The Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand, located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand, is one of the most popular winter treks in India. Its charm lies in the snow-covered trails, breathtaking 360-degree views of Himalayan peaks, and the sense of adventure that culminates in reaching the summit. Suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike, this trek offers a perfect blend of challenge and serenity. This detailed itinerary will help you plan your journey efficiently, with travel tips for each day to make the most of the trek.
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (Drive 210 km | 8-10 hours)
The adventure begins with a drive from Dehradun to Sankri, a quaint village that serves as the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek. The road winds through beautiful valleys, pine forests, and rivers. En route, you pass through charming towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori.
Pro Tip:
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4-5 hours trek | 4 km)
On the second day, the trek officially begins. The trail takes you through dense pine and oak forests. You’ll encounter gentle streams and snow-covered patches along the way. After about 4-5 hours, you’ll arrive at Juda Ka Talab, a picturesque lake surrounded by forests. In winter, the lake remains frozen, adding a surreal charm to the campsite.
Pro Tip:
Enjoy camping under the stars, with the sound of the wind and the nearby forest keeping you company.
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 hours trek | 4 km)
The third day is relatively easy as you trek to the Kedarkantha Base Camp. The trail opens up to vast clearings and alpine meadows. The gradual ascent offers mesmerizing views of snow-covered peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Black Peak. By afternoon, you’ll reach the base camp, which is set against a stunning backdrop of pine trees and high-altitude mountains.
Pro Tip:
At the base camp, gather around a bonfire (if permitted) and prepare for the summit day.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Summit and back to Base Camp (6-7 hours | 8 km)
This is the most thrilling day of the trek. The summit climb is challenging due to steep ascents and the cold weather, but the effort is worth it. The trail is surrounded by snow-laden pine forests, and as you gain altitude, the sky starts to brighten with the rising sun.
From the summit, you’ll witness a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, including Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Har Ki Dun Valley. After spending some time at the top, begin the descent back to the base camp.
Pro Tip:
Day 5: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Sankri via Hargaon (6 hours | 6-7 km)
After breakfast, begin the descent back to Sankri. The route takes you through Hargaon Village, a beautiful hamlet surrounded by meadows. The descent offers an opportunity to enjoy the forests and scenic views once again, with ample chances to spot birds and wildlife.
Once back in Sankri, you can relax and enjoy a hot meal at the guesthouse.
Pro Tip:
Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun (Drive 210 km | 8-10 hours)
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains. The return drive to Dehradun will be long but scenic. Arriving in Dehradun by evening marks the end of your memorable journey. You can either stay overnight in Dehradun or catch a late train/flight to your destination.
1.Physical Preparation:
2.Essential Gear:
3.Altitude Acclimatization:
4.Best Time to Trek:
5.Permits and Entry Fees:
6.Trekking with Guides:
Kedarkantha is often referred to as the “Queen of Winter Treks”. But what makes it so special? Here are a few reasons why this trek is on every trekker’s bucket list:
1. Stunning Summit Views:
The Kedarkantha summit offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak ranges. The feeling of conquering the 12,500 ft summit is exhilarating, especially when the rising sun paints the snow-covered peaks in golden hues.
2. Snow Adventure for Beginners:
Kedarkantha offers a genuine snow trekking experience without being too difficult. This makes it ideal for beginners who want to experience a winter trek without extreme challenges.
3. Campsites Amidst Natural Beauty:
The trek features some of the most scenic campsites in the Himalayas. Juda Ka Talab, with its frozen lake, and the Kedarkantha Base Camp, surrounded by pine forests, are mesmerizing places to spend the night under the stars.
4. Rich Flora and Fauna:
As part of the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, the trail is home to diverse flora and fauna. Trekkers might spot Himalayan monals, pheasants, and foxes during the journey. In spring, the forests bloom with rhododendrons, adding splashes of red and pink along the trail.
Having the right gear is essential to enjoy the Kedarkantha trek comfortably, especially during winter when temperatures can drop drastically. Below is a comprehensive packing list:
Clothing:
Footwear:
Essentials:
Medical Kit:
What Makes the Summit Day Unique?
The summit climb on the fourth day is the highlight of the Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand. The trek usually begins around 2-3 AM, allowing trekkers to reach the top by sunrise. Climbing at night in complete darkness, with only your headlamps illuminating the snowy path, is an unforgettable experience. The stars shine brightly, and the silence of the night adds to the excitement.
As the sun rises, the sky turns shades of purple and orange, revealing the grand Himalayan ranges. The final 200 meters of the climb are steep but manageable with the help of trekking poles. Reaching the summit feels like an achievement, with vast snowfields and peaks surrounding you on all sides.
1. Meals Provided on the Trek:
2. Accommodation:
The cost of the trek varies depending on the trekking operator, services, and group size. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
Includes:
Excludes:
1. Altitude Sickness:
2. Snowy and Slippery Trails:
3. Cold Weather:
4. Summit Day Fatigue:
Q1: Is the Kedarkantha trek suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it’s one of the most beginner-friendly treks in the Himalayas. While some sections are steep, the trek is manageable with basic fitness.
Q2: Is there mobile network connectivity on the trek?
A: Mobile networks are limited beyond Sankri. It’s advisable to inform family members about the lack of connectivity during the trek.
Q3: Can I do the trek solo?
A: Yes, but it’s safer and more enjoyable to go with a group or guide, especially in winter conditions.
Q4: Are there any ATMs near Sankri?
A: The nearest ATMs are in Purola, about 40 km before Sankri. It’s best to carry enough cash from Dehradun.
The Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand offers an unforgettable experience of adventure and serenity, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. From snow-laden trails to picturesque campsites, each day on the trek brings new vistas and challenges. With the right preparation and itinerary, this trek will undoubtedly leave you with lifelong memories.
So, pack your bags, put on your trekking shoes, and embark on the Kedarkantha trek for an adventure that will rejuvenate your soul amidst the mighty Himalayas!
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