Kedarkantha Trek

Start Point : Sankri    End Point : Sankri

Short Itinerary

Day 01: Reach at Sankri.

Day 02: Sankri to Juda Ka Taal.

Day 03: Juda Ka Taal to Kedarkantha Base Camp.

Day 04: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit and Back to Kedarkantha Base Camp.

Day 05: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Sankri.

Day 06: Departure from Sankri.

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Kedarkantha Trek without Transportation: INR 5,100/- Per Person.

Kedarkantha Trek with Transportation (Dehradun to Dehradun): INR 5,999/- Per Person.

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Inclusion in Cost During the Trek:

• Accommodation: 2 Night in a Hotel / Homestay on a triple/quad sharing basis and 3 Nights accommodation in a tent on a triple sharing basis.
• Meals: All Meals from (Day 1 Dinner to Day 6 Breakfast) are included. We provide simple nutritious vegetarian food on all days of the trek.
• Snacks: Morning / Evening Tea / Coffee with light snacks and soup while on the trek.
• Camping logistics: Trekking tent, Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Dining tent, Kitchen tent and Toilet tent.
• Trek Leader Qualified and Experienced Trek leader and support staff.
• Permits: All necessary fees and permits.
• Trekking Equipment: Gaiters, Micro Spikes if required.
• PSafety Equipment: Walkie / Talkie , Basic First Aid kit with Oximeter, Blood Pressure Monitor and Oxygen Cylinder.

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Exclusion in Cost During the Trek:

• Transportation
• Any kind of medical expenses.
• Any of Cost for Airfare, Train fare.
• Any kind of medical expenses.
• Any of Cost for Airfare, Train fare.
• Any Meals / Snacks / Beverages in during trip.
• Any other fee / charges not mentioned in the cost included section.
• Any kind of Travel / Health Insurance (UK Hills Travel strictly recommend each traveller to please carry your own travel / health insurance).
• Bag offloading cost is Rs 1000 (maximum weight should not be more than 10 kg).

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Overview

Often celebrated as the "Queen of Winter Treks," the Kedarkantha Trek is a top choice for winter trekking enthusiasts. The name Kedarkantha, or "Throat of Lord Shiva," carries historical significance as it is said that Lord Shiva meditated here before moving to Kedarnath.

Standing tall at 12,500 feet, Kedarkantha is among the most stunning peaks in the Himalayas, drawing trekkers from across India. It’s a popular winter trek that welcomes everyone, from first-timers to seasoned hikers.

This 5-night, 6-day journey is ideal for those seeking tranquility, adventure, and the raw beauty of nature. Known for breathtaking snow-clad mountain views, the summit offers glimpses of ranges like Black Peak, Swargarohini, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. The summit's association with Shiva and the local folklore further enrich the experience.

The trek with Uk Hills Travels begins in Dehradun and takes you through the quaint village of Sankri, which serves as the 20-kilometer trek’s base camp. After a night in a homestay or hotel, you’ll receive a trek briefing and start the journey, with the first stop at Juda Ka Taal, a serene lake offering views of Swargarohini.

The next day leads to the Kedarkantha base camp at 11,200 feet. After a warm meal and fun activities like snowball fights, you’ll settle in for an overnight stay at the camp. Early the next morning, the trek to the Kedarkantha summit begins. Watching the sunrise from the summit is a transformative experience, offering unparalleled tranquility and a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges.

The Kedarkantha trek is moderately challenging and beginner-friendly, offering stunning 360-degree Himalayan views. Along the way, Juda Ka Taal’s frozen winter surface sparkles like golden diamonds, making for a surreal sight. If you’re lucky, snowfall may grace the route, adding to the enchantment. Many trekkers return not only for the summit but also to experience the local culture and cuisine, such as the region’s unique red rice, which provides warmth during the winter.

It’s best to leave network-dependent devices behind, as connectivity ends near Sankri Village, the trek's starting point. While Kedarkantha is accessible year-round, it’s especially beautiful from November to February when snow blankets the landscape. Most trekkers find it hard to capture the essence of Kedarkantha in just one visit, making this trek an experience that beckons them back.

Given its charm and wide appeal, Kedarkantha is often regarded as “The Best Winter Trek in India.” If you’re torn between winter treks, this one is an easy choice.

How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek

By Air: The nearest airport to the Kedarkantha Trek is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, approximately 25 kilometers away. Daily flights connect Dehradun with Delhi, making it a convenient option. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take public transportation to reach Sankri, the trek’s base camp.

By Train: Travelers from Delhi can opt for a train to Dehradun, with several options available for an overnight journey. Once in Dehradun, you can continue to Sankri by either a private vehicle or a bus.

By Road: Regular bus services operate from Delhi to Dehradun, with Delhi government buses departing from Kashmiri Gate. After arriving in Dehradun, you can take public transportation or rent a private vehicle to reach Sankri.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

If you’ve ever wondered which winter trek in India stands out, Kedarkantha is likely to be at the top of the list. Here are five reasons why Kedarkantha attracts trekkers each year: the snow, dense forests, the frozen lake, panoramic summit views, and the camping experience. The unmatched beauty of Kedarkantha in winter truly sets it apart.

Winter Wonderland: Kedarkantha Trek is one of the best winter treks in the Himalayas, featuring snow-covered peaks and crisp, chilly nights that transform the landscape into a magical winter scene.

Unforgettable Camping Adventure: The trek offers unique campsites with breathtaking mountain views and a chance to reconnect with nature in a serene setting.

Frozen Forests: The trek winds through dense coniferous forests and icy landscapes, creating a surreal winter experience perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Frozen Lake – Juda Ka Talab: This serene, frozen lake is a highlight of the trek. Spend some time here to meditate, capture photos, and soak in the tranquility.

Perfect for Beginners: Kedarkantha is ideal for beginners, combining natural beauty with a sense of adventure, making it an accessible yet thrilling introduction to trekking.

Summit Climb: For a dose of adrenaline, the summit climb is an exhilarating experience as you trek through thick layers of snow to reach the top.

Panoramic Himalayan Views: From above the clouds, enjoy sweeping views of majestic Himalayan peaks, including Gangotri, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, Yamunotri, and the Swargarohini range.

Photographer's Paradise: With postcard-worthy landscapes at every turn, Kedarkantha offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs.

What is the difficulty level of the Kedarkantha Trek?

The Kedarkantha Trek is considered easy to moderate, making it a great choice for beginners eager to explore the majestic Himalayas. Covering 20 kilometers, the trek ascends from 6,400 feet to a rewarding 12,500 feet. Summit day, however, can be challenging, with a 7-8 hour trek that involves a continuous 5-hour ascent followed by a 2-3 hour descent, so a reasonable level of fitness is essential to enjoy the experience without strain.

Despite its relatively short duration, the trek provides ample opportunity to savor breathtaking views and capture unforgettable memories, enhancing the overall trekking experience. Reaching the summit and seeing the surrounding peaks at eye level brings a profound sense of humility and accomplishment. Kedarkantha is a standalone mountain with multiple routes to the summit, adding a layer of excitement and safety through various exit points—a great advantage, especially for solo trekkers. Although aspects of the trek are easy, the summit's length and steepness contribute to its easy-to-moderate classification.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Reach Sankri.

Drive Distance: 198 km, 8-9 hours

Altitude: 6,400 ft

The 6-day Kedarkantha trek begins in the lively town of Dehradun. Arriving in the morning by flight, train, or bus is recommended, as the day starts with an 8-hour drive to Sankri. This charming hamlet in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi District is ideal for an overnight stay. The scenic drive through Uttarakhand’s winding valleys and alongside the Yamuna and Tons rivers sets the mood for the adventure ahead. Traveling in a Tata Sumo or a 4x4 vehicle, you’ll feel the rugged terrain as you ascend, with the final stretch revealing views of snow-covered peaks and the refreshing scent of pine filling the air.

Sankri, located within Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, is known for its unique charm. After checking in at your homestay, you’ll enjoy locally prepared fresh food. Spend your last few hours of the day walking around the village, watching the sunset, learning about the local culture, admiring traditional umbrella-shaped houses, and spotting the exquisite local flora and fauna.

Day 02: Sankri to Juda Ka Taal.

Trek Distance: 4 kms, 5 Hours

Altitude: 9,100 ft

Today marks the start of your trekking adventure, where each step promises to rejuvenate your spirit. Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the edge of the village. After a short walk, you’ll arrive at Saur, the village extension, where a gentle stream accompanies you along the trail. The calm waters are a peaceful start to the trek, but soon you’ll veer off into the dense forest.

Covering 4-5 kilometers, the trail takes you through magnificent maple and pine trees, with occasional clearings that reveal breathtaking views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. One of the highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek is the chance to encounter wildlife, including deer, Himalayan langurs, wild boars, and a variety of bird species. A must-visit on this trek is Juda Ka Talab, a serene camping spot with picturesque views. Here, you can enjoy slow, contemplative walks under a mesmerizing night sky.

Nestled amidst pine trees, this alpine lake is beautiful year-round, set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains. In summer and monsoon seasons, the lake reflects a deep blue and is surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers. But in winter, it transforms into a silent, icy surface, blanketed in snow. The campsite at Juda Ka Talab is a magical stop on the Kedarkantha Trek, offering unforgettable moments and memories.

According to local legend, Lord Shiva once meditated in this area, giving the place its mystical charm. The story goes that during one of his deep meditations, a strand of his hair fell, creating the lake—hence the name “Juda Ka Talab.”

Day 03: Juda Ka Taal to Kedarkantha Base Camp.

Trek Distance: 3 kms, 3 Hours

Altitude: 11,250 ft

Waking up with the first light of dawn streaming into your camp brings a feeling of pure bliss, filling you with eager anticipation for the day ahead. Begin your morning with a warm cup of tea and a delicious breakfast, all while soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.

The trek from Juda Ka Talab to Base Camp covers about 3 kilometers, taking around 3 hours at a relaxed pace. The trail here is a bit steeper than the previous day, yet manageable and well-marked, even during winter when snow blankets the ground.

This section of the Kedarkantha Trek leads you through dense pine and oak forests, their branches dusted with snow, creating scenes straight out of a postcard. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting a golden glow that illuminates the trail. The weather feels refreshingly mild, and as you move through the forest, you’ll come across several pastures and small stone huts built by locals. These meadows serve as grazing spots for sheep in the summer and open up to scenic mountain views and perfect winter campsites.

As you approach Base Camp, the terrain sharpens, and the surrounding peaks come into clear view, their imposing beauty drawing closer with every step. Sunbeams glisten off the snow, making the landscape sparkle like diamonds, immersing you in an atmosphere of serene tranquility.

Once at the campsite, take a moment to breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the beauty of the countryside sink into your heart. Gather around a bonfire in the evening, sharing stories, bonding with friends, and enjoying the starry sky and the glow of snow-lit mountains—a perfect ending to a day of adventure.

Day 04: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit and Back to Kedarkantha Base Camp.

Trek Distance: 9 kms, 8 Hours

Altitude: 12,500 ft

The Kedarkantha Trek itinerary is crafted around a breathtaking summit experience, where witnessing the sunrise is a moment you’ll never forget. To capture this incredible sight, you’ll rise early and gear up before dawn, starting your ascent under the magnificent canopy of the Milky Way and shooting stars. As you make your way up, dawn begins to break, spilling vibrant hues of pink and purple across the sky. This transition from night to morning mirrors your own journey toward the summit, each step bringing a growing sense of peace. In this magical moment between night and day, you’ll pause, breathe deeply, and feel profoundly grateful to be here. Every ounce of effort feels worthwhile, and doubts give way to pure contentment as you take in the views.

At the summit, you’ll wait calmly as the sun rises over the horizon. In moments, golden rays stretch across Swargarohini Peak, and the sky darkens briefly before the sun appears, casting its warm glow over the snowy landscape. Standing at the top, gazing out at peaks like Mt. Bandarpoonch, Mt. Kalanag, and distant towns such as Jaonli, Gangotri, Draupadi Ka Danda, and Jorkanden, you’ll feel like you’re truly at the roof of the world, witnessing the first light of a new day.

This quiet, reflective experience is made even richer by the camaraderie shared with fellow trekkers. Little chats and shared encouragement propel you to the summit, making the ascent one of the most exhilarating experiences. The beauty of the Kedarkantha Trek itinerary is that it offers ample time to savor and remember each view. Once the sunlight fully envelops the mountains, you’ll descend to base camp, where a nourishing lunch awaits. Afterward, the group will continue down to Kedarkantha Base Camp for a final night under the stars, sky-gazing and reminiscing on the day’s memories. This day, filled with vibrant colors and awe-inspiring sights, will likely be the most memorable of the entire trek as you near the end of your journey.

Day 05: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Sankri.

Trek Distance: 7 kms, 4 Hours

Altitude: 6,400 ft

The day has arrived to bid farewell to the majestic Himalayas and their snow-capped peaks as we make our way back to Sankri. Today’s trek is relatively easy, covering a shorter distance, allowing you to enjoy a gentle descent. Sankri, a hub for over ten treks including the Bali Pass and Borasu Pass, awaits us as our final destination. The morning greets you with a stunning sunrise filtering through the pine trees, followed by a hearty breakfast to set the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Day 06: Departure from Sankri.

On your sixth day, you’ll set out from Sankri to Dehradun, a journey that will take approximately six hours. It's best to start early in the morning, allowing you to soak in the memories of your trek as you drive back to Dehradun, filled with joy and fondness for the adventure you've just experienced.

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Trek Cancellations Policy:

Initial amount of 25% of the Invoice amount, the Client must pay the balance amount 3 days prior to the date of departure of the Tour.

Tour Payment Terms:

If the Client is willing to amend or cancel his/her booking because of whatsoever reasons including death, accident, illness, or any other personal reasons including non-payment of the balance payment, the Company is liable to recover Cancellation charges from the Client, as company had already paid your amount in advance in order to Guarantee your services.

Cancellation Notice Received	Cancellation Charges Per Person
Upto 15 days prior to date of departure	90% Refund
15-7 days prior to date of departure	70% Refund
B/w 7 days prior to date of departure	No Refund

Note:-

1. 100 % Voucher will be provided if the trek/ tour is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances or any kind of Natural Calamities, Political Unrest, and Sudden Global Health Concern, Riots, Lockdown Government instructions etc. in this case Uk Hills Travel will issue you a voucher of respective amount having 1 year validity from Voucher date, which can be used in any tour of your interest operated by us.

2. In case of any restriction/health issue (guest gets Covid +ve), we will be avoiding charging any cancellation basis documents been shared. The credit note for the same amount will be issued which guest can use in future.

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