Everything You Need to Know About Kedarkantha Trekking

Nestled in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district, Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most adventurous and well-known treks, renowned for being the best snow-trekking destination. Located at 12,500 feet, this winter trek is best suited for trekkers who want to experience the raw beauty of nature. Starting from Sankri, the trekking trails taking you to Kedarkantha Summit pass through dense forests and snow-covered trails, offering picturesque sights of the majestic Himalayas. It usually takes around 5 days to complete the trek. In this guide, we have mentioned everything you need to know about the Kedarkantha Trek. Check out the details and plan your adventure. 

Quick Facts 

Location: Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 

Trek Altitude: 12500 feet

Starting Point: Sankri Village 

Trek Duration: 5 days 

Difficult level of Trek: Easy to Moderate 

Trek Distance: 20 km

Why is Kedarkantha the Best Winter Trek? 

Unparalleled beauty during winter months is what sets Kedarkantha apart. With the dropping temperature in the winter season, the region becomes a winter wonderland, offering stunning sights of the majestic Himalayan Ranges. Trek offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and challenges, making it perfect for beginner and experienced trekkers. Here is a comprehensive list of why Kedarkantha is the Best Winter Trek in India. 

1. Lush Green Meadows 

The snow stars melt after the march, revealing the region’s lush greenery. During the spring and summer seasons, you can enjoy trekking through meadows filled with blooming flowers. Nature's awe-inspiring views await those who embark on the trek. 

2. Excellent Camping Experience

Trekkers must be prepared for an excellent camping experience in Govind Vihar National Park’s dense forests. This campsite, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, offers spectacular views of the landscapes nearby. 

3. Easy Trek

Kedarkantha Trek is an ideal beginner-friendly trek, offering a perfect blend of adventure and nature. This trek is a must-do for individuals seeking an introduction to trekking in the Himalayas. 

4. Final Climb

Be prepared for the adrenaline-pumping final summit ascent. Until reaching the pinnacle, you will be challenged by snowy trails, making the trek even more exciting. 

5. A Winter Wonderland

The winter months transform Kedarkantha into a winter wonderland, allowing trekkers to witness fresh snowfall, snow-covered peaks, and chilling cold nights, promising a memorable trek experience. Trekking in snow-covered mountains is rewarding. 

6. Stunning Himalayan Views

Kedarkantha Summit rewards trekkers with alluring views that are worth capturing. Famous peaks that can be seen from here are Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kalanag, Swargarohini, and several others. 

7. A Paradise for Photographers

The magical and undulating views from Kedarkantha peak and while trekking are worth capturing. This trek provides photographers with the perfect opportunity to capture the real beauty of nature with a camera. Every scenery here looks like it is straight out of a postcard. 

How to Get to Kedarkantha Base Camp 

The base camp for the Kedarkantha trek is Sankri, and you can easily reach it here from Dehradun or Delhi by air, train, or road. You can use the following mode of transport. 

By Air: The nearest airport to Sankri village is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This airport is around 25 km away from the base camp, and there are daily flights from Delhi to Dehradun. Upon reaching the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the village. 

By Train: people travelling from Delhi can take a train to Dehradun. This will be an overnight train journey from Delhi to Dehradun. After reaching Dehradun, hire a taxi or get public transport to reach Sankri. 

By Road: Frequent buses are running between Delhi and Dehradun. You must take a government bus from Delhi to Dehradun. Once you reach there, you can take public transport or hire a private vehicle to reach Sankri. 

Best Time for Kedarkantha Trek 

The Kedarkantha trek is a unique Himalayan Trek that can be done throughout the year, except during the monsoon months. Each season offers something different, ranging from difficulty to weather conditions. Winter months from December to February are known for snow trekking. The snow-covered meadows and thrilling summit climb are popular among trekkers. The snow starts to melt in March, and spring sets in. You will only get to see snow at higher altitudes. Blooming meadows and lush green surroundings add charm to the trek journey. June to May are summer months, and this is when you can witness the excellent morning sun. Avoid trekking in monsoon season, as there are chances of heavy rainfall, which can be dangerous. 

Things to Pack for Kedarkantha Trek 

Your Kedarkantha Trek journey can be thrilling and enjoyable, but you must keep yourself prepared and well-equipped for that excitement. Here is a list of things you must pack for the trek. 

1. Important Documents: Trekkers must carry all the required documents. You must have a government ID card like an Aadhar Card, Voters ID, or Driver’s License. Trekkers must get a medical certificate which shows that they are fit for the trek 

2. Trekking Essentials: Do not overpack and carry only essentials. You must have a lightweight backpack with a rain cover in which you can keep your trekking essentials like gloves, jacket, shoes, raincoat, water bottle, and snacks. The weather in the Himalayas can change anytime, so be prepared for unexpected weather changes. 

3. Clothes and Footwear: Clothes to carry for the trek are jackets, trek pants, layers, thermal wear, t-shirts, raincoats, and sturdy footwear with good grip. 

4. Safety: Carrying a medical kit is important. The kit must-have items like Volini/Moov spray, Disprin, Diamox, ORS, Band-Aid, cotton, Betadine/Savlon, and Crocin Advance. 

Conclusion 

The Kedarkantha Trek is considered to be one of the most picturesque and majestic Indian Treks, which not only offers beautiful landscapes but also provides a sense of achievement to all the trekkers. Embark on the 20 km long Kedarkantha Trek, reach the summit at 12500 feet and get a chance to have views of a few famous Himalayas peaks, including Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Swargarohini, and many others. The trek promises an experience filled with happiness and enjoyment.