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
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1 full-sleeve & 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirt
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2 fleece T-shirts
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1 wind stopper / fleece jacket
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1 windproof jacket
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1 down feather / hollow jacket
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1 thermal innerwear set (upper & lower)
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1 synthetic quick-dry trekking pant
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1 wind stopper / fleece pant
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1 pair waterproof gloves
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1 pair fleece / woollen gloves
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1 poncho / waterproof jacket and pant
Head Gear
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1 head torch
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1 sun cap
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1 woollen cap
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1 balaclava
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2 woollen buff / neck gaiters
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Sunglasses with UV protection and side cover
Footwear
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1 pair water-resistant, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip
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1 pair floaters / flip-flops
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4 pairs cotton socks
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3 pairs woollen socks
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1 pair gaiters, if required
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1 pair micro spikes, if required
Backpack
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50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps
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20–30 L daypack with rain cover, if offloading is opted
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Walking stick
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2 × 1 L thermos flasks
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Avoid hydration pack
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1 small tiffin / lunch box
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Personal medical kit / medicines
Food / Snacks
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Energy bars
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Dry fruits
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ORS / electrolytes
Personal Essentials
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Sunscreen
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Moisturiser
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Chapstick / lip balm
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Toothbrush & toothpaste
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Toilet paper & wipes
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Hand sanitizer
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Antibacterial powder
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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
What is the highest point of the Kedarkantha Trek?
Is the Kedarkantha Trek difficult?
It is considered easy to moderate. The trek involves gradual ascents, forest trails, snow-covered sections in winter, and a steep summit climb.
What is the main attraction of the trek?
The main attraction is the Kedarkantha Summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, along with beautiful pine forests, open meadows, and winter snow landscapes.
Can beginners attempt the Kedarkantha Trek?
Yes. Kedarkantha is considered one of the more beginner-friendly Himalayan summit treks. With reasonable fitness and proper preparation, beginners can attempt it with experienced guidance.
What is the best time for the Kedarkantha Trek?
The trek can be undertaken in winter and spring, with December to April being particularly popular for snow trekking. The landscape is especially scenic when the trail and campsites are covered in snow.