Overview
Kedarkantha is considered to be one of the greatest winter treks in India, and it is one of the few Himalayan treks that is still accessible even during the winter months. Kedarkantha trip is ideal for individuals wishing to begin their adventure into the Himalayas or even experienced trekkers looking for a quick escape. Trekking through snowy routes and getting a peek of mountain life even in the dead of winter is a unique experience on this trek.
Because of the dense oak and pine woods, wide-open green meadows, tranquil lakes, picture-perfect campsites, and panoramic vistas of towering Himalayan peaks that dot the Kedarkantha trek route, it is the ideal combination of challenge (as well as adventure) and beautiful scenery.
At a Glance: The Kedarkantha Trek
- Moderate level of difficulty (Suitable for Beginners)
- Kedarkantha Trail: Dense Pine and Oak woods, broad meadows, and snow during the winter months characterize this trail.
- Uttarakhand is the location.
- Sankri is the name of the base camp (200 kms from Dehradun)
- Kedarkantha’s elevation ranges from 6,000 feet near Sankri to 12,500 feet at the summit of Kedarkantha Peak.
- Kedarkantha Trekking Trail Length: 25 kilometers (Approx)
- Trekking the Kedarkantha Trail takes four days (Sankri – Sankri).
- The best time to go on the Kedarkantha Trek is from December to April.
The Kedarkantha trip begins at the picturesque town of Sankri in Uttarakhand, which is located at an elevation of 6,000 feet and is the starting point for the journey. The Kedarkantha trip, which offers panoramic views of snow-clad peaks practically the whole way, takes you through dense pine and oak tree forests, frozen lakes, and icy pathways on its way to the Kedakantha peak, which stands at an elevation of 12,500 feet and is the highest point in Nepal. The full walk, from Sankri to Dehradun and back, takes around 4 days, not including the time spent traveling to and from Dehradun and other destinations.
Best time
Although the Kedarkantha trek can be completed throughout the year, it is one of the few Himalayan treks that is accessible during the winter months. It is best during the winter months between December and the end of April. The Kedarkantha journey is not too difficult, thanks to the appropriate quantity of snow and the absence of significant temperature variations. As a result, it is acceptable for first-time hikers as well as experienced trekkers.
The Trek
- 6 kilometers
- 6 – 7 hours in total duration
- Altitude ranges from 12,500 to 8,900 feet.
Approximately 2 hours distant from the base camp, the top of Kedarkantha is marked by a Trishul pointing upwards. When beginning the walk before dawn (as early as 3 AM), it is best to reach the summit by 7 AM in time to witness the stunning sunrise (which normally occurs about 7 AM). Although the path begins with a gentle ascent, as you approach closer to the summit, the terrain gets more difficult, with inclines reaching almost 80 degrees at certain points.
The Kedarkantha peak, in addition to providing stunning views of the dawn, also provides 360-degree views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including the Gangotri, Yamunotri, Chanshal Pass, and Kinnaur Kailash ranges.
From the peak, descend to the Kedarkantha base camp and then farther down to the Hargaon campground, which are both located near the summit.
Options for Meals During the Kedarkantha Trek
With the exception of Sankri, there are just a few tea shops along the path that provide a few modest alternatives such as Maggi and a variety of snacks. Choosing a trekking package that includes both meals and lodging would be your best choice for putting together the necessary arrangements. Those who choose to travel alone will, of course, need to bring the necessary supplies as well as a portable stove and fuel.
