Unveiling the majesty of the Himalayas, the Kedarkantha trek stands as one of the best winter treks in India. This trail, blanketed in knee-deep snow, offers not only breathtaking summit views but an enchanting journey through picturesque landscapes. Nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, this trek is perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. If you’re looking for an unforgettable winter adventure, this is your go-to destination.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Kedarkantha Trek
- Kedarkantha Trek Distance and Route
- Kedarkantha Trek Height and Difficulty Level
- Best Time for Kedarkantha Trek
- Kedarkantha Trek Packages and Cost
- Kedarkantha Winter Trek from Delhi and Dehradun
- Kedarkantha Trek in December and April
- Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
- Kedarkantha Trek Photos
- Conclusion
1. Overview of Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha trek is often referred to as the “Queen of Winter Treks.” Known for its snow-covered trails, it provides trekkers with the unique experience of hiking through a magical winter wonderland.
The summit stands at an impressive 3,810 meters (12,500 feet), offering a 360-degree panoramic view of famous Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Black Peak.
This trek is ideal for beginners and families because of its moderate difficulty and short distance. The Kedarkantha trek distance is around 20 km, which can easily be covered in 4-5 days.
2. Kedarkantha Trek Distance and Route
The Kedarkantha trek distance covers a total of 20 km, spread over four to five days. The trek begins at Sankri, a small yet vibrant village located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. From Sankri, the trek follows a beautiful route that winds through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, passing quaint villages and clearings.
The trek’s highlight is camping at Juda ka Talab, a serene lake surrounded by forests, which freezes in the winter months. From there, the trail ascends through snow-clad terrain to reach the Kedarkantha summit.
3. Kedarkantha Trek Height and Difficulty Level
At an altitude of 12,500 feet (3,810 meters), the Kedarkantha trek height offers stunning panoramic views of surrounding peaks. The trek is considered moderately difficult, making it a great choice for beginners who want a taste of high-altitude trekking. However, the trek does demand physical fitness due to the steep ascents, especially in the final leg leading to the summit.
In winter, snow makes the trail more challenging, but the experience of trekking in such pristine beauty makes the effort worthwhile.
Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty
The Kedarkantha trek difficulty is classified as moderate. While beginners can complete the trek, it’s advisable to prepare with some basic fitness training. The terrain involves a mix of gradual ascents and steep climbs, particularly the last stretch to the summit.
4. Best Time for Kedarkantha Trek
The best time for Kedarkantha trek is during the winter months from December to April. The landscape is completely transformed into a snow-covered paradise, offering an unparalleled winter trekking experience.
Kedarkantha Trek in December
December is the start of the winter season when the trail begins to get snow. For those wanting a full winter experience, trekking in December offers stunning snow-laden forests and frozen lakes.
Kedarkantha Trek in April
April offers a completely different experience with milder temperatures and the beginning of spring. Trekkers can witness blooming rhododendrons and pleasant weather, making it a great time for those who wish to avoid the extreme cold.
5. Kedarkantha Trek Packages and Cost
For those planning to take on the trek, numerous Kedarkantha trek packages are available. These packages typically cover transportation from Dehradun, accommodation, meals, and trekking guides.
Kedarkantha Trek Cost
The Kedarkantha trek cost ranges between ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 INR, depending on the season, group size, and inclusions such as equipment rentals and guide services.
Kedarkantha Trek Package from Delhi
There are also specialized Kedarkantha trek packages from Delhi, which include transport from Delhi to Sankri, making it easier for those coming from the capital to join the trek without hassle.
6. Kedarkantha Winter Trek from Delhi and Dehradun
The Kedarkantha trek from Delhi and Kedarkantha trek from Dehradun are two popular routes trekkers choose. For Delhiites, Sankri is approximately a 10-hour drive, while Dehradun serves as the nearest major city and is only about 6 hours from Sankri.
7. Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
Here’s a brief look at a typical Kedarkantha trek itinerary:
- Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (6-7 hours).
- Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km).
- Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km).
- Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit and back to Sankri (6 km).
- Day 5: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun.
The itinerary is well-spaced to allow acclimatization and provides enough time to enjoy the natural beauty along the trail.
8. Kedarkantha Trek Photos
Pictures taken during the trek capture the breathtaking beauty of snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and the awe-inspiring Himalayan backdrop from the Kedarkantha summit. Ensure to carry your camera to capture the serenity of the trek.
9. Kedarkantha Winter Trek: An Adventure for All
Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a beginner, the Kedarkantha winter trek offers something for everyone. Along the trail, you can experience unique highlights like the Juda ka Talab, the Midnight Summit Push, and sliding down snowy slopes, all of which create unforgettable memories.
For those embarking on the Kedarkantha trek from Pune or other distant cities, the journey to Sankri can be arranged via flights or trains to Dehradun, followed by a scenic drive.
10. Kedarkantha Trek Booking and Starting Point
To embark on this adventure, make sure to plan your Kedarkantha trek booking in advance, especially during the peak winter season. The Kedarkantha trek starting point is Sankri Village, from where the real adventure begins.
Conclusion
The Kedarkantha trek is not just a trek; it’s a journey that takes you through a pristine winter wonderland, offering experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Whether it’s the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi, Kedarkantha trek price comparison, or planning the best time to visit, this trek remains an unforgettable adventure for all. So pack your bags, and get ready to conquer one of the finest treks India has to offer!
