Kedarkantha Trek

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (1,920 m): 187 km drive in 8 hours
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (2,774 m): 4 km trek in 3 to 4 hours
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,429 m): 4 km in 3 hours
Day 4: Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Summit (3,810 m) and back to Hargaon (2,713 m): 8 km in 5-6 hours
Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri: 4 km trek in 2 to 3 hours
Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun: 187 km drive in 7 to 8 hours

Kedarkantha Trek Package is organised by one of the most leading tour operators in India, Himalaya Shelter. This trek package is a wonderful opportunity to get into the lap of nature. The natural beauty and spirituality of the destinations included in the Trek package are associated with the Indian state of Uttarakhand, which is part of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Especially suitable for beginners and children, this 4-5 day program provides a great opportunity to connect with nature, discover one's inner self, and enhance your vacation plans. The beauty of its clearings is indescribable during the winters when the destination is covered in thick snow, so it is ideal to book this package for Christmas/New Year holidays.

Our trek packages include all the facilities needed for a successful tour experience like immersive group camping, transportation, meals, accommodation, security as well as access to tourist attractions and the great outdoor activities.

This beautiful trek package can be booked at affordable prices and will give you a chance to explore the fascinating region of Devbhoomi - Uttarakhand, while enjoying beautiful moments with friends and loved ones. One can check the available dates for trekking groups, the itinerary, duration, and the package inclusions of services provided by Himalaya Shelter.

Dynamic or Customised Package Options for the Kedarkantha Trek:

Himalaya Shelter allows guests to create their own customised package of transportation, accommodation, food menu, guide and other add-ons like mule or porter assistance to carry luggage, custom itinerary and duration, more tourist attractions or activities etc. Kedarkantha trek package can be booked to enjoy the hidden gems and soothing mud of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand with preferred dynamic packaging for which guests can use a company itinerary or can also create a custom program with a private group of family members or friends. This option will make your personal vacation plan even more wonderful while staying away from the hustle and bustle of Kedarkantha trail.

The Kedarkantha trek is considered a moderately challenging trek based on the experience of the trekkers and the terrain sections, making it suitable for experienced trekkers as well as beginners. The elevation of the trail increases gradually and follows a well-defined trail that is not too technical, either. The maximum elevation is only 12,500 ft. However, the risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is not zero, so it is important to be prepared with your AMS medicines and other essentials.

Although it does not require extreme physical fitness, and beginners can manage it with some prerequisites, there are a few notes about the difficulty factors to keep in mind. For instance, the last section, when trekkers climb to the summit, is a steep climb, heavy snowfall in extreme winters and AMS and related diseases due to low levels of oxygen at such a high altitude.

These three major factors add to the difficulty of the trail and classify this trek as a ‘moderate level trek’. Physical preparation before starting the trek is important to deal with some of these difficulty factors, like the steep climb to the summit and heavy snowfall that makes each step more challenging. Do cardio, body weight exercises, core exercises, balance training and yoga to improve physical fitness.

During the peak winter season, the temperature drops below zero at night and remains between 5 to 15 degrees Celsius during the day, so to deal with the extreme weather, it is necessary to be prepared with suitable gear like padded jackets, fleeces and thermal inners. Good physical fitness and following safety precautions and protocols during the trek will help you manage all the difficult sections as much as possible.

This trek is generally accessible for 9–10 months of the year. However, it is not recommended to trek during the monsoon months of July and August due to incessant rains, which can make the trek risky. The most popular time to visit Kedarkantha Trek is in the winter months of December and January.

During these months, heavy traffic of trekkers can be seen on the trail. During peak winters, sometimes there is continuous snowfall, and walking on the path becomes quite difficult due to the fresh snow. At this time, excessive snowfall in Kedarkantha may cause the trek to be closed for a few days in the last week of December and the first week of January.

But overall, the trek route is considered safe during all other times of the year, except the monsoon. 

1. Kedarkantha Trek from September to November (Autumn):

In September when warm, sunny days and pleasant temperatures hovering around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The evenings are cool and breezy, and the meadows are in full bloom, with a variety of flowers and wild berries growing all around the trail of the Kedarkantha Trek. Rainfall is minimal, with short showers expected only post-afternoon on some days. 

In October, the evenings become colder, and the landscape changes to a cinnamon autumn hue. In the previous year, 2021, the Kedarkantha Trek witnessed snowfall for two days during the third week of October, which is rare but possible. 

By November, temperatures begin to slide to 0 or even sub-zero at night at the Juda ka Talab and above campsites. There is more snowfall than expected, starting from the first week of the November month.

2. Trek in December, January, February, March, and April (Winter and Spring):

December to February is the best time to really enjoy the Kedarkantha Trek, when the finest snowfall of the season occurs. The entire trail is covered with snow during this time, which adds to its beauty. The path becomes a little difficult during this period, but beginners can still complete this trek. During this time, the trees are laden with snow, the landscape looks like pristine white meadows, and the view of the mountains surrounding the trail appears heavenly. Although it is mostly cloudy during this season, if you are lucky and the sky clears, the snow-covered landscapes become even more stunning with a bright white hue that is sure to bring you immense pleasure.

While the period from December to February is the best time to go on this trek, the weather conditions can affect trekkers if they are not adequately prepared. The temperature during this time ranges from 15 to 5 °C during the day and 0 to -5 °C at night. To withstand this harsh weather, one should be prepared with at least four layers of clothing, especially at Kedarkantha Basecamp (11,250 feet) and higher altitudes, where the temperature can drop to -10 °C and even lower. 

In December, Many trekkers plan their trip during the Christmas and New Year's holidays. By the second week of December, snow usually covers the landscape up to the base camp of Kedarkantha Trek. Also, there is some snow at Juda Ka Talab. By the end of December, the landscape around the trail turns into a winter wonderland, with tall pine trees and shrubs covered in thick snow. Campsites are whitewashed under a snow blanket. Temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius in the month of December, and Juda Ka Talab freezes completely, making it possible to walk on the frozen lake. 

January receives the most snowfall on the Kedarkanth Trek compared to other winter months. On the upper end, temperatures range from 7 to 8 degrees Celsius. On the lower end, temperatures drop to minus 10 degrees Celsius at higher campsites of the trek like Kedarkantha Basecamp and the Summit of Kedarkantha Peak. Especially in Sankri, Snowfall can even lead to temporary suspension of the Trek. 

February sees less snowfall, but the landscape above the Kedarkantha basecamp is still covered in snow. Juda Ka Talab Lake begins to melt, and temperatures become more bearable, making it a great time to plan this trek. Snow starts to recede at lower altitudes around Juda Ka Talab by the end of February and the starting of the March. At the beginning of March, temperatures hover around 0 degrees Celsius. 

By mid-April, new vegetation begins to bloom, but there is still a good amount of snow around the tril. The weather in Kedarkantha Trek is pleasant during this time , with temperatures averaging around 10 degrees Celsius during the day. At night, temperatures drop to around -2 degrees Celsius in upper campsites of the trek.

3. Kedarkantha Trek in May and June (Summer):

May and June are less frequented months for this Trek as trekkers prefer other summer treks nearby like Har ki Dun Trek, Phulara Ridge Trek, Bali Pass Trek, Rupin Pass Trek and so many other treks. Also, these treks start from the Sankri Basecamp.  

The route usually follows this sequence: Sankri → Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp → Kedarkantha → Hargaon → Sankri. This route is well plotted on a map showing how all these campsites or stop points relate to each other in terms of distance and elevation gain & loss. 

If you are planning to visit Kedarkantha Trek, you have to be aware of the route and ways of traveling. To start the Trek, you first have to reach Dehradun and then continue your journey towards the base camp of the trek. Trekkers should be aware that Sankri village serves as the basecamp of this Trek.

Traveling to Dehradun:

There are three ways to reach Dehradun and all of them are mentioned here:

• By Air:

  Many people go with the by-air option, which is to travel by flight. This is costly but for sure it saves a lot of time. If you travel by flight directly to Dehradun, you will land at Jolly Grant Airport. Dehradun bus stand is 30 km away from the airport and after reaching the airport, you need to book a cab to reach the Dehradun bus stand.

• By Road:

  If you want to travel by road, you can take Volvo and other buses too. Traveling through the road can take more time compared to a flight, however, this may cost you less than the flight. If you travel by road, you will directly reach the Dehradun bus station, and from there, you can get a bus to travel further.

• By Train:

  You can reach Dehradun by train. The Nanda Devi Express, or Kota Express, departs from Kota at 5:55 p.m. and reaches Dehradun the next morning at 5:45 a.m. However, this timing coincides with the departure time of buses and taxis leaving Dehradun for Sankri early in the morning.

Dehradun to the basecamp Sankri:

Make sure you reach the base camp by 10 a.m. so you can start your trek on time. The distance from Dehradun to Sankri is 190 km, so it is suggested to arrive a day prior for an overnight stay in Sankri.

• Private and Govt. buses:

  To reach Sankri from Dehradun, there are both Govt. and private buses, so you can choose whichever you prefer. However, to reach Sankri, the time distance is 7 to 8 hours, and departure from Dehradun before 8 am is essential because after 8 am there are no direct vehicles to reach Sankri.

• Regular Taxis and cabs:

  The second option you have is to opt for a taxi or cab from Dehradun to Sankri. Moreover, the taxis provide you services up to Purola, and from Purola, you can have another bus or taxi to reach Sankri basecamp.

Choose whichever way is comfortable for you, plan the Kedarkantha Trek accordingly and enjoy the mesmerising views of the Himalayas.

This is a pictorial description of the kind of terrain one is likely to encounter while undertaking Kedarkantha trek.

• Starting Point: From Sankri, some gradual slopes through the oak and pine trees.
• Forest Trails: It passes through deep pine, oak and fir staples. Crossings can be done on water, trails can be very muddy and sometimes to the extent of being slippery.
• Meadows and Clearings: Goes in to open up meadows specially at Juda Ka Talab, with wide open spaces with lots of grassy fields and a great view.
• Snow-Covered Paths: The cross-country trails are covered with snow during winter and early spring. Trekking is not easy due to distinctly different snow conditions. Trekking poles, gaiters, and microspikes are useful.
• Steep Ascent to Base Camp: Hike from Juda Ka Talab to the Base Camp with short steep steps on stones and rocky terrains with many hairpin bends. Views improve with altitude.
• Summit Push: The last trek to reach Kedarkantha is difficult which is steep and path is completely open and many at times it is snow or ice. Must be managed and does require one to have lots of energy.
• Descent: Journey through from meadows and the forest trails. Still a moderately easy hike compared with ascent but a shocker, for knees especially because the slopes are steep.
• Overall, Terrain: It has forest tracks, meadows, and alpine; country characteristics. Varied and interesting trekking experience with different terrains.

If you’re physically fit and aware of the safety precautions for the Kedarkantha Trek, you’ll experience the beauty of the trek 200% more effectively compared to those with weaker physical fitness and insufficient knowledge of safety precautions. This preparation enables you to fully enjoy the majestic landscapes and challenging trails without being held back by fatigue or physical limitations.

Preparation for a Good Physical Fitness:

To overcome the difficulty level of this trek, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle the difficult terrain of the trail at high altitudes.

1. Lower Body Exercises:

• Squats:

  • Target Body Parts: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
  • Benefits: Strengthens lower body for climbing and descending; stabilizes uneven terrain.
  • How-to: Stand feet shoulder-width apart. Lower into a squat, keeping your back straight, then return to standing.

• Lunges:

  • Target Body Parts: Quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves.
  • Benefits: Improves balance and stability on rocky trails; enhances flexibility.
  • How-to: Step forward with one foot, lowering your body until both knees are bent at 90 degrees. Push back to start and alternate legs.

2. Upper Body Exercises:

• Push-Ups:

  • Target Body Parts: Chest, shoulders, triceps, core.
  • Benefits: Strengthens upper body for backpack support and improves posture.
  • How-to: Start in a plank position, lower your chest to the ground, then push back up, keeping your core engaged.

• Pull-Ups/Bodyweight Rows:

  • Target Body Parts: Back, biceps, shoulders.
  • Benefits: Enhances posture and reduces back strain; strengthens muscles for carrying a backpack.
  • How-to: For pull-ups, grip a bar and pull yourself up until your chin is above it. For rows, use a low bar or TRX straps.

3. Core Exercises:

• Planks:

  • Target Body Parts: Abdominals, obliques, lower back.
  • Benefits: Improves stability and balance; reduces back pain.
  • How-to: Hold a plank position with elbows under shoulders and body in a straight line.

• Russian Twists:

  • Target Body Parts: Obliques, abdominals, lower back.
  • Benefits: Enhances rotational stability and core strength.
  • How-to: Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist your torso side to side.

4. Full Body/Cardiovascular Exercises:

• Mountain Climbers:

  • Target Body Parts: Core, shoulders, chest, legs.
  • Benefits: Improves cardiovascular endurance and agility.
  • How-to: In a plank position, alternate bringing knees to chest in a running motion.

• Burpees:

  • Target Body Parts: Full body.
  • Benefits: Boosts cardiovascular endurance, strength, and agility.
  • How-to: Perform a squat, jump to a plank, do a push-up, return to squat, and jump up.

5. Additional Tips:

• Consistency & Form: Maintain proper technique and gradually increase intensity.
• Recovery & Flexibility: Allow muscle recovery, and stretch before and after workouts.
• Balance Training: Incorporate strength exercises like deadlifts for overall balance and endurance.

Regularly performing these exercises will build the necessary strength and stamina for a successful trekking experience. Good fitness is crucial for tackling the challenges of the Kedarkantha Trek and fully appreciating the adventure it offers.

Before going on the Kedarkantha trek you need to have the best knowledge on how to prepare for a Himalayan Trek with a perfect backpacking of gear and equipment required, so that you can enjoy the trek without worrying about the common requirements otherwise lack of proper backpacking preparation can lead to the worst experience of your beautiful trek. Follow the instructions below to pack your backpack for hiking-

1. Mandatory Documents:

Ensure you carry essential documents such as a valid ID proof (driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport), medical fittness certificate and an adventure insurance.

2. Accessories:

Bring along a sturdy Backpack with rain cover, Waterproof Shoes, trekking poles, sun cap, sunglasses, headlamp or flashlight, lunch box, water bottle, a trek route map & current weather forecast of the the trail' region. Don't forget to carry a camera to capture the scenic beauty of Kedarkantha Trek, and a power bank for charging electronic devices.

3. Toiletries:

It's essential to bring basic toiletries to ensure personal hygiene and comfort during the trek. Pack biodegradable soap a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, tissues or wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen, a small towel, and a comb.

4. Clothing:

Wear multiple layers of clothing to suit different temperatures. The best Packing of essential clothing for a Himalayan Trek is key point to fully enjoy your trek without much affacted by the harsh weather. Always Try to pack as many items as possible that are moisture-wicking, warm, waterproof and comfortable.

• For trekking in spring, summer, and monsoon: 1 Trek Pant, 1 innerwear (made of nylon), 1 lightweight shirt, 1 fleece Sweater, and 1 poncho
• For Trekking in Autumn, and starting of Winters: 1 Trek Pant, 1 pair of thermals, 1 t-shirt, 1 fleece Sweater, 1 padded jacket, and 1 poncho
• For Trekking in Winters: 1 pair waterproof gloves, 1 Trek Pant, 1 pair of thermals, 1 t-shirt, 1 fleece Jacket, 1 padded jacket, and 1 windproof jacket

Extra cloths as per the duration of Kedarkantha Trek

• 3 T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
• 2 pair thermals (Wear one, carry one)
• 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
• 3 pair socks (Wear one, carry two)
• 2 pair gloves (Wear one, carry one)
• 1 padded Jacket (Always carry it in your bag, whether you are wearing it or keep it with you in case there is a sudden drop in temperature during evening and morning hours)

5. Medical Kit:

Carry a basic First Aid Kit, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers and any personal medications. It's also helpful to have altitude sickness tablets and a blister care kit.

The challenging terrain requires careful planning and adherence to safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience. Here is a list of 11 essential safety precautions and protocols for the Kedarkantha Trek:

1. Acclimatization:

• Importance: Acclimatization helps stabilize oxygen levels in the body. It is crucial for preventing altitude sickness and maintaining physical fitness.
• Protocol:
  • Spend an extra day at the Sankri base camp or intermediate points to adjust to the altitude.
  • Ascend gradually, avoid ascending too quickly.
  • Summit, Climb high and sleep low. After reaching the campsite, hike to a higher elevation than the campsite's altitude, spend some time there, and then return to the campsite.
  • Reduce strength exercises and increase yoga practice with Pranayama or other slow breathing techniques.

2. Weather Preparedness:

• Importance: The weather in Kedarkantha can be unpredictable, with snow and cold temperatures. Knowing weather facts helps trekkers determine the best time to start or not start their trek, and be prepared for any expected weather fluctuations during the hiking.
• Protocol:
  • Check weather forecasts regularly.
  • Be prepared for sudden changes by carrying appropriate gear, such as waterproof jackets or a poncho, and extra pairs of quick-dry socks.
  • In the mountains, afternoon rain is more common than other times of the day. So, make sure to start and end your hike before noon.
  • If it’s raining continuously, pause on the hike on the spot but avoid stopping near water streams and riffle sections. Try to pass away these areas as quickly as possible.

3. Hydration and Nutrition:

• Importance: Staying hydrated and well-nourished helps maintain energy and health.
• Protocol:
  • Drink plenty of water at regular intervals throughout the trek.
  • Carry high-energy, easy-to-digest foods like nuts, energy bars, and fruits.
  • Avoid taking alcohol.
  • Avoid consuming sugary foods or drinks during the trek. Excess sugar increases blood glucose concentration, leading to fatigue.

4. Health and First Aid:

• Importance: Immediate response to health issues can prevent serious complications.
• Protocol:
  • Carry a comprehensive first aid kit, including altitude sickness medication, and be familiar with basic first aid procedures.
  • Inform your trek leader of any pre-existing health conditions.

5. Safety Gear:

• Importance: The right gear can prevent injuries and keep you safe in adverse conditions.
• Protocol:
  • Wear sturdy, broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support.
  • Dress in layers to manage your body temperature, especially above the Kedarkantha Base Camp.
  • Carry a reliable backpack with a rain cover and other essentials such as a headlamp, rope, oxygen cylinder, gaiters, and microspikes.

6. Emergency Preparedness:

• Importance: Quick action is vital in emergencies.
• Protocol:
  • The nearest hospital is located in Mori, which is 21 km from the Sanrari Base Camp.
  • Keep emergency contact numbers.
  • Ensure that your trek leader has communication devices such as a satellite phone or walkie-talkie in case of an emergency.
  • Make sure you have appropriate adventure insurance that covers trekking in high-altitude areas.

7. Navigation and Trail Safety:

• Importance: Navigating snowy trails requires caution and skill.
• Protocol:
  • Follow your guide.
  • Follow marked trails and use a compass, maps, or GPS devices to avoid getting lost on the trail.
  • Pay attention to trail markers and avoid venturing off the path.

8. Wildlife Awareness:

• Importance: Encounters with wildlife can be a risk.
• Protocol:
  • Maintain a safe distance from animals.
  • Avoid leaving food unattended and keep your campsite clean to avoid attracting wildlife.

9. Group Coordination:

• Importance: Staying connected with your group ensures collective safety.
• Protocol:
  • Maintain regular communication with your group.
  • Follow the trek leader’s instructions and avoid separating from the group.

10. Environmental Responsibility:

• Importance: Protecting the natural environment is essential.
• Protocol:
  • Follow "Leave No Trace" principles.
  • Dispose of waste properly and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.

11. Altitude Sickness Awareness:

• Symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
• Protocol:
  • If symptoms occur, inform your trek leader immediately.
  • Descend to a lower altitude if necessary and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
  • On the Kedarkantha Trek, after crossing the Kedarkantha Basecamp (11,250 feet), some trekkers might be affected by AMS. Therefore, keep your walking pace slow and steady until you reach the summit.

Adhering to these safety precautions and protocols will help ensure a safe and memorable experience on the Kedarkantha Trek. Proper preparation and awareness are key to navigating the challenges of this beautiful Himalayan adventure.