Embarking on the Kedarkantha Trek is an adventure like no other. Nestled in the heart of Uttarakhand, this trek offers breathtaking views, challenging trails, and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking for a thrill, here’s everything you need to know to make your Kedarkanthha Trek unforgettable.
Kedarkantha Trek: 6-Day Adventure
Trek Itinerary
Essential Information
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Duration: 6 days
- Max Altitude: Kedarkantha Peak 3800 M
- Cost: ₹6,400 to ₹7,900
What to Pack
- Warm clothing and layers
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Water bottle and snacks
- First-aid kit
Why Choose the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha Trek stands out for its stunning landscapes and cultural richness. You’ll traverse through dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks. The trek also offers a glimpse into the local culture and traditions, making it a holistic experience.
Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha
The ideal time to visit Kedarkantha is between December and April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are covered in a blanket of snow, adding a magical touch to your trek. The monsoon season should be avoided due to the risk of landslides and slippery trails.
Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
Day-by-day breakdown of the Kedarkantha Trek:
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (2000 m)
- Travel to Sankri from Dehradun
- Explore the charming village of Sankri
- Acclimatize and prepare for the trek
Day 2: Sankri to Juda ka Talab (2900 m)
- Trek to Juda ka Talab
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Juda ka Talab lake
- Camp overnight
Day 3: Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3400 m)
- Trek to the Kedarkantha Base Camp
- Explore the base camp and prepare for the summit
- Camp overnight
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Peak (3800 m) and back to Base Camp
- Summit Kedarkantha Peak
- Enjoy panoramic views from the top
- Return to the base camp for the night
Day 5: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Sankri(2900 m)
- Descend back to Sankri
- Relax and unwind in Sankri
Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun
- Travel back to Dehradun
- End of the trek
How to reach Kedarkantha
To reach Kedarkantha, you need to first get to the village of Sankri, which serves as the base for the trek. Here are the various modes of transportation you can use
- By Road
- Direct Buses: There are direct buses from Dehradun to Sankri that depart early in the morning (around 7 AM to 8 AM) and take approximately 10 hours to reach. Buses can be boarded from the bus station near the railway station in Dehradun.
- Alternative Routes: If you miss the early buses, you can take a bus to Hanol via Mussoorie and then catch a shared or private taxi to Sankri. You can also take a bus to Purola and hire a taxi from there .
- Private Transport: You can hire a cab or a tempo traveler directly from Dehradun to Sankri.
- By Train : The nearest railway station is in Dehradun. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Sankri.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. After landing, you can follow the same road routes mentioned above to reach Sankri.
Once you arrive in Sankri, you can prepare for your trek to Kedarkantha, which typically starts the next day. The trek involves several key points including Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp before reaching the summit
Difficulty Level and Preparation Tips
The Kedarkantha Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It requires a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. Here are some preparation tips:
- Physical Preparation:
- Regular cardio exercises
- Strength training for legs and core
- Practice hiking with a backpack
- Essential Gear:
- Warm clothing and layers
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Headlamp and extra batteries
- Water bottle and snacks
- First-aid kit
Cost and Budgeting
The cost of the Kedarkantha Trek varies depending on the trekking agency and the services included. On average, expect to spend between ₹ 6400 to ₹7900. This typically includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide fees. Here are some budgeting tips:
- Book in Advance:
- Early bird discounts
- Better planning and preparation
- Travel Light:
- Avoid unnecessary expenses
Super Trekkers Packages:
- Kedarkantha Trek from Sankri (5D/4N)
INR 8,999INR 6,499 - Kedarkantha Trek From Dehradun | (5D/4N)
INR 11,000INR 7,999
Kedarkantha Trek Route and Map
The Kedarkantha Trek route starts from Sankri and gradually ascends through Juda ka Talab to the Kedarkantha Base Camp. From there, you summit Kedarkantha Peak and return via the same route. Make sure to carry a detailed map and follow the marked trails.
Highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha Trek is packed with highlights that will leave you spellbound:
- Juda ka Talab:
- A serene lake amidst the mountains
- Perfect for photography and relaxation
- Kedarkantha Peak:
- Panoramic views of the Himalayas
- A sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit
- Local Villages:
- Experience the local culture and traditions
- Interact with friendly locals
Tips for a Successful Trek
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Kedarkantha Trek:
- Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness
- Pace Yourself:
- Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy the journey
- Respect the Environment:
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- Carry a trash bag and dispose of waste responsibly
- Follow Local Etiquette:
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions
The Kedarkantha Trek is an experience of a lifetime, offering a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey. Let the Kedarkantha Trek be your next big adventure!
FAQs: Kedarkantha Trek
What is the best time to visit Kedarkantha?
The best time to visit Kedarkantha is between December and April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are often covered in a beautiful blanket of snow, making the trek even more magical. The monsoon season, from July to September, should be avoided due to the risk of landslides and slippery trails.
How difficult is the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. It requires a good level of fitness and some prior trekking experience. The trails involve steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can pose a challenge for some. Proper physical preparation, including regular cardio exercises and strength training, is recommended.
What is the cost of the Kedarkantha Trek?
The cost of the Kedarkantha Trek varies depending on the trekking agency and the services included. On average, expect to spend between ₹ 6400 to ₹7900. This typically includes transportation, accommodation, meals, guide fees, and permits. Booking in advance can often secure early bird discounts and better planning.
What should I pack for the Kedarkantha Trek?
Here is a list of essential items to pack for the Kedarkantha Trek:
- Clothing:
- Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Thermal innerwear
- Trekking pants
- Gloves and woolen cap
- Footwear:
- Sturdy trekking shoes with good grip
- Warm socks
- Accessories:
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water bottle and snacks
- First-aid kit
- Trekking pole
- Other Essentials:
- Personal toiletries
- Camera and extra batteries
- Cash and identification documents
Is the Kedarkantha Trek suitable for beginners?
The Kedarkantha Trek is suitable for beginners who have a good level of fitness and are prepared for the challenges of trekking at high altitudes. While the trek is considered moderate, it does involve steep ascents and descents. Proper physical preparation and acclimatization are essential for a successful and enjoyable trek.
