Kedarkantha Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
5 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
12,500 feet
GROUP SIZE
12 People
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE
20 Km
BASECAMP
Sankri
BEST TIME
December and January
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun
Kedarkantha Trek Overview:
The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in India, known for its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, dense pine forests, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. Situated in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park of Uttarakhand, this trek takes you to an altitude of 12,500 feet (3,800 m) and offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural experience.
What makes Kedarkantha special is its all-season accessibility, but it is particularly famous as a winter trek when the trail is draped in fresh powdery snow. From charming Himalayan villages to wide-open clearings and 360° summit views of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana, the trek is nothing short of magical.
The journey begins from the quaint village of Sankri, a small but picturesque settlement surrounded by pine forests and mountain ridges. The trek trail is moderately challenging, making it ideal for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. Each day unfolds a different scenery — frozen lakes, snowfields, ancient temples, and campsites located in mesmerizing clearings like Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base, and Hargaon.
One of the major highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek is the summit climb. Unlike most treks where the summit is not accessible, Kedarkantha offers a thrilling push to the very top, rewarding you with one of the best Himalayan summit views in India. Watching the sunrise from the Kedarkantha peak is an unforgettable experience, with golden light painting the snowy mountains in hues of orange and pink.
Apart from natural beauty, trekkers also get a chance to experience Garhwali culture and lifestyle while passing through remote villages. Local hospitality, folklore, and traditional food add another layer of richness to this adventure.
The Kedarkantha Trek is famous for its snow-covered trails, making it one of the best winter treks in India. The summit at 12,500 ft offers breathtaking 360° views of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. Beautiful campsites such as Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base, and Hargaon add charm to the journey, with clear night skies perfect for stargazing. The sunrise from the summit is an unforgettable highlight, painting the mountains in golden hues. Along the way, trekkers also experience the warm Garhwali culture at Sankri village. Despite its stunning landscapes and thrilling summit climb, the trek remains easy to moderate, making it ideal for beginners and adventure lovers alike.
Trek Fee
₹7500
+ 5% GST
Available Dates - 2025
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Kedarkantha Trek Complete Day By Wise Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (1,920 m): 187 km drive in 8 hours
Your Kedarkantha trek starts with an early morning drive from Dehradun to Sankri, a distance of around 187 km covered in 8–9 hours. The route is one of the most scenic in Uttarakhand, taking you through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori, and along the sparkling Tons River. The journey offers panoramic views of rolling valleys, dense pine forests, and charming mountain villages that give you the first taste of Himalayan beauty. By evening, you’ll arrive at the beautiful village of Sankri (1,920 m), the base camp of the Kedarkantha Trek. Nestled inside the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Sankri is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, apple orchards, and traditional wooden houses. Trekkers stay in guesthouses or homestays, enjoy warm meals, and get a briefing about the upcoming trek. As night falls, Sankri’s clear skies and chilly mountain air create the perfect setting to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m): 4 km trek in 3 to 4 hours
After breakfast at Sankri, the trek to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m) begins with a gradual 4 km ascent that takes about 3 to 4 hours. The trail passes through dense pine and oak forests, where tall trees create a natural canopy and mountain birds or squirrels often appear along the way. As you climb higher, the forest opens into clearings that reveal stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, making the short trek both scenic and refreshing. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Juda Ka Talab, a picturesque high-altitude lake surrounded by towering pine trees; in winter, it partially freezes, creating a postcard-like setting. The wide meadows around the lake provide one of the most beautiful campsites on the Kedarkantha trek. Evenings here are peaceful, with hot meals served at camp and a dazzling night sky full of stars, offering a magical Himalayan camping experience.
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,429 m): 4 km in 3 hours
After breakfast at Sankri, the trek to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m) begins with a gradual 4 km ascent that takes about 3 to 4 hours. The trail passes through dense pine and oak forests, where tall trees create a natural canopy and mountain birds or squirrels often appear along the way. As you climb higher, the forest opens into clearings that reveal stunning views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks, making the short trek both scenic and refreshing. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Juda Ka Talab, a picturesque high-altitude lake surrounded by towering pine trees; in winter, it partially freezes, creating a postcard-like setting. The wide meadows around the lake provide one of the most beautiful campsites on the Kedarkantha trek. Evenings here are peaceful, with hot meals served at camp and a dazzling night sky full of stars, offering a magical Himalayan camping experience.
Day 4: Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Summit (3,810 m) and back to Hargaon (2,713 m): 8 km in 5-6 hours
Day 4 is the most thrilling part of the Kedarkantha Trek, as you begin your early morning climb from the base camp to the Kedarkantha summit (3,810 m). The trail is around 8 km long and takes 5–6 hours, with the final stretch being a steep yet rewarding ascent. Starting before sunrise, you trek under the starry sky with headlamps lighting the snow-covered trail. As you reach the summit, the first rays of the sun paint the Himalayan peaks in golden hues, offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the Gangotri ranges. After spending some time soaking in the stunning panorama and capturing memories, you begin your descent back to the base camp and further down to Hargaon (2,713 m). The downward trail passes through beautiful pine forests and open clearings, making the return journey equally scenic. By evening, you reach Hargaon campsite, where you can relax, enjoy a warm meal, and reflect on the unforgettable summit experience under a star-filled sky.
Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri: 4 km trek in 2 to 3 hours
On the final day of the Kedarkantha Trek, you will descend from Hargaon (2,713 m) to Sankri, covering about 4 km in 2 to 3 hours. The trail is mostly downhill and passes through dense pine and oak forests, with small clearings that offer last glimpses of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. As you walk through the quiet forest paths, you’ll notice the wooden houses of Sankri gradually coming into view. By late morning, you’ll arrive back at Sankri village, marking the end of your trekking journey. After freshening up and relaxing at a guesthouse or homestay, you can explore the village, interact with locals, or simply enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere. This day offers the perfect conclusion to the trek, leaving you with unforgettable memories of snowy trails, scenic campsites, and the magical summit climb.
Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun: 187 km drive in 7 to 8 hours
On Day 6, the journey comes full circle as you drive back from Sankri to Dehradun, covering about 187 km in 7 to 8 hours. After an early breakfast, you bid farewell to the quiet Himalayan village and begin the scenic drive through winding mountain roads, pine forests, and alongside the sparkling Tons River. The route retraces your way back via Mori, Purola, and Mussoorie, offering one last chance to soak in the beauty of Uttarakhand’s valleys and villages. By evening, you will reach Dehradun, where the trek officially concludes. This marks the end of your Kedarkantha adventure, leaving you with lifelong memories of snow trails, starry nights, and the unforgettable summit experience.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Trek Inclusions
- Transportation – Day 1: Driver from Dehradun to Sankri. Pickup time: 7:30 am, Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station
Last Day: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun. Expect to reach Dehradun by 6:30 PM. - Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.
- On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
- Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission – Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification). There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- CLOAKROOM – We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses – Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
- From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
- Personal Equipment – Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading – We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance – A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek – We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Equipment for the Kedarkantha Trek
How to Prepare & What to Pack for the Kedarkantha Trek
Before going on the Kedarkantha Trek, it is essential to understand how to prepare for a Himalayan adventure and pack smartly. A well-prepared backpack ensures that you can fully enjoy the trek without unnecessary discomfort. Lack of proper gear can often turn a beautiful experience into a difficult one. Here’s a detailed backpacking and preparation guide to help you get ready:
Mandatory Documents
Always keep your documents safe and easily accessible. Carry a valid government ID proof (Aadhar Card, driver’s license, or passport), a medical fitness certificate, and adventure insurance. These are compulsory for forest permissions and safety clearances.
Trekking Accessories
A sturdy backpack with a rain cover is a must. Wear waterproof trekking shoes and carry trekking poles for better balance. Other essentials include a sun cap, sunglasses, headlamp or flashlight, lunch box, water bottle, and a power bank. A camera is highly recommended to capture the stunning landscapes of Kedarkantha. Checking the weather forecast and carrying a simple trek map of the trail also adds to your preparedness.
Toiletries & Hygiene
Hygiene is often overlooked but very important. Carry biodegradable soap, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, tissues/wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen, a small towel, and a comb. These small essentials ensure you stay fresh and comfortable throughout the trek.
Clothing Essentials
Layering is the key to surviving Himalayan weather, as temperatures fluctuate between day and night. Always pack moisture-wicking, warm, and waterproof clothing.
Spring, Summer & Monsoon: 1 trek pant, 1 nylon innerwear, 1 lightweight shirt, 1 fleece sweater, 1 poncho.
Autumn & Early Winter: 1 trek pant, 1 pair thermals, 1 t-shirt, 1 fleece sweater, 1 padded jacket, 1 poncho.
Peak Winter: 1 trek pant, 1 pair thermals, 1 t-shirt, 1 fleece jacket, 1 padded jacket, 1 windproof jacket, 1 pair waterproof gloves.
Along with these, carry extra essentials depending on trek duration:
3 T-shirts (wear one, carry two)
2 pairs of thermals (wear one, carry one)
2 quick-dry trek pants (wear one, carry one)
3 pairs of socks (wear one, carry two)
2 pairs of gloves (wear one, carry one)
1 padded jacket (keep handy in your backpack for sudden temperature drops)
Medical Kit
Your health is your top priority on the trek. Carry a basic first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and personal medicines. It is also wise to keep altitude sickness tablets, blister care kits, and any prescribed medication.
Physical Fitness and Safety Precautions
Physical Fitness Preparation for the Kedarkantha Trek
If you’re physically fit and aware of the safety precautions for the Kedarkantha Trek, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the trail far more effectively compared to trekkers with weaker endurance or insufficient preparation. Fitness ensures that fatigue, steep climbs, or high-altitude challenges don’t limit your experience. With proper training, you’ll be able to focus on the breathtaking landscapes, snow-covered peaks, and the joy of the trek itself.
Why Fitness Matters for Kedarkantha
The trek may be classified as easy-to-moderate, but it involves steep ascents, long walking hours, and high-altitude conditions. To comfortably complete the trek, you need a good balance of cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, core stability, and stamina.
Below is a structured workout routine to prepare your body for the trail:
1. Lower Body Strength
Squats
Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves
Benefits: Builds strength for climbs, stability for descents, balance on uneven trails
How-to: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, lower into a squat with a straight back, then return to standing.
Lunges
Muscles Worked: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves
Benefits: Improves flexibility and stability on rocky paths
How-to: Step forward with one leg, bend both knees to 90°, push back to start, and alternate legs.
2. Upper Body Strength
Push-Ups
Muscles Worked: Chest, shoulders, triceps, core
Benefits: Builds strength to carry your backpack and maintain good posture
How-to: From plank position, lower your chest, then push back up keeping your core tight.
Pull-Ups / Bodyweight Rows
Muscles Worked: Back, shoulders, biceps
Benefits: Strengthens upper body to reduce backpack strain
How-to: Grip a bar and pull up until your chin clears the bar, or use a low bar/TRX straps for rows.
3. Core Stability
Planks
Muscles Worked: Abs, obliques, lower back
Benefits: Improves balance, stability, and prevents back pain
How-to: Hold plank with elbows under shoulders, body in straight line.
Russian Twists
Muscles Worked: Obliques, abs, lower back
Benefits: Strengthens rotational core muscles for balance with a backpack
How-to: Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist torso side to side.
4. Cardiovascular & Full Body
Mountain Climbers
Muscles Worked: Core, legs, chest, shoulders
Benefits: Boosts stamina, agility, and cardiovascular strength
How-to: From plank position, run knees toward chest alternately.
Burpees
Muscles Worked: Full body
Benefits: Builds explosive strength, agility, and cardio endurance
How-to: Perform squat → plank → push-up → squat → jump.
5. Additional Fitness Tips
Consistency & Progression: Stick to a regular schedule, gradually increasing intensity.
Stretch & Recover: Warm up before and stretch after workouts to avoid injury.
Balance Training: Add exercises like deadlifts or step-ups for overall endurance.
Practice Trek Simulation: Carry a weighted backpack during training walks for real trek conditions.
Safety Precautions & Protocols
11 Essential Safety Precautions & Protocols for the Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha Trek is a stunning Himalayan adventure, but the challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and high-altitude conditions require careful planning and strict adherence to safety measures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, following these 11 essential safety precautions will ensure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
1. Acclimatization
Why it’s important: Prevents altitude sickness by allowing your body to adapt to reduced oxygen levels.
Protocols to follow:
Spend an extra day at Sankri base camp or an intermediate point before gaining altitude.
Ascend gradually; avoid climbing too fast.
Practice “climb high, sleep low” – hike higher than your campsite, then return to sleep lower.
Include yoga and Pranayama breathing exercises in your preparation.
2. Weather Preparedness
Why it’s important: Kedarkantha weather can change suddenly with snow, rain, or extreme cold.
Protocols to follow:
Check updated weather forecasts before and during the trek.
Always carry waterproof gear: jacket, poncho, and extra dry socks.
Start trekking early in the morning and finish before noon to avoid afternoon showers.
If caught in continuous rain, pause the trek but avoid stopping near streams or steep areas.
3. Hydration & Nutrition
Why it’s important: Dehydration and poor nutrition can cause fatigue and altitude sickness.
Protocols to follow:
Drink water frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Eat light, high-energy snacks like dry fruits, energy bars, and fresh fruits.
Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks which dehydrate the body.
4. Health & First Aid
Why it’s important: Quick medical attention prevents minor issues from becoming serious.
Protocols to follow:
Carry a first aid kit with altitude sickness medication, bandages, and personal medicines.
Learn basic first aid before your trek.
Inform your trek leader about any existing health conditions.
5. Safety Gear
Why it’s important: Good gear reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
Protocols to follow:
Wear sturdy trekking boots with ankle support.
Dress in layers to manage body temperature effectively.
Carry essentials: headlamp, backpack rain cover, gaiters, microspikes, and a rope if needed.
Keep an oxygen cylinder handy at higher camps.
6. Emergency Preparedness
Why it’s important: Emergencies in the mountains require immediate and smart action.
Protocols to follow:
Nearest hospital: Mori (21 km from Sankri base camp).
Keep emergency numbers and insurance details with you.
Ensure your trek leader carries communication devices like satellite phone/walkie-talkie.
Buy adventure insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
7. Navigation & Trail Safety
Why it’s important: The snowy, forested trails of Kedarkantha can be confusing.
Protocols to follow:
Always follow your guide and marked trails.
Use GPS, maps, or a compass if trekking without a group.
Never wander off the designated trail.
8. Wildlife Awareness
Why it’s important: Himalayan forests are home to wild animals.
Protocols to follow:
Maintain distance from animals, don’t provoke them.
Store food securely and keep campsites clean to avoid attracting wildlife.
9. Group Coordination
Why it’s important: Trekking in groups increases safety and reduces risks.
Protocols to follow:
Stay connected with your group and avoid straying alone.
Follow trek leader’s instructions carefully.
10. Environmental Responsibility
Why it’s important: Preserving the Himalayas ensures they remain pristine for future trekkers.
Protocols to follow:
Follow “Leave No Trace” principles.
Carry your trash back; don’t litter.
Avoid plucking plants or disturbing wildlife.
11. Altitude Sickness Awareness
Why it’s important: AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) can affect trekkers above 11,000 ft.
Protocols to follow:
Watch for symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness.
Inform your trek leader immediately if you feel unwell.
Descend to a lower altitude if symptoms worsen.
After Kedarkantha Basecamp (11,250 ft), walk slowly and steadily toward the summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Kedarkantha Trek located?
The Kedarkantha Trek is situated in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. The base camp is Sankri village, which is about 200 km from Dehradun.
What is the altitude of Kedarkantha Trek?
The summit of Kedarkantha rises to an altitude of 12,500 feet (3,800 meters) and provides panoramic views of Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.
How many days are required to complete the Kedarkantha Trek?
Most itineraries take 5 to 6 days to complete, including travel time from Dehradun and acclimatization.
What is the best time to do the Kedarkantha Trek?
Kedarkantha is most popular as a winter trek, with the best season being December to April when the trails are covered in snow. However, summer and autumn treks are also rewarding for clear views.
Is Kedarkantha Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners due to its moderate gradient, safe trails, and manageable altitude gain.
How difficult is the Kedarkantha Trek?
The trek is graded easy to moderate. While the trails are well-defined, trekkers should be prepared for daily hikes of 4–5 hours and a steep summit climb.
What is the total trekking distance of Kedarkantha?
The entire trek covers approximately 20 kilometers round trip from Sankri to the summit and back.
Do I need prior trekking experience for Kedarkantha?
No prior trekking experience is required, but good physical fitness is necessary to handle the altitude and daily trekking hours.
What permits are required for Kedarkantha Trek?
Yes, an entry permit for Govind Pashu Vihar National Park is required. These are usually arranged by trek organizers on behalf of trekkers.
What is the highlight of the Kedarkantha Trek?
The sunrise from the Kedarkantha summit is the biggest highlight, with golden light falling on snow-clad Himalayan peaks. The trail also offers scenic forests, meadows, and charming Himalayan villages.
