The Kedarkantha Trek, located in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region, is renowned for its scenic beauty, accessible trails, and captivating summit views. At an altitude of around 12,500 feet, this trek offers a rewarding experience, making it one of the most popular winter treks in India. Kedarkantha’s route winds through dense pine and oak forests, clearings with views of snow-covered meadows, and charming campsites such as Juda Ka Taal and Kedarkantha Base Camp. The highlight of the trek is the sunrise view from the summit, where trekkers are treated to panoramic vistas of the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak ranges.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to trek Kedarkantha is during winter, from December to April. This period is ideal for those looking to experience trekking through fresh snowfall and frozen landscapes, which create an enchanting winter wonderland. Snow begins covering the trails as early as December, and by January, the area is blanketed in thick snow, offering a surreal trekking experience. Spring months, particularly March and April, are also suitable, with milder temperatures and blooming flora.
If you’re looking to avoid peak cold, October to early December provides clear skies and relatively moderate weather conditions, though without much snow.
Weather Conditions
- December to February: Temperatures range between -7°C to 5°C. Expect thick snow on the trails and nighttime temperatures that dip below freezing. These months are ideal for snow trekking enthusiasts.
- March to April: During spring, temperatures are slightly warmer, ranging from 0°C to 10°C. Snow is still present but begins melting as April progresses, making it easier to trek while still offering some snowy landscapes.
- October to November: The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Snow is scarce but visibility is excellent, providing crisp views of the mountains.
This range of seasons makes Kedarkantha an adaptable trek for both beginners and experienced trekkers who want to experience the Himalayas in a beautiful setting, no matter the season.
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Day 1
Dehradun to Sankri (Arrival and Rest)
Your journey begins in Dehradun, from where you’ll travel to Sankri, a quaint village and the starting point of the Kedarkantha trek. The drive is approximately 200 km, taking around 7-8 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic vistas of rivers, valleys, and charming villages, which give a glimpse of the beautiful Garhwal region. Once in Sankri, check into your guesthouse or homestay, relax, and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere. Dinner and overnight stay in Sankri.
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Day 2
Start Trekking from Sankri to Juda Ka Taal / Hargaon Camp
After breakfast, your trekking adventure officially begins! You’ll start from Sankri, trekking through dense pine forests, charming clearings, and along streams. After a few hours, you’ll arrive at Juda Ka Taal, a high-altitude lake surrounded by thick forests and mountain views. This picturesque lake is a perfect spot for photos and a short rest. Continuing the trek, you’ll reach Hargaon Camp, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Relax, enjoy your surroundings, and gather around the campfire in the evening.
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Day 3
Juda Ka Taal to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Wake up to the refreshing mountain air, have breakfast, and prepare for the next leg of your trek. Today, you’ll make your way to the Kedarkantha Base Camp, ascending through beautiful landscapes of open meadows and dense forests. As you gain altitude, the scenic beauty amplifies, offering majestic views of snow-clad peaks all around. By afternoon, you’ll reach the Kedarkantha Base Camp, where you’ll rest and acclimatize for the big day ahead. Enjoy the stunning sunset views from the base camp, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in tents.
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Day 4
Summit Day at Kedarkantha Peak and Return to Juda Ka Taal
Today is the most anticipated day of your trek—the summit of Kedarkantha Peak! You’ll start early, around dawn, to catch the sunrise from the peak. The ascent is steep but rewarding, with breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges awaiting you. After a few hours of climbing, you’ll reach the summit, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of snow-covered peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch. Spend some time soaking in the awe-inspiring views before beginning your descent back to Juda Ka Taal. Rest and celebrate your accomplishment over dinner at the camp.
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Day 5
Juda Ka Taal to Sankri and Return to Dehradun
On the final day, you’ll trek back to Sankri through the scenic trails you climbed a few days before. Upon reaching Sankri, you’ll bid farewell to your trekking companions and guides before beginning the drive back to Dehradun. The journey offers another chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Uttarakhand before returning to the city with a camera full of memories and a heart full of adventure.
Day wise Itinerary
