Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login
+91-74287 10595 contact@happygotrips.com

Login

Sign Up

After creating an account, you'll be able to track your payment status, track the confirmation and you can also rate the tour after you finished the tour.
Username*
Password*
Confirm Password*
First Name*
Last Name*
Birth Date*
Email*
Phone*
Country*
* Creating an account means you're okay with our Terms of Service and Privacy Statement.
Please agree to all the terms and conditions before proceeding to the next step

Already a member?

Login

Kedarkantha Trek – Best Winter Trek in Himalayas – Kedarkantha Trekking

0
Price
From₹9,500₹9,000
Price
From₹9,500₹9,000
Enquire Now
Save To Wish List

Adding item to wishlist requires an account

3010

Got a Question?

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+91-74287 10595

Click here to CHAT

contact@happygotrips.com

Why Book With Us?

  • No-hassle best price guarantee
  • Excellent Services
  • Hand-picked Tours & Activities
  • Best Experiences
Availability : December to March
Dehradun
Kedarkantha
Max People : 15
DetailItineraryMapPhotosReviews

Kedarkantha Trek Details

The adrenaline rush of climbing a peak, pine trees decorated with snow, panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks, and the sub-zero temperatures, all this make Kedarkantha Trek a wonderful and a must-visit trek in Indian Himalayas. The trek to Kedarkantha peak is one of the most popular treks in winters and adventurers from all over the country do this trek for at least once. Standing at an altitude of 3810 m above the mean sea level, the summit of Kedarkantha offers breathtaking views of snow-laden mountains and valleys. The views include some remarkable peaks such as Swargarohini (Gateway to Heaven), Banderpuch massif, and the mountains of the Kinnaur region. The Kedarkantha trek distance is around 22 km and it takes 5 days to complete this entire trekking tour from Dehradun.

Dehradun is the starting point of this tour in which the first day includes only the drive from Dehradun to Sankri, which is the base village of Kedarkantha Trek. The trek begins from Sankri village, which is located inside the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakashi district of Uttarakhand. Though Kedarkantha is a peak climbing trek but the terrain is not very difficult and hence beginners having good physical fitness can also do this trek. The best time to do Kedarkantha trek is in the months of winters but there are a few summer months as well during which this trek can surprise you with its beauty.

Departure & Return Location

Dehradun (however the pickup can be arranged from other locations as per the client requirements)

Trek Distance

22 km

Duration of the trek

5 Days

Difficulty Level

Moderate (Beginners can do this trek)

Maximum Altitude

3810 m or 12,500 feet

Price Includes

  • Local transportation from Dehradun to Trek starting point (Sankri) and back
  • Stay in Guest House/Swiss Camps at Sankri and Camps during the trek
  • All meals during the trek including Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Snacks (From Day 1 Dinner to Day 5 Breakfast)
  • Experienced Local guide for trekking
  • Certified Mountaineer Trek Leader
  • All camping equipment including Tents, Sleeping Bags, Mattress, Toilet Tents & Kitchen Tent
  • All forest permits
  • First Aid, Medical Kit, Oxygen Cylinders

Price Excludes

  • Mule/Porter for carrying personal luggage. Can be arranged at extra cost.
  • Any services/meals apart from mentioned in Inclusions
  • Any Personal Expenses
  • Any other expenses of personal nature i.e, camera fee, laundry, telephone, tips, portages, travel & medical insurance etc.
  • Any additional expenses due to unforeseen circumstances like cancellation/roadblocks/landslides/strike or any other natural causes
  • Any Kind of Expense for Loss / Misplaced / Theft of personal belongings.

What to Expect on Kedarkantha Trek?

If you are looking out to trek in winters and experience a winter wonderland then the Kedarkantha trek is the one that you should go on. The forests of pine and deodar become a sight to behold after getting draped with snow. Apart from that, Juda ka Talab can satisfy your fantasy of walking over a frozen lake. And, last but not the least, the final climb to Kedarkantha tests your skills and pumps you up with adrenaline. Though the peak is not massive as the altitude is 3810 m but after climbing and reaching the top, it definitely feels like an achievement.

Every day and each campsite treats you with amazing views and make your trekking journey memorable. On the first day, you mix up with your new trekker friends and it feels good to roam around the village, interacting with the locals and the cute mountain dogs. Sankri is indeed a cozy village. The next four days include trekking and staying in camps. Out of which, the night at the Kedarkantha base camp remains the coldest and unforgettable one as the temperature drops to -10 and sometimes -15 as well. Everything starts freezing, be it your water bottle or the inner layering of the tents. It is an overall different experience. The views from the summit leave you in awe as it gives 360-degree panoramic views including the remarkable Himalayan peaks, deep valleys, and distant villages.

Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary

Day 1Dehradun to Sankri (190 km drive)

Arrive at Dehradun and gather at the meeting point in the morning by 6 AM. After all the formalities, the assigned trek leader takes you to the vehicle and then we start our journey to the base village of Kedarkantha, viz, Sankri. We take the route from Dehradun via Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, and then took the right turn from the Yamuna Bridge. We drive through Nainbagh, Naugaon, Purola, Mori, and Netwar and take a few pit stops for breakfast, lunch, and tea breaks. The journey further from Purola becomes scenic as we drive through the pine forest. We then enter into the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and finally reach Sankri village. The overall journey takes around 10-11 hours to travel from Dehradun to Sankri.

Sankri is a small but scenic village settled at 2100 m above the mean sea level. The village is popular among trekkers as it serves as a basecamp for several beautiful treks such as Kedarkantha, Har Ki Dun, Phulara Ridge, Bali Pass, Borasu Pass, etc.

After reaching Sankri, we check-in into our guest house and relax. In the evening, one can roam around the village and play with the mountain dogs. Keep your rucksacks ready as we have to start our trek from the next day morning. Dinner and Overnight stay.

Note: Purola is the last place where one can get 4g signals, ATM, and a good market. Though there is an ATM at Sankri as well but it usually runs out of cash.

Day 2Trek from Sankri to Juda ka Talab (4 km Trek)

Today is our first trekking day and we move towards Juda ka Talab, which is a small lake. We have a hearty breakfast and then begin our trek by 8 am. There is a board placed at the starting point showcasing information about the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and Kedarkantha Trek. The trail is moderate and not very steep. We walk along the pine and deodar forest throughout the trail. After walking for half an hour, we get the first glimpse of Swargarohini massif, which is a treat to eyes. Today’s trek distance is around 4 km and it takes around 4 hours to reach the campsite. We have our lunch at the first meadow that arrived on our way. There are a few shops available there from which one can buy snacks and chocolates.

After having lunch, we resume our trek and reach our campsite at Juda ka Talab in an hour. Enjoy the campsite and forest views. The trek leader assigns the camps and other camping equipment and then we all are free to play games and have fun. Enjoy the piping hot soup in the evening followed by dinner. Overnight stay in camps.

Day 3Trek from Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km trek)

Today, we move towards our second campsite, Kedarkantha base camp, which is also the last campsite. The trek distance is around 4 km and it usually takes 3 hours to reach the campsite. We take the trail going towards the Juda ka Talab and have a small photo session at the lake. The lake gets frozen in winters when the mercury drops to zero. After spending some time, we resume our trek and take the further trail going towards the base camp. The trail gets slippery during snow hence one has to walk carefully on that. We reach the base camp by noon and have hot lunch there. The Kedarkantha Base camp is a big meadow surrounded by trees and is a perfect place for camping. The campsite offers a complete view of the valley and distant villages. During the months of December, January and February, the base camp remains covered with a blanket of snow.

Enjoy the hot soup and tea in the evening. The base camp is the coldest place on this trek where we stay for a night. The temperature drops to – 15 degrees in extreme winters. We have our dinner a bit early as we have to wake up by around 2 am to start the final day trek to Kedarkantha peak.

Day 4Climb the Kedarkantha Peak and trek down to Juda Ka Talab (10 km trek)

This is the D-Day, yes that’s what we call it. We wake up at around 2 AM, freshen up and get ready for our trek to the summit. We all use head torches and proper layering as it remains quite cold. The first half of the trail is not very tiring as it is less steep. Within 15 minutes of continuous trekking, the body becomes warm and now it’s easy to trek. In around 1 hour, we reach a small canteen from where the entire mountain and the Kedarkantha peak is clearly visible and we also start seeing the lights of dawn by that time. The trail from here gets steep and a bit difficult too. There were a few patches that remain slippery and require extra efforts to negotiate that. We keep walking by enjoying the views and in a span of two hours, we finally reach the summit. Get mesmerized by the panoramic views of snow-covered mountains and valleys. Swargarohini massif along with Banderpuch and Kinnaur ranges are visible from the Kedarkantha peak.

After a photo session, we start descending towards the base camp. The downhill route is slightly different from the uphill one. It takes around 3 hours to reach the base camp. We relax a bit, have our lunch, and then descend further to Juda ka Talab. It takes another 2 hours and then we finally rest at our campsite. Time to relax and celebrate as the difficult part is already finished. Dinner and overnight stay in camps.

Day 5Trek down to Sankri & Drive to Dehradun

This is our last trekking day and also the last day of our trip. We break our camp at around 8 am and start our downhill trek towards Sankri village. The route remains the same that we take while trekking up. It takes around 3 hours and we reach the village.

We freshen up and have some refreshments and now it’s time to bid adieu to the village and mountains. We start our return journey towards Dehradun and reach there by evening. After seeing off, one can start with his/her further journey back to home.

Tour Ends Here.

Kedarkantha Trek Photos

Other Information

FAQs for Kedarkantha Trek

Q. How long is the Valley of Flowers trek?

The total distance that one covers in this trek is around 22 km that is divided into 4 days.

  • Sankri – Juda ka Talab : 4 km
  • Juda ka Talab – Kedarkantha Base Camp : 4 km
  • Kedarkantha Base Camp – Kedarkantha Peak – Juda ka Talab : 10 km
  • Juda ka Talab – Sankri : 4 km

The 1st and the 5th day includes traveling to and from the base or starting point, i.e., Sankri. Sankri is an 8-hours drive from Dehradun.

Q. Is it okay for a first-timer to attempt this trek?

Yes, beginners having good physical fitness can go for this trek. The trail is not very steep and the terrain suits the beginners, hence it’s not mandatory to have a prior experience to go on this trek.

Check out How to prepare for a trek?

Q. What’s the weather like in the Kedarkantha Trek?

The weather may remain sunny or cloudy. There are chances one might find snowfall during the months of late-November, December, January, and February.

Q. Can I keep extra luggage at the base camp for this trek?

Yes. In case you have any extra luggage that you don’t require on the trek and on further campsites/location then you can leave the luggage at the base or starting location of the trek (Sankri). Your luggage will remain safe but we suggest not leaving any valuables or expensive items like mobile, laptop, wallet, etc.

Q. What is the best season to see the snow on the trek?

The best season to experience snow is December, January, and February.

Q. Is Kedarnath and Kedarkantha Trek the same?

No. It’s not the same. Kedarnath is a famous temple and pilgrimage site for Hindus. It’s one of the Chota Char Dham temples situated in Uttarakhand. Whereas Kedarkantha is a trekkable peak and is a famous trekking destination in Uttarakhand. Most of the people get confused and consider both the places the same.

Q. What will be the group size for Kedarkantha Trek?

If you are opting for a group trek then there will be a maximum of 15 people in one group including the trek leader (Mountaineering Certified).

Q. I am the only girl in the group, is it safe to travel/trek solo?

Yes, it is totally safe. In our group treks, our trek leader accompanies the group throughout the trek starting from the pickup location. All our staff including taxi drivers, hotel vendors, local guides, cook, and helpers are reliable. Sometimes, we also send a woman trek leader in some of the treks.

Q. What type of ground transportation will be used on the trip?

We use Tata Sumo, Mahindra Bolero, and Tempo Traveller depending upon the group requirements and size. We can also arrange Toyota Innova and Mahindra Xylo on request.

Q. I cannot carry my rucksack/bag on the trek, can I offload it?

Usually, we recommend carrying your backpack on your own during the trek as it helps to keep your body posture correct.

Check out why it is recommended to carry your backpack while trekking?

In case you cannot, then you can offload your rucksack/backpack. We arrange separate mules/horses/porters to carry the offloading bags. Charges for the same would be INR 300 per bag per day.

Q. Which shoes should I buy for Kedarkantha Trek?

If you are doing this trek in winters then we recommend you bring only trekking shoes that are waterproof/water-resistant and have ankle support. As the trail will have snow, normal running/sports shoes will not provide you the grip and there will be chances of getting slipped.

Check out how to choose your trekking shoes?

Q. What are the washroom/toilet facilities like on the trek?

There will be toilet tents at each campsite and will be separate for women and men. There will not be any running water facility inside the toilet tents. The toilets will be dry.

Q. What will be the type of accommodation?

There are a total of 4 nights stay during the entire trip in which the first-night stay will be in a guest house at Sankri and the rest three-night stays will be in camps.

Q. Will you provide sleeping bags and mattresses?

Yes. Since there is camping on this trek we will be providing sleeping bags, mattresses, and all other necessary camping equipment. 

Q. How many trekkers will be in one tent/room?

One can opt for single, double, or triple sharing in one tent/room. Charges vary accordingly.

Q. How can I book the Kedarkantha trek with you?

One can fill the inquiry form given on the right side of this page and send us all the details. Our travel consultant will reach out to you as soon as possible and plan the best itinerary as per your requirements. One can also call or WhatsApp us at +91-7428710595 or email us at contact@happygotrips.com.

Q. What type of food is served during the trek?

Food will be veg and nutritious on the trek. Jain food can also be available. On request, we can also arrange non-veg food at certain places.

Q. How to get safe drinking water on the trek?

Himalayan water is considered the purest form of water. We recommend people to carry a 1-liter water bottle with themselves so that they can use and refill it from the water streams available during the trek. While filling the bottle from the water stream, make sure you fill it from a point where the water is running, and not stable.

Q. Can you customize the Kedarkantha trek?

Yes. We offer fully customized tour/trek packages as per the traveler’s requirements and feasibility. You name it and we will do it.

Q. Will the doctor accompany us on the trek?

No, a doctor doesn’t accompany on the trek. Our trek leaders are mountaineering certified and they are taught all the techniques and methods required on a trek. The trek leaders are also certified in the wilderness and first aid responder course.

Q. Do you prefer I should bring some medicines with me?

Yes, it is always recommended that you should bring your own medicines that are suitable for you or that are prescribed by your doctor.

Q. Diamox is advisable or not?

No, Diamox is not advisable for this trek as the altitude gain is quite gradual. Though, our trek leader still carries Diamox tablets in his first aid kit.

Q. Can I take my child along on this trek? What is the age limit?

Yes, you can take your child if he/she is above 6 years.

Q. What are the mandatory documents required for this trek?

Any photo ID proof – Aadhar Card, Driving License, Passport, Voter ID Card. (No pan card)

Q. What is the pickup and drop location on this trek?

For a group trek, the pickup and drop location would be Dehradun ISBT. For a private trek, we can arrange a pickup from anywhere but the trek leader would meet the group at Dehradun ISBT only.

Q. Will you give certificates on completion of the trek?

Yes, we give certificates to people who successfully complete the trek.

Q. Are there any local stores/shops where I can shop trekking necessities?

Yes, one can find shops at Purola and Sankri as well where trekking essentials remain available. However, we recommend people bringing the essentials from your place only.

Q. Is the trekking pole necessary?

It depends from person to person. Some people find it helpful during the trek as it provides support while climbing whereas some don’t prefer to use it as they think that the trekking pole affects their walking rhythm or pace. So it’s up to you.

Q. If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

It depends on the type of snow. If the snow is fresh and soft then we just provide gaiters so that snow doesn’t go inside your shoes. If there is hard snow or a glacier, then we provide micro spikes that you can wear on your shoes along with the gaiters. In case of challenging trekking or climbing expeditions, we provide snow boots and crampons.

Things to Carry for Kedarkantha Trek

  • Down Jacket / Main Jacket
  • Thermals (Upper & Lower)
  • Trek Pants / Cargo / Comfortable Trousers / lowers / Jeans
  • T-shirts / Shirts
  • Socks
  • Undergarments
  • Slippers
  • Sports Shoes / Trekking Shoes
  • Hat / Woolen Cap
  • Muffler / Neck Warmer
  • Raincoat / Poncho
  • Rucksack Cover
  • Daypack
  • Personal medicines
  • Basic First Aid Kit
  • SunGlasses
  • Torch
  • Water bottle
  • Power Bank
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toiletries
  • Moisturizer
  • Lip Balm
  • Sun Screen Lotion
  • Documents – ID Proof (Driving License/Aadhar Card/Passport/Voter ID Card). Passport and Visa is mandatory for foreign nationals.

Important Information

  • No internet at Sankri and on the trek. Phone (only BSNL) signals remain dicey at Sankri. Purola is the last place where one can get 4G signals. 
  • ATM is available at Sankri but it usually runs out of cash. It is recommended that you dispense the cash at Purola. There are several ATMs available.
  • Don’t forget to carry your ID proof.
  • Carry all the woolen clothes according to the weather. Our travel consultant will help you out.
  • Carry a maximum of 1 rucksack/backpack along with a day pack.
  •  Do not carry any expensive items such as jewelry, etc.
  • Carrying any kind of weapon or cracker is strictly prohibited.
  • Do not use any kind of drug or chemicals during the tour.
  • Do not litter.
  • Avoid plastic items as much as possible.

Best Time to do Kedarkantha Trek

The best time to do Kedarkantha Trek is in the months of December, January, February, March, & April.

Winter Months (December, January, & February): During these months, one can find beautiful landscapes full of fresh snow. The weather remains cold and there are high chances that one experiences the snowfall. Though the trek remains crowded especially in December as it is the most popular winter trek in Indian Himalayas.

Spring Months (March & April): During these months, there are fewer chances of experiencing snowfall but snow can be spotted near the summit and the basecamp. Also, the views will be different as the trees will be decorated with alluring red rhododendrons. The weather will also be stable and the trek remains lesser crowded.

 

Weather and Temperature on the Kedarkantha Trek

The weather remains cloudy as well as sunny during the winter season. The temperature remains low in the months of December and January and it can drop to -15 degrees. The temperature during the day remains bearable if it is sunny.

KnowHow & Related Blogs

KnowHow

  • What is AMS and How to treat/prevent?
  • How to pack your backpack?
  • How to choose your trekking shoes?
  • How to layer up on a Himalayan trek?
  • How to manage sanitary waste on a trek?

Cancellation Policy

  • 5% of the total package cost will be charged as a cancellation fee if the cancellation is done 90+ days prior to the departure date.
  • 25% of the total package cost will be charged as a cancellation fee if the cancellation is done between 31 to 90 days prior to the departure date.
  • 50% of the total package cost will be charged as a cancellation fee if the cancellation is done between 16 to 30 days prior to the departure date.
  • 100% of the total package cost will be charged as a cancellation fee if the cancellation is done between 0 to 15 days prior to the departure date.
  • If a trek/tour is canceled at the last moment due to any government orders, harsh weather conditions, protests, landslides, or any other unforeseen circumstances, we work out the best possible alternate plans on tours/treks. At times even certain activities are canceled, the organization provides the best alternative but no refund would be provided.
  • If a trek/tour cannot be completed due to natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.). No refund would be provided.
  • Any extra expense incurred due to any natural calamity/unforeseen circumstances (like rain, snowfall, earthquake, landslides, strike, bandh, etc.), Will be borne by the customer. The company will not be liable.
  • Cancellations policy may differ during the peak season and popular places.
Read More