Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha Trek

Overview

  • Starts from Sankri and follows scenic trails through dense pine, oak, maple, and rhododendron forests.
  • Passes through Juda Ka Talab, a beautiful high-altitude lake that often freezes during winter.
  • Features Kedarkantha Base Camp, surrounded by snow-covered meadows and panoramic mountain views.
  • Includes a rewarding ascent to the Kedarkantha Summit at approximately 12,500 ft (3,810 m).
  • Offers spectacular 360-degree views of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Draupadi Ka Danda, and the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges.
  • Provides classic winter trekking experiences with snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, alpine campsites, and summit ridges.
  • Concludes with a descent through forests and meadows back to Sankri before returning to Dehradun.
  • Considered an easy to moderate Himalayan trek, making it suitable for beginners with basic fitness and trekking preparation.

About Trek

Kedarkantha is one of India's most famous winter treks and is often called the "Queen of Winter Treks." Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar region of Uttarakhand, the trek offers a perfect combination of snow-covered forests, alpine campsites, frozen lakes, and a rewarding summit climb. It is particularly popular among beginners because it provides a genuine Himalayan summit experience without requiring technical mountaineering skills.

The trail begins from the small Himalayan village of Sankri and gradually ascends through dense pine and oak forests, scenic clearings, and snowfields before reaching the summit of Kedarkantha Peak.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Dehradun to Sankri
Long scenic drive through mountain roads, river valleys, and traditional villages to Sankri.
200 km | 8–10 hours

Day 2 — Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Trek through forest trails with a gradual ascent, passing snow-covered paths in winter before reaching the frozen lake campsite.
4–5 km trek

Day 3 — Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Continue through open clearings and snowfields with expanding Himalayan views towards the high-altitude base camp.
4 km trek

Day 4 — Summit Day
Early morning ascent through snow-covered slopes to the Kedarkantha summit, with spectacular sunrise views and a 360-degree Himalayan panorama. Descend to a lower campsite after the summit.

Day 5 — Return to Sankri
Descend through scenic forests and meadows back to the base village of Sankri.

Day 6 — Sankri to Dehradun
Drive back through the scenic Tons Valley region to Dehradun, marking the end of the trek.

Eligibility

Participants should ideally be able to:

  • Jog 5 km comfortably
  • Walk for 5–7 hours daily
  • Handle moderate climbs
  • Carry a small daypack

Recommended preparation includes:

  • Running
  • Stair climbing
  • Cycling
  • Hiking
  • Basic endurance training

How to Reach

Starting Point

Dehradun

Nearest Airport

Jolly Grant Airport

Nearest Railway Station

Dehradun Railway Station

Trekkers typically travel from Dehradun to Sankri by road before beginning the trek.

Trek Essentials

Clothing

  • 1 full-sleeve & 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirt

  • 2 fleece T-shirts

  • 1 wind stopper / fleece jacket

  • 1 windproof jacket

  • 1 down feather / hollow jacket

  • 1 thermal innerwear set (upper & lower)

  • 1 synthetic quick-dry trekking pant

  • 1 wind stopper / fleece pant

  • 1 pair waterproof gloves

  • 1 pair fleece / woollen gloves

  • 1 poncho / waterproof jacket and pant

Head Gear

  • 1 head torch

  • 1 sun cap

  • 1 woollen cap

  • 1 balaclava

  • 2 woollen buff / neck gaiters

  • Sunglasses with UV protection and side cover

Footwear

  • 1 pair water-resistant, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip

  • 1 pair floaters / flip-flops

  • 4 pairs cotton socks

  • 3 pairs woollen socks

  • 1 pair gaiters, if required

  • 1 pair micro spikes, if required

Backpack

  • 50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps

  • 20–30 L daypack with rain cover, if offloading is opted

  • Walking stick

  • 2 × 1 L thermos flasks

  • Avoid hydration pack

  • 1 small tiffin / lunch box

  • Personal medical kit / medicines

Food / Snacks

  • Energy bars

  • Dry fruits

  • ORS / electrolytes

Personal Essentials

  • Sunscreen

  • Moisturiser

  • Chapstick / lip balm

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste

  • Toilet paper & wipes

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Antibacterial powder

  • Quick-dry towel

Cancellation Policy

Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:

  • Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
  • Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.

FAQs

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