Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi: A Snowy Himalayan Escape You’ll Never Forget

Sometimes, you just need to leave the city behind, catch an overnight bus, and wake up to the smell of pine forests and crisp mountain air. That’s exactly how my journey to Kedarkantha Trek began — a weekend escape from Delhi that turned into one of the most memorable adventures I’ve ever had. Nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand, Kedarkantha is renowned for its snow-laden trails, panoramic summit views, and the perfect mix of challenge and serenity. In this blog, I’ll share the journey, tips, and experiences — from reaching Sankri to standing on the summit, sipping tea while clouds drifted beneath me.

The Journey from Delhi to Sankri

Leaving Delhi late at night is part of the Kedarkantha ritual. I boarded a 9:00 PM Volvo from ISBT, hoping to sleep but mostly buzzing with anticipation. By morning, we arrived in Dehradun, a city that feels like a gateway to the Himalayas. I grabbed a quick cup of roadside chai and some maggi — simple, but it tasted heavenly in the chilly morning air.

From Dehradun, the journey continues to Sankri, the base village of the trek. The drive is around 200 km, taking roughly 8–9 hours, but the route itself is a treat. Rivers glisten, pine forests stretch endlessly, and tiny villages pop up along the way. We stopped occasionally to stretch, click photos, and sip more chai at a dhaba tucked into the mountains. By late afternoon, Sankri greeted us like a postcard — wooden cottages, smoke rising from chimneys, and the distant glimmer of snow-capped peaks teasing the adventure ahead.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha

Kedarkantha is a trek for all seasons, but your experience will vary depending on when you go:

• Winter (December–February): This is peak trekking season. Snow blankets the trails, and the campsite views are straight out of a postcard. Nights can drop below -10°C, so layers are essential.
• Spring (March–April): Snow begins to melt, rhododendrons bloom, and the landscape turns colorful. Trails are less slippery than winter.
• Summer (May–June): Days are warm, skies clear, and though snow may be gone, the greenery is vibrant.
• Autumn (October–November): Crisp air, golden forests, and fewer trekkers make this season underrated but beautiful.

I trekked in January, and waking up to fresh snow outside my tent was a surreal experience — the kind that makes all the early morning travel and muscle aches worth it.

The Trek: Forests, Meadows, and Summit Magic

The Kedarkantha Trek is usually a 4-5 day itinerary, ideal for long weekends. The trek itself spans about 12 km round trip, with gradual inclines that test your stamina without overwhelming you.

Day 1: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

The first day starts gently, winding through pine and oak forests. I remember the crunch of snow underfoot, the occasional hornbill call, and the smell of damp earth. By noon, we reached Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake in winter, surrounded by trees dusted in snow. Setting up camp here was magical; that evening, sipping hot tea under a blanket of stars felt like being in a different world.

Day 2: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

The trail steepens slightly as you leave the forest behind. Meadows open up, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. By afternoon, we reached the base camp, a place where tents dot the ridge, and the horizon stretches endlessly.

Day 3: Summit Day

We began the climb at 3:30 AM, headlamps piercing the darkness, our breaths forming small clouds in the frigid air. The final ascent is steep but manageable. Around 7:00 AM, we reached the summit. Standing there, with snow underfoot and peaks glowing golden in the sunrise, I felt an indescribable mix of exhilaration and calm. A quick sip of tea from my thermos made the moment even more special.

Day 4: Descend via Hargaon

The descent is easier but equally beautiful. Open meadows, frozen streams, and tiny huts dotted along the way kept my camera busy. By evening, we were back in Sankri, nostalgic already.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you have extra time, Sankri and its surroundings offer several attractions:

• Har Ki Dun Valley: Known as the “Valley of Gods,” it’s ideal for an extended trek.
• Ruinsara Tal: A serene glacial lake surrounded by peaks.
• Local Villages: Exploring Sankri or nearby villages like Taluka and Osla gives a glimpse into traditional Garhwali culture.

A 2-3 day trip can easily be extended to a week if you include these side adventures.

Practical Tips, Safety, and Budget

Here’s what I learned from trekking Kedarkantha in the winter:

• Fitness: A little cardio training before the trek helps, especially for summit day.
• Packing: Warm layers, gloves, trekking shoes, and a sturdy backpack are essential. Nights can be extremely cold.
• Permits and Guides: Required in Sankri; most group treks arrange them, but independent trekkers can get them at the forest office.
• Safety: Stick with your group, stay hydrated, and move carefully on icy patches. Weather can change quickly.
• Budgeting: A 5-day trek from Delhi usually costs around ₹6,000–₹10,000, including travel, food, stay, and guides. Homestay rates in Sankri range from ₹500–₹1,000 per night with meals.

The most important advice is to respect nature. Leave no trace, avoid loud music, and let the Himalayan wilderness remain pristine.

Why Kedarkantha Trek is Unforgettable

Kedarkantha isn’t just a trek; it’s an experience. From sipping tea by a frozen lake to standing on a summit as the Himalayan peaks glow golden, every moment is immersive. The trek is accessible yet adventurous, offering breathtaking scenery without the crowds.

For anyone looking to escape Delhi’s hustle, recharge in nature, and challenge themselves just enough, Kedarkantha Trek is perfect. Pack your bag, board that night bus, and let the mountains welcome you with open arms.