Kedarkantha Trek: A Famous Winter Hiking Adventure

If you want to witness the beauty of nature in the Himalayas with the mindblowing scenery of snow-capped peaks, then the Kedarkantha trek is the ideal choice for you. The Kedarkantha trek is one of the most popular winter treks in the Himalayas that is suitable for beginners, amateurs, and experienced trekkers.

The journey starts from Sankri, a small village at the base of Kedarkantha. The first day of the trek takes you to the Juda ka Talab, where you can camp overnight. This four-kilometer trek of the first day begins with a steep climb, and you'll encounter villagers doing their daily chores.

One of the most beautiful parts of the Kedarkantha trek is the summit climb which is the most challenging part of the trek, but the view from the top is worth it. While you're climbing the mountain slopes, you'll be rewarded with the most spectacular views of the Himalayas. From this high point, you'll be able to take in the sweeping views of the mountains.

The trek is short and has steep inclines for the first part of the trip but becomes gentler during the middle section. It's essential to have a proper hiking boot with microspikes to prevent slipping on the snow.

Best time for the Kedarkantha trek

December to April is the most preferred time for the trek. During this time, the Kedarkantha trail is covered with moderate to heavy snow and will likely remain this way until the end of April. The trek will be a little challenging until mid-March, but the heavenly scenery is well worth the effort. And if there are no further significant snowfalls, it will be easy to reach the summit of the mountain.

Spring, summer, and Autumn are also great times for the trek, but the snow won't be visible in summer and Autumn. July and August are the least preferred time, as it is monsoon time. Fortunately, it's possible to trek during the monsoon season, but only experts are recommended during this season.

In the winter months, you'll find patches of snow on the trees. And during summer, the mountain is covered in dazzling green. The scenery constantly changes with the season.

The weather at Kedarkantha is best in the spring and AutumnAutumn, but you'll still have to acclimatize. The trek is best done in daylight, and you'll experience a warm, sun-kissed sunset, which will leave you speechless. The trip is also suitable for those who enjoy nature and hiking in the mountains.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Sankri. Night stay in Sankri

Day 2: Sankri to Juda ka Talab

-Trekking starts from Sankri.

-Trek time would be 4-5 hours.

-The distance covered would be around 4 km

-Altitude at the base camp: 9200 feet

-Night Camping at Juda ka Talab

Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base camp

-Trekking starts from Juda ka Talab.

-Trek time would be 2-3 hours.

-The distance covered would be around 4 km

-Altitude at the base camp: 11250 feet

-Night Camping at Kedarkantha base camp

Day 4: Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha summit: descend to Hargaon camp

-Trekking starts from the base camp to Kedarkantha summit.

-Descend to Hargaon.

-Trek time would be around 7 hours.

-The distance covered would be around 7 km

-Altitude at the Kedarkantha summit: 12500 feet

-Night Camping at Hargaon

Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri

-Back to Sankri from Hargaon.

-Trek time would be around 4 hours.

-The distance covered would be around 6 km

-Night Stay at Sankri

Day 6: Departure to Dehradun and back to home

How to Reach

Reach Dehradun first by road or by air. Fly to Jolly Grant Airport of Dehradun, situated 25 km from the city. Direct flights are available from Delhi on a daily basis. Also, you can travel to Dehradun via bus or train.

Once you reach Dehradun, you will find a shared jeep or Taxi to Sankri. Buses from Dehradun to Sankri are available early in the morning.

Conclusion:

If you're a fitness buff, the Kedarkantha trek is the perfect choice for you. You can take advantage of the natural landscapes and scenic campsites that make the trip even more enjoyable. The most scenic part of the Kedarkantha trek is the summit climb, which is the most popular attraction for many visitors. The chilly winter weather makes this trek a bit challenging, but the incredible scenery created by the snow makes it worth it.

This trek offers a unique opportunity to experience life in a remote backward village and is ideal for those who enjoy spending time in the mountains. The reward is not just physical but also spiritual. A trip to Kedarkantha will give you the peace of mind you need to take on this adventure.

This hike is not too strenuous, but the views are spectacular. You'll be able to see the snow-covered mountain range and enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding the trek. The trip will provide you with breathtaking views of the Himalayan giants and other snow-capped mountains. You will also be rewarded with magnificent sunrise and sunset views. The 3rd day of trekking at the Kedarkantha summit will surely be a lifetime experience.