Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
15 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
11760 Feet
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
63 Km
BASECAMP
Uttarakhand
BEST TIME
May to October
PICKUP POINT
Dehradun (Prince Chowk)
Vasuki Tal – Kedarnath Trek Overview
Vasuki Tal – Kedarnath Trek Via Mayali Pass, Masar Tal – Painya Tal and Khatling Glacier
Vasuki Tal, at an altitude of 4800 meters, has been a cynosure of trekkers eyes since the time immemorial. The divine lake even lured the Devtas and celestial nymphs who came here to procure the magical waters. The lake is cocooned amidst the rugged mountains towering over the Kedar base. There are a number of routes to attempt Vasuki Tal Trek. This itinerary covers the best of the Kedar range of the Garhwal Himalayas. You name it and this Vasuki Tal - Kedarnath trek itinerary offers it. In the beginning, this itinerary follows the challenging trail of the old Gangotri-Yamnotri trekking route. This is followed by a thrilling adventure of camping at Garhwali Bugyals, steep ascent on rocky terrains, crossing of the windy Mayali Pass and finally camping under the stars in a desolate wildlife sanctuary. The peaks like Sumeru, Kedar Dome, Chaukhambha, Thalaysagar, Nilkanth, and Mt. Vasuki can be seen throughout the considerable part of the trek. Hence, it is certainly one of the most adventurous, challenging, and offbeat treks of Uttarakhand.
Wildlife enthusiasts may seek a never-had-before experience. Ghorals, Bharals, Himalayan Bears, musk deer, red giant flying squirrels, vultures, wild owls, and high-altitude Himalayan reptiles are commonly spotted on this trek. Snow leopards have also been a common sighting in Kedar Wildlife Sanctuary. Thanks to the Musk Deer conservation program, there are a plethora of musk deer. Hence, the number of leopards has seen a constant increase too. The Rich flora of Panwali Kantha Bugyal, Birodh, and Chowki Bugyal give you a feel of virtually attempting the Valley of Flowers trek. Almost all the species of flowers in the valley are found on this route.
Myriads of birds greet you throughout the trek. You may also get an opportunity to click on some of the rare species. The coniferous forest of this region nurtures the birds like Himalayan Monal, Dark Breasted Rosefinch, Yellow Breasted Greenfinch, Redstart, species of Treecreepers, Wagtails, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Himalayan Bulbul, and Ashy Drongo.
Trekking through isolated landscapes helps you connect with your inner self. Moreover, a visit to one of the most auspicious shrines of Kedarnath makes this journey a spiritual one. Besides covering the places of religious importance like Kedarnath and Vasuki Tal, you would unravel a totally unconventional route experiencing the eccentricity of Mother Nature. This is your chance even to take a closer glimpse of Garhwali culture. Staying at rustic villages like Gangi and Ghuttu gives you an opportunity to sneak into the local homes, their languages, folksongs, and of course the local food.
Vasuki Tal is a beautiful glacial lake located in the Garhwal region. The lake is surrounded by rugged mountains. You can plan your Vasuki Tal trek from various routes. The best itinerary covers most of the Kedar range. Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek offers you everything. You will start your journey from the challenging trail of the old Gangorti-Yamunortiu trekking route. The trail ascends to the beautiful Garhwali Bugyals. The Bugyals lead to rocky terrain, and then you will cross the Mayali Pass. You will camp in a wildlife sanctuary where you can stargaze at night. Peaks like Chaukhamba, Sumeru, etc, can be seen from any point of the trek.
Vasuki Tal Trek can be a great experience for wildlife lovers. They can find species like Bharals, red giant squirrels, rare reptiles, and various other high-altitude animals. Snow leopard sightseeing is also common in this region. With the help of a few conservation programs, now the number of leopards has increased and can be seen in various locations. The big Bugyals like Birodh Bugyal can give you a feel of the Valley of Flowers. These Bugyals have various kinds of flower species. Along with the adventure, the Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek is also a journey to devotion. This trek will give you a chance to see the beauty of Mother Nature and spirituality.
History Of Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
The locals of Uttarakhand are always close to nature. They believe that Vasuki Lake is blessed by God. In the Samudra Manthan, Vasuki becomes a rope. The Vasuki helped the Gods and Demons to take out the nectar of immorality. Some locals have different stories behind the lake. Some folklore say that Lord Vishnu bathed in the Rakha Bandhan. The lake is very sacred, and many sages have been meditating there. Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek is not only a challenging trek but also a devotion. Some people start the trek after visiting the mighty Kedarnath Temple. Meanwhile, some people choose Kedarnath as the finishing spot of the trek.
Mountaineers have always been curious about the Vasuki Tal as the lake is a camping spot for many expeditions. The villagers and the shepherds also depend on the nearby areas. The big alpine meadows are the grazing fields for their cattle. The trekking culture grew in Uttarakhand in the 2000s. People from all over India visit Kedarnath and trek to Vasuki Lake. This trek is heaven for the trekkers who seek adventure and mythology.
Highlights Of Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
- Vasuki Lake
The main attraction of the whole trek is the beautiful glacial Vasuki Lake. Reaching the Vasuki lake feels very rewarding. You reach Vasuki Lake after trekking for about a week. The weather up there is very cold, but trekkers can feel the warmth of the devotion. You can meditate near Vasuki Lake and feel the spirituality and peace.
- Big Alpine Meadows
If you are trekking in the summer, then you can find yourself in the lap of big green meadows. These meadows are the grazing fields for cattle. You can also find various species of wildflowers in these big alpine meadows. Camping and stargazing are very popular in these Bugyals.
- Sightseeing Rare Himalayan Species
Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek is a great exploration for sightseeing rare Himalayan animals and birds. You can spot various rare birds like Monals in the upper Himalayan region. People also go on snow leopard expeditions there. Trekkers can also spot the mountain goats and even marmots.
- Spiritual Journey
Trekkers complete their Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek in the divine Kedarnath Temple. This is the very sacred pilgrimage site of India. You ascend to the Vasuki Tal and then descend to the Kedarnath Temple. This whole journey feels like a route to spirituality.
Difficulty Level Of Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
The Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek is a type of moderate to difficult trek. This trek has a few difficult sections and the altitude is also something people should consider. If you have done some Himalayan treks, then you are suitable for this trek. Fit beginners can also go for this trek only when they have good physical fitness and mental endurance.
- Altitude Challenge
The air becomes very thin when you cross 4000 m. If your body is not prepared for the high-altitude areas, then you can get some AMS symptoms. You should take proper rest everyday on the trek before you ascend for the Vasuki Lake. Prepare your body for altitude to trek in difficult sections.
- Rocky Trails
The Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek has some steep and rocky sections. When you cross the Bugyals, you will find yourself in the rocky region. These sections have loose stone and slippery patches. You should have good trekking poles and a strong grip to cross these challenging trails.
- Physical And Mental Endurance
This is a very long trek, as you will walk daily for about 2 weeks. You require good physical strength to walk about 8 km daily. This much distance does not seem a challenge but uphill climb is very difficult. You should also need good mental endurance to keep your mood fresh and light on the trek.
Best Time To Visit The Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
You should plan the Vasuki Tal Trek in the summer or the early autumn months. These months are suitable for trekking as the weather remains fine and safe.
- Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek From May To June
You can plan your Vasuki Tal trek in the summer. The snow starts melting in the upper region and the weather starts increasing. You can enjoy the greenery of the meadows. The wildflowers fill the colors in the meadow and the temperature also remains good.
- Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek From July To August
Avoid planning your trek to Vasuki Tal in the monsoon season, as this area is very prone to landslides. You can face lots of problems like cloud bursts, road blocks, etc. The trail also becomes very slippery and difficult.
- Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek From September To October
You can also plan your trek in the post-monsoon. This is also a good time because the views become clear. The trails start drying up, and the temperature remains cool in the daytime. The nights in late October can be freezing, and you may encounter fresh snowfall.
- Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek From November To April
You cannot trek to Vasuki Tal or Kedarnath in the winter. The trail and the temple remain closed. You should not try trekking in the winter.
How To Reach The Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
Your journey to the Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek will start from Ghuttu. This is a small village in the Tehri district. You can reach Ghuttu by road. Reach the Ghuttu village a day ahead and have a good rest before starting the trek.
- Ghuttu Via Road
Ghuttu is a small village that is only accessible by road. You can look for direct buses from Dehradun to Ghuttu village. Take an overnight bus from Delhi. You can also find direct buses to Dehradun from other locations. Now look for the direct buses or shared taxi to Ghuttu village.
- Ghuttu Via Railways
You can take a train to Dehradun or Rishikesh. Many direct or indirect trains are available to these locations. Now you can take a bus from Dehraun to Ghuttu. You can also find a shared taxi or direct bus from Rishikesh.
- Ghuttu Via Air
You can take a flight to Dehradun. The airport is on the outskirts of the city. Now take a cab to the bus station. Look for the direct buses to Ghuttu. Or, you can take a cab to Rishikesh and then take a bus to Ghuttu.
Things To Carry In The Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek
- Clothing And Backpack
You should pack enough clothes to keep yourself warm. The weather will be cold even at the peak of summer. Start packing with the correctly sized backpack. Get a 60L backpack that can provide you with good back support. Your bag should also have a raincover. Now start with the base layer and pack a pair of thermals. Pack a lightweight weather or fleece jacket as a mid layer. You will also need a waterproof windcheater jacket for the outer layer. Now pack 2 trekking pants and avoid jeans. Pack a sun cap for the daytime and a woolen cap for morning and evening. You can also pack a good pair of gloves.
- Footwear
Look for a good pair of trekking shoes that can also provide you with ankle support. Buy waterproof trekking shoes with good grip. You can also pack a pair of sandals for the campsites. Now pack 4 pairs of woolen socks and 2 pairs of cotton socks.
- Personal Care
Your personal care includes the daily use items. If you are trekking with your friends, then you can make a list and share the items. Pack a few personal items like a toothbrush and a towel. Now look for other items like toilet paper, hand-sanitizer, and soap. Pack a good sunscreen and a moisturizer. You should also pack a lip-blam and apply it regularly in the trek. Make a small first-aid kit for yourself. Now, keep your government ID like an Aadhar Card, handy with you.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Ghuttu
Day 2: Trek from Ghuttu to Dhu Panda
Day 3: Trek from Dhupanda to Panwali Bugyal
Day 4: Trek from Panwali Bugyal to Talli
Day 5: Trek from Talli to Gangi
Day 6: Gangi (Day for rest and leisure)
Day 7: Trek from Gangi to Kharsali via Biroda
Day 8: Trek from Kharsali to TambaKund
Day 9: Trek from Tamba Kund to Tambakund via Khatling
Day 10: Trek from Tambakund to Masar Tal
Day 11: Trek from Masar Tal to Painya Tal
Day 12: Trek from Painya Tal to Vasuki Tal
Day 13: Trek from Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath
Day 14: Trek from Kedarnath to Rudraprayag via Gaurikund
Day 15: Drive from Rudraprayag to Dehradun via Rishikesh
Kedarnath and Vasuki Lake are a dream for many trekkers. Let us make your dream come true with the best trekking facilities. Plan the trek with us and forget all the worries. Our company will take care of everything. Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek is a long trek, and our team will guide you in the whole journey. We will start the journey from Ghuttu village and will take you to the sacred Vasuki Lake. We will descend to the divine Kedarnath Temple, where you will offer your prayers.
Join the Himalaya Shelter team and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime trek. Our company provides customized trekking services. Talk to us and we will plan the whole itinerary for you. We will take care of your stay and meals as per your requirements. Talk to us and be a part of this adventurous and spiritual journey.
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Ghuttu
Drive: 188 km, 8-9 hrs
Accommodation: Guest House/Hotel
Meals: Dinner
We all embark on this adventure to attempt Vasuki Tal Trek as soon as everyone has reported. Today’s drive takes you across the tributaries like Rispana River, Song River, Chandrabhaga, Bhagirathi, and Bhilagna Rivers. Each of these rivers offers surreal sights of the valleys carved by them. However, Tehri Dam, located on the Bhagirathi River, is usually the star of this route. The green, calm waters of the dam would accompany you for almost about 5-6 kilometers on your left. After Crossing the Zero Bridge, we would leave Bhagirathi behind and follow the course of the Bhilagna River all the way to Ghuttu Village.
Small towns and villages like Talai, Bagar, Chamba, Tehri, and Ghansali are perched along the mountain roads. You may choose to withdraw cash or complete any last-minute shopping during the small breaks on this journey.
Our destination is a rural site in Ghuttu Village which is located across the Bhilagna River. This would be our base camp from where we shall start Vasuki Tal Trek. Relieve all the tiredness of the journey by soaking in the serenity of this village.
Day 2: Trek from Ghuttu to Dhu Panda
Trek: 13 km, 7-9 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The cacophony of the chirping birds in the village would announce the morning in this village. It is a long yet easy leisure trek to Dhu Panda. You shall be crossing remote Garhwali villages and some hillside plantations. The mild ascent on this day prepares you for the more strenuous climbs ahead. It is of utmost importance to start mildly for longer trekking journeys like this. Almost throughout the trek, you may relish the view of Rhododendron forests till your eyes can see.
Day 3: Trek from Dhupanda to Panwali Bugyal
Trek: 6 km, 3-5 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Bugyals are the unique beauties that Uttarakhand is blessed with. Panwali Bugyal is one of such less-explored gems of the Northern Garhwal Himalayas. It offers much more than just a trekking experience. It is a high-altitude landscape of rolling meadows at 3963 metres. The trek till here is moderately difficult but the view compensates for every single effort of reaching here. It is not even an exaggeration to call Panwali Kantha an amphitheater. Many people opt for the Panwali Kantha Trek for mesmerizing views.
It offers a 360-degree view of the major ranges like Kedar, Gangotri, Yamnotri, and Badri. The prominent peaks that you can spot are Kedar Dome, Thalaysagar, Kirti Stambh, Chaukhambha, Meru, and Nilkanth. The spring season covers the meadows with colorful flowers like poppies, daisies, primulas, anemones, and of course, rhododendrons of all varieties. It feels nothing less than a green canvas of grass painted with purple, pink, red, and yellow dancing flowers. Many of these flowers, bushes, and plants have herbal cures. Don’t be surprised to find local Vaidyas and saints plucking some of these plants to survive the tough year ahead. Most trekkers often choose Panwali Bugyal for the spectacular sunset that makes everything sparkle bright-golden.
On the other hand, winters paint all the peaks and meadows snowy white. If you love wildlife, prepare yourself to spot some rare musk dears and wild animals like Bharal, bears, weasels, and Ghoral.
Day 4: Trek from Panwali Bugyal to Talli
Trek: 8 km, 4-6 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
For today’s trek, we shall descend towards Gangi village. The trail is well carved. You may want to be extra careful if it has rained. We shall be crossing open trails that offer a view of the widening valley down below. Some stretches also pass through dense vegetation and tall pine trees. This is an apt trail to hear and spot the local birds of the region. Gurgling waters of small streams running down the hills add to the music of the forest. Talli would be our campsite for today amidst the abundance of nature.
Day 5: Trek from Talli to Gangi
Trek: 8 km, 6-7 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
This day involves a reasonable amount of ascent to reach Gangi Village located at an altitude of 2,465 metres. You will initially trek through a stretch of a dense forest crossing small streams. After about 3-4 hours, the plantations and the remote Garhwali villages start to appear. Walking along the village canals and water channels amidst the swaying fields of potatoes, rajma, and other grains is exhilarating. During the early summers, these fields are full of fragrant flowers. Finally, after a short climb, we reach a village where time stands still. Gangi Village shall be our rest point for 2 nights.
Day 6: Gangi (Day for rest and leisure)
After the challenging treks of the past few days, it is extremely important to rejuvenate your body. It is crucial to restore energy for more challenging trekking in the coming days. Gangi is a village untouched by modernization. It is a sleepy hamlet with a mere population of around 300+ humans. Age-old tiny wooden temples, overlooked by giant mountains sprinkled with snow, are the main attractions here. Terraced fields and the wafting fragrance of flowers become your leisure-time buddies. Enjoy this village while chatting with the elderly of the village. They have hundreds of tales to tell you about Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. Alternatively, you may chase the hopping sunbirds and squeaking magpies on the outskirts of the village.
Day 7: Trek from Gangi to Kharsali via Biroda
Trek: 11 km, 6-7 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
After a rest day at Gangi, we shall descend down to their winter settlement, Deokhri Channi. Further ahead, the path passes through a dense forest. The mix of mild ascents and descents enables you to enjoy the calls of Himalayan birds. To your delight, you may be able to spot Himalayan Monal, Warbler, Coppersmith Barbet, Blue Magpie, and a variety of Parakeet species.
The gurgling sound of the beautiful Kalyani stream would suggest the vicinity of today’s destination. Refill the bottle here or relax for a while in its refreshing waters. After crossing the stream, we reach the diversion. From here, the left trail stretches to Sahastra tal. It is an idyllic location that hides this isolated lake of Uttarakhand. If time permits, we may pay a quick visit to this lake. Otherwise, we must follow the right trail. The dense forest opens on your way to vast meandering meadows. This is Biroda Bugyal. Enjoy the stunning paradise created by wavy hills and evergreen conifers. 3-4 kilometres ahead of this bugyal lies our campsite for the day. Soak in the immaculate charm of mother nature here. In the evening, savour the spectacular colours of sunset. Prepare for the next morning and sleep cozily while listening to the music of the rustling leaves.
Day 8: Trek from Kharsali to TambaKund
Trek: 8 km, 7-9 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
After a scrumptious breakfast, we start hiking along the trail carved beyond the village. The trail is relatively flat till the river bank. It passes through the rolling meadows in the beginning. After that, we start the ascent to a barren mountain patch devoid of vegetation. The view of the snow-capped mountains would accompany you throughout the day. Small snow-fed streams keep crossing your path. Don’t forget to spot the distant waterfalls tumbling down the Bhilangana Range.
Finally, after 8 hours of moderately difficult climb, we reach a serene spot at Tambakund. Tambakund is a small pond that can be considered the source of Bhilangana River. Relax in the evening, relish a hot dinner and prepare for tomorrow’s trek. Khatling Glacier, that feeds the river, is just 3 kilometres from this campsite. We shall spend the night under the stars at Tambakund.
Day 9: Trek from Tamba Kund to Tambakund via Khatling
Trek: 3 km, 4-5 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Today, we proceed for a mildly strenuous trek to Khatling glacier located at an altitude of 3415 metres. It is the birthplace of the Bhilangana River that nurtures the human settlements in almost half of the Northern Garhwal Region. Khatling Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Himalayas. From Tambakunda, the trail starts over the wooden bridge across the river. The trail traverses through the grassy meadows of Chowki. It is frequented by shepherds who come here to feed their herds of sheep. The valley is dotted by flowering plants including that of Brahma Kamal during its blooming season. You might spot certain wild moths and butterflies along this route. It may take around 2 or more days to explore the glacier entirely. We shall aim for the ‘Zero Point’ at this glacier. It is an enchanting viewpoint in the lap of this giant icy glacier. After having enjoyed the beauty of this place for some time, we shall proceed to trace the path back to Tambakund.
Note: You shall not carry all your luggage today and have a relaxed climb by just carrying the essentials.
Day 10: Trek from Tambakund to Masar Tal
Trek: 7 km, 8-10 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
We start today’s trek early. Eat well to energize yourself for the steep ascent of the day. From Tamabakund, via Chowki, we keep climbing throughout the day. Post-lunch, you would see the Khatling glacier and milky-white waters of the Doodhganga River below you. The shining waters of Bhimtal Lake can also be seen down below.
Masar Lake is a small pond tucked amidst the painting-like backdrop of the lofty mountains of the Kedar Range. The picturesque woodlands and carpeted green meadows enhance the beauty of this lake. The cherry on the top is the wild flower blooming in this bugyal during monsoon. If luck favors, this campsite near the lake is perfect for star-trail photography or Milky Way spotting on a clear night.
Day 11: Trek from Masar Tal to Painya Tal
Trek: 8 km, 8-12 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Usually, trekkers opt for a long tiring trail from Masar Tal to directly Vasuki Tal. However, our itinerary of Vasuki Tal – Kedarnath Trek allows you to enjoy the best of this trail at your pace. Today, the strenuous climb continues amidst snow-clad and brown mountains. You may want to capture this unusual shading of the mountains giving them an appearance of Vanilla-chocolate ice-cream. The trail is flanked by huge boulders and rare vegetation. After a few hours of trekking, we reach the windy Mayali Pass across Mayali glacier. Painya Tal and Teental can be reached only after this tricky climb. The soul-captivating scenery at Painya Tal would make all the mind-numbing efforts worth it. Relieve all your tiredness and re-energise yourself by resting at the bank of Painya Tal. Alternatively, you may take a short hike to Teen tal. The whole trek to Painya Tal passes through Kedar Wildlife Sanctuary. You may be able to spot bears, snow-leopards, jackals, wild boar and other high-altitude reptiles.
Day 12: Trek from Painya Tal to Vasuki Tal
Trek: 6 km, 5-6 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents)
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The most-awaited day is here. Today, we shall aim to reach the legendary Vasuki Tal perched in the lap of Mt. Vasuki. The peak gets its name from its serpentine shape and the folklore. According to the legends, Vasuki Nag would often sit here and let the Devtas use its tail to churn out the elixir of immortality from the oceans. This lake is the source of the River Vasuki Ganga which further merges with Mandakini at Sonprayag.
Tre trek is no cakewalk though the distance is just 6 kilometers. The ascents and descents on this day may tire you but the unraveling vistas fuel your soul with divine energy. Merely after 5-6 hours, the ultimate destination is unveiled in front of you.
Take a hot cup of tea, walk to the lake, and sit there for the entire evening. The musical movement of the lake creates a shaky reflection of the snowy mountains. The clear sights of the holy peaks of Sumeru, Meru, Manda, and Chaukhambha from the base of Vasuki Tal is sheerly soul-stirring. At night, don’t forget to be flabbergasted at the lake reflecting the magical sky crammed with twinkling stars.
Day 13: Trek from Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath
Trek: 6 km, 4-6 hrs
Accommodation: Camping (Alpine Tents) / Guest House
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
The route from Vasuki Tal to Kedarnath is a complete descent. Nonetheless, there is no dearth of adventure on this route. Once you bid adieu to the pristine sight of Vasuki Lake, the real challenge begins. It is the time to hold your breath to cross the two glaciers namely, Chaturangi Glacier and Vasuki Glacier. The precarious narrow trail requires the trekkers to take every step vigilantly. Apart from this little adventure, the rest of the trail demands careful descent. It is crucial to not hurt your ankles or knees owing to immense pressure. Thus, the trekkers are advised to follow the guides’ instructions.
Post this thrilling day, a divine sight of the Kedarnath Jyotirlinga awaits you. After reaching the lodge, freshen up to visit the temple. The black-stone structure sings the glory of devotion and art of ancient India. Kedarnath Temple, located at an altitude of 3,583 metres, is believed to have been built by Pandavas. The legend of the Temple is closely related to the Panch Kedar Legend. During the repentance period, post-Mahabharat, Pandavas were seeking Lord Shiva. After hiding for days at Guptkashi, Shiva was finally spotted by Bhima in the form of a bull. However, before they could reach the Bull, it disappeared. It then reappeared at different places in the valley which are now known as Panch Kedars. Kedarnath is the first of these five temples. The hump of the bull appeared here and the lord is worshipped here in the same form.
Do not miss the sunset at this divine site. The Kedar Dome is tinted with the hues of saffron and then pink as the Sun God prepares to set. This holy view accompanied by the vibrating sound of temple bells creates meditative vibes in the atmosphere.
Day 14: Trek from Kedarnath to Rudraprayag via Gaurikund
Trek: 14 km, 6-7 hrs
Accommodation: Guest House/Hotel
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Evening Snacks + Dinner
Get up early in the morning and devour the beauty that surrounds you. The awe-inspiring sight of Sumeru, Kedarnath Peak, and Kedar Dome is the most divine thing in the Himalayas. Experience the morning vibes of this most-visited pilgrim of Uttarakhand.
Post-breakfast, trace down the path, along the course of river Mandakini that flows on your right. After many days, you would finally hear the chirping of birds, tinkling bells of the ponies, and chanting of the pilgrims heading for Kedarnath temple. This narrow valley created by Mandakini is fed by a number of waterfalls along the route. The flock of birds bathing in the waterfalls can be seen only on this trail. Crossing the rainbows on your way is also a unique phenomenon on this trek.
By noon we reach the base at Gaurikund and board the vehicle for the return journey. A motorable road from Gaurikund via Guptkashi takes us to Rudraprayag. One of the holy Panch Prayags, Rudraprayag, has numerous legends to tell. The name of this Prayag is attributed to the Rudra form of Shiva. He is said to have performed tandav at this Prayag. Apart from the mythological mentions, Rudraprayag was widely popular among wildlife lovers. The town has now modernized way too much with the ever-expanding construction sites. However, once upon a time, the wild tigers from the Kedar and Tungnath Forest range roamed till Rudraprayag. One such man-eating wild tiger mentioned by Jim Corbett resided right here at Rudraprayag.
Day 15: Drive from Rudraprayag to Dehradun via Rishikesh
Drive: 188 km, 8-9 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Post-breakfast board the vehicle and reach back to Dehradun/Rishikesh/Haridwar by evening and depart with the fond memories of the Vasuki Tal – Kedarnath trek etched in your heart.
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Trek Inclusions
- Transport support from Dehradun to Dehradun (Pick-up location: Prince Chowk, near Dehradun Railway Station Pick-up Time: Around 7:30 am).
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification). There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Trek Exclusions
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
This is a moderate to difficult trek. The difficulty level increases due to rocky sections and long walking hours.
You should plan your Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek in the summer or early Autumn.
You can plan your Kedarnath Vasuki Tal Kedarnath Trek as a beginner only under a guided team.
Yes, you can camp near the lake, but you should have proper gear. Nights can be very cold near the lake.
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