A Comprehensive Guide to Reach the Kedarkantha Peak Trek

Kedarkantha Peak–

A peak known by the name of Kedarkantha Trek is popular throughout India and is often undertaken by enthusiasts. This peak is situated at an impressive altitude of 12,500 feet. The memorable journey to reach the Kedarkantha peak from the basecamp Sankri is only 10 km.

The peak is renowned for its snow, attracting most people to visit in December and January. Perhaps you’ve heard about the unique aspect of the Kedarkantha trek that trekkers ascend towards the summit during the night to witness the ‘Sunrise’, even so, this is a remarkable factor that adds to the popularity of the Kedarkantha.

The final steps before reaching the peak are challenging for many, as it involves a steep climb. However, attaining the summit of Kedarkantha becomes a life-changing moment, a sacrifice that truly transforms into a moment of triumph. On the summit, there is a profound feeling as if proclaiming, ‘I am the emperor of this world.’ It is indeed a life-altering moment for many. With a panoramic 360-degree view of mountains, legendary peaks such as Mount Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Mount Swargarohini seem to echo a sentiment, as if saying, ‘Come to me, my dear child; I want to embrace you with my heart. These are truly transformative emotions.

To embark on the Kedarkantha Trek and reach the majestic Kedarkantha Peak, one must first arrive at Sankri, the designated base camp for this exhilarating adventure. The journey from Sankri to reach the Kedarkantha peak unfolds through a captivating trekking experience, constituting a pivotal and awe-inspiring segment of the comprehensive Kedarkantha Trek Package.

1.0- How to reach the Sankri base camp from Dehradun and Delhi-

To embark on the journey to the summit of Kedarkantha Peak, one must first reach the base camp. Kedarkantha Trek starts from Sankri. Nestled in the captivating landscapes of Uttarakhand, India, Sankri is not only the starting point of the Kedarkantha Trek but also marks the origin of various other enchanting treks, including Har ki Dun trek, Ruinsara trek, Bali Pass trek, Fachu Kandi Pass trek, Borasu Pass trek, Phulara Ridge trek, etc. Conveniently accessible from Dehradun and Delhi, Sankri welcomes travelers through regular buses, shared jeeps, or taxis.

For those planning the Kedarkantha trek, the pivotal starting point is reaching the Sankri basecamp, often commencing the journey by arriving in Dehradun from Delhi or their hometown. If you are planning to reach the base camp Sankri from Delhi, there are several transportation options available. Delhi is renowned for its popularity and easy accessibility and stands as a frequent and well-connected starting hub for travelers from various cities in India and around the world.

1.1- How to reach Dehradun from Delhi:-

The journey from Delhi to Dehradun extends over a day, encompassing a distance of 250 km. Dehradun is accessible through various transportation mediums, including road travel, air travel, and train services.

1.1.1- By Road:-

Overnight UKRTC buses and Volvos, with fares ranging from Rs 600 to Rs 1500, ply the route from ISBT Delhi to ISBT Dehradun. It is advisable to catch buses departing around 10:00 or 11:00 at night to streamline your journey, allowing you to bypass an overnight stay in Dehradun. This way, you can proceed directly to Sankri the following morning, as regular transport from Dehradun to Sankri primarily operates in the morning hours

1.1.2- By Train:-

It’s recommended to book for the overnight Nanda Devi Express, also known as Kota Express, departing at 11:50 PM, and arriving in Dehradun at 5:45 AM. This schedule aligns perfectly with morning departures of regular transport from Dehradun to Sankri.

1.1.3- By Air:-

IndiGo flights 6E-2582, 6E-2071, 6E-5175, 6E-2134, and Vistara UK-617 regularly connect Indira Gandhi Airport, Delhi, to Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Kedarkantha Trek. Conveniently check the schedules for these flights online. Covering a distance of approximately 30 km from the airport to Dehradun, local buses departing from Rishikesh pass just outside the airport premises. Alternatively, private taxis are readily available within the airport, with booking charges ranging from Rs 1200 to Rs 1500 for a Dzire or similar, and Rs 1800 to Rs 2200 for an Innova or similar vehicle.

1.2- How to reach to base camp of Kedarkantha trek from Dehradun:-

Each morning, a limited number of shared cabs and buses depart from the vicinity of Dehradun Railway Station en route to Sankri. The distance from Dehradun to the Sankri Basecamp is 190 km.

1.2.1- Govt. Buses and Private Buses-

Dehradun Railway Station offers limited options for buses to Sankri. A single government bus departs at 8:00 am, while two private buses leave around 6:30 and 7:00 am from the vicinity of the railway station, bound for Sankri town. The drive from Dehradun to the Sankri Basecamp takes approximately 7 to 8 hours to cover. The fare for this journey hovers around Rs. 400 per person, and interestingly, it remains fairly consistent for both government and private bus services.

1.2.2- Private Cab or Taxies-

Located just 300 meters from Dehradun Railway Station, near Hotel Milan or Hotel Grand, you can easily find shared or private taxis. These taxis offer services up to Purola, a distance of 54 kilometers from Sankri. The journey, spanning approximately 5 to 6 hours, comes with a fare ranging from Rs. 400 to Rs. 500.

Upon reaching Purola, shared cabs are available to transport you directly to Sankri. It’s crucial to note that these cabs typically depart before noon, so plan your journey accordingly. The cab fare from Purola to Sankri varies between Rs. 200 and Rs. 300. It’s important to mention that this fare applies only when the taxi is fully occupied; otherwise, the cost may be distributed among the total number of participants.

If, for any reason or personal preference, you happen to miss the available buses or taxis from Dehradun, an alternative is to opt for a private taxi. You can book one at the same location or near Prince Chowk, approximately 400 meters away from the Railway Station. This service typically ranges from approximately Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 7,500, depending on the type of vehicle chosen, such as a Dzire or Bolero.

1.2.3- Shared or Private Vehicle arranged by Himalaya Shelter-

Himalaya Shelter is a travel and trekking agency that offers a variety of transport options catering to both shared and private preferences, providing direct transportation to Sankri for trekkers. For shared vehicles, please note that fixed departure dates are in place. It is advisable to inquire and secure your seats at least a week in advance of the departure from Dehradun. The cost for shared transport is Rs. 800 per person.
Alternatively, booking rates may vary for those preferring a private vehicle, ranging from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 12,000, depending on the vehicle of choice, including options such as Dzire, Ertiga, Innova, and Mini. It’s recommended to consider your preferences and plan accordingly for a seamless journey.

2.0- How to reach the kedarkantha peak from base camp Sankri

The hike from Sankri base camp to Kedarkantha Peak depends on one’s physical fitness. Covering a distance of 20 km round trip, the journey, including some steep terrain (non-technical), typically takes around 7 days for a summit-to-basecamp round trip. Remarkably fit individuals have completed the trek in just a day. Trekkers often choose from various itineraries based on their fitness levels. Below are commonly followed itineraries.

2.1- Kedarkantha trek in 1 day-

Sankri to Summit and Back to Sankri—This itinerary is commonly embraced by seasoned trekkers possessing exceptional fitness levels. It is imperative to note that participants should be well-acquainted with mountainous terrain and acclimatized to high altitudes.
10 km ascend- 5 to 7 hrs | 6,455 feet to 12,500 feet
10 descend- 2 to 3 hrs | 12,500 feet to 6,455 feet

2.2- Kedarkantha trek in 2 days-

• Day 1- Sankri to Kedarkantha Basecamp
  8 km in 4 to 5 hrs, 6,455 feet to 11,250 feet

• Day 2- Kedarkantha Basecamp to Summit and back to Sankri
  12 km in 5 hrs, 11,250 feet to 6455 feet via 12,500 feet

2.3- Kedarkantha trek in 3 days-

There are two itineraries for completing in 3 days.

2.3.1- Kedarkantha Trip – 3 days, camping at Juda ka Talab during the ascent

• Day 1- Sankri to Juda ka Talab
• Day 2- Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Basecamp
• Day 3- Kedarkantha basecamp to Summit and back to Sankri

2.3.2- Kedarkantha Trip- 3 days, camping at Juda ka Talab during the descent

• Day 1-Sankri to Kedarkantha Basecamp
• Day 2- Kedarkantha Basecamp to Summit and back to Juda ka talab
• Day 3- Juda ka Talab to Sankri

2.4- Kedakantha trek in 4 days-

This itinerary is widely adopted to reach the kedarkantha peak by both novice trekkers and professional camping agencies due to its popularity. It is highly recommended for beginners or those trekking with family groups.

Additionally, for nature enthusiasts seeking to relish the panoramic spectacle of the main attraction—the ‘360-degree view from the top of Kedarkantha Peak’—opting for the 4-day itinerary is advisable. This extended duration allows for proper acclimatization, ensuring an enjoyable experience without concerns about terrain difficulty, altitude sickness, or other potential challenges.

Below is the itinerary for the 4-day Trek

Day 1- Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m)
4 km trek in 3 to 4 hours

We commence our trek to Juda Ka Talab in the early morning from Sankri, traversing vibrant villages such as Saud and immersing ourselves in local life. Progressing through dense pine forests and along a ridge, we reach the tranquil lake. Setting up camp by its shores, we relish a dinner under the enchanting starlit sky.

Day 2- Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11250 feet)
4 km in 3 hours

Beyond Juda Ka Talab, the trail winds through dense pine forests, opening into a picturesque meadow with shepherd’s huts. Ascending another thousand feet, trekkers reach the Kedarkantha base camp in 2-3 hours. Despite the chill, the base camp rewards with stunning views of Uttarakhand’s famed peaks, the perfect location for camping.

Day 3- Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Peak (3,810 m) and back to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m)
8 km in 5-6 hours

A brief ascent from the base camp unveils a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, showcasing Uttarakhand peaks, Chaainsheel Pass, Kailash ranges in Himachal, and the Har Ki Dun valley below. The Kedarkantha summit, adorned with a Trishul arrangement, holds a legend of Lord Shiva. According to legend, the Kedarkantha Peak was initially intended to be the original Kedarnath temple. However, the tranquility of Lord Shiva, disguised as a cow to elude the Pandavas, was disrupted by curious villagers during meditation. This disturbance prompted him to relocate to the current Kedarnath temple site. Following summit moments, we descend to the base camp, then proceed post-lunch to Juda ka Talab.

Day 4- Juda ka Talab to Sankri-
4 km trek in 2 to 3 hours

Following breakfast, complete the check-out from the campsite and descend towards Sankri Village, embarking on a 4 km trek with an estimated duration of 2-3 hours. Cherish the myriad of beautiful memories in your heart and bid a heartfelt farewell to the majestic Himalayas with gratitude and fondness.

This peak is truly amazing, creating lasting memories. Whether you’re with a group or going solo, the mountain connects with the heart. If you’re a solo trekker seeking peace of mind, Kedarkantha is an ideal choice. To avoid trail congestion, opt for March in spring or September to October in autumn, when fewer people embark on the Kedarkantha trek. For snow enthusiasts and group participants, December and January are ‘must-go’ months, promising a unique and enchanting experience.