Starting @ Just ₹ 7200.00 / Adult
Kedarkantha Peak Video
Kedarkantha Trek
Dehradun
- Trip Nature: Adventure
- Activities: Trekking, Hiking, Camping
- Group Size: 10-12
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland not too far from home, Kedarkantha trek is the closest thing to it! And what makes it all the more mesmerizing is the fact that you get to explore this land of awe and magic for yourself on the Kedarkantha trek. With mostly low temperatures, the Kedarkantha weather is also one of the most pleasant and inviting factors of the trek. At the astonishing height of 3,800 m (12,500 feet), the Kedarkantha peak rests in the Sankri range, Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. The trek to Kedarkantha takes place in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, and stretches over a period of five nights and six days. Thus, it is more than just an uphill journey to the Kedarkantha peak, with a view that will entrap your mind and soul for weeks to come. The sanctuary adds volumes to your experience with the beautiful and rare flora and fauna scattered around you, waiting to be discovered. You will find yourself smiling at the songs of the Himalayan monal and langoor families lounging in the tree-tops. The road to Kedarkantha is both, smooth and clean, making it one of the most pleasant drives to take in the Himalayas. It is the place to be for anyone looking to lose themselves in the midst of a snow-laden dream, with nothing but small lakes and patches of plain field breaking the view. The entire Kedarkantha trek route is studded with maple and pine trees, making it breathtaking to say the least.
A unique treat of the Kedarkantha trek is the ability to stargaze. At night, when all goes quiet, the sky becomes radiant with stars and pulls you in. Even in the darkness, the snow glistens in moonlight. This is an experience trekkers can bank on having any time between December and April, because snowfall is one of the most reliable facets of this area. The Kedarkantha trek in December is probably the most popularly utilized package for the region, because of the abundance of regular snow. However, its magnificence is not lost on the trekkers even during the summer. The slight advantage of trekking up the Kedarkantha peak in the warmer months is that it is a little more on the easy side, as compared to a snow-covered trail. Either way, the journey uphill is absolutely delightful and once you reach the crest to find the stunning, expansive view of thirteen Himalayan peaks in front of you and the whole world below – you realize it is definitely worth all the effort and time!
About Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha roughly translates to the “Throat of Lord Shiva”. It is a mountain 20 kms from Sankri village, standing tall at a height of 12,500 feet. A legend goes back to the Mahabharata era, when the Pandavas went to Lord Shiva to ask for his blessings after the Kurukshetra war. Lord Shiva refused to meet them and guised himself as a buffalo instead. Bheem, one of the Pandavas, noticed something strange among the herd of buffalos and refused to let the disguised buffalo pass. This led to a fight between the two. Bheem is said to have ripped the buffalo apart and the Pandavas are said to have built temples wherever parts of his body fell. Kedarkantha was apparently where his throat fell. It is also believed that Lord Shiva used to meditate at Kedarkantha, but since his deep, serene meditation was often interrupted by the cattle and surrounding fauna. This is why he left for Kedarnath.
The Kedarkantha trek covers a total distance of 26 kilometres, and takes a period of five nights and six days to cover, making it a beautiful and adventurous way of spending a week away from the hubbub of city life. We cover a host of different places like Sankri village and Juda Ka Talab to even reach the Kedarkantha base camp, thereby creating an upbeat and constantly refreshing experience. If you are looking to get from Delhi to Kedarkantha, the first step is to reach Dehradun. The distance from Delhi to Dehradun is 258.1 km, and can be covered via bus, train, or car easily. From Dehradun, you must reach Sankri village, which is at a distance of almost 200 kilometres from Dehradun. The actual trekking experience begins Sankri onwards. The trekking distance from Sankri to the Kedarkantha peak and back to Sankri is 26 kilometres as a whole. While you don’t have to be a seasoned trekker to be able to cover Kedarkantha trek, a small period of physical exercise is both, beneficial and advised.
The vegetation goes from dry to lush and coniferous with a rise in elevation. It is important to note that the temperature in Kedarkantha is always on the lower side here. In the summer, it ranges between 20 degrees (day) and 6 degrees (night). In winter time, it can drop as low as -10 or -15 degrees, which is why carrying multiple layers of insulation, and shoes specific to trekking are a necessity.
Camping on the way to Kedarkantha peak is dreamlike in the lap of the snowy landscape, and a thrilling experience on its own. However, one can embark on many other activities like skiing at Kedarkantha, a relatively new feature of the area, stargazing and landscape photography.
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
Distance covered: 188 km
All the trekkers arrive Dehradun, and we journey together from Dehradun to Sankri early in the morning by road, as a part of the Kedarkantha trekking package. It takes us 7-8 hours of an absolutely delightful drive, during which we witness the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary as well as the rejuvenating Tons river that flows through it. If you’re lucky, you even get to see some of the sanctuary’s precious animals! After an exciting drive through the alpine landscape, we reach and check into a hotel at Sankri village. We spend some time enjoying the evening in the village, drinking in the idyllic scenery. Dinner is served, and it is now that the trek leader will give you a briefing for the next day. We shall now rest for the big day!
Day 2: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab (Hargaon )
Distance covered: 4 km.
Today marks your first day of trekking. After a wholesome breakfast, we make our way out of Sankri village and start the steep climb up the hill to Juda-ka-Talab (hargaon) . We have 4 kilometres to cover. The climb is steep, since the lake is located at the height of 9,100 feet. The path uphill is an image painted in the warm colours of fallen maple and pine leaves. A few bridges that penetrate the dense forests await us. The scenery is irresistible and worth every step of the way, dotted with hares, langoors and other such beautiful, harmless fauna. The sound of nearby streams waft in and out of your ears as we make our way to the lake, along with the crisp sound of leaves under your feet.
We also witness some heart-warming scenes of rural life in this region. Women with firewood and men taking their cattle out to graze, all against the backdrop of the breathtaking landscape. Juda ka Talab is a vision of wonder under the clear, blue sky. Trekkers can take their time to relish the vegetation and scenery.
A lovely lunch is provided to the trekkers, followed by some group activities to keep up the morale and spirit. A delicious dinner awaits the adventurers too! We will be camping here for the night, under a blanket of stars.
Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Distance covered: 8 km.
Excitement is building up as we start our trek towards the Kedarkantha base camp. After breakfast, we begin our 4 km long journey. The trail, though steep in some patches, is not difficult to follow. The route to the Kedarkantha base camp is dotted with small lakes and the land is far away from any sort of pollution or human disturbance. The trail snakes through oakladen forests, wide meadows and more evidence of remote life. You know you are close to the base camp when you see the arch of the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Ranglana and Kala Nag ranges before you. Here, a piping hot lunch will be provided. The evening will be peppered with fun experiences like group games or an acclimatization walk to familiarize yourself with the area and the terrain. Afterwards, the trekkers can rest while enjoying some evening snacks and soup. The rest of the evening is mostly free. Dinner will be served early as the trek begins tomorrow!
The night ahead is going to be the trek’s most memorable one. You will watch the galaxy unravel its wonders to you on the canvas of the sky, creating an unforgettable picture that no camera can do justice to. Take a moment to remember it. The temperature at Kedarkantha base camp may drop very low at night. Make sure you have enough layers on to keep yourself warm.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Peak; Descent to Hargaon Camp
Distance covered: 5 km.
Today, we shall cover the Kedarkantha peak, and climb 1,250 feet higher than the base. Afterwards, we shall descend from the peak to Hargaon village, once again. The trek ahead is moderately difficult, but with a little bit of determination, we will be able to cover the distance in 6-7 hours. Today, we commence at the early hours of 2 or 3 am, so that we can witness the glorious sunrise at the Kedarkantha peak. After breakfast and a lovely feast of the sunrise, we commence. We first make our way through a few more thick patches of oak trees. The trail is mostly simple and facilitates enjoying the route uphill. It only gets slightly difficult as we get closer to the peak.
As we reach the Kedarkantha peak, along with the grand view, we are greeted with a small shrine of rocks, which is considered to be holy by the locals. The energy radiating from this religious space is something that entrances one and all. The view from the top, however, is what captivates you the most. Thirteen peaks (name of the peaks, I will do it) of the Himalayas all bask together in the glory of the sun. We make a brief stop here. All this beauty deserves some admiration. Our descent is a beautiful route crossing many frozen streams and more wildlife and flora. We stop for lunch at the Kedarkantha base camp and quality conversation about the wonderful views we have been blessed with. Afterwards, we make our way downhill steadily to the Hargaon base camp. Here, we set up tents for the night, light up some campfires and spends some quality time having dinner with our fellow trekking buddies before retiring to bed.
Day 5: Hargaon Camp to Dehradun
Although there is a sharp drop in our altitude today (8,900 to 6,400 feet), the trek from the Hargaon Base Camp to Sankri is relatively simple and takes only a little over four hours. It is time to say goodbye to the base camp, but with a lot of memories in your heart and tonnes of trekking experience under your belt. Through endless pathways full of oak and maple, we witness the phenomenal view of Har Ki Dun. It is wondrous how nature’s splendour has been spread across for us like a picture to see. This is one of the greatest achievements of the universe.
We make our final journey to Dehradun via road, over a 7-8 hour stretch, including breaks for food and refreshments. It is the same alpine road that you crossed on your way uphill, but after such a wholesome experience, you feel changed and content. By late evening, we are back in Dehradun. Trekkers looking to travel on Day 6 itself can be dropped at the bus stand or the railway station, as required. Anyone wanting to spend the night in the cozy city of Doon can make their bookings accordingly. For this time, our journey ends here with lots of happy memories.
Inclusions:
The Kedarkantha trek package includes:
Transportation support throughout the trip, Ertiga or Innova (depending on the size of the group) throughout the journey.
Accommodation on sharing basis.
All meals (vegetarian), including everything from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on Day 5.
A well-experienced and certified trek leader.
Cook.
Supporting staff.
Forest permit.
Camping equipment like tent, sleeping bags ,gaiters and crampons (if required) will be provided.
Exclusions:
The Kedarkantha trek package does NOT include:
Anything that has not been covered in the inclusions mentioned above.
Porters or mules to carry your personal luggage. The cost per bag (10/12 kg ) is 300 per day.
Any kind of personal expenses.
Any kind of personal medication.
What to Carry:
Clothes: At least two pairs of trekking pants, which are both breathable and durable in the face of rough weather conditions, are an absolute necessity. Moreover, carry at least three tshirts (synthetic material advised) and a couple of warm protective layers (down layer, fleece jackets, thermal wear, etc.) for the duration of the trek. Insulation is a must even during the summer season because temperatures can drop down drastically, especially at the summit of the trek. It is strongly advised to also carry an outer layer that can be folded and fits conveniently in your backpack, without taking up too much space. The best way to dress in the mountains, especially for something like the Kedarkantha trek, is to layer your clothes such that they can easily be taken off and stored when the temperature is hot, and can be accessed easily when required.
Accessories: At least three to five pairs of socks are also advised. Not only will they provide protection from the cold weather, but thick socks also cushion your feet from the impact of the terrain. The need for a pair of strong trekking shoes is unavoidable, especially for the Kedarkantha terrain. Along with this, a pair of lighter camping shoes should be brought along as well. Too much exposure to heat could even cause a heatstroke, which is why a suncap is a must. Thick gloves are an absolute necessity, because of the snow. A raincoat or poncho is also advised, for protection from rain and snow.
Food and water: Apart from a little bit of patience and determination, trekking in the Himalyan region requires energy. To keep these levels from dropping, one must keep replenishing them with energy-intensive snacks like chocolate bars, cheese and nuts. It is mandatory to carry a water bottle (insulated bottle advised).
Miscellaneous: It is also advised to carry a set of cutlery per person (a mug, a spoon and a tiffin) and a miniature toilet bag with items like toothpaste, lip balm and moisturizer. A strong walking stick also advised, as it adds volumes of ease to your uphill-trekking experience. 
FAQ
What is the best time to go for the Kedarkantha trek?
The Kedarkantha trek is one that can be covered for most of the year, but the best time is between December to April when the roads are carpeted in snow, and add a lot to the experience. June to September are the months during which the trek should be avoided because it rains heavily during this time and walking can become tedious.
2.Will I find snow on the Kedarkantha Trek?
If you travel to Kedarkantha between December to April, snow is guaranteed! Snow starts falling here mid-December and lasts till the third week of April.
3.What is the Kedarkantha trek height?
The height at which the Kedarkantha peak lies is 3,800 m, which is approximately 12,500 feet. The trek is a seamless 20 km long trail where you can witness astonishing ranges of the Himalayas and nature’s treasures in the snow-dusted roads. The route is fringed by dense alpine vegetation and the vast range of fauna and flora only make it more beautiful!
As the trek requires you to go up to quite an altitude, it gets cold very quickly and the oxygen supply also drops. If you are planning a visit, make sure that you are not suffering from any breathing issues or lung-related health conditions.
4.What is the Kedarkantha trek cost?
The cost of the Kedarkantha trek package is INR 7200 per person. Discounts can be applied on group bookings. Packages include transport, meals, stays, and various other amenities. Reading the inclusions mentioned above is advised.
5.Which type of shoes should I bring?
Please do not carry regular sports shoes only. They may be useful at the camps, but since you need good traction during the trek, shoes from Woodland or Forclaz 500 would be recommended.
6.How difficult is the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha Trek is a relatively easy one and that is the reason it is opted by beginners too. To make your first trekking expedition exciting, this trek always a great choice. The best time for this trek is from December to April as the terrains are all snow-covered and the views of the Garhwal Himalayas steal your heart! The trek is about 20 km long and you need five active days to complete it, so make sure that you keep yourself hydrated, maintain your energy intake and carry enough warm clothes.
7.What kind of food will be provided during this trek?
All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner and morning-evening Tea/Coffee with some snacks will be provided during the trek.
8.Are Kedarnath and Kedarkantha the same?
No, Kedarnath and Kedarkantha are not the same. Kedarnath is a small town in Uttrakhand that is known for its temple. Kedarkantha, on the other hand, is a mountainous peak of Uttarakhand in the Uttarkashi district, known for its trekking trail. Both of them are located in Uttarakhand but have very different geographies. They are 100 km from one another.
9.How much weight will I have to carry?
A 6L backpack is recommended. However, the weight to be carried will depend on your requirements, capacity and luggage.
10. What makes Kedarkantha a great trek for beginners?
The trek route leading up to Kedarkantha is mostly an easy one, which is why it is great for beginners. The roads are not very steep and there are just a few elevations and falls, especially towards the end between the Base Camp and the summit. The trekking pole makes it much easier to walk even if the roads are snow-laden. The route is populated by greenery and beautiful streams, along with maple trees, and pine forests which make the journey unforgettable.
11.Will there be mobile connectivity on Kedarkantha Trek?
No, there will be no mobile connectivity during the trek.
12.How do we reach Sankri?
There are many ways to get to Sankri from Dehradun. Public buses which costs Rs. 300 and take about 10 to 11 hours are available. They leave at 5 AM and 7 AM. You can also share a cab or a jeep, which leaves at around 8 AM. The ticket costs Rs. 600 for this ride and you can find them opposite the Grand Hotel near Prince Chowk, at the taxi stand. However, transportation from the Dehradun Bus stand to Base Camp 1 & Return are part of the trekking package.
13.What's the Kedarkantha weather in December?
In December, Kedarkantha’s weather varies between -3°C and 5°C. Since it is at a height of 12,500 feet, the temperature drops with elevation and the air becomes more chilly. You will almost certainly witness snow in December.
14.What is the temperature during Kedarkantha Trek?
In the months between April and December, the day temperature is 8°C and night temperature is -5°C to 3°C. This is the recommended time to go on this trek.
15.Why plan Kedarkantha trek in November?
Kedarkantha trek is very pleasant in November because the weather is cold, but not bone-chillingly so. There Skies are mostly clear and camping becomes much easier. In November, the famous Juda-Ka-Talab will also not be frozen yet, so you can enjoy the clear, lucid charm of the lake with the elegant mountains in the background.
16.What medicines should I carry?
A basic medical kit and devices like oxygen cylinders and oxi-meters are a part of the trek cost and tour guides are well-trained to handle first-aid situations. Other than this, if you have a specific medical condition, you will have to carry your own medicines and requisites for the same.
17.What sort of fitness is expected from trekkers?
Trekkers should be physically fit to begin with. This means that patients of lung problems and asthma are barred. In addition, if you have a bleeding ulcer, you will not be allowed to trek by your doctor. Many people also overlook the dental checkup before going to trek. A troubled tooth can cause you to have to quit your expedition altogether.
It is advised not to over-train just before a trek. Take your training 2 to 3 weeks before. After that, just maintain your level of fitness. If you try to strain yourself at the last minute you will encounter fatigue, or in severe cases, even injury.
18.What's Kedarkantha’s weather in October?
The Kedarkantha trek weather in October is quite pleasant. The temperature ranges from 4 to 14 degrees, meaning that the nights are cold while the days are warm, making it svery suitable for trekking. Another amazing aspect of trekking Kedarkantha in this month is that you can witness the clear skies and lush green fields.
19.What type of vehicles will be used for transportation?
The journey from Dehradun to Sankri and back is by car. An SUV like the Tata Sumo or similar will be provided for group transport. The rest of the journey involves trekking on foot.
20.What all things can we see along our way?
First of all, you will come across the Tons river, a tributary of the Yamuna while on your way to Sankri. At Juda Ka Talaab you will come across a small lake, which freezes in the colder months. You have to pass through a beautiful coniferous forest to reach here. While traveling to the Kedarkantha base, you will come across vast snowy mountains – with green patches on them. You will find snow-covered pine trees the entire way.
21.Is Kedarkantha trek easy?
Yes, the Kedarkantha Trek is considered quite an easy one, which is why most beginners opt for it daringly. The snow-covered roads and thick woods are easy to cover, except for the point between the base camp and the peak, where the climb can get slightly laborious at certain points. Apart from that, the distance covered ranges from 4-6kms per day at moderate speed, which is very doable.
22.Is Kedarkantha Trek safe?
If you do not suffer from any respiratory or impeding health disorder, the Kedarkantha trek is absolutely safe. It is, in fact, safe enough for first-time trekkers too. Moreover, a well trained trek leader and staff members will be with you the entire time.
23.I am a first timer. Should I go for this trek?
Yes, definitely! The Kedarkantha trek route begins at 6,400 feet and you have to trek up to 12500 feet, but the roads aren’t very steep for most of the journey. Each day, you walk for about 4 hours which is considered to be a very basic trek-pace. The scenic beauty of the entire way makes the entire experience worth it.
24.How long is Kedarkantha Trek?
The trek from Sankri to Kedarkantha and back is exactly 20 km long. In terms of days, the trek is Five days and four nights long. Day 6 is reserved for travelling back to Dehradun.
25.What is the Delhi to Kedarkantha distance?
- The journey must begin from Dehradun.
- Dehradun is about 256 km from Delhi.
- Once you reach Dehradun, you have to reach Sankri village, which is 188 km from Dehradun
- Your trek begins in Sankri which is a route that is 20 km long.
- Overall, the distance covered from Delhi to Kedarkantha is 464 km.
26.What is Kedarkantha’s history?
Kedarkantha roughly translates to the “Throat of Lord Shiva”. It is a mountain 20 kms from Sankri village, standing tall at a height of 12,500 feet. A legend goes back to the Mahabharata era, when the Pandavas went to Lord Shiva to ask for his blessings after the Kurukshetra war. Lord Shiva refused to meet them and guised himself as a buffalo instead. Bheem, one of the Pandavas, noticed something strange among the herd of buffalos and refused to let the disguised buffalo pass. This led to a fight between the two. Bheem is said to have ripped the buffalo apart and the Pandavas are said to have built temples wherever parts of his body fell. Kedarkantha was apparently where his throat fell. It is also believed that Juda-Ka-Talab was created when Lord Shiva let down his hair and water flowed from it, creating a water body.
27.Can we have liquor or smoke while on the trek?
No, the act of smoking and drinking is prohibited on the trek. Since the places here are at high altitudes and even breathing seamlessly is an issue, smoking is out of the question. Consumption of alcohol is not allowed during the whole trail either, as it may cause nausea, dehydration and vomiting.
28.What are the sanitary facilities during the trek and at the campsite?
During your stay at Sankri village, you will be staying in a hotel room with attached washroom facilities. As you proceed towards Kedarkantha, you will be unable to find a washroom anywhere else and most likely, only one toilet tent will be available for everyone.
29.Can I go solo for the Kedarkantha trek?
Yes, it is definitely a trek that can be completed solo. However, nothing compares to an experience in a group. If you do want to come solo, however, make sure to acquaint yourself with a group during the trek so as to derive maximum utility from your experience.
30.Can I attempt Kedarkantha and Har ki Dun treks together?
Since both these treks are in different directions, it will not be possible to cover both places at once.
31.What is the distance between Mussoorie and Kedarkantha?
Kedarkantha is 63.5 km away from Mussoorie. It can be reached by private buses. Tourist taxis are also available from Sankri village.
32.How much average distance do I have to cover on a daily basis on the Kedarkantha trek?
An average distance of 4-7 km on a daily basis will be covered by the trekking group as a whole.
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