Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi: Best Time to Visit, Nearby Attractions, Itinerary and Travel Tips

If you’re looking for a winter trek that combines adventure, beauty, and serenity, the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is one of the best experiences you can have. Located in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, this trek is often called the “Queen of Winter Treks” — and for good reason. The trail takes you through snow-covered pine forests, frozen lakes, and open meadows with breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Many trekkers start this journey from Delhi because it’s convenient, well-connected, and easy to plan. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trekker, Kedarkantha offers that perfect mix of challenge and charm. Every turn on the trail feels like a scene from a postcard — quiet villages, star-filled skies, and the mighty peaks standing guard.

Getting There – From Delhi to the Snow Trails

Your Kedarkantha Trek journey from Delhi begins with a road trip to Sankri, a small village that serves as the trek’s base camp. The distance from Delhi to Sankri is around 430 kilometers, and it takes roughly 10–12 hours by road.

You can reach Sankri in a few different ways:

• By Bus: Take an overnight bus from Delhi to Dehradun (about 6–7 hours). From Dehradun, local jeeps or shared taxis can take you to Sankri in another 6–7 hours.
• By Train or Flight: You can also take a train or flight to Dehradun and continue the journey by road.

The drive from Dehradun to Sankri is scenic. The route winds through the forests of Mussoorie, past pine-clad hills, and along the sparkling Tons River. By the time you reach Sankri, the chill in the air and the sight of snow-capped peaks will fill you with excitement.

The Trek Experience – Step by Step through Snow and Silence

The Kedarkantha Trek usually spans 4–5 days, covering about 20 kilometers in total. Though it’s a moderate trek, the high altitude and snow make it adventurous enough to thrill even experienced trekkers.

On your first day of trekking, you’ll leave Sankri and walk towards Juda ka Talab, a beautiful frozen lake surrounded by tall pine trees. The trail is a steady climb through dense forests where sunlight filters through branches dusted with snow. The air is crisp, and the silence of the woods is broken only by the crunch of snow under your boots.

The next stop is the Kedarkantha Base Camp, from where you can see majestic peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. As night falls, the sky becomes a canopy of stars. Camping here is magical — the stillness, the bonfire, and the glow of snow under moonlight create a memory you’ll carry forever.

The final ascent to the Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 ft) usually starts early in the morning, around 3 or 4 a.m. The path gets steeper, and as you climb, you’ll witness one of the most beautiful sunrises in the Himalayas. When the first rays of sunlight hit the snow-covered peaks, the entire range glows golden — it’s pure magic.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

The best time for the Kedarkantha Trek is during December to April. This is when the region is covered in snow, making it one of the most stunning winter treks in India. The weather is cold, with temperatures dropping below zero at night, but the beauty of the white landscapes makes it completely worth it.

If you prefer a milder experience with fewer crowds, you can plan your trek in April or May, when the snow starts to melt and the meadows bloom with wildflowers. Each season gives Kedarkantha a different charm — winter for snow lovers and spring for nature enthusiasts.

Nearby Attractions – Extend Your Himalayan Adventure

If you have a few extra days after completing the trek, you can explore several nearby attractions around Sankri and Uttarkashi.

Visit Har ki Dun Valley, another famous trek that starts near Sankri, known for its ancient villages and alpine scenery. You can also head to Mori village by the Tons River or explore Mussoorie, known as the “Queen of Hills,” on your way back to Delhi. These small detours allow you to experience more of Garhwal’s raw beauty — the kind that doesn’t rush you but invites you to slow down and soak it all in.

Suggested Itinerary – 5 Days of Pure Adventure

Here’s a sample 5-day Kedarkantha Trek itinerary from Delhi that most travellers follow:

Day 1: Drive from Delhi to Sankri (via Dehradun) – Overnight stay in Sankri.

Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (around 4 km, 4–5 hours).

Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3 km, 3–4 hours).

Day 4: Early morning summit to Kedarkantha Peak and back to Base Camp; descend to Sankri.

Day 5: Drive back from Sankri to Dehradun or Delhi.

This plan allows you to experience the trek comfortably, without rushing, while also adjusting to the altitude.

Travel Tips, Safety, and Budgeting

Before you go, it’s important to plan smartly. Physical fitness plays a big role in high-altitude treks. Start walking or jogging regularly a few weeks before the trip to build stamina. Keep your backpack light but include all essentials — warm layers, gloves, trekking poles, and waterproof shoes.

Local guides are available at Sankri and are very helpful. They know the routes well, especially in heavy snow. Traveling with a reputed trekking group is also a good option for beginners, as they provide safety equipment, tents, and meals.

When it comes to budgeting, a Kedarkantha trek from Delhi typically costs between ₹8,000–₹12,000 per person, depending on the group, accommodation type, and inclusions. This usually covers food, tents, guide fees, and permits.

For travel safety, always check weather conditions before starting the trek. Avoid littering and follow the “leave no trace” principle to keep the mountains clean. Carry a first-aid kit and keep your phone or power bank charged — though network coverage is limited in the higher regions.

Why the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi Is Worth It

The Kedarkantha Trek isn’t just about reaching the summit. It’s about the small moments — sipping tea by a campfire, hearing snow crunch underfoot, watching sunrise paint the peaks, and connecting with strangers who soon feel like family.

For travellers from Delhi, this trek offers the perfect blend of convenience and wilderness. In less than a day’s travel, you can leave behind the city chaos and find yourself surrounded by mountains, meadows, and peace.Every step in Kedarkantha teaches you something — patience, resilience, and the simple joy of being close to nature. It’s not just a trek; it’s a story you live. And when you finally stand at the summit, breathing in the crisp Himalayan air, you’ll know it was all worth it.

So, if you’re dreaming of snow-covered peaks, clear skies, and an unforgettable adventure, pack your bags and set out on the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi. The mountains are calling — and this time, you’ll answer.