A Detailed Itinerary
- Time taken: Full Day
- Drive Distance: 220 km
You will have to reach Dehradun from your place. The journey of this trek starts from Dehradun from where there is a drive to Sankri. You can take a shared cab or avail our transportation facility. You need to be available at Dehradun at 6;30 in the morning. As the drive is day-long, you will be stopping around noon time for the lunch break.
Prepare yourself for the long drive of 220 km. The road is bumpy and rough in some places. The drive is rewarding though as the views are quite scenic traveling in the last 20 km via Govind National Park which is quite famous and home to varied flora.
Once you reach the Sankri, you will be staying overnight at a hotel or homestay that you will have to book in advance. In Sankri, the mobile network is weak. You will reach this place by 6 p.m and enjoy the sunset view as the sun sets on Greater Himalayas.
- Altitude: 1,950m to 2,773 m
- Time taken:5 hours
- Trek Distance: 4km
This is the first trekking day. Start early in the morning after taking a nice breakfast. Full your water bottles and get ready for the trek with proper gear. Your trek leader will guide you through the trail.
The trail starts at Sankri village and blends well into Sor. Immediately after the village, there is a steep climb. You will see the river stream and that is the trail you will have to follow to reach Kedarkantha. The climb has a few bridge crossings that go through dense forests of maple and pine trees. This walk in the middle of the forest while you hear the sound of the shimmering water stream.
Further up, you will see highland village people, villagers will be seeing ferrying their wooden logs, sticks and carrying their home essentials. The walk also gets you to see Himalayan Languars hanging from tree branches and hopping from one branch to another. Himalayan Languars are shy in nature, so they quickly jump from one tree to another to avoid any direct confrontation with strangers. There are other animals in this area like boars, hares, martens, etc.
Walking further up, crossing river streams you will be at last reaching your Jadu Ka Talab. This place is a view to behold. To the left is the big lake contrasting with the thick oak and pine forest towards your right. One cannot ask more breathtaking campsite than this. You will see trekkers capturing this fascinating view with their phones and camera. Later in the evening, trekkers gossip and enjoy around a bonfire while taking hot tea or coffee. You will hear cheerful voices from all the trekkers basking in nature.
- Altitude: 2,773 m to 3,413m
- Time taken: 3 hours
- Trek Distance: 4km
This is the day you will be trekking towards the base of Kedarkantha. The trail follows almost
a straight path and can be seen from far. The trail commences through thick pine and oak forest. The trail gets you to see highland life as there will be many nomad and shepherd houses in the sprawling meadow before you. On the way, one sees a magnificent view of Bandarpoonch, Kala Ng, Ranglana mountain peaks all covered in snow. The view is rewarding for all nature lovers. This is the view that you will be craving for once you will be back in cities and hustle-bustle of life.
Shortly, you have arrived at the Kedarkantha base. You will be served food. Relax and get immersed in the beauty surrounding you. In the night enjoy the starry night and wonder at the natural bounties and beauties of life.
Stargazing is also one of the striking features of this trek. In the night you will be gazing and wondering at the Milky Way up above stretching far and wide. These sights you never get in pollution-filled cities where all the time sky is obscured with pollution and haze.
- Altitude: 3,413m to 2,700m via Kedarkantha Peak 3,810m
- Time taken: 7 hours
- Trek Distance: 6km
This is the summit day. This is the day for which Kedarkantha is mostly famous and people across the country come. On this day you will be summiting the Kedarkantha Peak.
You will have to leave early from your campsite. Right after breakfast and readying yourself with proper trekking gear, you will start your trekking for the day. The trek will consume your entire day. Most of the trekkers leave as the first rays of sun hit your campsite. As you will see the sunrise, which we hardly face in our homes, you will see the divine and amazing beauty and effect these rays will have on you. The vibe and aura are other-worldly and for long you will cherish these moments well spent.
There are many trails from the base that reach for the summit. However, the best among all is the most frequently followed trail which has a steady climb. This trail again snakes through an oak forest. Slowly from far, you will see the Kedarkanth peak becoming nearer to you. This will give you the motivation and allure you to walk towards the peak. However, the trail becomes a bit difficult near the summit.
Once you reach the top of the summit, you will see a gorgeous temple located there. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and Parvati. It is quite a devotional scene up here. It also houses a small shrine of Ganesh. The summit gives a fantastic 360 view of the snow-covered mountains. This view is beyond any expression. You would want to spend more time here, getting more of this divine beauty. Take as much time as you can here and rejuvenate your body and soul.
Shortly after the summit, you will have to descend back to the next base camp. The trail once again takes you via a forest of maple, pine, and oak trees. There will be shepherd houses and frozen streams all along.
Once you have reached your base camp Hargaon, relax and enjoy. This will be followed by food and overnight stay in tents.
- Altitude: 2,700m to 1,950m
- Time taken: 4 hours
- Trek Distance: 6km
This is the last trekking day. You will have to leave the base camp and head towards Sankri. This day is your descend day.
Start your day with breakfast, get ready in your trekking gear, and follow the well definite trail. The trail is well marked and is stony.
Walking through the rich forest which is the trademark of this trek, you will see the magnificent river streams cascading down jubilantly. Shortly afterward, you reach a ridge that gives a breathtaking panoramic view of Har ki Dun valley. This valley is rightly called the valley of gods. The valley is quite rich in flora and fauna. You will see almost all the trekkers stopping at this panoramic view and getting enough of their photography skills. They take as much time as they can to capture this beautiful moment.
As you will descend from this view, you will shortly see the villagers and then you will reach Sankri. This marks the end of your trekking days for Kedrkantha Trek.
Once you have settled in your hotel room, you can in the evening roam around the village and explore the village life. Buy some souvenirs from here and see the local population that still lives by traditional standards. Life seems to have stopped here at Sankri which gives you a peaceful feel about this place. The place has farming as the occupation and people are quite religious.
- Time taken: Full Day
- Drive Distance: 220 km
This is the last day of your Kedarkantha journey. The bus will take you from Sankri to Dehradun.
This is the same journey that you followed on your first day. This is the day-long drive to your next and last spot. The drive goes through some scenic ambiance and beautiful surroundings. Cherish these last views of your journey. There are picturesque landscapes and a magnificent ambiance that you will see on your drive back to Dehradun.
You will reach Dehradun by 7 p.m.
What are the Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- All meals. Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner. We provide nutritious veg food and try not to repeat the dishes.
- Camp stay on all nights in high-quality tents on a double-sharing basis. Sleeping bags, sleeping mattresses, and dining tents.
- Mountaineering experienced trek leaders, guides, and experienced cooks.
- All the mountain medicine includes first aid, oxygen cylinder, etc.
- Passes and permits.
Exclusions
- Lunch on the first day.
- Personal expenses.
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusion list.
Kedarkantha Trek Package & Cost
Kedarkantha Trek Package
Kedarkantha trek package is a popular trekking package in Uttarakhand, India. The trek offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts. The trek package includes everything from transportation to food and accommodation, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable experience.
The trek begins in Sankri, a small village in the Uttarkashi district. The trail takes you through dense forests, meadows, and streams, providing ample opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. As you progress further, the landscape changes dramatically, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The highlight of the trek is the summit of Kedarkantha, which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The Kedarkantha trek package usually includes transportation from Dehradun or Haridwar to Sankri and back. Accommodation is provided in tents during the trek, while food is cooked by professional trekking chefs. The trek is led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna and ensure that your safety is a top priority. The trek package also includes all necessary equipment, such as camping gear, sleeping bags, and trekking poles. This saves you the hassle of having to carry heavy gear and allows you to focus on the experience.
The Kedarkantha trek is suitable for people of all fitness levels, as the trail is well-defined and easy to follow. The trek is best done in the winter months from December to February, when the weather is clear, and the snow-capped peaks offer a breathtaking view and the hassle of getting information can be lessen with the help of Cliffhangers India.
Kedarkantha Trek Cost
The Kedarkantha Trek cost is 5500 at the basic level. The cost of the Kedarkantha Trek typically includes the following expenses:
Permits: To trek in the Kedarkantha region, trekkers need to obtain the necessary permits from the forest department. The cost of these permits varies from year to year, but it is usually around INR 500 per person.
Transportation: The cost of transportation to and from the trekking base camp includes the cost of public or private transport, as well as the cost of hiring a jeep or taxi. The cost of transportation can vary depending on the distance traveled, the type of vehicle used, and the time of year.
Accommodation: During the trek, trekkers stay in basic trekking huts or tents, which are provided by trekking companies. The cost of accommodation is usually included in the overall cost of the trek; but it can vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation chosen.
Food: The cost of food during the trek is usually included in the overall cost; and it can vary depending on the type of food provided, the number of meals, and the quality of the food.
Guide and Porter Services: Hiring a guide and a porter is highly recommended, especially for inexperienced trekkers. The cost of these services can vary depending on the duration of the trek and the number of trekkers. Cliffhangers India is of abundant help when you need to know about the best expenditure.
The overall cost of the Kedarkantha Trek can range from INR 5500 to INR 15,000 per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. It is important to note that the cost of the trek can vary depending on the time of year, the duration of the trek, and the number of trekkers. The Kedarkantha Trek is an affordable and accessible trekking destination; it offers an unforgettable adventure experience.
Best Time for Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha Trek is the best winter trek. Its best season is from December to April. This trek is most enjoyed and famous for snow. This is also one of the few treks which are accessible during winter. Most of the trek gets closed down because of heavy snow and rough weather.
Kedarkantha, however, offers a balanced level of snow which makes trekking in snow possible and rewarding. The summit of this trek is most rewarding giving the view of an entire Himalayan range in its surrounding with snow-peaked mountains.
December to January: During these months the night temperature goes below zero degrees and during the day the temperature hovers around 10 degrees. If you want to enjoy your Christmas and New Year then these are the best months. You will see snow all along the trail.
However, during the first weeks of December, it doesn’t snow. December is quite the start of the winter and as the days go into the end of December and January it offers good snowfall.
March to May: The snow starts to melt starting from March-end. By the time you get to May, you won’t be seeing the thick snow trails as in January and February. The temperature during the night goes above zero and during the day it hovers around 15 degrees.
Essential Information
Kedarkantha Trek Height
Kedarkantha is well-known for its stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush green forests, making it an ideal destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Kedarkantha trek has an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, and is considered to be one of the highest treks in India. The trek starts from Sankri, a small village in Uttarakhand and takes you through dense forests, rolling meadows, and quaint hamlets, before reaching the summit of Kedarkantha peak. The trek is considered to be relatively easy, making it suitable for both amateur and experienced trekkers.
One of the main highlights of the Kedarkantha trek is the stunning panoramic views it offers. From the summit, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, and Black Peak. The summit is also a great spot for stargazing, and trekkers can enjoy a clear view of the night sky, far away from the city lights.
Kedarkantha trek also offers an opportunity to experience the local culture and way of life. During the trek, trekkers can interact with the local people and learn about their customs, traditions, and daily routines.
Kedarkantha Trek Route
The Kedarkantha trek route is located in the picturesque region of Garhwal and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. The trek starts from the village of Sankri and passes through dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks before finally reaching the summit of Kedarkantha Mountain.
The trek route of Kedarkantha trek follows a well-defined trail that is easy to follow and is suitable for trekkers of all skill levels. The trek begins with a gentle ascent through dense oak and rhododendron forests. As you gain altitude, the forest starts to thin out, and the trail opens up to stunning views of the valley below. You will cross several streams and rivulets along the way, and there are plenty of opportunities to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights of the Kedarkantha trek is the summit of Kedarkantha Mountain, which stands at an altitude of 12,500 feet. The summit offers unobstructed views of the Himalayan range, and on a clear day, you can see peaks like Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, and Black Peak. The trek to the summit is strenuous but rewarding, and the 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape are truly awe-inspiring.
Kedarkantha Trek From Delhi
The trek starts from Sankri, a small village located in the Uttarkashi district, and takes you to the summit of Kedarkantha peak at an altitude of 12,500 feet. The trek offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty and a chance to connect with nature.
The trek starts with a gradual ascent through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As you progress higher, the landscape changes dramatically and you are greeted with wide-open meadows, snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear streams. The highlight of the trek is the summit camp, where you can spend a night under the stars, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas.
Kedarkantha trek from delhi is the nearest way to reach for the trek. This trek is accessible from Delhi, the capital city of India and can be easily reached by road. The journey from Delhi to Sankri takes about 10 hours and is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike, and can be completed in 5-6 days, depending on the speed of the trekker.
FAQ's
- Winters: The night temperature goes below zero degrees and the day temperature hovers around 10 degrees.
- Summers: The night temperature is around 5 degrees and the day temperature is around 15 degrees.
- By Air: Dehradun is a well-connected airport through all the major airports. This is around 25kms from the city. Almost every day there is a flight scheduled from Delhi to Dehradun.
- By Train: The overnight train leaves from Delhi to Dehradun. You can book either Nandadevi Express and Dehradun Express
- By Bus: Like the train service, there is a regular bus going from Delhi to Dehradun. You can either take the government-run bus service or get a shared cab.
December to January: During these months the night temperature goes below zero degrees and during the day the temperature hovers around 10 degrees.
If you want to enjoy your Christmas and New Year then these are the best months. You will see snow all along the trail. However, during the first weeks of December, it doesn’t snow. December is quite the start of the winter and as the days go into the end of December and January it offers good snowfall.
March to May: The snow starts to melt starting from March-end. By the time you get to May, you won’t be seeing the thick snow trails as in January and February. The temperature during the night goes above zero and during the day it hovers around 15 degrees.