Why Kedarkantha Is the Best Winter Trek in India : Complete Guide

Why Kedarkantha Is the Best Winter Trek in India? Kedarkantha is a popular winter trek that offers adventure and untouched natural beauty. Trekkers wait for winter just to trek Kedarkantha. You can also trek to Kedarkantha in the summer season. The vast valley is filled with greenery, and wildflowers look beautiful. But winters are different here. The Kedarkantha snow trek is majestic. The valley becomes a winter wonderland. Trekking to Kedarkantha trek is thrilling and magnificent. The views and trails can become lifetime memories.

Facts About Kedarkantha Trek

Location: The Kedarkanta is located in Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi.
Highlights: Juda Ka Talab, Himalayan views, big valleys, and Garhwali lifestyle.
Distance: The trek distance is about 20 km. You will cover this distance in 4-6 days.
Starting Point: Sankri.
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.

Highlights of Kedarkhantha Trek

• Juda Ka Talab

Juda Ka Talab is a beautiful high-altitude lake. The frozen lake in the Kedarkantha trek gives a magical feel. The landscape gives the Narnia vibes to the trekkers. The lake is located in between forests. The big oak and pine trees aid the winter beauty.

• Snow-covered Trails

The Kedarkantha winter trek is very enchanting. The vast valley is covered with fresh snow. The trail passes from big pine and oak trees draped in snow. Everywhere you see, it looks like a fairy tale.

• Beginner-Friendly Trek

Kedarkantha is a beautiful and beginner-friendly trek. Not many treks offer summits that are beginner-friendly. The ascent is gradual, and the trails are also well marked. Walking in snow is a bit difficult. But it's best for the people who want to do snow treks in India. 

• Rich Culture

You will start the trek journey to Kedarkantha from Sankri. This is a beautiful Garhwali village. You can explore the village and learn about its culture. The small temples and wooden houses give a glimpse of centuries-old traditions.

How to Reach Kedarkantha?

• Delhi to Dehradun: Look for the direct buses from Delhi to Dehradun. You can find both government and private bus services. You can also take a train from Delhi to Dehradun. Some fast trains are also available. Take an overnight train/bus and reach Dehradun.
• Dehradun to Sankri: You can find many buses from Dehradun to Sankri. You can also look for shared taxi services. The distance is 220 km and will take about 8-10 hours.

Best Time to Plan Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha Trek in Winters

The best time to plan the Kedarkantha Trek is winter. This trek is also known as “Queen of Winter Treks.” You can plan your trek from late December to mid-April for the best winter experience.

Kedarkantha Trek in Spring/Summer

You can also plan the trek to Kedarkantha in spring or summer. The temperature starts rising, and the day becomes warmer. The valley becomes green, and you will see fewer crowds on the trails. Rhododendron bloom is also very famous in the spring season.

Kedarkantha Trek in Monsoon

Monsoon is not a good time to plan the Kedarkantha trek. The heavy rains make the trail muddy and slippery. Heavy fog will cover the landscape. You may encounter leeches in the forest area.

Kedarkantha Trek in Autumn

The temperature starts dropping, and nights may get chilly. The sky remains crystal clear, and the views look majestic. You will see far fewer crowds, and the valley will start becoming golden. Autumn is the best time for clear views and peaceful trekking.

Read more: Kedarkantha Summit Winter Trek

Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (187 km)
Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km)
Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km)
Day 4: Trek from Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit and back to Hargaon (8 km)
Day 5: Trek from Hargaon to Sankri (4 km)
Day 6: Driver from Sankri to Dehradun (187 km)

Difficulty Level Of Kedarkantha Trek

• High Altitude: The summit of the Kedarkhanta trek stands at 12500 feet. You start very early in the morning for the summit. The quick ascent can cause AMS symptoms.
• Physical Requirement: Kedarkantha is a moderate-level trek. You can trek to Kedarkantha as a beginner hiker. But you should have good physical and mental strength. 
• Weather: Trekking in Uttarakhand winter is beautiful and challenging. Weather can change anything in the mountains. Quick rain or snowstorms can make the trek challenging. 
• Trail condition: The trail is easy, but walking in snow is difficult. If you are a trek beginner, then look for an experienced Kedarkantha trek guide.

Camping Experience in Kedarkantha Trek

Juda Ka Talab Campsite

This is the first campsite of the Kedarkantha Trek. You will camp near a beautiful frozen lake. The site is very peaceful, and you will be surrounded by big pine trees. You can also see the reflection of stars on the frozen lake.

Kedarkantha Base Campsite

This is the second campsite. You will camp in a wide meadow. Every scene will be filled with snow. This campsite is a good spot for stargazing.

Hargaon Campsite

This is the third campsite of the Kedarkantha. You will see dense pine forests and sloping clearings. The morning views from Hargaon are beautiful. Trekkers relax in Hargaon camp after descending from the summit.

Trek Essentials for Winter Treks in Uttarakhand

• Clothing and Backpack: Get a good backpack (60 L) that has good back support. Your backpack should have a rain cover. Now pack a pair of thermals (upper and bottom). Get 3–4 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Pack a good fleece jacket or a woollen sweater. You will need a down jacket for the outer layer. Now pack a sun cap and a woollen cap. Get two pairs of gloves (woollen and insulated). You can also pack a small backpack (20L) for the summit day.
• Footwear: You need a good pair of trekking shoes. Your shoes should be waterproof and have good grip. Now pack 5 pairs of woollen socks and 4 pairs of cotton socks. 
• Personal Care: Pack your toiletries, like toothbrushes, etc., in a zipper pouch. Now pack a small quick-dry towel and toilet paper. Get a good moisturizer to protect your body from extreme dryness. You should also pack a lip balm for chapped lips. Get a thermos to carry warm water on the trek. You can also make a small medical kit. Carry an ID card for the permits. 

Read more here: Essential Clothing Himalayan Winter Treks

Kedarkantha Trek: Cost and Booking Option

• Transportation cost: Dehradun to Sankri - ₹1000 (for a round trip)
• Guest house at Sankri: ₹2000 (for 2 days)
• Meals: ₹2000 (for 4 days)
• Gear Rental: ₹2000 (for 4 days, including tent, sleeping bag, trekking poles, mat, stove, and utensils)

If you are trekking on your own, then your trip will cost around 7K. If you are opting for a shared or private taxi, then it may cost around 10K. Sanski is a famous basecamp, and the renting costs are high. You may also not get the correct size at the last moment. 

Trekking on your own in winters is difficult. You should choose a good trekking company for the best Kedarkantha Trek experience. You can book your Kedarkantha Trek with Himalaya Shelter. We provide our services from Dehradun to Dehradun. You will trek with a small group and can enjoy the whole trek.

Trek Inclusions

• Transportation: Dehradun to Dehradun
• Accommodation: Day 1 and Day 5 at the guest house. Days 2, 3 & 4 in tents.
• Camping equipment: sleeping bags, mattresses, and safety gear.
• Medical Kit: Oxygen cylinders and other basic medicines.
• Permits: Forest entry charges for Indian citizens. Some additional charges for international tourists.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner.
• Guides: Experienced trekking guides.
• Cloakroom: A cloakroom is available for your extra luggage.

Exclusions

• Personal expense: Any outside purchases.
• Travel expense: Travel expense from your hometown to Dehradun.
• Personal gear: your jacket, shoes, backpack, etc.
• Offloading: You can opt for offloading your backpack (up to 12 kg) at an additional cost of ₹500 per day. 

Quick Tips for First-Time Winter Trekkers

• Build your stamina: Start jogging (5 km) daily for at least 20 days before your trek. Eat well and keep yourself hydrated. You should do some squats and lunges to improve your strength. 
• Clothing: Pack 3 layers for a winter trek. Nights are very chilly at the campsites. Pack thermals, a fleece jacket, and a down jacket for the trek. Pack some extra pairs of socks.
• Check your gear: Wear your trekking shoes and walk daily for at least 5 km. Your feet should be familiar with the shoes. Check your trekking poles, backpack, and other items. 
• Stay hydrated: you should drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily. Trekkers often avoid drinking water in winter treks. It can cause dehydration and increase the chances of AMS.

FAQs of Kedarkantha Trek

Q1. What is the best time for the Kedarkantha Trek?

Ans: December to April

Q2. What is the difficulty level of the Kedarkantha Trek?

Ans: Easy to Moderate

Q3. How long is the Kedarkantha Trek?

Ans: 20 km (round trip)

Q4. Is a mobile network available on the Kedarkantha Trek? Trek?

Ans: You can find mobile networks till Sankri.

Read more: 10 Best Winter Treks In Uttarakhand