Kedarkantha Trek - Hiking & Trekking in the Himalayas

6 DAYS 5 NIGHTS
  • trekking in uttarakhand

Kedarkantha trekking Itinerary

Region : Uttarkashi uttarakhand

Duration : 6 Days

Level : Moderate

Trekking distance : 24 Kms

Max Altitude : 3800 Meters

Pickup Point :Dehradun

Drop Point :Dehradun

Best Season :Round of the Year

KedarKantha Peak is located in Govind National Park of Western Garhwal, surrounded by a number of panoramic river valleys, snow-laden mountains, remotely located small villages with a rich flora-fauna. It is one of the easiest treks in Himalayas to experience the snow covers. Winters snow here sets in the middle of December and lasts till the middle of April. Snow will come across after crossing the height of 10,000 feet and the campsites of this trek boosts magnificent beauty. The drive from the base camp of this trek (Sankri Village) to Kedar Kantha is one of the most panoramic and picturesque drives in Himalayas which takes you through Mussoorie, Naugaon, Purola, Mori and Naitwar. The snow covered path and the patch of meadows will give you a perfect glance of the Himalayan Crown. Silent and soothing streams with peaceful lakes will treat your hard trekking tiredness, giving you a feeling of being in mother's lap. If you know skiing, that's even better. It will help you to get the glance of the heavenly landscape from a good height. Rich forests lamented with snow will give you a pleasant experience and sooth your eyes. Humbleness of the regional people will impress you completely.

Difficulty Level : Kedarkantha Trek

One who has an experience of trekking can do it, and it isn’t even hard for the first timers, but enough fitness is required, though anybody with a decent Fitness can trek to Kedarkantha and this could be the most magnificent and incredible winter trek for the trekkers.

Is it suitable for children’s?

Yes, the trek is favorable for children’s up to 5 years of age, but there is unwavering additional logistical support that we recommend for children’s.

Is it a good option for the first time trekkers /or families?

Yes, this Himalayan trek, we recommend for those who have a less or no prior experience in trekking, this trek does not have tricky patches, and a well-planned itinerary will not making it tiring and uncomfortable for you to trek.

Highest Altitude : Kedarkantha Trek

One can attain a maximum altitude of 12,500ft. Subject to his endurance and other conditions such as a climate, temperature. The trek brings us to the winter wonderland that serves as an excellent destination for skiing during winters. The fourth day of the trek is destined to conquer the Kedarnath Peak.

The trekkers need to hike an elevation from 11,250ft. to 12,500ft. The schedule of the day includes hiking to Kedarkantha peak and then again descending back till Hargaon camp which is at 8900ft. always take care about the fitness as it is so much required because one has to ascend.

Season : Kedarkantha Trek

Season, Kedarkantha is best known for winters only, A trek to this worthy destination can be planned from December to March when in winters this resplendent destination is always wrapped into the blanket of snow, and it is the most recommended treks for first-timers. Although the trek to Kedarkantha is open for trekkers all year round, the best season for Kedarkantha trek is during winters - from December to March. At Kedarkantha, the snow starts to set in by the middle of December and stays until March last week. Snow covers the whole destination so with each step on can feel that they are strolling in the paradise.

Average Temperature : Kedarkantha Trek

The average temperature in the day time will be 8°C to 15°C, and in the night time, it will fall to -5°C to 3°C.

One must bring enough pair of clothes and better quality trekking shoes so that a trekker can be covered thoroughly and does not face any difficulty during the stay at this temperature; there is a vast difference in the city and mountain temperature so it might be possible that one can encounter a little difficulty during acclimatization.

It is essential to bring all warm enough, and that may not even affect the backpack too much.


What Makes this Trek Different?

Kedarkantha trek is a perfect picturesque trek in the lap of the Himalayas of Garhwal. The overall return trek is around 24 Km from Sankri, which is covered in a span of over 4 days. The trek takes you up to the summit of the Kedarkantha peak at 3800 m. The view from the top offers spectacular panorama the region and other lesser known peaks, valleys and villages of the area. The Dhauladhar range of Himachal, Rupin valley, Har Ki Dun valley and views that goes down to the dense settlement of Purola, are all visible. The snow cover on the surrounding peaks makes all the mountains and sharp points appear like a dominating high peaks.

On the top, you feel like an eagle with a bird's eye view of the surrounding, amid summer and autumn, the trek is delightful with rich green knolls; woodland cover with a delicate waving water of the Juda ka Taalab, KedarKantha is a standout amongst the best winter snow trek existing in the whole Himalayas. The whole trek is secured by a thick layer of crisp white snow. The perspective of woodland shrouded in snow is extremely fantastic and a sight which just pop your heart and keeps you energized all through. The mountain additionally offers you the fundamental experience of a Summit Trek.

1

Day 1: Pickup from Dehradun Railway Station and Drive to Sankri (base camp) by taxi

Total distance 210 km8/9 Hours journey

Mode of journey – By taxi

Altitude Sankri base camp1920 Meters

Night stay – Hotel – on share basis

Dehradun Railway Station in the morning which will leave for Sankri around 6:00 am to 7:00 am.

Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand and one of the most beautiful places in India. The main attraction of this place is Rajpur road go through it and get a glimpse of Dehradun’s beauty. Reach Mussoorie after an hour which is also known as “Queen of Hills”. People visit it heavily during vacations with their family and friends.

After half an hour, stop at kempty fall. Have breakfast there and witness people from different parts of the world. The break will be of maximum 1 hour. Ahead the peaks are visible and further you will come close to holy Yamuna River. If you want, then take a short break of 20 minutes and enjoy being around it.

Reach Mori and after 1 hour you will come across a check post. They will ask for Aadhar cards and some other details. Ahead lies Sankri, enjoy the drive and the wait is soon going to be over. Reach trekkers paradise and the main market of Sankri.

Go to hotel Swargarohini, freshen up and enjoy evening snacks in the open terrace with great views. You will be provided some details after which you can go for evening walk but be at the hotel for dinner.

Enjoy delicious dinner and spend comfortable night in the mountains.

2

Day 2 : Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

Trek Distance 5 Km – 4/5 Hours Trek

Mode of journey – on foot

Altitude – Juda ka talab 2700 Meters

Night Stay – Camp in tents – share basis

Today, the heart warming morning is eagerly waiting for you to wake up. Feel the peace amid the mountains; no connectivity and no materialistic thing is here to disturb you, the only thing is peace.

Relish the hot cup of coffee/tea at 6:00 am and get ready for your breakfast at 7:30 am. You have to strictly leave at 8:30 am after the instructions of your guide

The trek starts from Sankri to Juda ka Talab which is 5 kms away. After a little walk from the main market witness Swargarohini peaks (I, II, III) which will mesmerize you.

After 20 minutes of hike the beautiful Saur village will come into sight, all the houses there are made of wood. Here are home stays which serve delicious organic local food.

As you move further, the forests turn more beautiful. Spot some Himalayan birds and don’t miss the sight of cascading waterfalls. The meadows and these forests are enough to attract anybody.

Some names of the local places are – Goteka, Boiroka ligudiya, Posla, Jainola, Kuwamohli and then Juda Ka Talab.

Juda Ka Talab is today’s destination which is favorite of many trekkers. This lake is present in a forest clearing. It is 100 meters long and the width is 36 m. The water is clear and reflects the surroundings. Camp amid pine trees and enjoy the night there.

Have evening tea/coffee, snacks, soup and explore the area. Dinner will be served after which you can rest for the night.

3

Day 3 : Trek from Juda Ka talab to Kedarkantha base

Trek Distance 3.5 Km – 2/3 Hours Trek

Mode of journey – on foot

Altitude – Kedarkantha basecamp3200 Meters

Night Stay – Camp in tent- on share basis

Wake up and peep out of your tents to see if there is snow or the sun is shining. It is important to tell you that one day there is greenery everywhere and the other day it turns all white because of snow. This is reality, and this scenery is heartwarming!

Like other days enjoy tea/ coffee, have breakfast at 7:30 am and leave at 8:30 – 9:00 am. Today, you will be heading towards Kedarkantha base from where Kedarkantha peak is clearly visible.

The distance from Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha base is 3.5 km which can be easily reached in 2 to 3 hours. Today’s trek is short and comfortable.

Start the trek, cross an ascent, move through the dense forest and suddenly an open meadow will welcome you. Halt there and enjoy great views of the Himalayas.

Move further through pine forest and reach your campsite from where the Kedarkantha peak shines tall and relish the great views! Afterwards enjoy hot lunch.

Note: – if you are trekking in winter season then briefing is the most important part and the gaiters and crampons will be provided. So, you have to be ready at 4:30 am wearing them.

4

Day 4 : Trek from Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Summit (3800 Meters) and descent to Hargaon Thach

Trek Distance 9 Km – 6/7 Hours Trek

Mode of journey – on foot

Altitude Hargaon thach 2645 Meters

Night Stay – Camp in tent- on share basis

Today is the main day of your trek, so be ready at 4:30 am in the morning to witness sunrise from Kedarkantha summit. Nothing can be better than watching rising sun from the summit because then the views are jaw dropping. Whoever watches it gets mesmerized.

Light breakfast will be served at 4:30 am then the trek with start. It is important to use headlamps. Trekking in dark is really fun but only with professional guides. Soon you will reach just below the Kedarkantha summit.

The ascent to top is 1.5 km long but the efforts will be worth. Move ahead with everyone and the soft sunrays will fill your heart with joy. When the sun is about to rise, reach the top (3800 m) and capture some of the best moments of your life.

There is the temple of Lord Shiva and Ganesha, seek their blessings and get awe struck by the panorama views of stunning Himalayan peaks. Spend good time with your group and after an hour get ready for the descent.

The descent is going to be fun, slide down with the help of your guides. The sliding point is 2 km long, this is going to be your best experience.

Have lunch on the way, rest for sometime and move towards the campsite for today. Hargaon is a beautiful wide meadow, spend your time here and retire for the night.

5

Day 5 : Trek from Hargaon thach to Sankri – Hotel

Trek Distance 5.5 Km – 4/5 Hours Trek

Mode of journey – on foot

Night Stay – Hotel – on share basis

Today morning enjoy the breakfast at your last camp of this trek. Start trekking and while descending from Hargaon to Sankri you will come across many view points and ahead reach the apple orchards.

After it reach base camp Sankri and today your stay will be at hotel. You can also buy some local food from here and take uncountable memories with you. Enjoying beautiful life here

6

Day 6: Return from Sankri to Dehradun by taxi

Distance 210 Km8/9 Hours Trek

Mode of journey – Bay taxi

Our service end here

Time taken: Approx 3 hrs

Trek Gradient: Easy to Moderate

Water sources: Fill your water bottles

The day has come where you’ll have to leave the majestic view of the Himalayas and snowcapped mountain ranges. We’ll be heading back to the Sankri today, and the trek will be relatively simple since the distance is short. Sankri is the stoppage village for more than ten treks; Known as Bali pass, Borasu pass, etc. The morning will welcome you with a spectacular sunrise between the pine trees which will proceed with the breakfast.

Pick up Point Rishikesh 6 AM
Drop Point Rishikesh 4 PM
INCLUDED

What is Included In This Trip?

Transport Facility Dehradun To Dehradun

Forest Permit and entrance fee

Accommodation in tents on twin share basis

All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and dinner

(All camping gears)

High quality tents

Sleeping bags

Mattress

Liner

Pillow

Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents

Dining Tent

Dining Table

Porters

Helper

Mules

Kitchen team

Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication

Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide

Medical Kit

Oxygen Cylinders

Crampons and Gaiters

NOT INCLUDED

What is Not Included In This Trip?

Personal Insurance

Medical Certificate

Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit

On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included

Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the documents given below

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc,
Passport and Visa important to foreigners
Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker)
Declaration Certificates

Note: – Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry.
It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Backpack (50 to 60 liters)
A strongly built backpack with good support is compulsory for a trek. (Rain cover is important)

Sturdy Trekking Shoes
The shoes should be strong enough with good support. The people ask if sports shoes would be comfortable but it is good to bring the right trekking shoes.

The Clothes You Should Bring On a Trek
Avoid keeping extra clothes because it only makes you backpack heavy.

Trek Pants – The jeans are never suitable for a trek so you need at least 2-3 trek pants for treks carry more for longer treks.

Jacket – Jackets are very important to carry on a trek it protects you against the chilly weather. So carry 2 jackets on a week long trek.

Layers of warm Clothing
Carry warm woolen layers or fleece. Carry more layers during winter season (at least 2 to 3) and less during summer.

Thermals – The Temperature decreases at night so you might be need thermals for Night.

T- Shirts – Bring those t shirts which dry fast.

Poncho –They are needed if you are trekking on a Rainy day to keep you dry.

Hiking Pole

Water Bottle 2

Cap or Balaclava

Sunglasses

Slippers

Woolen and Waterproof Gloves

Socks (Woolen and Regular)

Sunscreen

Torch head light

Personal Toiletry Items – (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer etc.)

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)

Diamox – (Prevents altitude sickness)

Digene – (It cures discomfort in stomach, acidity)

Crocin Advance – (Cures fever and headache)

Aspirin/Combiflam – (Pain reliever)

Disprin – (Cures headache)

Avomine – (Prevents motion sickness)

Avil – (It treat allergies)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen – (Prevents Diarrhoea)

Ranitidine – (Reduces the amount of acid in stomach)

Volini/Moov spray – (For sprains)

Betadine/Savlon – (Antiseptic cream)

ORS

Band aid

Cotton

Stretchable/Elastic bandage

Gauze

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)