# Kedarkantha Trek

> Kedarkantha Trek is a 5-day easy–moderate trek in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, reaching 3,810 m (12,500 ft). It covers about 20 km on foot and starts and ends at Sankri. Best time: September to June. Trekkaro price: ₹9,000 per person + 5% GST, with free trekking gear (Decathlon shoes, -10°C jacket and poles). Next batch: 10 Oct 2026 (106 upcoming batches).

Source: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/kedarkantha-trek (Trekkaro Adventures Pvt. Ltd.). Prices, dates and seats change often: always confirm on the trek page.

## Key facts

- **Duration:** 5 days
- **Difficulty:** Easy–Moderate
- **Highest point:** 3,810 m / 12,500 ft
- **Trekking distance:** 20 km
- **Region:** Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand
- **Start / end:** Sankri
- **Best time:** September to June
- **Temperature:** Summer (April–June): Daytime: 8°C to 15°C, Night: 0°C to 7°C, Winter (Dec–Jan): Daytime: -2°C to 5°C, Night: -12°C to -5°C
- **Price:** ₹9,000 per person + 5% GST (was ₹12,000)
- **Free trekking gear:** Included (Decathlon shoes, -10 C jacket, trekking poles; gaiters and microspikes when needed)
- **Next batch:** 10 Oct 2026 (106 upcoming)

## Overview

Kedarkantha is India's most celebrated winter trek, and for good reason. It rewards first-time trekkers with a dramatic summit climb, snow-buried pine forests, a frozen lake campsite, and jaw-dropping 360-degree Himalayan views that few peaks in the world can match, all without requiring prior mountaineering experience.


Kedarkantha (3,810 m / 12,500 ft) rises from the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, deep in the western Garhwal Himalayas. It is a relatively accessible summit by Himalayan standards, reachable without technical climbing gear or prior mountaineering experience, yet it rewards every trekker with a summit view that rivals peaks three times its height. The trail begins at Sankri village (1,950 m), winds through ancient cedar and pine forests, passes the frozen high-altitude lake of Juda Ka Talab, crosses sweeping snow-blanketed meadows called bugyals, and culminates in a pre-dawn summit push that delivers one of the finest sunrises in the Indian Himalayas. For five days, the Kedarkantha trek is your entire world.



### Why Winter? The Case for December to February


Kedarkantha runs in every month except July and August, with the season reopening on 15 September, but winter is when it becomes something extraordinary. Between December and February, heavy snowfall transforms the entire trail into a white wilderness. The pine forests carry several feet of snow on their branches. The meadows above the treeline are buried under deep, untracked powder. Juda Ka Talab freezes solid. And the summit, stripped of summer haze, offers crystalline 360-degree panoramas of Himalayan giants including Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Black Peak, Kalanag, and the distant Kedarnath range. Winter also thins the crowds significantly. On a December or January batch with Trekkaro, you experience a trail that feels genuinely untouched, a rarity in popular Indian trekking.



### Who Is This Trek For?


Kedarkantha is rated Easy-Moderate and is one of the best-suited winter treks in India for first-time trekkers. The daily distances are manageable (4–6 km), the altitude gain is gradual enough to allow natural acclimatisation, and the summit push, while demanding, does not require any technical skills beyond physical fitness and determination. The trek is equally compelling for seasoned trekkers chasing a winter summit and Himalayan views without the multi-week commitment of a technical expedition. The minimum recommended age is 8 years, and trekkers above 60 can join depending on their fitness and cardiovascular health. If you can walk briskly for 4–5 hours and handle cold-weather camping, Kedarkantha is within your reach.



### What Makes Kedarkantha Stand Apart


Many Himalayan treks offer stunning views. Fewer offer a genuine summit experience. And almost none combine a true winter summit with trail variety, cultural immersion, and beginner accessibility the way Kedarkantha does. In five days, you move through four distinct landscapes: a winding river-road drive through Garhwal gorges, dense snow-draped forest trails, open alpine meadows with unobstructed Himalayan panoramas, and a pre-dawn summit climb that ends in a sunrise you will describe for years. The trek also passes through Sankri, a living Jaunsari tribal village where traditional wooden architecture, local cuisine, and mountain hospitality offer a grounding cultural counterpoint to the wilderness above. This is not a single-note adventure. It is a complete Himalayan experience compressed into five unforgettable days.



### Key Highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek



- Summit at 12,500 ft with a 360-degree winter panorama of the Garhwal Himalayas
- Camping beside the frozen Juda Ka Talab under a star-filled mountain sky
- Dense pine forest trails blanketed in deep winter snow
- Open alpine meadows (bugyals) with unobstructed views of Swargarohini and Bandarpunch
- Cultural immersion in Sankri’s Jaunsari village community
- Scenic 200 km drive along the Tons River gorge through the Garhwal Himalayas
- Guided by NIM-certified Trekkaro professionals with full safety and eco-trek protocols



### Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha


Kedarkantha runs in every month except July and August – the trail closes for the monsoon and reopens on 15 September – and each season offers a dramatically different experience. The month you choose shapes everything: the trail conditions underfoot, the views from the summit, the temperature at camp, and the crowd levels on the mountain. Here is a season-by-season breakdown to help you pick the window that matches what you are looking for.



#### December to February - Peak Season (Highly Recommended)


This is the window Trekkaro recommends above all others, and the reason is simple: Kedarkantha in winter is a completely different mountain. The entire trail disappears under several feet of snow, turning the pine forest into a white tunnel and the high-altitude meadows into an unbroken snowfield. Juda Ka Talab freezes solid. The summit air is clear of summer haze, delivering the sharpest, most expansive panoramas of the season. Night temperatures at base camp drop to -10°C to -15°C, so proper layering and quality sleeping bags are non-negotiable, but the Trekkaro team handles all cold-weather gear. January and early February typically see the heaviest snowfall and the most dramatic conditions on the trail. December offers slightly milder temperatures with reliable snow coverage and fewer crowds. If a winter wonderland summit is what you are after, this is your season.



- **Temperatures:** Day: -2°C to 8°C | Night at camp: -10°C to -15°C
- **Trail conditions:** Deep snow throughout. Crampons and microspikes provided on summit day.
- **Best for:** Snow trekking, summit views, winter photography, and the full Kedarkantha experience.



#### March to April — Spring Season (Good for Beginners)


As winter loosens its grip, the Kedarkantha trail transitions into something softer and more colourful. Snowmelt reveals patches of green meadow beneath, and rhododendrons begin to bloom in vivid crimson and pink along the lower forest sections. Residual snow still covers the upper trail and summit, making this an excellent window for trekkers who want some snow experience without the extreme cold of January. Daytime temperatures are comfortable, and the longer daylight hours make for relaxed pacing on the trail. Skies are generally clear in March, though April can bring occasional afternoon cloud build-up. This is a particularly good season for first-time trekkers who prefer milder camping temperatures while still enjoying a snow-dusted summit.



- **Temperatures:** Day: 5°C to 15°C | Night at camp: -2°C to -6°C
- **Trail conditions:** Partial snow on upper sections. Clear path on lower forest trail. Rhododendron blooms.
- **Best for:** First-time trekkers, wildflower photography, and mild-weather summit attempts.



#### May to June — Pre-Monsoon Season (Clear Skies, No Snow)


The pre-monsoon window offers the warmest trekking conditions on Kedarkantha, with snow largely absent from all but the very upper trail. The meadows are fully green, carpeted in alpine grasses and wildflowers, and the forest is lush. Daytime temperatures on the trail are pleasant and camping is considerably more comfortable than in winter. The Himalayan panoramas remain exceptional, though the occasional afternoon haze can soften views compared to the crystal clarity of December or January. If you are travelling with children, trekkers with lower cold tolerance, or a group with mixed fitness levels, the May-June window offers the most forgiving conditions. Trails close in July with the onset of the monsoon and reopen on 15 September.



- **Temperatures:** Day: 10°C to 20°C | Night at camp: 2°C to 5°C
- **Trail conditions:** Snow-free. Green meadows and wildflowers. Well-defined trail throughout.
- **Best for:** Families, wildflower lovers, and trekkers who prefer warm-weather camping.



#### July to August — Monsoon Season (Trek Closed)


The monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the Garhwal Himalayas, making the Kedarkantha trail unsafe due to landslide risk, slippery terrain, and poor visibility. Trekkaro does not operate Kedarkantha batches during the monsoon months. If your travel window falls in July or August, we recommend exploring monsoon-safe alternatives in the rain shadow regions of Spiti Valley or Ladakh instead.



#### Mid-September to November — Autumn Season (Excellent Visibility)


Post-monsoon autumn is arguably the most underrated season on Kedarkantha. The rains wash the atmosphere clean, leaving behind some of the sharpest mountain visibility of the entire year. The meadows are a vivid green, the sky is a deep, unobstructed blue, and the first dustings of early snow appear on the higher Himalayan peaks by October and November, creating a striking contrast against the golden and amber tones of the forest below. Temperatures are moderate and pleasant during the day, dropping to cold but manageable levels at night. Trail conditions are excellent. Crowds are lighter than winter peak season. November in particular sits in a sweet spot: early snowfall on the upper trail can make for a partial snow experience without the full cold exposure of mid-winter. For trekkers who want stellar views, comfortable temperatures, and quiet trails, Mid-September to November is a compelling alternative to the December-February window.



- **Temperatures:** Day: 5°C to 18°C | Night at camp: -2°C to -8°C
- **Trail conditions:** Clear and well-defined. First snow on peaks from October. Green meadows below.
- **Best for:** Landscape photography, clear summit views, and quieter trails with comfortable daytime temperatures.



#### Trekkaro Recommendation


For the full Kedarkantha experience, book a December, January, or February batch. If you want milder temperatures with residual snow, March is ideal. For green meadows, wildflowers, and comfortable camping, go with May or June. For crystal-clear autumn panoramas and a quieter trail, November is our top off-season pick.





**Season**
**Months**
**Temperature (Night)**
**Trail Condition**




**Winter (Peak)**
Dec - Feb
-10°C to -15°C
Deep Snow, Frozen Lakes


**Spring**
Mar - Apr
-2°C to -6°C
Residual Snow, Rhododendrons


**Summer**
May - Jun
2°C to 5°C
Lush Green Meadows


**Autumn**
Sep - Nov
-2°C to -8°C
Crystal Clear Skies

## Itinerary

### Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri

**Route Details:**

**Dehradun → Sankri | Distance: ~200 km | Drive Duration: ~7–8 hours | Altitude Gain: 1,900 ft to 6,400 ft**

Your Kedarkantha winter trek begins not on a trail, but on a winding mountain road that feels like a curtain slowly rising on a grand stage. Depart Dehradun in the early morning in a shared 4x4, and within two hours, the city dissolves into dense oak and rhododendron forests. The NH-707 hugs the emerald-green Tons River through the Garhwal Himalayas, a road so scenic that seasoned trekkers photograph it obsessively. Watch for waterfalls crashing down limestone cliffs, remote villages perched impossibly on ridges, and the first distant white crowns of snow-capped peaks appearing above the treeline.

As you ascend past Purola and Mori, the temperature drops noticeably and the landscape shifts from green to a quieter, more austere beauty. Snow may dust the roadside even here, hinting at what awaits higher up. Pull-over chai stops at roadside dhabas are a small but essential ritual on this drive. By late afternoon, the road delivers you to Sankri, a compact Himalayan village that serves as the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek and the jumping-off point for several other celebrated Uttarakhand trails.

Sankri itself is a place worth pausing to absorb. Local guesthouses and teahouses cluster around a central area where mules carry supplies, children shout greetings from rooftops, and the air smells of pine smoke and altitude. Your Trekkaro guide will brief you on the days ahead, run a gear check, and introduce you to your trek crew. Eat a warm, hearty dinner, hydrate well, and sleep early. The mountains operate on their own schedule, and tomorrow, you follow theirs.

What to Expect:
- A scenic 7–8 hour drive along the Tons River gorge
- First glimpses of snow-capped peaks from the road
- Arrival and acclimatization at Sankri base camp (6,400 ft)
- Gear check and trek briefing with your Trekkaro guide
- Accommodation in Sankri guesthouse

### Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

**Route Details:**

**Altitude: 6,400 ft → 9,100 ft | Trek Distance: ~4 km | Duration: 4–5 hours | Terrain: Dense pine & oak forest**

The moment your boots hit the Kedarkantha trail, the world goes quiet in the most absolute way. From Sankri, the path climbs steadily through a cathedral of towering pine trees whose branches bow under the weight of winter snow. Sunlight filters through in slanted golden columns, and the only sounds are the crunch of snow underfoot and the occasional whistle of a Himalayan bird. This 4-kilometre stretch through dense forest is not just a warm-up. It is the trek's opening movement, and it sets the mood for everything that follows.

The gradient is consistent and manageable, making it an ideal first trekking day even for beginners. Your guide will point out medicinal plants used by local Jaunsari tribes, animal tracks pressed into the snow, and occasional clearings that reveal early glimpses of the Himalayan peaks beyond. The forest feels primeval and unmarked, the kind of wilderness that recalibrates your sense of scale and silence. Stop frequently to drink water, adjust your pace to your breathing, and photograph the pine groves encrusted with frost.

After a lunch break at a scenic ridge clearing, the trees thin and a wide, bowl-shaped meadow appears. At its heart sits Juda Ka Talab, a high-altitude lake that freezes solid in winter. Watching the surface, you may notice the ice has captured tiny air bubbles mid-motion, like a photograph of water itself. Pitch your tents at the campsite beside the lake as the sun drops and the temperature plummets. The sky at this altitude and in this season is almost violently clear. On cloudless nights, the Milky Way spans the full horizon above you. Tonight, it is your ceiling.

What to Expect:
- Trail through dense pine and oak forest laden with winter snow
- Consistent, manageable altitude gain ideal for first-time trekkers
- Lunch at a ridge clearing with early Himalayan views
- Arrival at Juda Ka Talab (9,100 ft): the iconic frozen lake campsite
- Dinner and overnight camping under a star-filled Himalayan sky

### Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

**Route Details:**

**Altitude: 9,100 ft → 11,250 ft | Trek Distance: ~3 km | Duration: 2–3 hours | Terrain: Open alpine meadows & snow slopes**

Day 3 is where the Kedarkantha trek undergoes its most dramatic visual transformation. As you leave the treeline behind, the dense pine forest gives way to sweeping open meadows draped in unbroken white. There are no more canopies filtering the sky. Instead, the sky is enormous, and all around it, a ring of Himalayan peaks stands in sharp, clean profile. The air is thinner here, the light harsher, and the silence deeper. You are now firmly above the world you came from.

The trail winds through a series of snow-covered alpine meadows locally called bugyals, gradual inclines carpeted in deep powder during peak winter. On either side, ridgelines reveal distant panoramas that grow more expansive with every 100 metres of altitude gained. On a clear day, you can identify Swargarohini, Black Peak, Ranglana, and Bandarpunch without any optical aid. This is also the section where first-time trekkers often stop mid-step, stare at the view in silence, and understand, perhaps for the first time, why people chase mountains.

Base camp sits at 11,250 feet and serves as the launch point for tomorrow's summit push. Your Trekkaro guides will set up insulated tents, prepare a calorie-rich dinner, and walk you through the summit-day protocol: wake time, pace, turnaround policies, and what to expect in the dark hours of the early morning climb. Rest is critical tonight. The summit attempt begins before dawn, and every hour of sleep is fuel for the final ascent. Lay your layers out in order, double-check your water and snacks, and close your eyes to the sound of wind moving across the high Himalayas.

What to Expect:
- Dramatic transition from forest to open alpine meadows (bugyals)
- Panoramic views of Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpunch & Ranglana
- Steady altitude gain with manageable terrain on snow slopes
- Arrival at Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 ft)
- Summit-day briefing, early dinner & rest

### Day 4: Summit Day - Base Camp to Kedarkantha Peak & Back to Juda Ka Talab

**Route Details:**

**Altitude: 11,250 ft → 12,500 ft → 9,100 ft | Summit Distance: ~3 km | Total Day: ~9 km | Start Time: 2:00 AM**

At 2:00 AM, your guide calls the tent. The temperature outside is well below freezing. The stars, improbably bright and impossibly close, form a hard canopy overhead. Headlamps switch on, breath fogs immediately, and the summit party begins moving in single file up the dark mountain. This is the moment the entire trek has been building toward. The summit trail is steep and unrelenting in places, cutting through deep snow across switchbacks that demand a rhythmic, deliberate pace. Your guide sets a tempo. You follow it. One step, breathe. One step, breathe.

An hour into the climb, you stop to look back. The valley below is inky black, with only faint camp lights visible. Above you, the slope disappears into darkness. The Kedarkantha summit push strips the experience down to its essentials: cold, effort, breath, and will. But this is exactly the kind of simplicity that clears the mind like nothing else. As you approach the final ridge, the eastern horizon begins to shift from black to a deep bruised purple. The Himalayas are waking up. You keep moving.

At the summit, 12,500 feet above sea level, the sun cracks the horizon in a sweep of crimson and gold. The peaks of Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpunch, and Kalanag catch the first light and ignite like embers one by one. Below, the clouds lie flat in the valleys like a white sea, and you are above all of it. This is the summit view of Kedarkantha in winter, one of the finest sunrise panoramas in India, and you have earned every pixel of it. Celebrate, photograph, breathe it in. After a brief rest and hot tea from your guide's thermos, the descent begins. Moving downhill on snow-covered slopes is its own kind of joy: faster, looser, and often punctuated with involuntary laughter. Back at base camp by mid-morning, you continue descending through the meadows and back into the forest to reach Juda Ka Talab by early afternoon. Tonight, camp feels different. Quieter. Fuller.

What to Expect:
- Pre-dawn summit start at 2:00 AM from base camp
- Steep snow climb with headlamps through the dark
- Sunrise from the Kedarkantha summit (12,500 ft / 3,810 m)
- 360-degree panoramic views of the Garhwal & Himachal Himalayan ranges
- High-energy descent back through base camp to Juda Ka Talab
- Overnight camping at Juda Ka Talab with a celebratory dinner

### Day 5: Juda Ka Talab to Sankri & Drive to Dehradun

**Route Details:**

**Altitude: 9,100 ft → 6,400 ft | Trek to Sankri: ~4 km | Drive: Sankri → Dehradun (~7–8 hours)**

The last morning at Juda Ka Talab arrives quietly. You wake to sunlight already moving across the frozen lake, turning the ice from grey to pale gold. There is no summit to chase today, no agenda beyond descent. Trekkers who experienced the same trail just three days ago as fresh and novel now move through it with an easy familiarity, recognising specific trees, trail bends, and the particular way a certain ridge lights up at this hour. The mountain has become familiar, and that, too, is a form of belonging.

The 4-kilometre descent through the pine forest back to Sankri passes quickly. Legs are stronger, lungs are adapted, and conversation flows freely. Your Trekkaro guide will walk the final stretch beside you, reviewing highlights, answering questions about the landscape, and ensuring no one rushes the last miles in a hurry to reach the road. At Sankri, a hot lunch waits. Trekkers share summit photographs over plates of rice and dal, and the trip documentation, memories, and laughter that define the end of every great expedition begin to take shape.

The drive back to Dehradun traces the same Tons River road you traveled four days ago. But it looks different now. Not because the landscape has changed, but because you have. The river is the same. The cliffs are the same. The pine forests above the road are the same. What is different is the trekker looking out the window. Kedarkantha has a well-documented effect on those who climb it: they return quieter in the best possible sense, with better posture, a deeper appetite for silence, and a persistent urge to look up at the sky. You will feel it on this drive. You will feel it for weeks after.

What to Expect:
- Final 4 km descent through pine forest back to Sankri
- Trek concludes at Sankri starting point of trek. Completion certificates issued.
- 7–8 hour scenic drive back to Dehradun along the Tons River
- Arrival in Dehradun by evening

## Inclusions

- Decathlon Gear Quechua Trek 100 shoes, SH 100 (-10°C) jackets, and trekking poles with no rental fee (FTG Initiative: ₹3,000 refundable deposit + ₹200 washing charge)
- All meals on trek: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast
- Accommodation: 1 night in the guesthouse at Sankri and 3 nights camping on the trail at all designated campsites, on triple sharing basis.
- High-quality tents (double-wall, rain-rated) and -20°C sleeping bags at all campsites
- Trekking mattresses / sleeping pads at every campsite
- Certified trek leader and guide throughout all 5 days
- Mountain kitchen staff, camp helpers, and mule/porter support for equipment transport
- Govind Pashu Vihar National Park entry permits and forest checkpost fees - fully arranged by Trekkaro
- Daily SpO2, pulse, and blood pressure health monitoring at every campsite (twice daily)
- Portable oxygen cylinder and emergency stretcher - standard on every Trekkaro Kedarkantha batch
- HF radio communication across the full trek team throughout the route
- Trek completion certificate on successful completion to Kedarkantha Summit and return to Sankri

## Exclusions

- Food During Transit Meals during travel to and from the base camp
- Transport - Basecamp Transfers Shared taxi transfers from Dehradun to Sankri and from Sankri back to Dehradun upon trek completion, are not included in the package. Trekkaro can arrange these transfers on your behalf; the cost is approximately ₹6,500 (One way) per vehicle (5-6 seater, tentative), shared equally among trekkers in the same vehicle.
- Travel to / from Dehradun: flights, trains, buses - arranged independently by trekker
- Accommodation in Dehradun before or after the trek
- Personal trekking gear: clothing, backpack, sunglasses, etc. (shoes, jacket, poles, gaiters and microspikes come with Free Trekking Gear)
- Travel insurance: mandatory for this route. Must include high-altitude cover and helicopter evacuation.
- Personal expenses: tips, calls, laundry, additional snacks
- Backpack Offloading: ₹1,500 +5% GST for the entire trek (Max. 9 kg). No suitcases, trolleys, or duffel bags allowed. Charges may be higher for last-minute offloading requests made at Sankri
- Single Tent Occupancy: ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the entire trek
- Costs from early exit, evacuation, or itinerary change due to weather or medical reasons
- Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions

## ATM and mobile network

Important Pre - Trek Information
- Last ATM - Purola

Purola is the last reliable ATM stop before reaching Sankri (basecamp). Be sure to withdraw cash here, as you may not find any ATMs working after this point.
- Mobile Network - Sankri

Sankri is the last place with a stable mobile signal, and only Jio works consistently. Please make all important calls and inform your family about the poor or no connectivity during the trek. After leaving Sankri, there is no mobile signal.

## Frequently asked questions

### Where is the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek is in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. It starts from Sankri village, about 200 km (7–8 hours) by road from Dehradun along the Tons River gorge.

From Sankri the trail climbs through pine and oak forest to Juda Ka Talab, then over open alpine meadows to the base camp and the 3,810 m summit.

### How many days is the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek takes 5 days from Dehradun to Dehradun, with 4 trekking days covering about 20 km.
- **Day 1:** drive Dehradun to Sankri (200 km, 7–8 hours)
- **Days 2–3:** Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km), then on to the base camp (3 km)
- **Day 4:** summit day, about 9 km in 8–9 hours
- **Day 5:** 4 km down to Sankri and the drive back to Dehradun

### What is the altitude of the Kedarkantha trek?

The highest point of the Kedarkantha trek is the summit at 3,810 m (12,500 ft). The trek starts at Sankri (1,950 m / 6,400 ft), so you gain about 1,860 m over three days.
- **Juda Ka Talab camp:** 2,773 m / 9,100 ft
- **Kedarkantha Base Camp:** 3,429 m / 11,250 ft

### How difficult is the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek is graded Easy–Moderate. Without snow it is a gentle hike, while winter snow and the pre-dawn summit climb add some challenge.
- **Days 2–3:** short days of 3–4 km with steady, manageable height gain
- **Summit day:** a 2:00 AM start and a steep snow climb by headlamp
- **Total summit day:** about 9 km and 8–9 hours, ending back at Juda Ka Talab

### Is the Kedarkantha trek good for beginners?

Yes, the Kedarkantha trek suits first-time trekkers with basic fitness. The daily distances are short and the altitude gain is steady and manageable.

Summit day is the hardest part, with a 2:00 AM start and a steep climb on snow in winter.

### What fitness level do I need for the Kedarkantha trek?

Basic fitness is enough for the Kedarkantha trek, such as walking 4–5 km a day with a small backpack, but good stamina and leg strength make the steep and snowy sections easier.
- **Daily walking:** 3–4 km in 2–5 hours on Days 2, 3 and 5
- **Summit day:** about 9 km over 8–9 hours, starting at 2:00 AM
- **Health:** consult your doctor before the trek, including about Diamox

### What is the best time for the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek is open almost all year except July and August. Come from December to April for snow, or in May–June and from 15 September to November for clear trails and green landscapes.
- **December to April:** snow trek, with Juda Ka Talab frozen and snow on the summit climb
- **May to June:** pleasant weather and green meadows
- **15 September to November:** clear trails after the monsoon
- **July and August:** no departures during the monsoon

### Is there snow on the Kedarkantha trek?

Yes, the Kedarkantha trek has snow from December to April, from the pine and oak forest above Sankri up to the summit.
- **Forest:** the trail to Juda Ka Talab is laden with winter snow
- **Juda Ka Talab:** the lake at camp freezes
- **Summit climb:** a steep snow climb in the dark
- **Gear:** microspikes and gaiters are provided when the trail has snow or ice

### How cold is the Kedarkantha trek?

On the Kedarkantha trek, winter (December–January) days are about -2°C to 5°C and nights drop to -12°C to -5°C. From April to June, days are about 8°C to 15°C and nights 0°C to 7°C.
- **Layers:** 5 warm layers – thermal top and bottom, 2 fleece or woollen layers and a padded jacket
- **Summit morning:** a balaclava and waterproof gloves for the pre-dawn wind chill
- **Water:** one insulated bottle so your water does not freeze

### Which mountains can you see on the Kedarkantha trek?

From the Kedarkantha summit you get 360° views of the Garhwal and Himachal Himalayan ranges, at sunrise on summit day.
- **From the meadows:** Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpunch and Ranglana
- **Day 1:** first glimpses of snow peaks from the road
- **Juda Ka Talab:** a lake campsite, frozen in winter, under a star-filled sky

### What is the terrain like on the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek moves from dense pine and oak forest to open alpine meadows (bugyals) and snow slopes on the summit climb.
- **Day 2:** dense pine and oak forest, snow-laden in winter
- **Day 3:** open alpine meadows and snow slopes
- **Day 4:** a steep snow climb to the summit, then a long descent to Juda Ka Talab
- **Day 5:** a 4 km descent through pine forest to Sankri

### Is there a risk of altitude sickness on the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek reaches 3,810 m, so some risk of altitude sickness exists, but the height gain is steady and you sleep no higher than the base camp at 3,429 m.
- **Day 1:** arrival and acclimatisation at Sankri (1,950 m)
- **After the summit:** you descend the same day to Juda Ka Talab (2,773 m)
- **Before you go:** consult your doctor, including about Diamox, and carry your own medicines

### What is the minimum age for the Kedarkantha trek?

The minimum age for the Kedarkantha trek is 8 years. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian.

There is no upper age limit. Trekkers above 60 are welcome if they are fit and in good cardiovascular health; along with the medical certificate signed by a doctor that every trekker brings, we recommend an ECG or TMT report.

### How do I reach the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek starts from Sankri, 200 km (7–8 hours) by road from Dehradun. A cab can be arranged from Dehradun Railway Station at 06:30 AM on Day 1.
- **By air:** Jolly Grant Airport (DED), 45–60 minutes from Dehradun city; fly in the day before
- **By train:** Dehradun (DDN) is the pickup point; the overnight Nanda Devi Express arrives in time for the cab
- **By bus:** overnight government buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun ISBT take about 6–7 hours

### Is transport included in the Kedarkantha trek?

No, transport is not included in the Kedarkantha trek fee. Trekkaro helps the group book shared cabs between Dehradun and Sankri, paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers.
- **Cost:** about ₹6,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle, shared
- **Day 1:** leaves Dehradun Railway Station at 06:30 AM
- **Day 5:** expected at Dehradun Railway Station by 06:00 PM

### Where do we stay on the Kedarkantha trek?

On the Kedarkantha trek you stay in a guesthouse at Sankri on Day 1 and in tents at Juda Ka Talab and the base camp for the rest of the trek.
- **Tents:** spacious four-person tents shared by only three trekkers
- **Women:** female trekkers share tents only with other women
- **Couples and families:** separate tents arranged as needed

### What is the group size on the Kedarkantha trek and who leads it?

Kedarkantha trek fixed departures run with 6 to 20 trekkers, never more than 20, led by a certified Trekkaro trek leader.
- **Support team:** assistant guides, local staff, and porters or mules for logistics
- **First aid:** trek leaders are trained in Wilderness First Aid
- **Private treks:** available for any group size

### Is the Kedarkantha trek safe for women trekking alone?

Yes, the safety of female trekkers is a top priority on the Kedarkantha trek, and the guides and support staff are carefully selected and trustworthy.
- **Tents:** women share tents only with other female trekkers, never with men
- **Belongings:** keep your personal valuables secure

### What food is served on the Kedarkantha trek?

The Kedarkantha trek serves simple, nutritious vegetarian meals, with eggs available on request at the campsite.
- **On the trail:** packed lunch, so carry a reusable lunch box
- **Summit night:** a celebratory dinner at Juda Ka Talab
- **Snacks:** carry trail mix, energy bars and ORS for the walk

### Is drinking water safe on the Kedarkantha trek?

On the Kedarkantha trek, water at camp is boiled or treated with chlorine tablets for safety.
- **Refills:** check with your trek leader for safe refill points on the trail
- **Bottles:** two 1 L bottles, one of them insulated so it does not freeze

### Is Free Trekking Gear included in the Kedarkantha trek?

Yes, the Kedarkantha trek includes Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear, so you do not need to buy or rent shoes, a jacket or poles.
- **Included:** trekking shoes, a -10°C padded jacket and a trekking pole
- **When needed:** microspikes and gaiters for snow and ice
- **Deposit:** one refundable deposit of ₹3,000 + ₹200 washing charge covers the whole kit
- **Handover:** on the first day, at the gear check in Sankri

### Is backpack offloading available on the Kedarkantha trek?

Yes, backpack offloading on the Kedarkantha trek costs ₹1,500 + 5% GST, with a porter or mule carrying your backpack.
- **Book ahead:** tell Trekkaro at least 15 days in advance
- **Day pack:** carry a 20–30 L day pack for water, snacks and a spare layer

### Is there a doctor on the Kedarkantha trek?

No doctor joins the Kedarkantha trek, but the trek leaders are trained in Wilderness First Aid and carry a complete first-aid kit.
- **Your medicines:** carry prescriptions, remedies for common ailments and any altitude medicine your doctor advises
- **Before you go:** check your health, or seek expert advice if unsure
- **Insurance:** travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover is mandatory

### What documents do I need for the Kedarkantha trek?

For the Kedarkantha trek you need a government photo ID, a medical fitness certificate signed by a doctor, travel insurance and a signed disclaimer form.
- **Photo ID:** original and a photocopy (Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID or driving licence)
- **International trekkers:** passport, needed for forest entry permits and any medical evacuation
- **Travel insurance:** mandatory, with emergency evacuation cover
- **Also carry:** your Trekkaro booking confirmation and the disclaimer form with emergency contact details

### Is there mobile network and an ATM on the Kedarkantha trek?

Mobile signal on the Kedarkantha trek is limited, there is no charging on the trail and cards are not accepted in the mountains, so withdraw cash in Dehradun.
- **Cash:** carry small notes, including your share of the cab fare; ATMs are few in the hills
- **Power:** carry a power bank and keep it close to your body in the cold
- **Maps:** download an offline map before you leave

### What is summit day like on the Kedarkantha trek?

Summit day on the Kedarkantha trek starts at 2:00 AM from the base camp, with a steep snow climb by headlamp to reach the 3,810 m summit for sunrise.
- **Climb:** about 3 km from the base camp to the summit
- **Total day:** about 9 km and 8–9 hours
- **View:** a 360° panorama of the Garhwal and Himachal ranges
- **Descent:** back through the base camp to Juda Ka Talab for the night

### What should I pack for the Kedarkantha trek?

For the Kedarkantha trek, pack for snow, sub-zero nights and a pre-dawn summit start; Trekkaro also emails a full checklist after booking.
- **Free Trekking Gear:** shoes, padded jacket, poles, microspikes and gaiters are provided
- **Clothes:** 2 sets of thermals, 2 fleece layers, a waterproof shell, warm trousers and 3–4 pairs of socks
- **Accessories:** woollen cap, balaclava, two pairs of gloves, UV sunglasses (category 3 or 4) and SPF 50+ sunscreen
- **Essentials:** headlamp, power bank, personal medicines and cash in small notes

### How do I book the Kedarkantha trek?

To book the Kedarkantha trek, select your date, fill in the booking form and pay online; your booking is confirmed instantly.
- **Confirmation:** booking details, the itinerary and the gear checklist are emailed to you
- **Travel:** book your travel as soon as the booking shows as Paid in My Bookings

### Can the Kedarkantha trek itinerary be changed?

Minor changes to the Kedarkantha trek itinerary are possible, but the completion date must stay as scheduled.

If something unexpected happens on the trail, your trek leader suggests a suitable alternative plan.

### Can I book a private Kedarkantha trek?

Yes, Trekkaro offers private, customised Kedarkantha treks for a group of any size, at your own pace.

The cost depends on the number of trekkers, the duration and the type of trek.

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Book or ask questions: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/kedarkantha-trek · WhatsApp +91 80576 54321