# Kedartal Trek > Kedartal Trek is a 6-day moderate–difficult trek in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, reaching 4,912 m (16,116 ft). It covers about 38 km on foot and starts and ends at Gangotri. Best time: May to June and September to October. Trekkaro price: ₹15,750 per person + 5% GST, with free trekking gear (Decathlon shoes, -10°C jacket and poles). Next batch: 10 Oct 2026 (31 upcoming batches). Source: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/kedartal-trek (Trekkaro Adventures Pvt. Ltd.). Prices, dates and seats change often: always confirm on the trek page. ## Key facts - **Duration:** 6 days - **Difficulty:** Moderate–Difficult - **Highest point:** 4,912 m / 16,116 ft - **Trekking distance:** 38 km - **Region:** Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand - **Start / end:** Gangotri - **Best time:** May to June and September to October - **Temperature:** The Kedartal Trek offers varying temperatures across seasons. In summer (May–June), days range from 12°C to 17°C with nights dropping to -2°C to 7°C, while autumn (Sept–Oct) brings cooler days (3°C to 9°C) and freezing nights (-4°C to -1°C). - **Price:** ₹15,750 per person + 5% GST (was ₹21,000) - **Free trekking gear:** Included (Decathlon shoes, -10 C jacket, trekking poles; gaiters and microspikes when needed) - **Next batch:** 10 Oct 2026 (31 upcoming) ## Overview Above Gangotri, the Kedar Ganga thunders down a steep gorge. Follow it upstream for three days, through birch forest, over the tree line and across fields of loose boulder, and you reach the place where it begins: a still glacial lake at 4,912 m, held in a ring of rock and snow beneath Thalay Sagar. In our view, few walks in the Garhwal Himalayas lead so directly from a temple town to the feet of mountains this big. And in our experience, the moment that lake comes into view repays every hard step it took to get there. The Kedartal trek takes you to Kedartal, also known as Shiva’s Lake, a turquoise glacial lake at 4,912 m (16,116 ft). Three snow-clad peaks stand around it: Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) and Meru (6,672 m). Fed by the melting snow of these mountains, Kedartal is the origin of the sacred Kedar Ganga River. The trail to it climbs beside that river through pine, deodar and Bhojpatra forest to the camp at Bhoj Kharak, crosses the tree line into the alpine meadows of Kedar Kharak, where Bhrigupanth makes its first grand appearance, and then rises over scree and boulders to the lake itself. At either end lies Gangotri, one of the Char Dham shrines, with its temple, its evening Ganga Aarti and the natural Shivling in the river. Over six days, Trekkaro’s itinerary takes you from that sacred town to the foot of Thalay Sagar and back again. The Kedartal trek lies in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. It is a 6-day, Moderate to Difficult trek of about 38 km, out and back from Gangotri (3,065 m), the base and a revered pilgrimage town. There is no pass to cross; the summit of this trek is the lake. The route climbs from 3,065 m to 4,912 m in three days of walking, with camps at Bhoj Kharak (3,780 m) and Kedar Kharak (4,267 m), an ascent spread out so the body can adjust before the lake. We consider Kedartal one of the most striking glacial lakes in the Garhwal Himalayas. In our experience, it is also one of the most rewarding ways to get close to 5,000 m in under a week, provided you come prepared for what it asks in return. ### Shiva’s Lake at 4,912 m – What Makes the Kedartal Trek Unmissable What sets Kedartal apart is how close it brings you to very big mountains in very few days. Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) appears first, from the open meadows above the tree line on the way to Kedar Kharak. On the final climb, Thalay Sagar (6,904 m) and Meru (6,672 m) join it, and the three peaks close in until they stand directly around you. The lake at their feet is fed by their snow, and from it flows the Kedar Ganga, the same river you have followed all the way from Gangotri. On a clear day, the water is turquoise and perfectly still, and every one of those peaks appears in it a second time. You leave Kedar Kharak before sunrise, because this is the most challenging day of the trek and the daylight matters. The meadow falls behind and the trail turns to rocky path, then scree, then loose boulders that shift under your boots and demand balance and patience with every step. Water is scarce on this section, so you carry what you need. The air thins. The mountains grow. Thalay Sagar fills more of the sky with each hour, and Bhrigupanth and Meru crowd in from the sides. After four to five hours of climbing, the ground levels out, and Kedartal is in front of you. You find a rock near the shore, take off your pack and eat your lunch beside the water. For a while, the only thing to do is look at the peaks, and then look at them again in the lake. The lake also carries a meaning beyond the view. Kedartal is called Shiva’s Lake, and the trek begins and ends at Gangotri, where, according to legend, the River Ganga descended to Earth, sanctified by Lord Shiva. On the way back down, an early start brings you into Gangotri in time for the evening Ganga Aarti at the Gangotri temple. Nearby is Bhagirath Shila, where Raja Bhagirath is believed to have meditated for the salvation of his ancestors, and the natural Shivling submerged in the river, where mythology says the Goddess Ganga descended into Shiva’s locks. We find that this frame changes the trek. The lake at the top and the shrine at the bottom are joined by the same river, and walking from one to the other gives the hard climb a sense of pilgrimage as much as of adventure. ### The Kedar Ganga Valley Itself The trail leaves the temple town and climbs at once beside the roaring Kedar Ganga, on narrow paths that hug steep mountain slopes, with rocky sections and sharp ridges that keep you alert. Pine and deodar give way to the Bhojpatra, the birch whose bark is said to have been the ancient writing medium of sages, and through gaps in the trees the Bhagirathi peaks appear and disappear. Waterfalls run beside the path. As you gain height the forest thins and the air turns crisp, and by afternoon you reach Bhoj Kharak, a camp perched above the gorge among birch trees, looking out over the valley. The next morning opens with a steep hour through the Bhoj forest, and then the trees end. Above the tree line the valley widens into lush alpine meadows with sweeping views, and this upper ground is home to high-altitude wildlife: the trail gives chances to spot blue sheep, goral, the Himalayan black bear and a variety of mountain birds. Kedar Kharak sits in a vast meadow beside a gushing, crystal-clear mountain stream. Beyond the camp, the green runs out, and the last stretch to the lake is a bare world of scree, boulders and snow-clad peaks. Forest, meadow and rock, one after another, in three days of walking: it is a compact lesson in how a Himalayan valley changes with height. ### Who Is This Trek For? The Kedartal trek is graded Moderate to Difficult, and it is not a first trek. It suits trekkers in good physical condition who have some prior experience of high-altitude trekking and are steady on rocky ground. Trekking days are long, typically 5 to 8 hours, with steep ascents and descents throughout. The first day on foot climbs about 715 m over 8 km in 5 to 6 hours on narrow, continuous trail; the next gains about 487 m at altitude in 6 to 7 hours. The hard day is the lake day: 7 to 8 hours and about 8 km, climbing roughly 645 m to 4,912 m over scree and loose boulders with scarce water, then descending the same height back to Kedar Kharak. The walk out to Gangotri is about 15 km and 7 to 8 hours, almost all downhill, which is easier on the lungs but hard on the knees. We recommend cardio training and hill walking for at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure. If you are over 58 or have a health condition, consult a doctor before you book; fitness matters more than age. Season: May to June, and September to October. ### Key Highlights of the Kedartal Trek - **Kedartal (Shiva’s Lake) at 4,912 m / 16,116 ft** – a turquoise glacial lake and the origin of the Kedar Ganga - **Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth and Meru up close** – peaks of 6,904 m, 6,772 m and 6,672 m standing directly around the final climb - **Peaks reflected in the lake** – on a clear day the still water holds the snow-clad mountains that ring it - **The first view of Bhrigupanth** – a grandstand view from the meadows above the tree line on the way to Kedar Kharak - **Bhojpatra forest along the Kedar Ganga** – birch trees whose bark is said to have been the ancient writing medium of sages - **Kedar Kharak meadow camp at 4,267 m** – a vast meadow beside a gushing, crystal-clear mountain stream - **High-altitude wildlife** – chances to spot blue sheep, goral, the Himalayan black bear and mountain birds - **Gangotri at both ends** – a Char Dham shrine, with the evening Ganga Aarti, Bhagirath Shila and the natural Shivling in the river ### Best Time to Do the Kedartal Trek The Kedartal trek runs in two windows: May to June, and September to October. Summer brings warmer days and snow on the trail, especially early in the season; autumn brings settled, pleasant weather, colder air and the clearest views of the peaks around Kedartal. #### May to June – Summer Season (Snow on the Trail) The summer window opens with the trail still carrying snow, especially in May, and the climb through the upper valley takes on a wintry edge. Snow on the path makes the going slower and asks for more care, which adds to the challenge of an already demanding route, but it also gives the high ground a cleaner, whiter look beneath Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth. Days are the warmer of the two seasons, while nights at the high camps still drop to around freezing. - **Temperatures:** Day: 12°C to 17°C | Night: -2°C to 7°C - **Trail conditions:** Snow-laden trails, especially in May; snow can slow progress on the upper sections. - **Best for:** Snow on the high trail, warmer trekking days and a wintry approach to the lake. #### September to October – Autumn Season (Clearest Views) Autumn is when the mountains around Kedartal show themselves most clearly. The weather turns pleasant and settled, the air sharpens, and the views of Thalay Sagar, Meru and Bhrigupanth come into hard focus from the meadows and the final climb. The trade-off is cold: days are cooler, and nights at Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak are freezing, so this season suits trekkers who are comfortable with a real high-altitude chill. - **Temperatures:** Day: 3°C to 9°C | Night: -4°C to -1°C - **Trail conditions:** Pleasant weather, clearer views of the peaks, freezing nights at camp. - **Best for:** The clearest views of Thalay Sagar, Meru and Bhrigupanth, and photography at the lake. #### Trekkaro Recommendation For the clearest views of the peaks around the lake, book a September or October batch; it is our first choice for photographers and for anyone who wants Thalay Sagar at its sharpest, as long as you are ready for freezing nights. For warmer days on the trail and the added challenge of snow on the trail, choose May or June. ## Itinerary ### Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Gangotri **Route Details:** **Drive: Dehradun → Gangotri (~241 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 655 m → 3,065 m (10,050 ft) | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay (triple or quad sharing)** Day 1 is a long road day, and it sets you up for everything that follows. We recommend leaving Dehradun early, around 6:30 AM, so you reach Gangotri by evening with time to spare for the temple and a slow walk around town. The road climbs through Mussoorie and then works up the valley via Uttarkashi, Gorsali, Bhatwari, Harshil and Dharali. For long stretches the Bhagirathi River runs beside you, and the slopes fill with pine and deodar forest as you gain height. If you need a seat, Trekkaro can arrange a shared taxi from Dehradun Railway Station at an additional cost. Two practical points matter today. Bhatwari has the last reliable ATM before Gangotri, so withdraw the cash you need there. Gangotri is the last place with a stable mobile signal, and only BSNL, Jio and Airtel work consistently, so make your important calls before the trail starts tomorrow. Gangotri sits at 3,065 m (10,050 ft) and is one of the four shrines of the Chota Char Dham. Legend holds that this is where the Ganga descended to Earth, sanctified by Lord Shiva. After you check in to your guesthouse, there is time to visit the Gangotri temple, explore the small market, meet the sadhus or take a quiet walk in the forest around town. After dinner, the team meets for introductions and the trek briefing. Sleep early; tonight your body begins adjusting to the altitude. What to Expect: - Scenic drive via Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari, Harshil and Dharali (~241 km, 10–11 hrs) - Early start from Dehradun, around 6:30 AM, to reach Gangotri by evening - Last ATM at Bhatwari; last stable mobile network (BSNL, Jio, Airtel) at Gangotri - Evening visit to the Gangotri temple, one of the Char Dham shrines - Team introduction and trek briefing after dinner - Overnight: Gangotri guesthouse / homestay (3,065 m / 10,050 ft) ### Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,065 m → 3,780 m (12,402 ft) | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs | Terrain: steep riverside trail, pine and deodar forest, then bhojpatra (birch) forest | Stay: Tents at Bhoj Kharak** Day 2 is the first walking day, and it does not ease you in. The trail leaves Gangotri and turns up the valley of the Kedar Ganga, the river that flows down from Kedartal itself. Within minutes the temple town is behind you and the roar of the river takes over. The path climbs steadily through pine and deodar forest, gaining about 715 m over 8 km. That is a lot of height for a first day, so expect to feel it in your lungs before you feel it in your legs. The gradient is moderate but continuous. The trail is narrow in places, cut into steep mountain slopes, with rocky stretches and a few sharp ridges where you need to watch every step. Walk these sections slowly, keep to the inside of the path and let faster walkers pass at the wider points. In our experience, the trekkers who do best today are the ones who start slower than they want to. There are waterfalls along the route; use them as natural rest stops, and carry enough water from Gangotri so you never have to ration it. Higher up, the conifers give way to bhojpatra, the Himalayan birch. Its papery bark is said to have been the writing material of ancient sages, and the forest has a quieter, paler feel than the pines below. Through gaps in the trees the Bhagirathi peaks begin to appear. As you climb on, the forest thins, the ground turns more rugged and the air gets sharper and cooler. By afternoon you reach Bhoj Kharak at 3,780 m (12,402 ft). The campsite is perched above the gorge, ringed by birch trees and looking down the valley you have just climbed. Tents go up, evening snacks and hot drinks follow, and the rest of the day is yours to rest. Keep drinking water through the evening; this is a big first jump in altitude, and your body needs the night to catch up. What to Expect: - First trekking day: 8 km, 5–6 hrs, ~715 m altitude gain from Gangotri - Trail along the Kedar Ganga through pine, deodar and bhojpatra (birch) forest - Narrow, rocky sections on steep slopes – slow down and watch your footing - Waterfalls on the way make good rest stops; carry enough water from Gangotri - First glimpses of the Bhagirathi peaks as the forest thins - Overnight: Bhoj Kharak camp above the gorge (3,780 m / 12,402 ft) ### Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,780 m → 4,267 m (14,000 ft) | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Terrain: steep birch forest, then open alpine meadow above the tree line | Stay: Tents at Kedar Kharak** Day 3 starts hard and then settles. The first hour out of Bhoj Kharak is a steep climb through dense birch forest, and it comes before your legs have properly warmed up. Take it in short steps, breathe steadily and do not try to match anyone else’s pace. Once that first hour is behind you, the gradient eases and the day turns into a steady, moderate ascent. Overall it is gentler than yesterday’s climb, but the altitude makes it strenuous all the same. The distance is short at 7 km, and that is exactly why it can catch you out. You gain about 487 m and the walk takes 6–7 hours, because at this height every uphill stretch costs more than it looks. Keep a slow, even rhythm, sip water regularly and carry enough for the full day. Stopping often for a few breaths works better than stopping rarely for long breaks. The big change today is the tree line. Somewhere above Bhoj Kharak the birches thin out and you step onto open alpine meadow. The valley widens, the views sweep out on all sides, and Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) comes into full view for the first time. This open ground is also good wildlife country. The area is home to blue sheep, goral and the Himalayan black bear, along with a variety of mountain birds, so keep your camera within reach and your voice low. Kedar Kharak, at 4,267 m (14,000 ft), is a wide meadow beside a fast, crystal-clear mountain stream. The sound of the water carries across the camp, and the open ground gives you room to walk around gently after you arrive, which helps your body adjust. Nights on this trek can drop below freezing, so put your warm layers on before the sun goes. Tomorrow is the climb to Kedartal, and the best preparation is a full dinner, plenty of fluids and an early night. What to Expect: - Steep first hour through dense birch forest, then a steadier, moderate climb - 7 km, 6–7 hrs, ~487 m gain – short distance, but the altitude makes it strenuous - Cross the tree line into open alpine meadows with wide valley views - First full view of Bhrigupanth Peak (6,772 m) - Chance to spot blue sheep, goral and mountain birds - Overnight: Kedar Kharak camp beside a mountain stream (4,267 m / 14,000 ft) ### Day 4: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal and back to Kedar Kharak **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,267 m → 4,912 m (16,116 ft) → 4,267 m | Distance: 8 km (up and back) | Duration: 7–8 hrs | Terrain: steep rocky trail, scree and loose boulders | Stay: Tents at Kedar Kharak** Day 4 is the hardest and the most rewarding day of the Kedartal Trek. You climb about 645 m to the lake and come back down the same way to Kedar Kharak. We recommend starting before sunrise so you can use every hour of daylight. The trail is steep and strenuous from early on, over rocky paths, scree and loose boulders. It asks for stamina, balance and patience far more than speed. The loose ground is the part to respect. Test each step on scree before you put your full weight on it, use your hands where the boulders get big, and use trekking poles on both the climb and the descent. Natural water sources are scarce on this section, so fill every bottle at camp before you leave. The climb to the lake takes 4–5 hours, and it pays to keep something in reserve for the walk back. With every hour the setting grows more dramatic. The peaks close in around you: Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) and Meru (6,672 m), with other high summits filling the skyline. Then the ground levels and Kedartal appears, a glacial lake at 4,912 m (16,116 ft), also known as Shiva’s Lake. It is fed by snowmelt from the peaks around it and is the source of the Kedar Ganga, the river you followed up from Gangotri. On a still day its turquoise water holds a clear reflection of the snow peaks above. Take your time at the shore. Sit, take photographs, or simply stay quiet for a while; you have earned it. Lunch is at the lake, and then you begin the descent to Kedar Kharak, which takes about 3 hours. Going down on scree is where tired legs slip, so shorten your stride and keep your poles planted. Back at camp, the stream and the open meadow feel very welcome after a long day at altitude. What to Expect: - Pre-dawn start for the toughest day of the trek (7–8 hrs) - Steep ~645 m climb over rocky paths, scree and loose boulders; trekking poles strongly recommended - Close views of Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) and Meru (6,672 m) - Kedartal (Shiva’s Lake), source of the Kedar Ganga and the highest point of the trek - Very few water sources – fill all bottles at Kedar Kharak; lunch at the lake - Overnight: Kedar Kharak camp (4,267 m / 14,000 ft) ### Day 5: Kedar Kharak to Gangotri **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,267 m → 3,065 m (10,050 ft) | Distance: 15 km | Duration: 7–8 hrs | Terrain: long descent via Bhoj Kharak, birch forest and the Kedar Ganga trail | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay in Gangotri** Day 5 is the last day on the trail and the longest in distance. You retrace the route down through Bhoj Kharak and along the Kedar Ganga, all the way from 4,267 m to Gangotri. The trail is mostly downhill. That makes it easier on the lungs but much harder on the knees, so trekking poles are highly recommended, along with knee support if you normally use it. Descending well is a skill. Shorten your stride, keep your knees soft and avoid running the steep sections, however tempting it is with Gangotri getting closer. The narrow, rocky stretches you climbed on Day 2 need the same care on the way down. There are a few natural water sources along the route where you can refill your bottles, so you do not need to carry a heavy load of water today. Short, regular breaks help too; a few minutes off your feet every hour gives your knees and thighs a chance to recover before the next long downhill. The walk back through the birch forest and past the waterfalls of the Kedar Ganga looks quite different in this direction, with the valley opening below you instead of above. We recommend an early start so you reach Gangotri in time for the evening Ganga Aarti at the Gangotri temple. The original temple was built by a Nepalese general, and today it draws thousands of pilgrims every year. Close to the temple is Bhagirath Shila, the rock where Raja Bhagirath is believed to have meditated for the salvation of his ancestors. Nearby, the natural Shivling lies submerged in the river, where mythology says the Ganga descended into Shiva’s locks. Spend the evening walking through town past its dharamshalas and ashrams, or sit by the Bhagirathi and let the trek settle in. Tonight you sleep under a roof again. What to Expect: - Longest day by distance: 15 km, 7–8 hrs, mostly downhill - Retrace the route via Bhoj Kharak, birch forest and waterfalls along the Kedar Ganga - Hard on the knees – trekking poles and knee support recommended - A few natural water sources on the way for refills - Evening Ganga Aarti at the Gangotri temple; Bhagirath Shila and the submerged Shivling nearby - Overnight: Gangotri guesthouse / homestay (3,065 m / 10,050 ft) ### Day 6: Drive from Gangotri to Dehradun **Route Details:** **Drive: Gangotri → Dehradun (~241 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 3,065 m → 655 m (2,150 ft) | End: Dehradun by evening** The last day is a long drive back to the plains. After an early breakfast, we recommend leaving Gangotri around 6:30 AM so you reach Dehradun by evening without delays. The road follows the Bhagirathi River downstream, and the first stretch takes you past Dharali and Harshil, known for their apple orchards and calm, open valley floors. Further down you pass through villages, forests and valleys to Uttarkashi, a hub for mountaineering and river rafting. From there the road climbs over to Mussoorie before it drops into the Doon Valley. Watch the Garhwal Himalaya fall away behind you; it is a good moment to look back on how far you climbed in four days on foot. Meals on the road are not included, so plan for food stops along the way. You arrive in Dehradun by evening, and the Kedartal Trek ends here. If you are travelling onward the same night, leave yourself a comfortable margin, as the drive alone takes 10–11 hours. What to Expect: - Early start from Gangotri, around 6:30 AM - Drive along the Bhagirathi past the apple orchards of Dharali and Harshil - Through Uttarkashi and Mussoorie, then down into the Doon Valley - ~241 km, 10–11 hrs on mountain roads; meals in transit are on your own - Trek ends at Dehradun (655 m / 2,150 ft) by evening ## Inclusions 1. Free Trekking Gear (FTG) – A Budget-Saving Game Changer! Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear (FTG) initiative lets you save 100% on gear purchases and rentals — ideal for budget-conscious trekkers!Get access to premium-quality gear, including: - Quechua Trek 100 Shoes (worth ₹6,999) - Quechua SH100 Jacket (-10°C) (worth ₹3,299) - Trekking pole and more – no rental fee (₹3,000 refundable deposit + ₹200 washing charge)! 2. Comfortable Accommodation - Day 1 to Day 5: Full-service camping with large mess tents, tables, and 3-person tents during the trek. - Gangotri Stay: Guesthouse or homestay on a triple/quad sharing basis. 3. Nutritious Meals - All meals are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 dinner - Freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food - Tea, coffee, soups, and snacks are served regularly during the trek 4. Camping & Permit Charges - All necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees included 5. Certified Trek Leaders & Guides - Experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides - Ensuring both safety and local expertise 6. Premium Trekking Equipment Provided - All technical equipment required during the trek is included: - High-quality tents, sleeping bags - Ice axes, micro spikes, gaiters, ropes, and more 7. Safety First – Emergency Support at Every Camp - First-aid kit, medical support, and oxygen cylinders - Stretchers are available at each campsite for emergency evacuation ## Exclusions 1. Food During Transit - Meals during travel to and from the base camp (Gangotri) are not included. You’ll need to arrange your food while in transit. 2. Transport – Basecamp Transfers - Shared taxis from Dehradun to Gangotri and back are omitted. They can be arranged at an additional cost of ₹8,000 per vehicle (one-way, 6-seater), payable directly to the driver. - We help arrange shared cabs for the group; the fare is paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers 3. Backpack Offloading Charges If you choose not to carry your backpack: - ₹3,600 + 5% GST for the full trek - Max weight: 9 kg - No suitcases, trolleys, or duffel bags allowed - Charges may be higher for last-minute offloading requests made at Gangotri 4. Single Tent Occupancy Do you prefer your tent or travelling as a couple? - ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the entire trek - Ideal for solo trekkers seeking privacy or couples sharing a tent - Spacious enough for 1 or 2 people to stay comfortably 5. Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions - If it’s not specifically listed under the “What’s Included” section, it’s not part of the package. Please plan accordingly and ask in advance if you have any questions or concerns. - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. ## How to reach **By Air:- ** Jolly Grant airport is located 25 kilometers from the city, serving to Dehradun. Daily flight from Delhi to Dehradun. **By Train:-** Take the train from Delhi to Dehradun overnight • Nanda Devi Express(12205):- Departure:- 23:50; Arrival:- 05:40 • Dehradun Express(12687):- Departure:- 21:10; Arrival:- 05:00 **By Bus:-** Regular bus service is available from Delhi (ISBT Kashmere Gate) to Dehradun. We suggest that you take only government buses from the ISBT Kashmere Gate. Private buses run from outside ISBT Kashmere Gate and they are not trustable. Usually, the buses left you in the Dehradun ISBT. From there you have to come to Dehradun railway station via Ola/Uber Cab/Auto Rickshaw/Shared Three Wheeler. There are few buses run by the Uttrakhand Government on a daily basis from Dehradun Railway Station to Gangotri. The timing of the bus: 05:30 AM. You would reach the Gangotri by 06:00 PM. ## ATM and mobile network Important Pre-Trek Information • Last ATM – Bhatwari Bhatwari is the last reliable ATM stop before reaching Gangotri (Basecamp). Make sure to withdraw sufficient cash here, as you may not find functional ATMs beyond this point. • Mobile Network – Gangotri Gangotri is the last location with a stable mobile signal, and even here, only BSNL, Jio & Airtel work consistently. Please complete all important calls and inform your family about limited connectivity during the trek. Once you leave Gangotri, mobile signals are generally unavailable. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Kedartal trek? The Kedartal trek is in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand, above the temple town of Gangotri. It starts from Gangotri (3,065 m / 10,050 ft), one of the Char Dham shrines, about 241 km (10–11 hours) by road from Dehradun. From Gangotri the trail follows the Kedar Ganga through pine, deodar and birch forest to Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak, then climbs to Kedartal lake at 4,912 m (16,116 ft). ### How many days is the Kedartal trek? The Kedartal trek takes 6 days from Dehradun to Dehradun, with 4 trekking days covering about 38 km. - **Day 1 and Day 6:** drive between Dehradun and Gangotri (241 km, 10–11 hours) - **Days 2–5:** trekking, 7–15 km a day - **Hardest day:** Day 4, Kedar Kharak to Kedartal and back, 8 km in 7–8 hours - **Longest day:** Day 5, a 15 km descent to Gangotri in 7–8 hours ### What is the altitude of the Kedartal trek? The highest point of the Kedartal trek is Kedartal lake at 4,912 m (16,116 ft). The trek starts at Gangotri (3,065 m / 10,050 ft), so you gain about 1,850 m in three trekking days. - **Gangotri:** 3,065 m (10,050 ft) - **Bhoj Kharak camp:** 3,780 m (12,402 ft) - **Kedar Kharak camp:** 4,267 m (14,000 ft) - **Kedartal:** 4,912 m (16,116 ft) ### How difficult is the Kedartal trek? The Kedartal trek is graded Moderate–Difficult, with steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain and high altitude. It is recommended for fit trekkers with some prior high-altitude trekking experience. - **Day 2:** narrow, rocky sections on steep slopes above the Kedar Ganga - **Day 4:** a steep climb of about 645 m over scree and loose boulders to the lake - **Day 5:** a 15 km descent that is hard on the knees ### Is the Kedartal trek good for beginners? No, the Kedartal trek is not a beginner trek. It is graded Moderate–Difficult and is recommended for trekkers in good physical condition who have some prior high-altitude experience. First-time trekkers should gain experience on an easier high-altitude trek first, as proper preparation and acclimatisation are essential on Kedartal. ### What fitness level do I need for the Kedartal trek? For the Kedartal trek you need good fitness: you should be comfortable walking 5–8 hours a day and handling steep ascents and descents at altitude. - **Train before the trek:** regular cardio exercise and hiking on hills - **Summit day:** 7–8 hours with a steep 645 m climb above 4,267 m - **Descent:** 15 km downhill on Day 5, so build leg strength for the knees ### What is the best time for the Kedartal trek? The best time for the Kedartal trek is May–June and September–October, the two seasons in which Trekkaro runs it. - **May–June:** summer, with days of 12–17°C and nights of -2°C to 7°C - **September–October:** autumn, with cooler days of 3–9°C and freezing nights of -4°C to -1°C ### Is there snow on the Kedartal trek? Snow is possible on the higher sections of the Kedartal trek, which climbs to 4,912 m, so microspikes and gaiters are provided free when the trail needs them. - **Team gear:** ice axes and ropes are carried as part of the included technical equipment - **Eyes:** UV sunglasses prevent snow blindness from the glare - **Hands:** carry a waterproof pair of gloves for snow ### How cold is the Kedartal trek? Nights on the Kedartal trek drop to -2°C to 7°C in May–June and to -4°C to -1°C in September–October. Days are 12–17°C in summer and 3–9°C in autumn. - **Layers:** plan on 4 warm layers – thermals, 2 fleece or woollen layers and a padded jacket - **Jacket:** a -10°C padded jacket comes free with Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear - **Cold mornings:** a balaclava or buff, a woollen cap and gloves for the climb to the lake ### Which mountains can you see on the Kedartal trek? On the Kedartal trek you get close views of Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) and Meru (6,672 m) from the lake, with the Bhagirathi peaks appearing earlier on the trail. - **Day 2:** first glimpses of the Bhagirathi peaks as the forest thins - **Day 3:** first full view of Bhrigupanth from the meadows near Kedar Kharak - **Day 4:** Kedartal lake with Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth and Meru close by - **Wildlife:** a chance to spot blue sheep, goral and mountain birds ### What is the terrain like on the Kedartal trek? The Kedartal trek moves from forest trail to rocky alpine ground: steep riverside paths through pine, deodar and birch forest, open meadows above the tree line, and scree and loose boulders below the lake. - **Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak:** steep riverside trail with narrow, rocky sections - **Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak:** steep birch forest, then open alpine meadow - **Kedar Kharak to Kedartal:** steep rocky trail, scree and loose boulders ### Is there a risk of altitude sickness on the Kedartal trek? Yes, the Kedartal trek reaches 4,912 m and you sleep two nights at Kedar Kharak (4,267 m), so altitude sickness is a real risk and proper acclimatisation is essential. - **Altitude gain:** about 715 m on Day 2 and 487 m on Day 3 - **Summit day:** you climb to the lake and return to sleep at Kedar Kharak - **At every camp:** first-aid kit, medical support, oxygen cylinders and a stretcher for evacuation ### Can trekkers above 58 or 60 do the Kedartal trek? Age alone does not decide it: trekkers above 58 or 60 can attempt the Kedartal trek if their fitness and health allow it, but consult your doctor first, as it is a Moderate–Difficult trek to 4,912 m. - **Medical certificate:** carry one signed by a registered doctor - **Experience:** prior high-altitude trekking is recommended - **Pace:** take breaks as needed on the long climbs and descents ### How do I reach the Kedartal trek base camp? The Kedartal trek starts from Gangotri, 241 km (10–11 hours) by road from Dehradun. Reach Dehradun the day before, as the cab to Gangotri leaves early, around 6:30 AM. - **By air:** Jolly Grant Airport (DED), about 25 km and 45–60 minutes from Dehradun city - **By train:** Dehradun (DDN), with the overnight Nanda Devi Express and day trains such as the Shatabdi, Jan Shatabdi and Vande Bharat from Delhi - **By bus:** government buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun ISBT (6–7 hours) - **Return:** the cab leaves Gangotri at 6:30 AM and reaches Dehradun Railway Station by about 7:00 PM ### Is transport included in the Kedartal trek fee? No, transport is not included in the Kedartal trek fee. A shared cab between Dehradun and Gangotri can be arranged at an additional cost of about ₹8,000 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle. - **Payment:** paid directly to the driver and split among the trekkers - **Route:** via Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Bhatwari, Harshil and Dharali - **Meals in transit:** not included, so budget for food on both drive days ### Where do we stay on the Kedartal trek? On the Kedartal trek you stay 2 nights in a guesthouse or homestay at Gangotri and 3 nights in tents on the trail. - **Gangotri (Day 1 and Day 5):** guesthouse or homestay, triple or quad sharing - **Bhoj Kharak (Day 2):** 3-person tents with a mess tent and tables - **Kedar Kharak (Days 3–4):** camp beside a mountain stream - **Single tent:** ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the whole trek, for 1 or 2 people ### What is the group size on the Kedartal trek and who leads it? Each Kedartal trek batch has a maximum of 20 trekkers, led by experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides. All technical equipment for the trek is included, from tents and sleeping bags to ice axes, microspikes, gaiters and ropes. ### Is the Kedartal trek safe for women trekking alone? Yes, women can join the Kedartal trek on their own: you trek in a batch of up to 20 led by experienced trek leaders and local certified mountain guides. - **Tents:** shared 3-person tents, or a single tent for ₹2,000 + 5% GST for the whole trek - **Stay at Gangotri:** guesthouse or homestay on a triple or quad sharing basis - **Connectivity:** inform your family before you leave Gangotri, as mobile signal is generally unavailable after it ### What food is served on the Kedartal trek? All meals on the Kedartal trek are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 dinner: freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food. - **Through the day:** tea, coffee, soups and snacks are served regularly - **On the trail:** packed lunches, so carry a reusable lunch box - **Not included:** meals during the drive between Dehradun and Gangotri ### Is drinking water available on the Kedartal trek? Water sources on the Kedartal trek are limited, so carry two 1 L bottles and fill them at camp before each day’s walk. - **Day 2:** carry enough water from Gangotri; waterfalls on the way make good rest stops - **Day 4:** very few water sources, so fill every bottle at Kedar Kharak - **Day 5:** a few natural water sources on the way down for refills - **Bottles:** an insulated bottle helps on cold mornings ### Is Free Trekking Gear included on the Kedartal trek? Yes, the Kedartal trek includes Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear: trekking shoes, a -10°C padded jacket and trekking poles, plus microspikes and gaiters when the trail needs them, at no rental fee. - **Deposit:** one refundable deposit of ₹3,000 + ₹200 washing charge covers the whole kit - **Value:** shoes worth ₹6,999 and a jacket worth ₹3,299 - **Own shoes:** your own broken-in, waterproof pair with ankle support is welcome too ### Is backpack offloading available on the Kedartal trek? Yes, backpack offloading on the Kedartal trek costs ₹3,600 + 5% GST for the full trek, for a bag of up to 9 kg. - **Not allowed:** suitcases, trolleys or duffel bags - **Late requests:** charges may be higher if you ask for offloading at Gangotri - **Day pack:** a 20–30 L day pack is required if you offload ### Is there a doctor on the Kedartal trek? No, a doctor is not part of the Kedartal trek package. Safety is handled by experienced trek leaders and local certified mountain guides, with emergency support at every camp. - **At every camp:** first-aid kit, medical support and oxygen cylinders - **Evacuation:** stretchers at each campsite; your travel insurance must cover emergency evacuation - **Your part:** carry a personal medical kit and consult your doctor before the trek ### What documents do I need for the Kedartal trek? For the Kedartal trek you need a government photo ID, a medical certificate signed by a registered doctor and travel insurance. - **Photo ID:** original and a photocopy (passport, Aadhaar card, driving licence or voter ID) - **Medical certificate:** signed by a registered doctor - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included; it must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation ### Do I need a permit for the Kedartal trek? Yes, but all necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees are included in the Kedartal trek fee, so you do not need to arrange them. Just carry your original government photo ID and a photocopy on the trek. ### Is there mobile network and an ATM on the Kedartal trek? No, there is no ATM or reliable mobile network on the Kedartal trail. Gangotri is the last place with a stable signal (BSNL, Jio and Airtel), and Bhatwari has the last reliable ATM. - **Network:** once you leave Gangotri, mobile signals are generally unavailable - **Charging:** there is no charging on the trail, so carry a power bank - **Cash:** Uttarkashi ATMs often run out, so withdraw what you need in Dehradun, including your share of the cab fare ### Can I leave extra luggage at the Kedartal trek base camp? Yes, you can leave luggage you do not need on the Kedartal trek at the base camp in Gangotri free of charge and collect it when you return. Do not keep any valuables in the luggage you leave behind. ### What is special about the lake on the Kedartal trek? Kedartal, known as Shiva’s Lake, sits at 4,912 m (16,116 ft) and is the source of the Kedar Ganga. It is the highest point of the Kedartal trek, with close views of Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth and Meru. - **Gangotri temple:** an evening visit to this Char Dham shrine on Day 1 - **Ganga Aarti:** evening aarti at the Gangotri temple when you return on Day 5 - **Nearby:** Bhagirath Shila and the submerged Shivling at Gangotri ### How far in advance should I book the Kedartal trek? Book the Kedartal trek at least 30 days in advance, especially for the peak months of May–June and September–October. Trains to Dehradun should also be booked well in advance for the peak season. ### What is the minimum age for the Kedartal trek? The minimum age for the Kedartal trek is 16 years, because it is a Moderate–Difficult trek to 4,912 m. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian. Prior high-altitude experience is recommended. There is no upper age limit; trekkers above 60 can join if their fitness and health allow it, after consulting a doctor. --- Book or ask questions: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/kedartal-trek · WhatsApp +91 80576 54321