TREK HIGHLIGHTS
The Kedarkantha trek package offers a perfect mix of stunning natural beauty and cultural experiences, all set in the scenic mountain landscapes.
Camping by a frozen lake and watching the sunrise from a snow-covered mountain peak, with pine trees dusted in snow, creates a magical setting for photographers to capture the perfect shot.
The trek is of moderate difficulty, making it accessible for both beginner and experienced trekkers. It provides a perfect challenge while being achievable in a short time.
With minimal light pollution, the clear Himalayan skies provide some of the best stargazing experiences. From your campsite, you can gaze at countless stars and constellations, making for a truly magical night.
The trek gives you the chance to watch a stunning sunrise from the mountain peak, where the first light of the day fills the landscape, creating breathtaking views.
QUICK FACTS
Trek Start/ End Location - Sankri Village, Uttrakhand
Kedarkantha Trek Duration - 5 Days 4 Nights
Kedarkantha Trek Distance From Sankri - 20 KMs
Kedarkantha Trek Height - 12500 ft
Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty - Easy to Moderate
Kedarkantha Trek Best Time - November to April
TREK OVERVIEW
Your incredible journey on the Kedarkantha trek, one of the most popular treks in India, starts here. Known as a top snow trekking destination worldwide, the peak is surrounded by pine trees and covered with fresh snow at an elevation of 12,500 ft. Located in Uttarkashi's Govind Wildlife National Sanctuary, the trek offers breathtaking views of green forests, small waterfalls, and snow-covered meadows as you approach Obersee. It's considered one of the best winter snow treks in India, suitable for beginners, with the ideal trekking period from early November to late April when snow transforms the landscape. The trek offers everything a hiker desires—from snowy peaks and dense forests to frozen lakes and a rewarding summit, with stunning views from Sankri base camp all the way up.
DAY WISE ITINERARY
Day 1 - Dehradun-to-Sankri drive
Reporting Location - Prince Chown, Near Railway Station (Dehradun)
Reporting Time - 06:00 AM to 09:00 AM daily
Drive Distance - 200 km (Dehradun to Sankri
Sankri Altitude - 6,400 ft
Meals Included - Dinner only
Stay Type - Guesthouse Accommodation (triple sharing basis)
The day begins with a pickup from Prince Chownk, Dehradun, which is located near the Railway Station. From here, you will start your scenic drive to Sankri, the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek. The pickup time is typically between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and the journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, covering a distance of 200 km. The drive from Dehradun to Sankri takes you through picturesque landscapes, including Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, and charming villages, offering stunning views of valleys and forests.
On arrival at Sankri Village, check in to our guesthouse for an overnight stay. Dinner will be served, and you’ll rest here for the night.
Day 2 - Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab Trek
Trek Start Time: 8:00 AM
Trek Distance: 5 km
Trek Altitude: 9,100 feet (Juda Ka Talab)
Temperature: Day: 5°C to 10°C, Night: -5°C to -10°C (Varies depending on the season)
Meals for the Day: Breakfast, Hot Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner
Stay Type: Alpine Camps (triple sharing basis)
On Day 2, you'll trek to Juda Ka Talab at an altitude of 9,100 feet, covering about 5 km by the afternoon, depending on your trekking pace. The trail begins through a pine and maple forest, gradually rising through wildlife areas and fields. As you ascend, you'll spot huts in the fields along the way. During the trek, you'll see a large lake on one side and lush pine and oak forests on the other. The lake is surrounded by lukewarm water, while the rest of the area remains colder. In winter, the lake freezes, creating a beautiful sight, and features a natural tunnel that supplies water to nearby communities.
While trekking, you'll encounter ice and slush, but MadTrek Adventure's guides will assist you. You'll also cross bridges and may spot rare Himalayan Langurs, along with other wildlife like boars, hares, and martens. After a day of adventure, you'll camp overnight and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of nature.
Day 3 - Trekking from Juda-ka-Talab to the base of Kedarkantha (Lohasu)
Trek Start Time: 8:00 AM
Trek Distance: 4+ km
Trek Altitude: 3,400 meters (Kedarkantha Base)
Temperature: Day: 5°C to 10°C, Night: -5°C to -10°C (Varies depending on the season)
Meals for the Day: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner
Stay Type: Alpine Camps (triple sharing basis)
The sunrise on Day 3 is a breathtaking sight, setting the tone for the day's trek to Kedarkantha Base at 3,400 meters (11,250 ft). The journey from Juda Ka Talab to the base is over 4 km and takes about 2.5 hours of brisk walking. Juda Ka Talab, a beautiful lake surrounded by pine trees, often freezes in winter, providing a unique experience for trekkers.
As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper, and your trek leader will guide you through snowy terrain with tips on proper techniques. The path winds through pine and oak groves, and at 10,400 feet, snow-covered trails offer stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks like Bandarpunch, Kala Nag, Swargarohini, and Ranglana.
Dinner will be served in the comfort of your tents, allowing you to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Day 4 - Early Morning trek from Kedarkantha's base to its summit and back down to Juda-Ka-Talab camp
Trek Start Time: 8:00 AM
Trek Distance: 6 km
Trek Altitude: 11,250 feet (Kedarkantha Base)
Temperature: Day: 5°C to 10°C, Night: -5°C to -10°C (Varies depending on the season)
Meals for the Day: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner
Stay Type: Camping
On Day 4 of your Kedarkantha trek, you'll hike 6 kilometers (from 12,500 feet to 11,250 feet) over 7 hours, making it a challenging day. The trail offers stunning views of surrounding mountain ranges, including Rupin. Local legend says the peak was named Kedarkantha after a divine sign during the construction of the Kedarnath temple.
At the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Bandarpunch, Kalanaag, Swargarohini, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. After taking in the breathtaking sights, you'll trek back to Juda Ka Talab camp for an overnight stay, surrounded by the beauty of the valleys and nature.
Day 5 - Trek from Juda-Ka-Talab camp to Sankri and departure from Sankri to Dehradun
Trek Start Time: 8:00 AM
Trek Distance: 5 km
Trek Altitude: 6,400 feet (Sankri)
Temperature: Day: 10°C to 15°C, Night: 0°C to 5°C (Varies depending on the season)
Meals for the Day: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks
Stay Type: Same day drop to Dehradun (No overnight stay)
After breakfast, you'll pack up and follow a paved path back to Sankri. Begin your descent, trekking nearly 2,500 feet from Juda-Ka-Talab Camp (8,900 feet) to Sankri (6,400 feet). The trek will take about 4 hours, covering a relatively short distance of 5 kilometers, so you can travel at a relaxed pace. As you descend, you'll bid farewell to the stunning Himalayan peaks and snowy landscapes.
In the afternoon, after completing the trek, you'll be driven back to Dehradun, arriving by evening (around 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM). The trek officially ends here as you reflect on the beautiful memories created during your Kedarkantha adventure.
WE ASSURE YOU OF OUR BEST SERVICE
SEND ENQUIRYINCLUDES/ EXCLUDES
Price Includes
- Accommodation: Guesthouse stay in Sankri village and Alpine tents (triple/quad sharing) during trek
- Meals: Day 1 Dinner to Day 5 Breakfast as per itinerary (vegetarian)
- Trekking Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, gaiters, and microspikes for snow trekking.
- Safety Measures: Basic first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and guides trained for emergency situations.
- Trek Leader: Services of an expert trek leader (Qualified in Basic/Advanced Mountaineering Courses)
- Transportation: Shared vehicle transportation from Dehradun to Sankri (starting point) and return.
- Permits: All necessary permits, including forest entry fees and camping charges.
- Guides and Staff: Services of experienced trek leaders, local guides, and support staff including cooks and porters for logistical arrangements.
Price Excludes
- Taxes: 5% GST(Service Tax)
- Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, mineral water, or additional food items outside the meals provided.
- Insurance: Personal travel insurance or medical insurance coverage.
- Personal Gear: Trekking shoes, warm clothing, backpacks, thermos, water bottles, and toiletries.
- Porter Services: Charges for hiring porters to carry personal luggage.
- Personal Expenses: Snacks, beverages, mineral water, or additional food items outside the meals provided.
- Emergency Costs: Expenses for medical emergencies, evacuation, or returning from the trek midway.
- Other Costs: Any expenses incurred due to delays, weather changes, or natural calamities, and activities not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
HOW TO REACH
How To reach the Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand, India, follow these steps:
Reach Dehradun
- Travel by Air: To begin the journey through air make your way towards Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. The airport grants you connections with major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. To reach your desired location from there you can take a taxi marking the starting point of the trek.
- Travel by train: However, the cheaper alternative could be the train by catching the train to Dehradun Railway Station from your desired location you can where you can find frequent connections to major cities.
Traveling by bus: To begin the journey by road take a bus to Dehradun that is well connected to all the major cities. From Dehradun onwards hire a personal taxi or can also book a shared cab to Purola/Mori covering the distance overall distance of 200 km in the span of 8-10 hours.
Trek Base Camp Dehradun to Sankri
- Distance Covered:Covering a distance of about 200 km, taking approximately 8 to 10 hours to travel.
- Route:Dehradun to Mussoorie then Purola /Mori lastly reaching the starting point Sankri.
- Mode of Commute:Options include private taxis, shared cabs, and buses from Dehradun to Sankri, although bus availability may be restricted. Transportation is frequently included in pre-planned trekking group packages.
Start the Kedarkantha Trek
The trek begins at Sankri. Several group treks to Kedarkantha are arranged by trekking companies, with packages that include transportation from Dehradun to Sankri, meals, guides, and lodging.
THINGS TO CARRY
- Trekking Shoes:Crucial for a pleasant hike, these shoes offer traction, assistance, and shielding on rough, uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of injuries and maintaining balance during the trek.
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+):Shields your skin from dangerous UV rays, stopping sunburns and lasting harm, particularly in elevated areas where the sun's strength rises.
- Thermal Innerwear: A pair of thermal top and bottom layers for keeping warm at night and during the trek.
- Waterproof & Windproof Jacket and Pants: It shields you from rain, snow, and cold gusts, ensuring you stay dry and warm in tough weather, and allowing you to remain comfortable and focused on your journey.
- Trekking Pole: Provides stability on snow and steep slopes, helping reduce strain on your knees.
- Balaclava or Neck Warmer: A balaclava will shield your face from biting winds, while a neck warmer or gaiter protects your neck and helps retain body heat. Both can be easily adjusted for comfort.
- Woolen Cap and Gloves: Insulated gloves that are resistant to weather and a cozy cap to shield your extremities from the cold.
- Sunglasses (UV Protection): Crucial for shielding your eyes from the harsh brightness on snowy paths.
- First Aid Kit: Always carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, blister plasters, and any personal medication. A well-stocked kit can help with small injuries during the trek.
- Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder:It is advisable to take two 1-liter bottles and a hydration pack along the trek.
- Personal Toiletry Kit: A compact, lightweight kit with essentials like a toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, quick-dry towel, sunscreen, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and personal hygiene products, all stored in a waterproof pouch for convenience during your trek.
- Backpack (30-40 liters): A durable backpack with a waterproof cover for transporting necessary items during the hike.
- Basic First Aid Kit & Personal Medications: Contains band-aids, disinfectants, and analgesics for small wounds. Having personal medications is crucial for treating health conditions while trekking in isolated regions.
- ID Proof Government-issued identification such as Aadhaar or passport is essential for trekking organizers local government.
FAQS
MadTrek Adventures suggests visiting from December to April for breathtaking, snowy scenery. Mild to hot summer days from April to June work as an ideal time for the hike, as it offers hikers access to the route properly and travel lighter.
It is an ideal trek and is perfect for beginners to begin the trekking journey. With smooth routes, gentle inclines, and moderate cliffs it is mostly trekked by individuals with average physical conditioning.
The average time taken during the completion of the trek is usually 4-6 days. However, the duration might differ based on the pace, route, and weather selected. With MadTrek Adventures you can have 4-day and 5-day schedules with Sankri marking as the starting point.
Sankri is the beginning point of the trek, one can travel to the beginning point by taxi either by sharing or hiring a private one. MadTrek Adventures offers you the option of taking a taxi, shared cab, or bus to Purola/Mori and then renting a local vehicle to travel 200 km in approximately 8-10 hours.
During winter the temperature can go as low as -10°C at night, whereas the days can be relaxed with 8°C to 15°C. Whereas, in the summer, the temperature ranges between 5°C to 20°C. However, it is advisable to be well-prepared in advance for cold if trekking in winter.
Definitely, solo trekking is possible, MadTrek Adventure offers you a chance to join a group or hire a guide for safety and a secure experience, especially during snowy months.
It majorly depends on the time of the year you are traveling. However, make sure to have warm comfortable loans, a waterproof tent, durable trekking boots for your trek poles, a backpack, sunscreen, and minimal first-aid supplies. Our team tick-marks all the points to ensure you’re prepared.
Yes! This trek is very easy for beginners in India. With a mild inclination of 12,500 ft and smooth trails along the trek, it is ideal for first-time trekkers.
Explore MadTrek Adventures as we provide affordable packages ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 INR. for a 4-day expedition starting from Sankri with guides, meals, camping facilities, and safety precautions included.
Definitely! Snow is regularly seen from December to April, creating a wintry journey. Wonderland is quite enchanting in these months.
MadTrek Adventures is excited about creating a memorable experience for your Kedarkantha trek. A moment of learning! To get help, and direction, or to reserve your upcoming hike, contact us now.
CONFIRMATION POLICY
- Within a day of a successful booking, the client gets a voucher of the confirmation through email.
- If the preferred slots are not available, an alternative schedule will be arranged according to the preference of the customer, and a new voucher of confirmation will be sent through email.
- Alternatively, before confirmation, the customer can decide to cancel their booking, and a complete refund will be issued.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- Cancellations made in between 45 days of the start date of the trip will be assessed a cancellation fee of 25% of the total tour cost.
- Cancellations made between 15-30 days of the trip’s start date will be charged 50% of the total tour cost as cancellation fees.
- If you cancel within 0-15 days of the trip’s start date, you will be charged 100% of the entire tour cost as cancellation fees.
- In the event of bad weather or government restrictions, any trips or events may be cancelled. In such a case, the operators will do all possible to give a viable alternative. However, a cash refund is not available on this item.
REFUND POLICY
If you select a refund after canceling your trek, the refund amount will be deposited into the payment account that you had used while making payment to us. It will take ten to twelve working days.
ENQUIRY
ABOUT US
Why MadTrek ?
We prefer to do things differently keeping in mind safety, comfort & pleasure of our trekkers at highest priority. We strongly believe in preserving the brilliance we proudly call our home & do not welcome anyone who litters around & doesn’t respect the notion of loving nature so it can love you back.
Exceptional Reviews
With more than 1,000 people joining our tours annually, we have a proven track record of providing quality trips that exceed our guests’ expectations. You can read reviews on Tripadvisor, Facebook, and on our website.
Highly Acclaimed Guides
Our absolute commitment is to hire and train the best guides in the industry. Our philosophy is that our guides, gear, food and logistics comprise our services that a guest will get to experience, and the guides are the most important ingredient! We never compromise on that..
