Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi – A Complete Guide to the Most Loved Himalayan Winter Adventure

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through snow-laden pine forests, camping under a starlit sky, and watching the sun rise over snow-capped Himalayan peaks, the Kedarkantha Trek is your dream come true. One of the most popular winter treks in India, Kedarkantha is perfect for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike.

Located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you to a height of 12,500 feet, offering breathtaking views of mountain ranges like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana. And the best part? It’s easily accessible — making the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi a perfect week-long escape into the mountains.

1. Why Kedarkantha Trek is a Winter Wonderland

Kedarkantha isn’t just a trek; it’s an experience that feels straight out of a storybook. Every step of the trail takes you through a landscape that changes dramatically — from dense pine forests and frozen lakes to vast meadows blanketed in white.

During winter (December to March), the entire trail is covered in snow, making it one of India’s most scenic snow treks. The charm of walking on soft snow with a backpack, hearing the crunch beneath your boots, and warming up by a campfire under the Milky Way is simply magical.

But Kedarkantha is more than just beauty. It’s also steeped in local legends — the name comes from a myth that Lord Shiva began his meditation here before moving to Kedarnath. That blend of mythology and mountain mystery gives the trek a soulful touch.

2. How to Reach: The Journey from Delhi to Kedarkantha

Reaching Kedarkantha from Delhi is quite straightforward and part of what makes it such a convenient yet immersive adventure.

The base village for the trek is Sankri, located around 200 km from Dehradun and about 450 km from Delhi. Here’s how you can plan your journey:

• By Bus or Train:

Take an overnight bus or train from Delhi to Dehradun (6–7 hours). From Dehradun, you can book a cab or shared taxi to Sankri, which takes about 8–9 hours through scenic hill roads via Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori.

• By Air:

The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, connected to Delhi by multiple daily flights. From there, continue by road to Sankri.

Most trekkers prefer starting from Delhi on a Friday night, reaching Sankri by Saturday evening, and beginning the trek early on Sunday morning.

The drive from Dehradun to Sankri is an experience in itself — winding through lush forests, river valleys, and small mountain villages where time seems to move slower.

3. The Trek Route: From Pine Forests to Panoramic Peaks

The Kedarkantha Trek is around 20 km in total (to and fro), spread over 4 days of trekking and 1–2 days of travel.

Day 1 – Sankri to Juda ka Talab (4 km):

The trail begins gently, winding through pine forests and apple orchards. Juda ka Talab is a serene, frozen lake during winter — an ideal first campsite surrounded by snow-covered trees.

Day 2 – Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3 km):

This part of the trek offers stunning views of the Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch ranges. You’ll trek through snowfields and open clearings before reaching the base camp, where the view of the peak looks almost close enough to touch.

Day 3 – Summit to Kedarkantha Peak (12,500 ft) and back to Base Camp:

This is the highlight of the trek — a pre-dawn start to witness the magical sunrise from the summit. As you climb the final stretch, the cold wind brushes against your face, but the view from the top makes it all worth it. Watching the golden sunlight kiss the white peaks of the Himalayas is a moment trekkers remember forever.

Day 4 – Descent to Sankri:

The descent is easy and full of joy as you pass through forests you first saw blanketed in fog. You can explore Sankri village in the evening and enjoy a hearty Garhwali meal before your return journey.

4. Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

Though Kedarkantha is open almost all year, the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking.

• Winter (December to March): The most popular season. Expect snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and breathtaking sunrise views.
• Spring (April to June): The snow begins to melt, revealing lush meadows filled with wildflowers. Perfect for those who prefer mild weather.
• Autumn (September to November): Crisp air, clear skies, and golden forests — great visibility and pleasant trekking conditions.

Avoid July and August as heavy rains can make trails slippery and risky.

For most travellers, December to February is the best time for the full snow trek experience, especially if you’re coming from Delhi and want a short Himalayan adventure.

5. Budgeting, Accommodation, and Travel Tips

One of the biggest advantages of the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is how affordable it can be compared to other Himalayan treks.

If you’re trekking independently, your total cost (5–6 days) would roughly be:

• Travel (Delhi–Dehradun–Sankri round trip): ₹2,000–₹3,000
• Accommodation & food at Sankri: ₹1,000 per night
• Trek package (including guide, tents, food, and permits): ₹6,000–₹9,000
• Overall, expect to spend between ₹9,000–₹13,000 depending on your choices.

Local Tips:

• Always hire a certified local guide or join a reputed trekking group — they handle logistics, safety, and campsite arrangements.
• Carry enough warm layers, good trekking shoes, and waterproof gloves. The temperatures can drop to -5°C at night.
• Keep yourself hydrated and pace your climb slowly; acclimatization is key even on moderate treks.
• Don’t litter or use plastic — help preserve the pristine ecosystem of the Himalayas.

There are several homestays and small lodges in Sankri if you want to stay before or after the trek. These are run by locals who are warm, welcoming, and always ready with hot chai and stories of the mountains.

6. Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you have extra time after your trek, there are some wonderful nearby attractions worth exploring:

• Har Ki Dun Valley: Another scenic trek that begins from Sankri, perfect for those who want to extend their adventure.
• Ruinsara Tal: A pristine alpine lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks.
• Mori Village and Tons River: Ideal for rafting and camping experiences.
• Mussoorie: The famous hill station, a great stopover on your way back to Delhi.

These spots offer a deeper glimpse into the culture and beauty of Uttarakhand beyond the trek.

7. Why Kedarkantha Trek Should Be on Your Bucket List

Few treks combine accessibility, beauty, and adventure as seamlessly as Kedarkantha. It’s a trek that teaches patience, rewards effort, and fills your heart with mountain calm. Whether you’re sitting by a bonfire under a million stars or standing atop the snow-covered summit watching the sunrise paint the Himalayas gold, you’ll realize that Kedarkantha isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling.

It’s perfect for beginners, solo travellers, or groups from Delhi looking for a quick Himalayan escape that doesn’t demand extreme fitness or technical skills. Every turn of the trail brings you closer to nature’s magic and the simple joy of being away from noise, screens, and deadlines.

So pack your warm layers, charge your camera, and set your sights north — because the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is calling, and the mountains are waiting to welcome you home.