Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi: A Complete Guide to Your Himalayan Winter Adventure

There are treks that test your endurance, and then there are treks that win your heart. The Kedarkantha trek belongs to the latter. Tucked in Uttarakhand’s Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, this winter wonderland has become one of the most loved Himalayan treks in India. And the best part? It’s easily accessible from Delhi, making it the perfect escape for city dwellers craving snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and starlit campsites.

I recently set out on this journey, and what started as a simple trip from Delhi turned into an unforgettable Himalayan adventure. If you’re planning your own Kedarkantha trek from Delhi, here’s everything you need to know—from how to get there to what to expect on the trail, along with some local tips to make the most of your experience.

Why Kedarkantha Should Be on Your Bucket List

The charm of Kedarkantha lies in its balance. It’s beginner-friendly yet breathtakingly rewarding, making it ideal for both first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers. Rising to an altitude of 12,500 ft, the trek offers wide-open clearings, dense pine and oak forests, frozen lakes, and panoramic views of peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.

What struck me most was the diversity of the trail. One moment I was walking through snow-laden forests that felt like a scene from Narnia, and the next I was standing in vast meadows under a golden sunset. Add to that the thrill of summiting a Himalayan peak, and you have an adventure that lingers long after you’ve returned to Delhi’s chaos.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha

Kedarkantha is often called the “Queen of Winter Treks”, and for good reason. The best season to attempt it is from December to April, when the trail is covered in thick snow. Imagine waking up in a tent surrounded by shimmering white landscapes—that’s the kind of magic winter brings here.

That said, the trek is also accessible in other months. Spring (April–May) offers blooming rhododendrons, while post-monsoon (September–November) gives crystal-clear mountain views. But if you’re chasing the classic snow-trek experience, winter is unbeatable.

How to Reach Kedarkantha from Delhi

The journey from Delhi to Kedarkantha is almost as memorable as the trek itself. Here’s the route most trekkers follow:

Your first stop is Sankri, the small base village where all Kedarkantha treks begin. From Delhi, you can either:

• By Bus/Train + Road: Take an overnight bus or train to Dehradun, which is about 250 km from Delhi. From Dehradun, shared taxis and private cabs are available to Sankri (roughly 200 km, 8–9 hours).
• By Car: If you enjoy road trips, you can drive directly from Delhi to Sankri, covering about 430 km in 11–12 hours.

The drive from Dehradun to Sankri is an adventure in itself—winding roads along the Yamuna, pine forests, and the Tons River flowing alongside you. By the time you reach Sankri, you’re already in the mood for the trek.

The Trek Experience: Day by Day

The Kedarkantha trek usually takes 4 to 6 days, depending on your pace and itinerary. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect:

• Day 1: Delhi to Sankri
• Leave Delhi in the evening, reach Dehradun early morning, and continue your journey to Sankri. The quaint village welcomes you with wooden houses, apple orchards, and views of snowy peaks.
• Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
• The trek begins with a gradual climb through forests. In winter, the trail is covered in snow, and soon you’ll reach Juda Ka Talab—a frozen lake surrounded by tall trees. Camping here under starry skies is an experience in itself.
• Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
• This stretch takes you deeper into alpine meadows with stunning views of surrounding peaks. The base camp feels like nature’s amphitheatre, with snow-capped giants guarding the horizon.
• Day 4: Summit Day
• The highlight of the trek! Starting before dawn, you climb the steep ridge towards the Kedarkantha summit. Reaching the top just as the sun rises over the Himalayas is a moment that words can’t justify. The 360-degree view includes peaks like Swargarohini, Gangotri, and Yamunotri ranges—it’s pure magic.
• Day 5: Descend to Sankri
• After the summit, you trek back through forests, revisiting the same landscapes but now with a sense of achievement. Spend one more night in Sankri before heading back to Delhi.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you have extra time, extend your trip with a few nearby attractions:

• Har Ki Dun Valley: Another trek starting from Sankri, famous for its mythological connection with the Pandavas.
• Ruinsara Tal: A pristine glacial lake hidden in the Govind National Park.
• Mori Village: A quiet riverside hamlet perfect for unwinding after your trek.

These add-ons let you dive deeper into the raw beauty of Uttarakhand beyond Kedarkantha.

Budgeting and Practical Tips

One of the best things about Kedarkantha is that it’s budget-friendly compared to other Himalayan treks. A guided trek package from Delhi typically costs between ₹6,500 to ₹9,000 per person, covering transport, accommodation, meals, permits, and trek leaders.

Here are some tips from my own journey:

• Carry good-quality snow trekking shoes; regular sneakers won’t work in thick snow.
• Layer your clothing—winters can get as cold as -5°C at night.
• Keep a thermos flask handy; sipping warm water or tea on a cold trail is a blessing.
• Don’t forget your permits (usually arranged by trek operators).

For budgeting, you can keep aside ₹10,000–₹12,000 for the entire trip from Delhi, including a few personal expenses and extra snacks.

Safety and Local Insights

While Kedarkantha is considered a safe trek, it’s still a Himalayan adventure. Always trek with a registered operator or experienced guide. Carry basic medicines, stay hydrated, and don’t rush on summit day—it’s better to enjoy the climb than to race to the top.

Locals in Sankri are warm and welcoming. A small tip—try their traditional Himachali food and don’t hesitate to strike up conversations. I learned some fascinating folklore about the mountains just by chatting with villagers around a bonfire.

Final Thoughts: Delhi to the Himalayas

The Kedarkantha trek is more than just a climb; it’s a journey that begins the moment you leave Delhi. From the overnight bus to Dehradun to the frozen forests of Juda Ka Talab and finally the summit sunrise, every step feels like a story unfolding.

If you’ve been dreaming of your first Himalayan trek, this is the perfect one to start with. And if you’re a seasoned trekker, Kedarkantha still has the power to surprise you with its sheer beauty.

So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and take that bus from Delhi—you’re just a few days away from standing on a Himalayan summit, with the world spread out beneath your feet.