Kedarkantha Trek is best for those who have imagined exploring a Himalayan forest, soaking in a breathtaking snow-covered world with the warmth of the sun on the dominating peaks while the world sparkles with frost. Often referred to as the “Queen of Winter Treks,” it is located in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand. The trek is famous for it’s soothing the mind, spirited trekking, natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere. Kedarkantha is a perfect family trek because of the varying complexity of the trail. The Kedarkantha song is also a favorite for all the family and group photo opportunities.

Where is the Kedarkantha Trek?

The trek is also known as Sankri trek, and it flows from Sankri village of the Uttarkashi district. Traversing through well known pathways filled with dense crucial trees mixed with slim pine forests, snow capped monster peaks and milky clouds, the incredible beauty of these Himalayan treks are like bedtime stories for trekkers. Sankri is surrounded by vast pine forests making the trek the gateway to many in the snow capped region. The castle-like village also makes it look capital which brings ease to thirsty trekkers yearning for the magic of Kedarkantha.

The trek has become a treasure for many trekkers joining during the winter because of the stunning and breathtaking peaks which always welcome you fully.

What makes the trek famous?

The added bonus of 360-degree views places it as the favorite spot in the country and far beyond. One can spot wonders like Swargarohini, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch along with the short range of modern nyi and other famous triangle peaks. The views at the top are revitalizing and assist during the long and tiring climbs back down.

Beginner-Friendly: The Kedarkantha trek can be your first trek ever. There are minimal, prerequisite criteria to start.

Beautiful Campsites: Every campsite along to Kedarkantha is breathtaking, including the meadows of Hargaon and the frozen lake of Juda Ka Talab.

Snow Experience: From December to April, the region becomes an enchanting landscape with winters' thick snow blankets.

Optimal Times to Undertake the Kedarkantha Trek

Although the Kedarkantha Trek can be done at any time of the year, winter remains the most popular season to trek for distinct reasons.

Winter: December to February - Enthusiasts across the country gather to experience the breathtaking scenery for trekking over snow and traversing frozen lakes. Without a doubt, this region is the most picturesque during winter.

Spring (March-April): spring is marked by the blossoming meadows alongside rhododendron flowers, signifying the retreating snow and the unveiling of frozen lakes.

Summer (May-June): The warm temperatures and clear skies means a sight for the mountains, enabling the viewing of the surrounding mountains.

Autumn ( September-November): The post-monsoon period offers a fresh and heavily golden brown landscape in the temperate regions, as well as some warm, refreshing weather coupled with bright sunshine and sprinkles of golden dew.

If you are looking for the region at its snow capped best, late December and January are the months to trek.

Getting to the Starting Point (Sankri)

Your Kedarkantha Trek journey typically commences from Dehradun. From there:

By Road: There are direct shared cars orbuses available to Sankri. It is an approximate journey of 200 kilometers which may take 8 to 10 hours.

By train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport located in Dehradun.

To accept the best for trek, it is strongly advised that all participants reach Dehradun a day before.

Kedarkantha Trek - Touring Treaty Overview

Here is a sample plan for a 4N/5D trek to Kedarkantha.

1st Day: Dehradun to Sankri (Altitude 6400 ft)

In Dehradun, you will be picked up and your first drive will be to Sankri, passing through Mussoorie and Purola. You will be welcomed by the pine trees, river valleys, and Govind National Park. You will arrive in the evening which is perfect for acclimatization.

2nd Day: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (Altitude 9100 ft)

The route commences from an oak and pine woodland which culminates at Juda Ka Talab. This enchanting small lake is reputed to freeze during the winter. The memories of camping around the lake will last a lifetime.

Day 3: From Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (Height 11250 ft)

Kedarkantha Base Camp is reachable by evening, which is the most striking reward of this portion of the trek, which by most standards will be laden with hurdles. The steepness of this portion of the trek is astounding and offers equally astounding views.

Day 4: Summation Day, From Kedarkantha Base Camp to Summit then back to Hargaon (Altitude 8900 ft)

As summarization, to make the most of the views, reaching the summit is recommended during the earliest hours possible. The summit climb is tough, but the views afterwards are equally stunning. After the final climb is done, the descent to Hargaon is started in order to make the trek.

Day 5: Exiting from Hargaon and Driving Toward Dehradun via Sankri

During your final drive back to Sankri, there is a sense of bittersweet nostalgia; you’d have to say goodbye to the majestic mountain views.

Capture the views of the majestic landscapes dotted with frozen lakes and pine forests.

Not many experience the benefits of nature firsthand but to every adventurer, it is tantamount to poetry. Every adventurous experience provides exemplary views, from frozen lakes to snow-covered meadows, crawling alps to majestic towering mountains. Everything makes each journey a remarkable one and in this case, every rigor of undertaking this journey is overshadowed by the breathtaking views.

Govind wildlife sanctuary is one of the pristine views and nature’s wonders. Along the Kedarkantha treks, various Oak, pine and deodar, along with numerous rhododendrons and alpine meadows can be witnessed. These along with flagship species like the himalayan monal, musk deer, and langurs and foxes complete the brilliant wildlife experience.

Henry Sankri and Saud’s views are remarkable and can be defined as serene. Vast meadows, wooden houses, and kind warm smiles are a few of many things you find and witness. Through the kind and curious approach of the villagers, many adventurous locals are encouraged to indulge in local cuisines like mandua roti and rajma.

Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty Level

The Kedarkantha trek's difficulty can be places between easy and moderate. The daily distance to be covered on foot is about 4 to 6 kilometers, and the trek lacks a reasonable level of difficulty. If undertaken in winter, the additional snow may make it challenging. As a result, a moderate level of fitness is preferred.

Cost of Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha trek pricing ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹9,000 with package inclusions varying with different service providers. Transport to and from Dehradun, Sankri, lodging, meals, guiding services, permits, and camping gear is provided in most packages.

Preparation Tips

Fitness: If you plan to undertake the Kedarknatha trek, you should be prepared a month in advance. Make sure to start brisk walking or jogging on a daily basis.

Gear: Make sure to get trekking shoes, rifle thermals, down jackets, gloves, and waterproof pants.

Essentials: Personal medicine, a water bottle, torch, and a pair of sunglasses alongside the rest of the items listed.

Layering: Always be prepared with multiple layers of clothing to replace worn clothes due to changing temperate conditions.

Responsible Trekking

Basic environmental etiquette while trekking includes the following:

Be sure to observe basic eco-friendly practices while trekking:

Do not use plastic bottles.

Do not leave rubbish: Bring back everything you brought with you.

Do not stray from the route to avoid damaging the environment.

Conclusion

East to West, North to South, The Kedarkantha Trek is not simply a trek, the experience you go through is more than the city can undo. Walking the beautiful snow-covered trails and witnessing the sunrise over the glimmering Himalayan Mountains is a sight that everyone must cherish. No matter which trek you are on, you will always find magic in this trip.

So, don’t just imagine, go be on a journey. To start, take a trip on your boots, pack your own bags and set off on the journey of Kedarkantha trek, step by step.