Kedarkantha Trek
duration: 5 days
base camp: Sankri
altitude: 12,500 ft
grade: Medium
best time: SEPT – dec
Trek Summary
The Kedarkantha Trek is a popular winter hiking path in Uttarakhand that begins in the Garhwal Himalayas and ends at the peak of Kedarkantha. It provides an enthralling journey through the breathtaking Himalayan winter scenery.
Along the way, you’ll pass through many different environments, such as pine forests, frozen lakes, vast snow areas, and stunning mountain views. Just pretend you’re considering a trip over this magical winter landscape. If that’s the case, we’ve compiled an exhaustive guide to ensure you have a wonderful time on the Kedarkantha Trek.
Itinerary
Day 1: Sankri Arrival
Once you reach Sankri Village, head to the Meraki Triangle Homestay to meet your host. If you have the time, you can stroll about Sankri or visit this picturesque village. The distance from Dehradun to Sankri is 200 kilometers.
Day 2: Sankri to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Prepare for the first hike day after breakfast. The trail winds through oak, birch, and deodar forests. Some small streams flowing through rocks will please you. The walk to Juda ka Talab takes about 2 hours; however, it can take 3 hours in winter due to fresh snow.
Trees and lush upland meadows surround Juda ka Talab, a magnificent lake. It is 2800 m above sea level. The lake freezes in winter. Sometimes, the lake’s ice is thick enough to walk over Juda ka Talab. We’ll walk to Kedarkantha base camp from Juda ka Talab. Snow will blanket the tree-lined route. Several scenic camping locations are available.
The walk to Lower Kedarkantha Base Camp takes about 1.5 hours. When significant snowfall hits the top section of Kedarkantha, this campground is popular because the peak is visible. This region has two shepherd huts used as kitchens.
Continue uphill through a dense forest for an hour to reach Kedarkantha Base Camp at 3450m above sea level. Witnessing the mountains become yellow at sunset is breathtaking.
Day 3: Kedarkantha Summit – Base Camp
The Summit Day is upon us; get a head start from Kedarkantha Base Camp and begin your trip early. The sights are worth the relatively difficult trek. After cutting through an oak grove, the trail emerges onto a north ridge that leads to a direct ascent.
From Kedarkantha Base Camp, you may reach Kedarkantha Summit in around two hours. At the peak, you may enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayas. You can also clearly see the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges from the peak.
Standing at an impressive 3900 meters above sea level, the Kedarkantha Summit is comparable in height to other peaks in the French Alps. If the weather permits, enjoy some quality time at the peak. Rest for the night in Kedarkantha Base Camp after descending.
Day 4: Trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp in Sankri
During the winter months, you may encounter a couple of frozen streams on your way to Hargaon. As it winds through an oak and pine forest, the path takes picturesque turns along modest inclines.
From Kedarkantha Base Camp, the hike to Hargaon Campsite should take more than two hours. Keep on descending till you reach Sankri, taking in the breathtaking scenery. In the evenings, come to the Sankri guesthouse for some quality time.
Day 5: Departure
Get on a bus or taxi and head to Dehradun after breakfast. Sankri is the last stop on the trek.
price inclusion & exclusion
- Places to Stay While Hiking (Camping)
- Vegetarian Food for the Trek
- Sleeping bags with an appropriate sub-zero temperature rating, a cozy mattress, and all-season camping tents for two people
- The following items are considered safety gear: slings, microspikes, an ice axe, a seat harness, carabiners, and a static rescue rope.
- The amount charged for Indian nationals includes forest permits, camping charges, trek permits, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) permission.
- Skilled in mountaineering and first aid; qualified to lead treks
- Skilled local guide, chef, and assistants
- Mules or porters for Commonwealth baggage
- Complete first aid kit with oximeter, portable oxygen tank, and other essentials.
- Transportation
- Food for the road trip
- Risk coverage
- GST
- Porters or mules to transport individual bags. (the officials at the base camp can take care of any additional baggage, if any).
- Increase in Expenses Caused by Natural Disasters
- Any extra expense not specified in the inclusion list.
FAQs
The Kedarkantha trek is rated moderate. While the trails are well-maintained, there are some steeper sections. The main challenge is the altitude (almost 3,816 meters). If you’re in decent physical shape and okay with inclines, you should be fine.
Beautiful! Snowy wonderland in winter, wildflowers in summer. Easy-moderate difficulty makes it great for beginners.
The Kedarkantha trek typically experiences snowfall from December to April.
similar treks
6,999
/ Per Person
+5% GST & Transportation Cost
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