Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi – A Winter Wonderland in the Himalayas

If you love snow, mountains, and peace, the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is perfect for you. It is one of India’s best winter treks. The trail is easy, beautiful, and full of snow in winter.The trek lies in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. You walk through pine forests, frozen lakes, and quiet villages. The view of the Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch is stunning. It is a great trek for beginners and nature lovers. Every turn feels like a postcard.

The Journey from Delhi to Sankri

The journey starts from Delhi. The base camp for the trek is a small village called Sankri. You can take an overnight bus from Delhi to Dehradun. It takes about 6 to 7 hours. From Dehradun, hire a shared cab or taxi to Sankri. The drive is long, about 190 km, and takes 8 to 9 hours.

The road passes through beautiful hills, pine forests, and rivers. You’ll see towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori on the way. The drive along the Tons River is peaceful and full of great views. Sankri is quiet and scenic. It’s best to reach a day before your trek. Stay in a homestay, eat local food, and enjoy the mountain air.

The Trek Experience

The Kedarkantha Trek takes about 4 to 5 days to complete. The total distance is around 20 km (both ways). The highest point is 12,500 feet.

The first day’s trek goes from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab. It’s a small lake surrounded by pine trees. In winter, it freezes completely. The trail is full of snow and feels magical.

The next stop is Kedarkantha Base Camp. The climb is not too hard. You’ll see open meadows and snowy peaks ahead. Nights here are cold but beautiful. The sky is full of stars.

On the final day, you trek to the summit. You start early, before sunrise. The trail is steep but safe. When the sun rises, the whole mountain turns golden. The 360-degree view from the top is breathtaking. You can see many famous peaks from here.Standing on the summit feels like standing above the clouds. It’s a moment you will never forget.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. If you love snow, go between December and March. The trail and campsites are covered in white snow. The views are amazing. If you like greenery, visit in April, May, or June. The forests are fresh, and the weather is cool. Avoid the monsoon months from July to September. The trail becomes slippery, and landslides are common. October and November are also good. The weather is clear, and the landscape turns golden. Every season gives the trek a new look. But the snow season is the most popular.

Safety, Tips, and Essentials

The Kedarkantha Trek is safe for beginners. But you must be prepared. Carry warm clothes and good trekking shoes. Winter nights are very cold. Temperatures can drop below -5°C. Wear layers and keep yourself dry.

Take trekking poles for balance, especially in snow. Drink water regularly. Carry energy bars and dry fruits for quick snacks. Go with a guide or trekking group. They help with camping, cooking, and safety.

There is no mobile network beyond Sankri. Inform your family before you start the trek. Carry cash because ATMs are not available near the base.

Most importantly, do not litter. Keep the mountains clean. Respect nature and local people.

Budget and Suggested Itinerary

A Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi costs between ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per person. This usually includes transport from Dehradun, food, tents, and guides.

Here’s a simple 6-day plan:

Day 1: Delhi to Dehradun (overnight travel)

Day 2: Dehradun to Sankri

Day 3: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

Day 4: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Day 5: Summit and back to Sankri

Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun, then to Delhi

If you have extra time, stay one more night in Sankri. You can explore nearby villages or relax by the river.

Nearby Attractions

There are many beautiful places near Kedarkantha. You can visit the Har Ki Dun Valley, another famous trek in Uttarkashi. It has ancient villages and lovely views. You can also go to Ruinsara Tal, a calm lake surrounded by mountains. On your way back, stop at Mussoorie or Chakrata. Both are beautiful hill stations near Dehradun. If you are interested in temples, visit Yamunotri Temple or Lakhamandal Temple. These places are peaceful and full of history.

Why You Should Do the Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek is special. It’s easy to reach, safe to do, and full of natural beauty. You walk through forests, lakes, and snowy fields. You see the sunrise from the top of the Himalayas. You feel free and calm. It’s not just a trek — it’s an experience. It helps you disconnect from noise and stress. You meet new people, share stories, and make memories. For many, Kedarkantha is their first Himalayan trek. For others, it’s a place they visit again and again. If you want to feel the magic of the mountains, this trek is the perfect start.