Kedarkantha Trek Guide: Feel the bliss of Lord Shiva

Popularly called the Queen of Winter treks, Kedarkantha Trek happens to be one of the most lively winter treks in India and a treasure of trekkers due to its relative ease. This beginner-level trek looks super astonishing during the winter months when the entire region gets covered with thick sheets of snow from December to April. This awe-inspiring trek offers a unique experience to the trekkers with a trail passing through thick dense forests passing through snowy tracks, thick dense forests, patches of green meadows, and panoramic landscapes.

Kedarkantha is one of those infrequent treks amidst the Himalayas that remain accessible even during the winter months. The best thing is that this trek is best for both experienced trekkers as well as those who are relatively new to the uncertainty of the wilderness. However, Kedarkantha Peak is accessible throughout the year yet the most recommended time to go for this adventurous holiday is during the winter months.

Major Highlights of Kedarkantha Trek      

Witnessing thick sheets of snow blankets around you in almost every direction after climbing up to a certain height. The regions falling en-route receive enough snowfall from December and April.

You get to enjoy an ample opportunity to enjoy camping under the starry sky at beautiful campsites like Hargaon, Sankri Base Camp, Juda Ka Talab, etc.

Capturing the mesmerizing views of the panoramic landscapes, lush green valleys, colorful meadows, thick dense forests, and the snow-covered mountain peaks.

Watching the soul-soothing beauty of sunrise by standing at the top of this hugely elevated mountain peak.

Location of Kedarkantha Peak       

This magnificent mountain peak in Uttarakhand is nestled beautifully at a height of 3850 meters amidst the Garhwal Himalayan ranges. Although, a trekker can plan their Kedarkantha trek expedition in any of the months as the trail is accessible throughout the year but winter happens to be the most recommended time for this adventure activity. While ascending this summit, the trekkers pass through the popular Govind National Park where they can enjoy a wildlife experience.

On reaching the top of this giant peak, you get to have glimpses of other gorgeous peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Ranglana, and Kalanag peaks.

Also Read: Famous Trekking Destinations in Uttarakhand

Mythology about Kedarkantha Peak Trek

None of the articles on popular travel destinations in Uttarakhand is complete without mentioning its mythological connotations associated with the particular sites. Almost every site in Uttarakhand are reckoned for their mythological connotations and Kedarkantha is not different in any term.

According to the legends, it is believed that Lord Shiva was meditating here but once a bull disturbed his concentration hence, he shifted from Kedarkantha to Kedarnath.

How to Reach Kedarkantha Peak

One has to pass through the quaint Sankri Village which is almost 200 km away from Dehradun. Reaching Dehradun from Delhi is not very challenging as both the cities are well connected via roadways, railways, and airways. Upon your arrival at Sankri Village, you can start trekking towards this magnificent mountain peak in Uttarakhand.

No matter what route you are taking and which transport you are opting for as every journey has its charm and offers a different experience.

Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the nearest airport to Kedarkantha.

Nearest Railway Station
Dehradun Railway Station and Haridwar Railway Station are the two nearest railheads from where you can start your drive towards the decided destination by roadways.

By Bus
Traveling by bus is however a bit tiring but offers you a great opportunity to witness the irresistible scenic vistas falling en-route.

Best Time to Plan your Kedarkantha Peak Trek

However, the destination can be explored all around the year but keeping weather and climatic condition in mind before commencing your trek will make your journey easier and hassle-free.

The most ideal time for this enthralling trek- April to June and then October to March are the two peak seasons when you can enjoy this adventure to the fullest.

The Climate in the Summer Months

• One of the most recommended periods to quench your thirst for trekking to Kedarkantha is the summer season i.e. between April and June. During these months, the temperature ranges to an average level resulting in mild and pleasing weather. The trekkers also get to see the clear views of the neighboring mountains and the surrounding natural wonders.

The Climate in the Winter Months

• Although completing this trek is not very difficult during summer and monsoon months but it becomes herculean during the winter months when the entire trail gets covered with blankets of snow. Undoubtedly, the trail looks the best in this season, and indeed, pretty difficult too. We strictly advise the trekkers to carry heavy woolens with them so that they can cope up with the bone-tearing cold climate.

The Climate in Monsoon Months

• Be ready to face the unavoidable challenges if you are planning to ascend the Kedarkantha peak during the monsoon months as the region receives huge rainfall. High altitude areas like Kedarkantha are highly prone to landslides hence, you might get trapped and your trip gets extended. But the scenic view of the surrounding mountains and the panoramic landscapes make it worth all the effort.

Brief Itinerary to Cover this Exciting Trek

Day 1- Dehradun to Sankri

On the first day of this trekking expedition, you will be reaching Dehradun first and then from there, you will have to start your drive towards Sankri which is an ideal base camp to enjoy an overnight halt.

Day 2- Sankri- Juda Ka Talab

Today you will proceed towards Juda Ka Talab, another gorgeous site falling en-route. Enjoy witnessing the incredible views of the surrounding mountains and water streams.

Day 3- Juda Ka Talab- Kedarkantha Base

Day 4- Base Camp- Kedarkantha Peak- Base Camp – Hargaon

Day 5- Hargaon – Sankri

Day 6- Sankri- Dehradun

Things to Carry along with you for this Adventure

1. ID Card, a good pair of trekking shoes, trekking pole, rucksack, etc. are must to be carried things.
2. As you are climbing to the height of 3810 meters and going to face direct sun rays hence, you are highly advised to carry sunscreen lotion, an umbrella, hat, lip balm sunglasses, and a full sleeve t-shirt to prevent skin damage.
3. Carrying snacks like candies, cookies, and biscuits will keep you energized throughout the trail and to stay hydrated you shouldn’t forget to keep a water bottle always handy.
4. Warm clothes like a windproof jacket, inner fleece gloves, thermal wear, socks, and caps must be there in your backpacks as the temperature starts dropping down with the rise in altitude.
5. Toiletries, an extra memory card for the camera, torch, power bank, waterproof trek suit, UV protected sunglasses are a few other essentials that you must have on this trek.

Accommodation at Kedarkantha Trek

You will have to compromise with your luxury stay as there is no hotel, resort, or guesthouse established anywhere on this trekking trail. Only adventurers visit this place and staying at the campsite and in the tents adds more thrill and excitement to your adventure holiday. Hence, throughout the journey, you are going to stay in camps and tents only. You can opt for a homestay facility in Sankri but that also depends upon the availability of rooms.

Also, if you are looking to buy important stuff then you will have to visit the market in Sankri as there is no other market in the region. Buy enough snacks from here to keep your tummy full and body energized.

Foods to Binge on Here

Being an uninhabited site by people, Kedarkantha doesn’t offer you an exotic range of delicacies and you don’t even find a roadside Dhaba or hotel. Also, only a few shacks are open from where you can buy eateries but we would advise you not to be completely dependent on them as they are open for a specific period only.

Trekkers need to carry raw materials and vegetables to prepare their food at the campsite as this is the only option to satisfy your hunger needs at such a highly elevated place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Certain very obvious questions run in almost every trekker’s mind and we have tried to answer them in the best possible manner.

Q: What is the height of Kedarkantha Peak

• Ans- 3810 meters above sea level

Q: What is the average cost of covering this trek?

• Ans- this completely depends on how many individuals are joining you on this trek. Stay option at Sankri, the season of your trekking expedition, group size, and the services offered are the other parameters deciding your trip cost.

Q: Can we get the trekking pieces of equipment on rent if we forget to bring

• Ans- Yes, you can avail trekking gear on rent by paying certain bugs.

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