If you enjoy hiking, the Kedarkantha trek is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. Because the Kedarkantha trek location is densely forested, going there is a fantastic option. The Kedarkantha trek package is a 5-day walk that is packed with adventure and pleasure. You will get the opportunity to go on a snow walk in a magnificent natural setting. All of the essential and important information about the Kedarkantha trek - the kedarkantha trek difficulty, the kedarkantha trek height, the kedarkantha trek route map, the kedarkantha trek cost, and much more is provided in great detail here to assist you in planning your trip to the Kedarkantha.

Introduction

The three elements that make up the Kedarkantha top are magnificent snow, dense white clouds, and a panorama that one will never forget. Kedarkantha, which is located at 12,500 feet above sea level and is rated a moderate to somewhat easy walk in terms of difficulty, meets all of the criteria for a wonderful winter trek. The view from the top of the mountain summit, as well as the amazing journey through the snow, are two reasons why anyone would want to walk upwards on the Kedarkantha trek.

Kedarkantha got its name from a legendary tradition that says the Kedarnath temple was meant to be erected there first. However, those who were working on the Kedarnath sculptures heard a cow's voice nearby and, believing it to be a bad omen according to Hindu mythology at the time, stopped working in the middle.

They were only able to sculpt up to the neck of Lord Shiva's Sculpture, hence the mountain was given the name Kedarkantha. Aside from the historical mythology, Kedarkantha has a lot to offer, including one of the most beautiful sunset/sunrise vistas in the world and much more. One of its unique features is that it is suitable for beginners, so if you have always wanted to go on a trek but have never done so, Kedarkantha appears to be a good location to start.

There's a lot more about Kedarkantha trek location in your mind, so let's go over it one by one. All you have to do now is keep reading to find out why Kedarkantha is the place to go this winter, and trust me, it is.

  • Start and End point of the trek: Sankri village
  • Duration: 5 days and 4 nights
  • Cost: 4000-6000 INR
  • Distance: 20-25 km
  • Height: 12,500 feet
  • Difficulty level: Easy to moderate 
  • Temperature: Day (8°C to 15°C) and Night: (-5°C to 3°C)
  • Best time to do Kedarkantha trek: November to April
  • Railway station: Dehradun is the nearest railway station
  •  Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Best Kedarkantha Trek Time

The Kedarkantha trek is one of the few in the Indian Himalayas that may be done throughout the year. Except for July and August, the Kedarkantha trek is open for 10 months of the year (the peak rainy months in Uttarakhand). The ten months are divided into four seasons —

  • Winter – December to February
  • Spring – March and April
  • Summer – May and June
  • Autumn – Mid September to November

In terms of terrain, difficulty, and weather, each of these seasons offers something unique to offer. In a nutshell, let me describe the tiny alterations that you will notice over the year. This should assist you in better planning your expedition.

Kedarkantha in December, January, and February

Kedarkantha is most well-known as a winter journey, and for good reason. Anyone can be made weak in the knees by the gorgeous snow-covered environment and an exciting summit ascent, especially in the winter. In reality, Indiahikes discovered it, recorded it, and introduced it to Indian hiking as a winter trek. Kedarkantha is an excellent winter hike, particularly for novices. What makes it ideal is the way it balances beauty with adventure in the correct proportions. You will be trekking through deep, snow-covered woodlands. You'll learn to set up camp in clearings amidst dense snowdrifts.

Kedarkantha in March and April

In March, Kedarkantha still has a lot of snow, especially in the upper campgrounds towards the summit. Rhododendrons and newly exposed grasses will also be blossoming. This is particularly impressive when the splash of colours contrasts with the snow backdrop as you ascend higher. By April, the snow in Kedarkantha had melted. In April, you must visit Kedarkantha to see the lovely scenery spring to life after its long winter sleep.

Kedarkantha in May and June

In May, Kedarkantha is characterised by the brilliant morning sun. The cold is not as severe at night as it is during the other months. In June, there is some rain in Kedarkantha. Only in July does the monsoon arrive. The entire trail turns a beautiful shade of green. In May and June, there are fewer people since most of them have moved on to higher altitude hikes. Overall, if you want to appreciate the walk-in more solitude, this is a perfect time to go.

Kedarkantha in September, October, and November

In September, right after the monsoon, the entire journey comes to life. During the months of September and October, the meadows and woodlands are fresh and lively. The air is fresh, and the upper Himalayan vistas are breathtaking. As we approach November, the walk becomes increasingly frigid. In November, the sensation of impending winter sets in. For the trekker, the sights and terrain remain clear and attractive.

How To Reach To Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha trek is not very challenging. Once you are in Dehradun, you can easily reach the base campsite using the local transportation.

By Air:

The nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant Airport, which is around 25 kilometers from the city. Dehradun is served by a daily aircraft from Delhi. To go to the base camp, use a cab or take public transportation after you are in Dehradun.

By Train:

From Delhi, you may take the train to Dehradun. There are frequent trains that go from Delhi to Dehradun, so you may take an overnight train from Delhi to Dehradun and then take a private vehicle or bus to Sankri.

By Road:

You may take a bus from Delhi to Dehradun on a regular basis. There are Delhi government buses that run, thus it is recommended that you take one from Delhi's Kashmere gate to Dehradun. After arriving in Dehradun, you can take public transportation or rent a private vehicle to get to Sankri.

Kedarkantha Trek Package Details

It takes about 5 days to complete the Kedarkantha trek route map. The hiking distance may also be covered in 6 or 7 days. Because you don't usually go on solo trek tours in this area, you'll have to move according to your guide's recommendations; nonetheless, the best time would be 5 days, and the schedule for that is given below:

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri

The Kedarkantha trek's base camp is in Sankri, which is around 186 kilometers from Dehradun. So, the Kedarkantha trek begins at Sankri, and you may get there by taking both the rails and the roads to Dehradun. You may alternatively arrive by plane and then take a local bus or hire a vehicle or cab to get to the base camp area.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Taal

Your teacher will give you spikes and gaiters to wear during the journey for your safety. On the second day of the walk, you will have to traverse a total distance of 5 kilometers from Sankri to Juda Ka Taal. You will begin by walking for 10 minutes to warm up. You'll pass through Swargarohini on the way and arrive in Juda ka Taal in the afternoon, where you'll spend the night.

Day 3: Juda Ka Taal to Kedarkantha base camp

On the third day, you will begin forming the Juda ka Taal, and by late evening, you will have arrived at the Kedarkantha base camp, where you will be able to enjoy the tranquillity of nature's splendour and will spend the night there after supper. The elevation of this location is roughly 11,200 feet, and the overall trekking distance on the third day will be 3 to 4 kilometers.

Day 4: Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha

This will be a long day because you must travel 6 kilometers. You'll spend some time exploring the surrounding areas before sitting down to have your lunch. You will leave after lunch and return from the peak. You will view Black Peak, Gangotri, Bandarpoonch, and many other locations along the way, before continuing on to Hargaon on the same day.

Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri to Dehradun

You will return to Sankari and then to Dehradun on the last day of your journey. The overall distance to cover on the final day is likewise roughly 6 kilometers, so it will be a long and leisurely day. While returning, you'll have the opportunity to visit some of the local communities and have a break in between meals. When you return to Sankri, take a day off and then leave for Dehradun the next day.

Things To Carry On Kedarkantha Trek

Mandatory Documents

Please bring the following documents with you:- 

  • Original and photocopy of government photo identification card (Aadhar Card, Driver's License, Voters ID, and so on)
  • Foreigners need a passport and a visa
  • Medical certification
  • Certificates of Declaration

Necessary Items for trekkers

  • Backpack (50 to 60 liters) - A journey requires a well-built backpack with enough support. (It's critical to have a rain cover).
  • Sturdy Trekking Shoes - The shoes should be sturdy and provide adequate support. People sometimes wonder if sports shoes would be comfortable, but it is best to pack the appropriate trekking footwear.

Clothing

  • Trek Pants – Because jeans are never appropriate for a journey, you'll need at least 2-3 pairs of trekking trousers for shorter excursions and more for longer treks.
  • Jacket – Jackets are essential to have on a hike since they protect you from the elements. So, if you're going on a week-long hike, bring two coats.
  • Layers of warm Clothing - Warm woollen layers or fleece should be carried. Carry more layers in the winter (at least two to three) and fewer garments in the summer.
  • Thermals – Because the temperature drops at night, thermals may be required.
  • T-Shirts – Bring your quick-drying t-shirts.
  • Poncho – If you're going hiking on a rainy day, they'll keep you dry.

Other necessary items

  • Hiking Pole
  • 2 Water Bottles
  • Cap or Balaclava
  • Sunglasses
  • Slippers
  • Woolen and Waterproof Gloves
  • Socks (Woolen and Regular)
  • Sunscreen
  • Torch headlight
  • Personal Toiletry Items – (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer, etc.)

Personal Medical Kit

  • Diamox 
  • Digene 
  • Crocin Advance 
  • Aspirin/Combiflam
  • Disprin 
  • Avomine 
  • Avil 
  • Norflox TZ & Lomofen
  • Ranitidine 
  • Volini/Moov spray 
  • Betadine/Savlon 
  • ORS
  • Band-aid
  • Cotton
  • Stretchable/Elastic bandage
  • Gauze

Major Attractions/Nearby Places

The following is a list of scenic wonders that you must see when hiking. Make certain you go through these events.

1. Pinnacle View

When you reach the peak, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Garhwal mountains. Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Swargarohini are all sights to behold. This view makes the effort necessary to reach the top worthwhile. From here, you can also see the well-known Har khi Dun Valley.

2. Beautiful Campsites

The campsites on this walk are among the best in India's Himalayas. Khujey, a meadow surrounded by beautiful green woods, is one such location. Bhoja Dadi is a beautiful campground that is closer to the Kedarkantha trek.

3. The Kotgaon-Kedarkantha Route

During your hike, be sure to stop at Kotgaon, since this village is nothing short of a fairytale setting. The Devkyara and Har ki Dun valleys form the backdrop. Make careful you don't travel this road during a snowstorm because it is frequently blocked.

Tips To Know When Going For Kedarkantha Trek

  • The temperature ranges from 15°C to - 5°C, so bring plenty of warm clothing if you're going on the Kedarkantha trek in December or any other month of the year.
  • It is usually beneficial to have an expert and guide with you since you will have a better understanding of the unfamiliar location.
  • It is critical to have entry permits and other relevant paperwork on hand.
  • On the journey, you should bring trekking shoes, slippers, sunscreen creams, windcheaters, raincoats, and UV-protected sunglasses, as well as water bottles, personal medicine, a walking stick, a torch, and first-aid supplies.
  • Carrying additional energy cells for the flashlight and torch will be beneficial, as low temperatures can cause cells to malfunction.
  • Because the weather is cold and freezing out there, it's a good idea to maintain a good supply of moisturiser on hand to keep your skin healthy.
  • The concept of storing additional food and dry items is fantastic.
  • Carry no more than 10 kg of luggage or weight since it will be tough to carry.
  • Keep a sufficient quantity of money with you so that you do not run out of money in the middle of your walk.
  • If you have respiratory difficulties or are acrophobic, stay away from such hikes.
  • It is strongly advised against visiting this location during the monsoon season since there will be no hiking available owing to excessive snowfall in the area.
  • You should not smoke when trekking since it would take additional oxygen, which is difficult to come by in the highlands.
  • Such a journey should be avoided by anyone with a heart condition, high blood pressure, or ellipses.
  • Because Kedarkantha is said to be Lord Shiva's throat and has sacred importance, do not try to offend the locals' religious emotions.
  • Consumption of alcohol and other intoxicating goods when trekking dehydrates your body, therefore avoid it.
  • Keep in mind that dehydration is one of the causes of altitude sickness, so stay hydrated.
  • Due to the low temperature, trekking at night is not recommended.
  • To stay safe, avoid leaving your group, guide, and follow the directions.
  • While trekking, avoid using headphones or earphones and focus on writing the locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Kedarkantha trek a suitable trek for beginners?

Yes, this trek is recommended for novice hikers. With the exception of the uphill ascent from the Kedarkantha base, the difficulty level ranges from simple to moderate, making it an ideal site for a beginner to begin trekking.

2. Which is the best month for Kedarkantha trekking? What is the average temperature at that time?

The temperature ranges from 15 to -5 degrees Celsius. The normal temperature ranges from 8°C to 15°C during the day, and from -5°C to 3°C at night. The months of December to February are ideal for this expedition.

3. What is the most important thing to avoid in the Kedarkantha trek?

Due to religious sensitivities, it is strictly forbidden to use alcohol or any intoxicating items when trekking in this region. It is also recommended that you should not hike at night, as this may not be safe for you.

4. Why is the Kedarkantha trek a popular winter trek?

Winter treks are named after the hypnotic white snow, the beauty of pine trees, and the sensation of touching the sky, rich green terrain, and frozen ponds that provide a very pleasing picture.

The Bottom Line

Here's the charming Kedarkantha trek that will steal your heart! Kedarkantha is a safe place to visit. When you become tired of the trip, the peaceful and soothing water streams are more like sound healing treatment, and this trek is a delightful experience no matter what month you travel. In the winter, frozen lakes are ideal for skiing, while in the summer, quiet waters reflect lovely tall alpine oak trees, relaxing your eyes. The cosmic perspective and starry evenings make you feel as though you're constantly on the ground.

Doesn't that sound like a wonderful setting?

If you answered yes, then go ahead and start planning your vacation and preparing your bags.


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