Kedarkantha is not just a trek, it’s a story written in white. There is a reason why former trekkers have named it Winter Wonderland.
The Kedarkantha Winter Trek offered me exactly what it promised. It was on my bucket list for many years. From snow-laden trails to 360-degree Himalayan views it is undoubtedly one of the best winter treks in India. The pine forests dusted with snow and amazing mountain sight does not look lesser than Narnia. Last year, I finally set off on this much-awaited adventure in December trekking season.
Today, sharing my raw and unfiltered experience I had with Thin Air Expedition. They made my experience smooth by arranging comfortable tents and providing hot piping food even in that freezing temperature.
Retracing my Kedarkantha journey-one day at a time here:
Reaching the base of Kedarkantha trek
The journey was arranged from Dehradun by my trekking agency. It took us (group of other trekkers) 9 to 10 hours to reach Sankri village-base of the trek. Upon reaching the guest house warm dinner was served followed by a crisp and clear briefing for the adventure we were about to experience from next day. Right after the briefing we were shifted to clean and spotless rooms with a great view. Every detail was taken care, be it fresh lines or well-arranged essentials.
On the trail – reaching Snowline from Base
The view was worth clicking a picture of our early moments from the trek. The crisp air from our guest house balcony was carrying the scent of wood and pine smoke. It seemed as gleaming Garhwal Himalayas wearing snowcaps were welcoming us. It was magical.
The first steps of the trek from guest house to actual trail were gentle taking us through dense pine and oak forests, boots sinking into fresh snowand every stepfelt as if nature is unfolding new chapter like a fairytale.
The magical Campsite at Juda ka Talab
One of the most beautiful Kedarkantha trekking campsites, Juda ka Talab (a frozen alpine lake) was surrounded by hushed forest. Conversations were short as nature spoke more-starlit sky, still air, and the snow reflected moonlight. Who wouldn’t want a quiet and slow life like this?
Day 2 at Kedarkantha Base Camp
The next day snow deepened with each step as we trekked higher to the base camp of Kedarkantha. The temperature dropped but the excitement was high. The adrenaline rush was electric as we could clearly see our target-summit from the base. After a warm and nutritious night meal, we gathered around for short yet informative briefing on pushing the Kedarkantha summit.
The Summit Push – a date with the panoramic view
At 2:00 AM, our journey to Kedarkantha summit trek began. The headlamp and hiking poles were the real heroes of the journey I must say. They helped carve the path to 12,500 ft as the world was still asleep below. Steeper the climb, indescribable the payoff-this is what I learnt from the day one of this adventure. The first rays of sunrise painted the Himalayan Mountain Ranges in shades of orange, pink and gold. We could see other summits like Swargarohini Peak, Black Peak (Kalanag) and Bandarpoonch from the top inspiring us to come back for yet another adventure.
It was indeed a moment of triumph, however descending through the same snowy trails was equally challenging and brought a sense of gratitude towards the God’s best creation on Earth. The mountains might seem silent but they teach humility in their own words. After reaching the summit I realized it was not about pushing the summit but meeting with self. Every step, every sip of hot soup and tea, every laugh shared at the campsite, and every quiet moment with the Himalayas whispered that you are taking timeless stories with you.
A Glimpse of Sankri Village
I had the chance to explore Sankri village before setting off on the journey back to Dehradun. This small and vibrant settlement located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park with wooden houses standing still against the mountain winds was not less than a spell-Yes! I was spellbound. Locals greeted us with warm smiles and hot cup of tea stole my heart.
So what was the reason behind choosing Kedarkantha in winter?
- Trekking trails covered in snow look as if they jumped straight out of the postcard.
- Himalayan campsite under the starry night, beside the frozen lake with summit view-something I always thought of finally became true.
- A beginner-friendly trek in Uttarakhand with great reward
The trek leaders of ThinAirExpedition will guide you thoroughly on your first day itself. Still I am sharing few tips I feel every first time trekker like me must know before attempting this magical journey;
- Down jacket, gloves, balaclava, and other proper winter trekking gear will keep you warm in minus degree.
- Keep your camera handy with extra batteries as every sight is instagram-worthy.
- Hydrating your body well in cold weather avoids altitude sickness.
The Kedarkantha trek in winter is nature’s most rewarding magic. It is more than just a climb. The trek into nature’s most enchanting season leaves traces of quiet Himalayas within you. . As I descended back to the base of Sankri village, I realized it wasn’t the snow I left behind, but the magic of Himalayas.
Kedarkantha trek feels like walking inside a snow globe.
Before going on this trek, I had a lot of questions in my mind which I wanted someone to explain to me in simple words. That is why I have written some questions for you here along with answers.
Here are some questions you might have regarding this dreamy snow land:
What is the best time to do the Kedarkantha trek?
ThinAirExpedition runs special winter batches for Kedarkantha Trek between the months of December and March when the views are spectacular and trail is covered in snow.
How difficult is the Kedarkantha winter trek?
It is considered as beginner-friendly Himalayan trek. Gradual ascents and few steep descents make this trek suitable for all types of trekkers-beginner to seasoned.
How cold does it get during the trek?
In winters, the temperature drops to -5°C at night. However, it hovers 5°C to 8°C during the day time. Proper winter gear for this trek is essential.
What should I pack for the Kedarkantha trek?
Keep your luggage light and smart. Carry warm clothing and waterproof trekking shoes. ThinAirExpedition will provide you a detailed trekking gear list once you book a trek.
How high is the Kedarkantha summit?
It stands at the height of 3800 m (12,500 ft), offering panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Is it safe to trek Kedarkantha in winter?
Kedarkantha is famous for its winter beauty- it is safe when done with an experienced and certified agency. ThinAirExpedition ensures certified trek leaders, proper safety protocols, and all necessary equipment for all types of batches.
If you want to know how nature’s winter palette looks like, winter Kedarkantha trail will never disappoint you. Many trekkers who were lucky have claimed witnessing Himalayan magpies flitting between branches. A few have heard call of Monal from the distant -state bird of Uttarakhand.