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Kedarkantha Trek

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LocationUttarakhand
Duration6 Days
Max Altitude12500 ft
Distance20 km
GradeEasy to Moderate
Support
+91 8265906135
info@xplorethedreams
Starting from
₹8,500
Overview

A Look at the Trek

Kedarkantha is arguably the most popular winter trek in India. It is famous for its snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and a thrilling summit climb that rewards you with a 360-degree view of majestic Himalayan peaks.

The trek starts from the picturesque village of Sankri and takes you through dense pine and oak forests. As you ascend, the tree line recedes, giving way to expansive snow-covered meadows.

The highlight of the trek is the summit day. Starting before dawn, you trek under a starlit sky to reach the Kedarkantha peak just in time to witness a spectacular sunrise illuminating the Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak ranges.

Highlights

  • Thrilling Summit ClimbExperience an exhilarating pre-dawn climb to the 12,500 ft summit.
  • Snow-Covered TrailsTrek through knee-deep snow during the winter months.
  • Juda Ka TalabCamp beside a beautiful frozen alpine lake.
  • 360-Degree ViewsUnobstructed panoramic views of the Garhwal Himalayas from the top.

Quick Facts

Base CampSankri
SeasonWinter | Spring
MonthsDecember to April
Rail HeadDehradun
AirportJolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Trail TypeRound trail | Starts and ends at Sankri.
Day by Day

The Itinerary

A carefully crafted journey ensuring you experience the best of the landscape while acclimatizing safely.

01

Arrival in Sankri

Altitude: 6,400 ft.
Drive Distance: 197 km from Dehradun | 8 - 9 hr.
The drive from Dehradun passes through Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori.
Overnight stay in a guest house in Sankri.
02

Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab

Altitude: 6,400 ft to 9,100 ft.
Trek Distance: 4 km | 4-5 hrs.
The trail passes through dense pine forests and maple trees.
Camp next to the frozen lake of Juda-ka-Talab.
03

Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base

Altitude: 9,100 ft to 11,250 ft.
Trek Distance: 4 km | 3 hrs.
The trail is steep but relatively short.
Reach the base camp early and acclimatize. Witness a stunning sunset.
04

Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit, descend to Hargaon

Altitude: 11,250 ft to 12,500 ft, then descend to 8,900 ft.
Trek Distance: 6 km | 6-7 hrs.
Start at 3:00 AM for the summit push to catch the sunrise.
Spend time at the summit temple before descending to Hargaon camp.
05

Hargaon to Sankri

Altitude: 8,900 ft to 6,400 ft.
Trek Distance: 6 km | 4 hrs.
Descend through thick pine forests back to the base camp.
Overnight stay in Sankri guest house.
06

Departure from Sankri

Drive Distance: 197 km back to Dehradun | 8 - 9 hr.
Expected arrival in Dehradun by 6:00 PM.
Preparation

Eligibility & Fitness

High altitude treks require a baseline of physical fitness. Review the criteria below and check your readiness.

Age RequirementMinimum 8 years. Highly recommended for beginners and families.
Fitness Criteria
  • Should be able to jog 4 km in 30 minutes.
  • Cardiovascular endurance is necessary for the steep summit push.
  • Should be able to carry a 8-10 kg backpack.
Health & Awareness
  • Resting pulse rate should be between 60-90 bpm.
  • No prior history of severe asthma or heart conditions.

Calculate Your BMI

Logistics

How to Reach

Details on arriving at the base camp and meeting points.

Meeting Point

Dehradun Railway Station (ISBT is also an option)

Drop Off

Dehradun Railway Station

Travel Options

  • 01Flight: Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is well connected to major cities.
  • 02Train: Nanda Devi Express from Delhi to Dehradun is the most convenient option.
  • 03Bus: Regular Volvo buses run from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi to Dehradun.
Pricing

Cost Terms

What is included and excluded in the expedition cost.

Inclusions

  • Accommodation: Guest house in Sankri (Day 1 & 5) and tented accommodation on the trek.
  • Meals: All vegetarian meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6.
  • Trekking Equipment: High-quality sleeping bags, mattresses, and tents.
  • Safety Equipment: Microspikes and gaiters if there is heavy snow, oxygen cylinders, medical kits.
  • Expertise: Certified Trek Leader and local support staff.

Exclusions

  • Transport from Dehradun to Sankri and back (costs shared among trekkers).
  • Offloading of backpacks.
  • Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets).
  • Any meals during transit.
Equipment

Trek Essentials

A comprehensive packing list to ensure you are well-prepared for the expedition.

Basic Gear

Trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip
Backpack (40-50 Litres) with rain cover
3-4 layers of warm clothing (thermal, fleece, down jacket)
Trekking pole
Sunglasses to prevent snow blindness
Waterproof gloves and woolen socks
Headlamp or torch
Policies

Cancellation Terms

Review our cancellation policies and refund options before booking.

Prior to 20 days

  • Full refund minus 5% processing fee
  • 100% voucher

Between 19 and 10 days

  • 50% refund
  • 70% voucher

Less than 10 days

  • No refund
  • No voucher

Emergency Cases

In case of severe medical emergency, partial vouchers may be provided at management discretion.

Important Notes

  • 01Vouchers are valid for 1 year from the date of issue.
  • 02Batch transfers are allowed if requested 20 days prior to departure.

FAQ

Know before you go
Yes! It is one of the best treks for beginners. However, physical fitness is strictly required as the summit day involves a steep ascent.
In December and January, daytime temperatures are around 8°C to 12°C, but nighttime temperatures at higher camps like Kedarkantha Base can drop to -10°C.
No. Microspikes and gaiters will be provided by our team if the snow conditions demand it. However, you must bring good quality trekking shoes (water-resistant).