Kedarkantha trek…Welcome to one of the most beautiful winter treks out there in Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. it is one of the most celebrated winter treks in India, towering at 12,500 ft, Kedarkantha summit offers summit experience second to none.
This trek is astoundingly beautiful with magnificent night skies, 360 Degree summit view, varied flora and fauna and many more aspect which would keep the trekker hooked to the trek. This is one of the best treks for stargazing in India. Kedarkantha trek from Dehradun is one of the most sought out treks from Dehradun
Trek Snapshot:
Summit Altitude 12,500ft (3,800m)
Duration 5D/4N
Difficulty Easy to moderate
Best season December to April (For snow), March to June
(For wild flowers)
Base camp Sankri village, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
Region Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
Why Kedarkantha Trek?
Also known as the” Queen of winter treks” this is a trek which offers one of the most rewarding summit climbs for beginners. This 5-day trek offers varied experiences to the trekkers with one of them being the magnificent frozen lake (Juda ka talab).
The silent pine forests matted with snow are a feast for the eyes of trekkers. Imagine sleeping under a blanket of million stars…The night sky is one of the most mesmerising sights one could behold.
Summit View
The 360 Degree summit view sets this trek apart from many other treks of Uttarakhand, one could see 13+ mighty Himalayan peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak (Kala-nag), Yamunotri and Gangotri Ranges.
What the Mythology tells us:
The name Kedarkantha translates to “Throat of lord Shiva”. This is said to be the place where the Pandavas roamed during their last days before their passage to heaven.
This peak is of magnificent importance to the locals as there are many legends surrounding to it. The high-altitude frozen lake (Juda ka Talab) is said to be the place where Lord shiva meditated and took the form of a bull. To sum up this peak has high spiritual significance.
Seasonal Duality – An all-season trek
A snowy wonder land or green meadows or wildflowers and gurgling streams or golden-brown forests this trek offers a vibrant in any given season. Be it winter, spring or summer.
This trek allows the trekker to visit in any season with the same wonders to behold.
Floral and Faunal Paradise
Running through Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, a biodiversity hotspot this trek offers two key components which are mesmerizing flora and fauna diversity which allow trekkers to see deodar, pine and oak forests along with alpine herbs.
Imagine waking up to melody of hundreds of birds and vibing to the music of melodious birds tweeting as we trek along. This trek has versatile fauna richness, from Himalayan monal to musk deer, from leopards to bears (if lucky) trekkers are in for a surprise.
Best time for Kedarkantha trek:
Winter: ( December – February)
Trails buried under deep snow as pine trees are dressed with heavy snow with sagging icicles. Our tents glow like fireflies under the starry night sky of milky way. One could witness the wonders of snow, try sledging and try a tasty Pahadi Maggi in the cold weather of the mountains
Spring: (March – April)
This is when the magic happens the transition from the magical snow wonderland to lush green meadows and forests is breathtaking. With hundreds of birds tweeting amidst the lush green Himalayan flora. One could smell the essence of nature, smell the fresh reviving smell of Himalayan mud.
Summer: (May – June)
Summer just like any other season is a refreshing experience. Vast bugyal (meadows)glow green, studded with wildflowers. Juda ka talab turns into a clear alpine pool with dragonflies dancing around wildly in the air. Shepherds return back with their flocks to with the sounds of bells vibrating the valley.
Here one can sit on the ridges and highs of the peak and watch the sleepy clouds as they travel by. One can also stargaze without freezing during summer.
Kedarkantha trek Difficulty
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
This trek is called a beginner’s summit trek. Aspects such as short trail length, gently landscape transitions (excluding summit day) and beginners friendly logistics make this trek a perfect trek for first time trekkers
Photographers Heaven:
Every moment is a moment to capture on this trek from day one at the Sankri guest house to the summit day with the view of 13 surrounding peaks, it’s all a breathtaking journey and imagine capturing it to make a memoire of your memories.
High altitude pine forests, wooden cabins, cultural tales, mesmerizing sunrise and sunset points which helps the trekkers to witness golden orange sun vantage points.
Astrophotography is the one of the key highlights of this trek, trekkers spend their night under a blanket of million stars with the opportunity to capture the breathtaking marvel of the milky way.
Accessibility and Comfort Metrics
This trek has a unique feature of well connectivity unlike most other treks. It’s highly accessible from the sleepy village of Sankri which is easily reachable by road from Dehradun.
The availability of Rented gear, Food, first aid, Local guides, Cozy home stays Miscellaneous requirements and many things a trekker would need at one place sets this place apart from many other treks out there.
Kedarkantha trek Itinerary:
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri Village
Drive distance: 185 Km, 9 to 10 hours
Altitude Gained: 6400 ft
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner (Sankri)
- Pickup point is prince chowk, Dehradun, at 7:30 A.M; The earlier we start the more relaxed and memorable our journey would be.
- Our journey takes us through Mussoorie, Nowgaon, Purola, and Mori also fall amidst our journey from Dehradun to Sankri.
- As we approach Mori, we could get to see the might Tons River as we drive along side it for a major part of our journey.
- This journey quickly transitions into dense forests of pines; one can feel the essence of these pine trees filled in the air. We travel through the ghat road filled with enthusiasm and are in for more surprises than we expect.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda ka Talab
Trek distance: 4km, 4 to 5 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,750ft
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Evening Snack, Dinner
- Starting of with a hearty breakfast at Sankri guest house trekkers start the trek with immense expectations, not knowing that they are in for a huge surprise. We stop at the local market to buy any last-minute essentials.
- We cross the forest department where our trek permits get checked and we set on an enthusiastic journey to Juda ka talab traversing through Himalayan villages like Saud. One could witness the uniqueness of Himalayan (Pahadi culture).
- The trail takes us through the thick forests of Govind Pashu Vihar national Park with variety of birds tweeting, making it a surreal experience.
- After a moderately hard trek for about 4 hours, we reach Juda ka Talab (High altitude alpine lake) which is frozen. Trekkers could rest there, eat lunch and retire for that day under the blanket of starry night sky as you have a warm dinner in your camp
Day 3: Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base camp
Trek distance: 2km, 2 to 3 hours
Altitude covered: 2,150 ft. Total altitude gained 11,150
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snack and Dinner
- This day we move deeper into the forest, isolated from rest of the world. Today we leave Juda ka talab behind we tread steadily and we transition from the towering dark woods of pine and oak forests into open alpine meadows.
- This day allows the trekkers sense the mighty aura of Kedarkantha. Amidst The occasional clearings one would find the magnificent ridges of Swargarohini and black peak, they appear like sharp razors against the deep blue sky.
- Here one can witness wind corridors, which are certain bends where the trekkers feel sudden blasts of wind. Locals believe these gusts are spirits of shepherds guiding the trekkers, but in reality, they’re natural katabatic winds pumped through gaps of ridgelines.
Campsite Life at Base Camp
Altitude ~ 11,250 ft.
- The camp is located right below the summit in a sheltered grove below the summit shoulder.
- Here’s the moment for ‘poster shot’, one can witness the pyramid peak of Kedarkantha lit up by evening sun.
- Here one can find the clearest night sky of all places. This place is a boon for astro photographers.
Day 4 – Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250ft) To Summit (12,500 ft) To Juda Ka Talab
Trek Distance: ~6 Km (3 Km ascent + 3 km descent)
Altitude Gain: 11,250 ft (Base Camp) – 12,500 ft (summit) – 9,100 ft (Juda ka talab)
Trek duration: 7-8 Hours (3-4 hours ascent, 1-2 hours summit stay, 2-3 hours descent)
Trek Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging (steep snow ascent, careful descent)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snack and Dinner
The day begins at 2:00 – 3:00 AM. Trekkers wake up to the chilly, crisp winds of the Himalayas and gear up themselves for the D Day. With every step trekkers break the silence of midnight by the crushing of snow. Trekkers make the final ascent under the sea of milky way with the Orion’s Belt pointing directly at the summit.
Why pre-dawn summit?
Freeze thaw cycles are perfectly in sync with early ascent window where snow is firmer and has the tendency to melt once sun rises and trekkers would have higher chance of losing their balance. One would encounter stable weather during this time.
Kedarkantha Summit:
Reaching the summit at around 6:30 – 7:00 AM Trekkers are greeted with the following things
Panoramic 360 Degree Views:
- Swargarohini I – IV: This mystical mountain glowing gold at sunrise has the lore of Pandavas tied to it.
- Bandarpoonch & Black peak: Know as the playground of lord hanuman tower amidst the rest of mighty Himalayan peaks
- Yamunotri & Gangotri Valleys: Birthplaces of two sacred rivers.
- Kinnaur & Chanshal Ranges: these ranges link Uttarakhand to Himachal Pradesh
Day 5: Juda ka talab to Sankri
Trek distance: 4km, 4 to 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, Evening Snack, Dinner
On this day we get back to Sankri from where our journey starts back home. Today trekkers usually feel mixed feelings as they have loads of memories with them to share with their people and also are reluctant to leave back the heartwarming Kedarkantha peak.
Basic Safety Guide: Altitude & AMS: Summit is at 12,500 ft – Some trekkers could experience mild AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) if they are not careful
- Increasing sleeping elevation per day by <300 – 400 m (1000 – 1300 ft) per day when possible
- Avoiding alcohol would be necessary when on treks, this would make a huge impact in a trek.
- Propper hydration of body needs to be done as constant electrolyte loss in body happens in the form of sweat loss. Trekkers are advised to carry energy bars, electrolyte rich drinks etc
- Red flags such as persistent headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath at rest. Trekkers need to descend if they are facing severe issue
ThinAirExpeditions Go green policies:
At Thin Air we believe nature protects us when we protect it. Kedarkantha Is situated close to Govind Pashu Vihar National Park so it is a protected area and along with endangered fauna such as snow leopards and bears, there lie fragile bugyal ecosystems (alpine meadows) and seasonal grazing patterns exist.
- Leave No Trace: We are responsible for our waste. Pack out all non-biodegradable waste.
- Fire: No open fires at bugyal or other places as it acts as a beacon to wildlife out there.
- Local Dependency: Respect locals as they are highly dependent on the tourism and the income, they get out of it.
- Permit & Forest rules: Respect DFO (Divisional Forest Officer) instructions and restricted zones.
Packing Essentials:
- Core Clothing: Insulating base layers, mid-layer fleece, down jacket, windproof and waterproof shell, thermal socks, wool gloves. This would help trekker to maintain a decent body temperature.
- Footwear & Gear: Waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles(important).
- Personal Accessories: Headlamp, spare batteries, sunglasses (UV), sunscreen, Lip balm personal meds,
- Tech: Power bank, camera with spare batteries (cold drains batteries faster).
Photography, Astrophotography & sledging tips:
- Summit sunrise photography: Use aperture of f/8 – f/11 for landscapes, ISO 100-400, shutter speed depending on the light; bracket exposures for HDR if dynamic range is high. Arrive early to catch golden sunlight.
- Astrophotography at Basecamp: Clear winter nights give us the best opportunities of magnificent night skies. Use wide lens (14-24mm), f/2. 8-/4, ISO 1600-6400, exposure 15-30s depending on focal length. Tripod usage is suggested for best results
- How to Sledge: Use safe designated slopes only, check for rocks under thin snow where you could get hurt. Avoid sledging near meadows where flora is fragile
How to reach Sankri
- By Air: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – drive 8 – 10 hours
- By Train: Dehradun has all major rail connections.
- By road: Shared/private taxis from Dehradun ISBT or Dehradun railway station to Pick up point
Overnight stay at Dehradun, pickup early morning at Dehradun pickup point, journey to Sankri.
NOTE: Bringing your own lunch box helps us to keep the mountain clean by reducing plastic, aluminium and polythene. Here at Thin Air Expedition, we are committed to keep the mountains clean.
FAQ’s
- What is the height of Kedarkantha trek?
12,500 ft (3,800 m).
- Is Kedarkantha trek good for beginners?
Yes, it’s one of the easiest treks in Uttarakhand.
- How long is Kedarkantha trek distance?
20-23 Km round trip
- When does is snow in Kedarkantha?
From late November to April, with heavy snow in December-February.
- Do Trekkers need a permit?
Yes – Govind Pashu Vihar Forest permit (Handled by Thin Air Expeditions team)
- When does snow fall in Kedarkantha?
The best time to visit Kedarkantha to witness snow fall is during December to February months.
Inclusions:
- Transport Pickup Timings: 7:30 AM, Prince Chowk
Location: Dehradun Railway station.
- From the scheduled pick-up point to Base camp trekkers are arranged with transportation like bolero, Innova, Dezire or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is split between trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non- air conditioned.
- Accommodation at Base camp: 1 Night at Local homestay or guesthouse for a memorable Himalayan experience. Single-sharing is available for an extra INR 5,000 per person during the entire trek.
- On-Trek stay: Stay in twin-sharing tents. These tents are designed to handle extreme Himalayan weather protecting us from harsh Himalayan conditions while providing comfort.
- Camping Equipment: superior quality sleeping bags which are perfect for subzero temperatures are used. Foam mattress is provided for extra comfort. Safety gear including crampons, micro spikes, gaiters and ice axes is provided when necessary.
- Medical Support: ThinAirExpedition team carries a medical kit and is trained at high-altitude first aid. Oxygen cylinders are serviced before each trek and are available with the team at all times.
- Permissions & Fees: all forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included, excluded for any foreign national and are required to pay additional charges.
- Kitchen Area: A dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent along with tables, seatings, cutlery along with any miscellaneous kitchen requirements.
- Thin Air Team: Our team consists of a certified and experienced team leader with certifications in (AMC/BMC) ensures safe but memorable trekking ambiance. The support crew includes cooks, helpers, porters and mules for common equipment.
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses such as tips, medicines, and phone calls.
- Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.
- Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) is available for rent at reasonable rates with prior request.
- Optional backpack offloading costs INR 400 per bag per day for bags up to 12 kg.
- Trek insurance is mandatory and must be arranged separately.
- Any costs for a buffer day (if used) should be paid directly to the trek leader.
- Any item not mentioned in the inclusions list.