Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in India, located in the mountains of Uttarakhand. Standing tall at 12,500 ft, the Kedarkantha summit offers breathtaking 360° views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana.
Famous for its scenic pine forests, frozen lakes, charming Himalayan villages, and mesmerizing sunrise views, this trek is ideal for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Best undertaken between November and April, Kedarkantha transforms into a magical snow covered wonderland during winters.
Itinerary
- Arrive in Dehradun early morning and drive to Sankri, the base camp for the trek.
- Scenic drive through Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, and Yamuna & Tons river valleys.
- Experience a gradual change in landscapes-from plains to dense pine-covered mountains.
- Get your mandatory trek briefing and know the safety protocols.
- Enjoy a hot dinner and rest before the trek begins.
- Overnight Stay: Guesthouse / Homestay at Sankri
- Altitude Gain: 6,400 ft
- Start trekking through dense pine and oak forests with soothing chirps of Himalayan birds.
- Spot wildlife like langurs and colorful Himalayan monals if lucky.
- The trail passes scenic clearings with panoramic views of snow-covered peaks.
- Learn about local folklore and stories from your trek leader.
- Settle into your campsite near Juda Ka Talab, surrounded by natural beauty.
- Overnight Stay: Tents at Juda Ka Talab
- Altitude Gain: 2,700 ft
- Ascend through beautiful forests opening into breathtaking meadows.
- Witness your first full view of Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks.
- Enjoy multiple scenic breaks at small clearings-perfect for photos.
- Learn basic snow-walking techniques from your trek leader if snow is present.
- Experience the chilly Himalayan evening and prepare for an early summit push.
- Overnight Stay: Tents at Kedarkantha Base Camp
- Altitude Gain: 2,150 ft
- Begin your summit push before sunrise for spectacular golden-hour views.
- Reach the Kedarkantha Summit at 12,500 ft, one of the highest accessible winter trek peaks in Uttarakhand.
- Witness 360° Himalayan panoramas including peaks like Black Peak, Ranglana, and
- Har Ki Dun valley.
- Celebrate your summit victory with group photos and enjoy a short rest at the top.
- Descend carefully back to Kedarkantha Base Camp for a hot lunch.
- Continue trekking to Juda Ka Talab campsite for a relaxing overnight stay.
- Overnight Stay: Tents at Juda Ka Talab
- Altitude Gain: 1,250 ft ascent, then 3,400 ft descent
- Enjoy an early breakfast at Juda Ka Talab with scenic Himalayan views.
- After breakfast, trek back to Sankri through the beautiful pine and oak forests.
- Freshen up at Sankri and begin your drive to Dehradun.
- Relish your last glimpses of the Himalayas along the route.
- Reach Dehradun by late evening, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.
- Trip Ends at Dehradun
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Transportation: Dehradun Sankri Dehradun
- Accommodation: Guesthouse/homestay in Sankri
- Accommodation during trek in shared tents (usually 3-4 persons per tent)
- All Meals from Day 1 Dinner to Day 5 Breakfast
- Professional trek leader & certified guides
- Experienced cooks & supporting staff
- First aid & oxygen cylinder for emergencies
- Forest entry permits & trek fees
- Trekking equipment: Tent, Sleeping Bags, Mat, Toilet Tent, Kitchen Gears
- Crampons & Gaiters (if required)
- Meals during transit to/from Dehradun
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, etc.)
- Porter or mule charges for personal luggage
- Emergency evacuation or travel insurance
- Any extra costs (approx. 5% GST)
- Anything not mentioned in the Inclusions
Things to Carry
Make sure to pack wisely for the trek to stay warm, dry, and comfortable in all weather conditions:
- Waterproof & windproof down jacket
- Thermal inner layers (upper & lower)
- 2-3 full-sleeve dry-fit T-shirts
- Trek pants (avoid jeans)
- Fleecejacket/sweater
- Woolen socks (3 pairs)
- Warm gloves + waterproof gloves
- Woolen cap/neck warmer
- Raincoat/Poncho
- Trekking shoes with good grip
- UV-protected sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended), lip balm & moisturizer
- Personal water bottle (minimum 1L)/Thermo flask
- Trekking pole (recommended)
- Head torch with extra batteries
- Personal medications
- Power bank & chargers
Things to Remember
- Carry a photocopy of your ID card, which needs to be submitted for trek registration.
- No refund will be initiated if the trek is canceled due to climate conditions, government regulations, or if the trekker cancels the trek by themselves during the journey.
- Follow the trek leader’s instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Avoid littering; always carry a small trash bag for proper waste disposal.
- Stay hydrated and keep energy-rich snacks handy.
- Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are not available in remote trekking areas.
- Respect local culture, traditions, and customs.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes by dressing in layers.
- Mobile network connectivity is limited; inform your family and friends in advance.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation 30 days before departure: Full refund (minus processing charges)
- Cancellation 15-29 days before departure: 50% refund
- Cancellation less than 15 days before departure: No refund
- Trek Transfer: The trek can be transferred to another person if requested at least 7 days before departure. Any additional cost due to name changes in permits or logistics will be borne by the participant.
Note: The cancellation policy is subject to change based on weather conditions, government regulations, or unforeseen circumstances. In case of trek cancellation due to natural disasters or emergencies, alternative options or partial refunds may be provided.
Trek Map
Trek map image is not uploaded.
FAQ's
Most easy–moderate treks require you to comfortably walk 8–10 km per day with a backpack. If you can jog 3–4 km in 25–30 minutes without stopping, you’re good to start.
Choose treks with 5–6 days total, max altitude ≤ 12,000 ft, and daily altitude gain ≤ 600–800 m. Examples: Kedarkantha, Dayara Bugyal, Triund, Hampta Pass (easier season).
- Layering: base + fleece + padded jacket
- Waterproof shell (jacket & pants)
- Trekking shoes, 3–4 pairs of socks
- Gloves, beanie, sun cap
- 1–2L water bottle or hydration pack
- Headlamp, sunscreen (SPF 50), lip balm
- Personal meds & basic first-aid
Trekking shoes (ankle support, stiffer sole) are safer on rocky or snowy terrain. Trail runners are lighter and fine for dry, well-made trails.
- Ascend gradually; hydrate well
- Eat light, avoid alcohol & smoking
- Know symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite
- Tell your leader early—do not ignore signs
- Follow evacuation & medication protocol advised by your trek operator/doctor
Highly recommended. Pick a policy covering high-altitude trekking, evacuation, trip cancellation, and medical expenses.
Wake up by ~6 am, hot breakfast, hike 4–6 hours with snack breaks, reach camp by early afternoon, hot lunch, rest/side walks, early dinner, and sleep by 9 pm.
Expect dry pit or bio-toilets at camps. Carry toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a personal hygiene kit. Follow Leave No Trace principles.
Yes, with trek-specific seasons: monsoon = lush meadows but slippery trails; winter = snow & cold, need proper gear. Always check seasonal suitability.
3–4 weeks out: 4–5 days/week of brisk walking or jogging + 2 days of strength (squats, lunges, core) + one long hike each week if possible.
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