Short Itinerary
✅ Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (220 km, 10 hrs). Overnight camp stay.
✅ Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km, 5 hrs). Camp by the lake.
✅ Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km, 4 hrs). Sunset views.
✅ Day 4: Summit trek to Kedarkantha Peak (6 km, 7 hrs). Descend to Base Camp.
✅ Day 5: Trek back from Base Camp to Sankri (8 km, 5 hrs). Stay at a guesthouse.
✅ Day 6: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun (220 km, 10 hrs). Trip ends.
Why choose KedarKantha Trek?
Kedarkantha Trek – A Scenic Summit Adventure in the Garhwal Himalayas
Set amidst the captivating landscapes of Uttarakhand, the Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter and year-round Himalayan treks in India. Rising to an altitude of 12,500 ft, the summit offers panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, and distant peaks from the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges.
But Kedarkantha isn’t just about the summit. It’s about the journey through pine forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered trails that immerse you in the raw beauty of the Himalayas. This trek offers an ideal mix of moderate challenge, adventure, and accessibility, making it perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
What Makes Kedarkantha Special?
A Fairytale-Like Trail Through Pine and Oak Forests
The trail begins in dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, where sunlight dances through the canopy, creating a dreamlike ambiance. These enchanting woods form the heart of the lower trail and are especially magical in snow-covered months.
Unforgettable Campsites
Kedarkantha is famous for its picturesque clearings and campsites. From the frozen lake at Juda Ka Talab to the stunning Kedarkantha Base Camp, each campsite offers incredible views and stargazing opportunities that make your nights in the mountains unforgettable.
The Summit Push: A Himalayan Reward
The final stretch to the summit is a thrilling ascent in the dark, typically starting at 3–4 AM. As dawn breaks, trekkers are greeted by a golden sunrise above the clouds, with 360° Himalayan vistas all around—making every step worth it.
Cultural Insight in Kotgaon and Sankri
The trek begins in Sankri, a quaint Himalayan village steeped in Garhwali culture. Nearby Kotgaon offers an authentic look into local mountain life, traditions, and architecture, adding cultural depth to your trek.
Trek Highlights
- ✅ Trek Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
- ✅ Total Trek Distance: 20 km (Almost)
- ✅ Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft
- ✅ Trek Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- ✅ Best Time to Visit: Mar - June & Sep - Dec
- ✅ ATM Availability: Last ATM at Purola
- ✅ Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
- ✅ Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun
Why Choose This Trek?
- 🌿 Scenic Campsites: Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp
- 🏔️ Summit Views: Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Gangotri Range
- 🏕️ Trail Type: Round trek with multiple route options
- 🏡 Authentic Local Experience
- ✅ Best For: Trekking in Snow & Snow-capped peaks.
Weather & Temperature Guide
- March to April
- ✅ Day Temperature: 10°C to 18°C
- ✔️ Night Temperature: 0°C to -5°C
- May to June
- ✅ Day Temperature: 12°C to 22°C
- ✔️ Night Temperature: 3°C to 7°C
- September to November
- ✅ Day Temperature: 10°C to 18°C
- ✔️ Night Temperature: -2°C to -5°C
- Decenber to Feburary
- ✅ Day Temperature: 5°C to 12°C
- ✔️ Night Temperature: -10°C to -15°C
Things to Carry
- 🧥 Clothing: Layered wear, waterproof jacket, thermals
- 🥾 Footwear: Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- 🎒 Essentials: Backpack (40-50L), trekking pole, headlamp
- 🥤 Hydration: Water bottle, ORS sachets
- 🍫 Snacks: Energy bars, dry fruits
- 🩹 Medical Kit: Personal medicines
Brief Itinerary
Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (6,400 ft)
- Distance: 220 km | Duration: 8–10 hours
- Journey through the Mori Valley, scenic pine forests, and along the Tons River.
- Check into a guesthouse in Sankri and prep for the trek.
Trek to Juda Ka Talab (9,100 ft)
- Distance: 4 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hours
- A beautiful ascent through snowy forests and peaceful clearings.
- Camp beside the mystical Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake surrounded by tall pines.
Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 ft)
- Distance: 4 km | Trek Time: 3–4 hours
- Gradual ascent through mixed terrain.
- Set up camp at the base of Kedarkantha with spectacular mountain backdrops.
Summit Day – Kedarkantha Peak (12,500 ft) and Return
- Distance: 6 km round trip | Trek Time: 6–7 hours
- Early morning summit push with breathtaking sunrise views.
- Descend back to base camp and rest.
Trek Back to Sankri
- Distance: 8 km | Trek Time: 4–5 hours
- A pleasant descent through forests and meadows.
- Enjoy your final night in Sankri with local cuisine and culture.
Drive to Dehradun
- Distance: 220 km | Duration: 8–10 hours
- Scenic drive back with lifetime memories.
Includes All
- ✔️ Accommodation (Guesthouses/Camps as per itinerary)
- ✔️ All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) during the trek
- ✔️ Transportation (Dehradun to Sankri & return)
- ✔️ Experienced trek leader & support staff
- ✔️ Permits & entry fees for the trek
- ✔️ Trekking equipment (Tents, sleeping bags, mattresses)
- ✔️ First aid medical kits & oxygen cylinder
- ✔️ Bonfire (wherever allowed)
Excludes All
- ✖️ Meals during transit (Dehradun-Sankri-Dehradun)
- ✖️ Personal expenses (Laundry, Phone calls, Tips, etc.)
- ✖️ Any kind of insurance (Travel/Accident/Medical)
- ✖️ Bottled water, beverages, or personal snacks
- ✖️ Anything not specifically mentioned in the "Includes" section
F.A.Q
Kedarkantha Trek is located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. The trek starts from the village of Sankri, about 220 km from Dehradun.
The best time to trek Kedarkantha is from December to April for snow lovers, and from May to June & September to November for pleasant weather and clear mountain views. It’s a rare Himalayan trek that’s open and safe even in winter.
Kedarkantha is a moderate trek suitable for beginners. The trail includes gradual ascents through forests and meadows, with the summit day being the steepest. Basic fitness and stamina are recommended.
Yes, Kedarkantha is one of the safest winter treks in India. With the right gear, guides, and preparation, the snow-covered trail is both scenic and secure. However, proper insulation and trekking shoes are a must.
Accommodation is in tented campsites at scenic spots like Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp. In Sankri, trekkers typically stay in local guesthouses or homestays with basic amenities.
