If imagination is slipping through snow-filled forests, lying under towering pines and standing on a golden clad summit at the sunrise your dreams are made of, the quench of those dreams lies in this pack of 6 incredible days. Considered one of the best winter treks in India, Kedarkantha offers a great combination of easy and thrilling trails, which is why it remains popular with both novices and veterans.
Situated in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand within the unadulterated environs of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Kedarkantha Trek is a trek that strikes the right cords in terms of beauty, excitement and ease.
Why Special about Kedarkantha Trek
A True Winter Wonderland
In winter, the entire trail is deeply covered in fluffy snow. The forests appear magical, the camps shining against starry skies, and the summit ridge a dazzling white walkway. It’s possibly the nearest you get of a Himalayan snow experience on an easy trek.
Ideal for First-Time Trekkers
The Kedarkantha This is the best trek for beginners who are not seasoned hikers incorporating a fun filled adventure in Uttarakhand.
No technical climbing
Well-marked route
Daily trekking distance is comfortable
Summit climb not too hard for the trek Difficulty: Not tough.
This also makes it as the best trek to begin your Himalayan adventure!
Stunning Summit Sunrise
The summit at 12500 ft in the wee hours of the morning is an icing on the cake. GOLDEN DAWN As the snow is kissed by the morning sun, Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Black Peak glow in gold — a moment that makes a trekker feel alive.
Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
Lovely drive through the mountain with forested areas and rivers and small villages. Sankri is that base village where you halt for the night.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Altitude: 9,100 feet (Sankri); 9,150 feet (Juda Ka Talab)
Distance: 4 km
Time taken: Packed with excitement
Difficulty level: Easy
From an almost-emptied village the day before to a whole new world on the second day—this is how every trek begins.
A gradual walk through thick pine and maple woods. Juda Ka Talab is a picturesque lake with tall trees in its surrounding and amazing campsite popularly camped especially in winters.
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Base Camp
Today, we drove from Bhangiar Top to JKA after trek.
The trail emerges into broad meadows with mountain vistas. The base camp is located at a magnificent place, it’s under snow in winter.
Day 4: Base Camp to the Summit & Return
The day of the summit begins in total darkness. The ascent is met with a stiff challenge but also great reward. Once you have taken in the summit view head back down to camp.
Day 5: Return to Sankri
A relatively smooth down route through forest back to where you started.
Best time to do Kedarkantha Trek
Winter (December–March)
Deep snow on pretty much the whole trail
Frozen lake and icy meadows
Clear summit views
The classic Kedarkantha fellow trek is best experienced during these months.
Autumn (October–November)
Crisp weather
Clear skies
Colourful forests
Summer (April–June)
Less snow
Pleasant temperatures
Good for beginners who like their weather mild
Travel by monsoon is not advised; the trails are wet and slippery.
Difficulty Level of Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha trek is Easy to Moderate in terms of difficulty.
It demands a general level of fitness, particularly for summit day.
The trek is mostly well suited for beginners and the gradual ascent in altitude ensure that it is safe and comfortable for beginner trekkers.
What to Pack for Kedarkantha
Clothing
Thermal layers
Fleece jackets
Down jacket
Waterproof outer shell
Gloves, warm socks, woollen cap
Essential Gear
Sturdy trekking shoes
Backpack (50–60L)
Trekking pole
Headlamp
Water bottle (insulated in winter)
Must-Carry Items
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Personal medicines
Power bank
Snacks/Energy bars
The right winter wear is essential (certainly for very active hikes) when trekking between December and February.
How to travel from Dehradun to Kedarkantha Base (Sankri)
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest railway station: Dehradun
Sankri is 8–10 hours mountain drive away from Dehradun
Click for detail information about vehicle hire Shared Jeeps (the local mode) Private taxis, vehicles.
The usual practice is to arrive a day early and rest before starting the trek.
Reasons to pick the Kedarkantha Trek
It provides a genuine Himalayan summit experience, without requiring technical abilities.
The landscape is transformed — forests of trees, meadows, snowfields, frozen lakes, a panoramic summit.
Great for beginners searching for their first high-altitude trek.
One of the most photogenic winter treks in India.
The Kedarkantha Trek is a trek that endows you to excite your heart and mind with unforgettable mountain memories. It’s easy, gorgeous and honestly magical — something every trek lover should do once.
