Kedarkantha Trek
Nestled at a height of about 12,500 ft, covering a distance of 20 Kms, Kedarkantha is not just a trek beginner-friendly, it’s also adorned with breathtaking views of falling snow and engulfing scent of pine trees. December to February being the ideal time for the trek, you get to see the Godly peaks of Swargarohini, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch. The sight of snow at the height of 10,000 ft lying on the base of pine trees even by the end of April makes it one of the best winter trekking destinations.
Another reason for it to be a terrific trek among the enthusiastic travelers is the pretty campsites which is unique in its own way, mighty mountain peaks and the forest walks among the pine tress treading over the bed brown dried leaves creating magnificent experience. The trek begins from Sankri, making a stop at Jadu ka talab based at a height of 9,100 ft, to the destination which is approximately 4.5 Kms from there. With the charming and captivating views of the snow clad Himalayan mountains, the lush green flora and the frozen ponds, it’s a delight for the travelers seeking thrilling adventure !
TREK highlights
Region
Uttarakhand
Difficulty Level
Easy-Moderate
Altitude
15,050 Ft.
Time Duration
5 Days
Trekking Distance
32 kms
why you should choose Kedarkantha Trek
Possesses the best driving roads in the Himalayas
Have you ever dreamed of driving your way through the Himalayas? The roads to Kedarkantha will make you pass through the beauties of Mussoorie, Nowgaon, Purola, Mori & finally to Naitwar. This far-flung route is the best driving route through the Himalayas. Amid the blanket of greenery on one side and Tons river flowing on the other side, nothing can outdo the pleasure of passing through on of the most scenic landscape in the Himalayas. If you are looking forward to trekking to Kedarkantha, do not miss out this beautiful and picturesque landscape.
360-degree views of the Himalayas
The views from the top of Kedarkantha are like no other. You don’t just get to see famous peaks like Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kalanag, Gangotri and Yamunotri range but you also get to see hundreds of unnamed virgin peaks all around you. Mountains, like timeless art, stand in the background everywhere you look and if they had eyes, they’d see a few strangers gaping at them in admiration. This is a different world altogether.
Covered in snow from December to April
It is known that the mighty Kedarkantha trek experiences snow starting from the mid of December & continues until the end of the April. Just as you trek up to 10000 ft. mark, you will start seeing the snow across your way – the snow-capped mountain peaks & pine trees with snow-laden forest. As you reach the meadows, you will soon find yourself amid white snow for as far as your eyes go. This mesmerizing view is definitely worth it. Covered & surrounded by tall pine trees adorned with snow, the green meadows & the stunning peaks makes it the most sought after winter trek in India. Thus, to experience the best ever winter trek, you must travel between December & April. For someone who loves forward to the chilling winter season, Kedarkantha trek tops the list as you can have a visual delight of the snow adding excitement to your adrenaline rush during the trek.
Beautiful campsites
How does it feel to camp in the snow? Camping in the wilderness is a gift for the civilized world. Kedarkantha is a nature’s gift man has discovered. Imagine sleeping under the stars, on a bed of snow with chill wind. Wake up to the beautiful sunrise with the scenic landscape of white meadows & snow capped pine trees. That is exactly how you will feel camping on this trek.
Kedarkantha trek has the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas such that no trekking place can actually match up with the beauty of this trek. Each of its campsites are unique in its own way & the views are just mesmerizing. For instance, surrounded by walnut & pine trees all around the Akroti Thach campsite is one to watch amazingly placed amid the meadows facing the best view of Kedarkantha summit is the Pukhrola campsite & it is a remarkable sight. The colorful campsites over the white laden snow make the entire trek charming experience. Camping here is a unique experience, indeed. Be sure to take back memories as you capture the rich vegetation of the Himalayas. Nature lovers would call this place a paradise. Living amidst such beauty is like being in heaven & we are sure you will not get tired of clicking pictures of these amazing landscapes & panoramic views.
Who Can GO For Kedarkantha TREK
- First timer can apply, should have some interest in trekking and mountaineering.
- The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 45 minutes without a stress.
- The climber should be able to carry a 10 kg backpack.
- Heart problem, high blood pressure, asthma, and epilepsy cannot be reconciled on this mission. The climber must not have the conditions mentioned above.
How to reach
The Dehradun Railway station is one of the main stations in the City and it is an old station. It has good connectivity to many places and these include Lucknow, Delhi, and Howrah. Tickets from Delhi to Dehradun by train cost around Rs.350 for a second class sleeper ticket and Rs.890 for a third A/C sleeper ticket. It is essential to book the tickets at least one month in advance as this route is always in demand.
By Train:-
From Delhi take the DDN SHTABDI SPL (02017) Dep. New Delhi at 06:45am. Arrival Dehradun at 12:55pm. or the Uttar KOTA DDN SPL (02401) Dep. NZM at 11:45pm arrival Dehradun at 05:40 am (Overnight Journey).
By Bus:-
Regular buses fly from ISBT Delhi Anand Vihar/Kashmiri Gate station to Dehradun. Buses drop you at ISBT bus station.Tata Sumo or similar vehicles will pick-up you from Dehradun Isbt and Railway
Brief Itenary
Day 1 – Dehradun – Sankri
Day 02 – Sankri- Juda-Ka-Taal-Shepherd Campsite
Day 03 – Shepherd Camp – Base of Kedarkantha
Day 4 – Basecamp- Kedarkantha Summit- Sankri
Day 05 – Litham to Dhunda
Day 06 – Sankri- Dehradun
Detailed Itenary
Day 01: Dehradun – Sankri (220km Altitude: 6,400 feet)
The Exotic and appealing Kedarkantha Trek starts from Dehradun city with a morning pickup by authorized personal at 6:00 AM. Sankri is based up at a distance of 220kms on the National Highway 123. It’s a long scenic drive on a SUV providing sheer pleasure to the trekkers so that they can enjoy the beauty of the location. On Reaching the destination one can check in to the prior booked hotel and our representative can help you with the check in formalities. Since the evening is free for leisure one can enjoy indoors and relax or can set out to explore the beautiful Sankri village where there are local shops and small market selling mostly daily goods and a collection of few dhabas.
Day 02: Sankri – Juda-ka-Talab (Shepherd campsite 3.8km altitude 9,100)
After a healthy breakfast, it’s time to start the journey straight towards Juda-kaTalab. Approximate time to reach the same is around 5 Hours. Moving along the stream this is the road that moves towards the Kedarkantha. The initial climb would be climbing several bridges through dense forest trees and thick carpet of maple and pine leaves all brown in color. Boars, martens and hares can also be spotted in this region. Crossing few streams and continuing through the path and rising sharp through dense oaks one can reach the dazzling spot of Juda-Ka-Talab which can never be missed by any trekker due to its sharp contrasting and unique beauty. The sharp contrast of the Titan Lake and massive pine and Oak forest on the right is a appealing environment in the lap of Mother Nature and an ideal campsite to spend a perfect evening. Overnight sleep is arranged in tents.
Day 03: Shepherd camp – Base of Kedarkantha (4 km altitude: 11,250)
KedarKantha base is our destination for the day and we start for it post breakfast. During the trek you would come across shepherd huts in open meadows which are equally delightful to see. Just before reaching the Kedarkantha Base one can enjoy the delightful views of arc shaped range of snow clapped mountains comprising of Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag and Ranglana standing out proudly revealing their beauty. Post reaching the base, tents are setup in a preferred selected place which is open and one can enjoy a clear view of the night sky. As the night grows the sight becomes more charming with the Milky way stretching from one end to the other, the dense network of stars and shining peak of the mountain all come together to provide an awe-striking view that remains engrave in mind. However, in such a height it is possible to cold waves so proper woolens should be carried for protection. Overnight sleep at the tent.
Day 04: Base camp of Kedarkantha – KedarKantha – Sankri (8 km altitude: 11,250 Ft. to 12,500 Ft)
The final day of the trek is destined to conquer the Kedarkantha Peak. The day starts early with a healthy filing breakfast enjoying the sunrise from the Kedarkantha meadows which is a simply amazing, pure and divine. Moving along the Oak forest one can find Kedarkantha peak much closer. Towards the end the trek becomes bit difficult but however the view from the top and the amazing location is worth the effort. At the top of the peak there is a beautiful, yet small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. There is a small shrine of Lord Ganesh too. One can enjoy the sheer beauty for some time and then head back to the base camp by noon. Once relaxed, set out for descending furthermore. On reaching the Sankri set the tent and mark the end of another delightful day with dinner and overnight sleep at the eco-tent. However, campfire is always an option to make the evening more interesting and gathering memories with friends together.
Day 05: Sankri – Dehradun (220km Altitude: 6,400 feet)
The first morning sun from campsite is the nexus of thick wood pine forest is equally beautiful. After having the breakfast, pack the backpack to descend furthermore. On reaching the base, get back to the hotel and freshen up. Have your hot lunch and get ready for Dehradun. You will reach Dehradun approximate by 8-9 p.m. You can book your further journey after that. For all those who wish to stay in Dehradun and enjoy the place for a day or more can book a hotel in the city and spend some more lovely days in midst the beautiful Himalayas
Important things to carry for trekking
Basic Essentials
An identity card – Original and Photocopies (MANDATORY)
Back Pack & Rain Cover (50-60 liter)
Day Pack & Rain Cover (20-30 liter, If you hire mule or porter)
1 ltr of pet water bottle or hydration pack
Floaters or Sandals, Trekking Shoes (waterproof are better during snow and rain)
LED Torch/Headlamp (With extra batteries)
Poncho, Rain Coat or Umbrella any one is must (Poncho are lightweight, easy to carry/fit)
Torch with pair of batteries
Clothing & other Essentials
2 Pairs of Quick Dry Tees and Track Pants (Denim are not recommended for treks.)
1 pair of T-shirts (half and full sleeve)
3 Pair of Cotton Socks, 2 pairs of woolen socks
2 Full Sleeve Sweater or Fleece Jacket
Thermal Wear – 1 pair (you can keep two if going on the long trek)
Gore Tex type similar hard shell for rain or snow & to be worn over mid layers like fleece or down jackets.
One down feather Jacket
Sun Cap, One Scarf, Light towel, Gloves (1 woolen, 1 waterproof)
Woolen cap or Balaclava that covers the ear (protection from cold waves), Dark UV Sunglasses
Carry a few plastic bags in case your clothes get wet.
Eatables – Quick Energy During Trek
Glucose, Chocolates, biscuits, Energy bars, Toffees and Dry fruits & nuts.
INCLUSIONS
1.Accommodation. (Guest house, Camping)
2.Meals while on trek (Veg)
3.Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, Kitchen & dinning tent, crampon, utensils, tent)
4.All necessary permits and entry fees.
5.First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
6.Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide and Support staff.
EXCLUSIONS
1.Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Food during the transit.
3. Insurance.
4. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
5. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head
F.A.Q.
For Kedarkantha Trek
Simply select “Contact Us” offered by us from navigation menu and mail us about your Trek Details according to your preferences and make online payment by Debit Card/ Credit Card or Net Banking.
You have to provide a photo identification, medical health certificate and a scan copy of confirmation of payment made.
Yes, you can cancel the booking due to any reason. But you have to give us a written declaration for cancelling the package.