Kedarkantha Trek

The Most Popular Winter Trek In India
Trek Fee: 3,999

Sankri to Sankri

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Difficulty
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
Duration
5 Days
Altitude
Altitude
12,500 ft
Distance
Distance
23 Km
Pickup Point
Pickup Point
Sankri
Base Camp
Base Camp
Sankri
Age
Minimum Age
9
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Nov-April

Trek Fee

3,999

Sankri to Sankri

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Kedarkantha Trek – The Most Popular Winter Trek in India

If there’s one trek that defines the magic of winter in the Indian Himalayas, it’s the Kedarkantha Trek. Rising to 12,500 ft in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand), Kedarkantha has earned its place as the most popular winter trek in India. Blanketed in snow from late November to mid-April, the trek offers an unbeatable combination of easy accessibility, snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, starlit campsites, and a thrilling summit climb that even beginners can achieve.

From the very first step at Sankri village to the moment you stand atop the Kedarkantha summit, the trek feels like walking through a living storybook filled with natural beauty, adventure, and self-discovery.

A Trail of Snowfields, Forests & Frozen Lakes

The journey begins from Sankri (6,400 ft), a charming Himalayan village that serves as the base camp. The trail quickly immerses you in dense pine, oak, and deodar forests, where the silence of the mountains is broken only by the crunch of snow under your boots. One of the trek’s most iconic highlights comes on Day 2 Juda Ka Talab. This high-altitude lake, often frozen in winter, looks like something out of a fairy tale. Surrounded by ancient trees and blanketed in snow, the lake is also a magical campsite. At night, the sky transforms into a galaxy of stars, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From Juda Ka Talab, the trail climbs steadily towards Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,200 ft). Here, the forest begins to thin, and the landscape opens up into alpine meadows and ridgelines that stretch endlessly into the horizon.

Summit Morning – A True Winter Adventure

The summit push begins in the early hours, around 3 AM, with headlamps guiding your way. The snow crunches beneath your boots, and the icy wind reminds you that you’re on a real Himalayan climb.

As dawn breaks, the sky turns from deep blue to golden orange. And then, suddenly, you’re standing at the Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 ft).

The reward? A 360° panoramic view of some of the greatest Himalayan peaks:

  • Swargarohini Range – towering and majestic.
  • Bandarpoonch (6,316 m) – iconic and legendary.
  • Black Peak (Kalanag, 6,387 m) – bold and imposing.
  • On a clear day, even Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kinner Kailash (Himachal Pradesh) can be seen.

Few treks offer such a dramatic summit experience within just 4–5 days.

Why Kedarkantha is Perfect for Winter Trekkers

What sets Kedarkantha apart is its balance of accessibility and adventure.

  • Beginner-Friendly Summit: Unlike technical climbs, Kedarkantha’s summit is achievable even for first-timers with basic fitness.
  • Safe Winter Trek: While many Himalayan trails shut down in peak winter, Kedarkantha remains open and safe between November to April.
  • Variety in Landscapes: In just 5–6 days, you walk through forests, frozen lakes, alpine meadows, ridgelines, and snowy peaks.
  • Short Duration: The trek can be completed in less than a week, making it ideal for working professionals, students, and families looking for a holiday adventure.

For many, Kedarkantha becomes their first Himalayan trek, and it sets the foundation for more challenging adventures ahead.

Authentic Himalayan Culture

Beyond landscapes, Kedarkantha is also a window into the culture of Garhwal Himalayas. Villages like Sankri and Saud still retain their old-world charm, with wooden houses, slate roofs, and a lifestyle deeply connected to the mountains. Trekkers often enjoy local food, folk stories, and warm Garhwali hospitality. And with limited mobile network coverage, the trek also offers a rare chance for a digital detox replaced by bonfires, conversations, and starlit nights.

Why Kedarkantha is India’s Most Popular Winter Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek is not just a trail it’s an experience that captures the magic of Himalayan winters. It is the rare trek that’s challenging enough to feel like a true adventure yet accessible enough for beginners. Whether it’s the frozen charm of Juda Ka Talab, the thrill of a 3 AM summit climb, the panoramic Himalayan views, or the warmth of Garhwali culture, Kedarkantha checks all the boxes of a perfect trek.

It’s no surprise that Kedarkantha is called the “Most Popular Winter Trek in India.” Every step is a memory, every campsite a story, and the summit that’s where you leave a piece of your soul, forever embraced by the Himalayas.

Short Itinerary 

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
Drive – 220 km / 8–9 hrs, Altitude: 1,950 m / 6,400 ft

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Trek – 4 km / 2–3 hrs, Altitude: 2,774 m / 9,100 ft

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Trek – 4 km / 2–3 hrs, Altitude: 3,429 m / 11,250 ft

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Summit and back to Juda Ka Talab
Trek – 10–12 km / 6–7 hrs, Altitude: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft

Day 5: Juda Ka Talab to Sankri (Trek), Sankri to Dehradun (Drive)
Trek – 4 km / 1.5 hrs, Drive – 220 km / 8–9 hrs, Altitude: 640 m

 

Highlights:

  • 5% GST will be applicable on Trek Cost and Add-on
  • Services Sankri to Sankri.
  • Meeting Point( Pickup/ Drop Point ):Prince Chowk, Dehradun
    (If transportation opted from Tripophilia)
  • Reporting Time: 6:00 am
  • Drop Time: 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Timings are subject to change based on weather and road conditions).
  • Please reach Dehradun a day before to avoid any delays.

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri

Altitude: 1,950 m / 6,400 ft
Distance: 220 km
Duration: 8–9 hrs (Drive)

Your journey begins with an early morning drive from Dehradun to Sankri, the charming base village of Kedarkantha. The road winds through the lush Yamuna Valley, pine-scented forests, and along the Tons River, offering plenty of tea breaks and scenic photo stops.

You’ll pass through towns like Purola, Mori, and Netwar before entering the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. By evening, arrive in Sankri, check into a cozy guesthouse or homestay, and enjoy a hot local dinner while adjusting to the mountain air.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

Altitude: 2,774 m / 9,100 ft
Distance: 4 km
Duration: 2–3 hrs (Trek)

After breakfast, your trek begins. The trail climbs steadily through dense pine and oak forests, with winter snow often blanketing the ground. The peaceful silence of the forest is broken only by birdsong and the crunch of leaves. By afternoon, you reach Juda Ka Talab, a high-altitude lake that remains frozen in winter. Camping here is magical, with star-filled skies reflecting on the snowy landscape.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Altitude: 3,429 m / 11,250 ft
Distance: 4 km
Duration: 2–3 hrs (Trek)

Today’s trail gradually opens up into meadows and wide clearings, offering the first panoramic glimpses of Himalayan giants. As you gain altitude, the forest thins and the peaks grow closer. By early afternoon, you reach Kedarkantha Base Camp, set at the foot of the summit. The campsite offers breathtaking views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak (Kalanag). The night is cold, but the starry skies and anticipation of the summit climb make it unforgettable.

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Summit and back to Juda Ka Talab

Altitude: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft (Summit)
Distance: 10–12 km
Duration: 6–7 hrs (Trek)

This is the big day. Wake up around 3 AM for an early start, with headlamps lighting the snowy trail. The climb is steep but steady, and as dawn breaks, the horizon glows with golden light. From the Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 ft), the 360° views are breathtaking you’ll see Gangotri, Yamunotri, Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kinner Kailash on clear days. The summit is marked with a Trishul and stone cairn, making it both a spiritual and adventurous moment.

After soaking in the views, descend carefully and return to Juda Ka Talab for your final night of camping amidst snowy forests.

Day 5: Juda Ka Talab to Sankri (Trek), Sankri to Dehradun (Drive)

Altitude: 640 m
Distance: Trek – 4 km / 1.5 hrs, Drive – 220 km / 8–9 hrs
Difficulty: Easy

After breakfast, descend through familiar forest trails to Sankri. From here, collect your belongings and begin the long but scenic drive back to Dehradun. By evening, you’ll arrive with a heart full of memories the forests, frozen lake, and the summit sunrise forever etched in your journey..

Kedarkantha Trek Fitness Preparation Plan

Max Altitude: 3,810 m / 12,500 ft | Grade: Easy–Moderate

The Kedarkantha Trek is beginner-friendly, but preparing your body in advance will make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. Trekoholics recommends beginning training at least 8–10 weeks before departure.

Day-Wise Fitness Plan

Day 1, 3, and 5 – Strength & Uphill Training

Uphill Training (Stair Climbing):

  • 3 Months Prior: 15 min (5 min continuous × 3 sets, 1 min rest)
  • 2 Months Prior: 30 min (10 min continuous × 3 sets, 1 min rest)
  • 1 Month Prior: 30 min (15 min continuous × 2 sets, 2 min rest)

Push-Ups:

  • 3 Months Prior: 10 × 1 set (10 reps total)
  • 2 Months Prior: 15 × 2 sets (30 reps total)
  • 1 Month Prior: 15 × 3 sets (45 reps total)

Squats:

  • 3 Months Prior: 10 × 1 set (10 reps total)
  • 2 Months Prior: 15 × 2 sets (30 reps total)
  • 1 Month Prior: 15 × 3 sets (45 reps total)

Day 2, 4, and 6 – Endurance & Core Training

Jogging:

  • 3 Months Prior: 15 min (cover 2 km)
  • 2 Months Prior: 25 min (cover 3 km)
  • 1 Month Prior: 35 min (cover 5 km)

Cycling (Optional):

  • 3 Months Prior: 15 min (cover 3 km)
  • 2 Months Prior: 25 min (cover 5 km)
  • 1 Month Prior: 30 min (cover 10 km)

Crunches:

  • 3 Months Prior: 10 × 1 set (10 reps total)
  • 2 Months Prior: 15 × 2 sets (30 reps total)
  • 1 Month Prior: 15 × 3 sets (45 reps total)

Day 7 – Rest & Recovery

Take one day off each week to rest your body, prevent fatigue, and allow muscles to recover.

Why This Matters for Kedarkantha

Stamina: Builds endurance for 3–5 hr daily treks covering 4–6 km.
Strength: Prepares your legs & core for snowy trails and carrying a light backpack.
Core Stability: Improves balance on slippery slopes.
Confidence: A fit body helps you enjoy the trek more and worry less about exhaustion.

💡 Even though Kedarkantha is an easy-to-moderate trek, a basic fitness routine ensures you’ll reach the summit at sunrise with energy, comfort, and joy.

Essential Things to Carry for Kedarkantha Trek

Backpack & Bags

  • Backpack (40–50L): Waterproof, lightweight, with hip/shoulder support.
  • Daypack (10–20L): For daily essentials if main bag is offloaded.
  • Rain Cover / Poncho: Protects both body and backpack.

Shoes & Socks

  • Trekking Shoes: Good grip, ankle support, water-resistant (e.g., Decathlon Trek/MH series).
  • Socks: 3–4 pairs sports socks + 2–3 pairs woolen/synthetic socks.

Clothing

  • Base Layer: 3–5 dry-fit full-sleeve T-shirts or Shirts (collared preferred for sun protection).
  • Insulation Layer: 1 padded jacket + 1–2 thin sweaters/fleece. Avoid bulky wool.
  • Trek Pants: 2–3 pairs quick-dry/stretchable trousers (avoid jeans/cotton).
  • Thermal Innerwear: Optional but recommended for high altitude nights.

Accessories

  • Caps: Sun cap + woolen cap/Balaclava.
  • Glasses: UV-protected sunglasses (snow protection).
  • Headlamp: With wide coverage (keep hands free).
  • Trekking Poles: Pair preferred for better balance & reduced fatigue.

Personal Essentials

  • Cutlery: Lightweight steel (plate, mug, spoon).
  • Water Bottles: Two 1L bottles (carry 1 thermos for hot water in winters).
  • Toiletries Kit: Toothbrush, paste, moisturizer, facewash, soap, toilet roll, sanitizer, small towel.
  • Women: Sanitary pads/menstrual cup + disposal bags.

Medical Kit (Recommended)

  • Diamox (AMS prevention)
  • Dolo 650 (fever)
  • Avomine (motion sickness)
  • Avil 25mg (allergies)
  • Combiflam (pain relief)
  • Disprin (headache)
  • Digene (acidity)
  • Norflox TZ & Lomofen (diarrhea)
  • ORS sachets
  • Omez / Rantadine (antacids)
  • Crepe bandage (3–5m)
  • Gauze & cotton roll
  • Band-aids (various sizes)
  • Betadine / antiseptic cream
  • Moov / Volini spray (aches & sprains)
  • Knee caps (if prone to strain)
  • Hot water bag (for winter treks)

Cancellation Charges & Refund Options

1. Cancellations made 25+ days before trek start date

  • Refund Options:
    • 5% deduction of trek fee, balance refunded in cash, OR
    • 100% trek voucher (valid for any trek within 1 year), OR
    • Transfer booking to a friend (any trek, any date).

2. Cancellations made 15–24 days before trek start date

  • Refund Options:
    • 30% deduction of trek fee, balance refunded in cash, OR
    • 100% trek voucher (valid for the same trek within 1 year), OR
    • 85% trek voucher (valid for any trek within 1 year), OR
    • Transfer booking to a friend (same trek, any date).

3. Cancellations made 10–14 days before trek start date

  • Refund Options:
    • 50% deduction of trek fee, balance refunded in cash, OR
    • 80% trek voucher (valid for the same trek within 1 year), OR
    • 70% trek voucher (valid for any trek within 1 year), OR
    • Option to rebook the same trek in the same season with another batch, OR
    • Transfer booking to a friend (same trek, any date).

4. Cancellations made less than 9 days before trek start date

  • Refund Options:
    • No cash refund, OR
    • 20% trek voucher (valid for the same trek within 1 year), OR
    • 10% trek voucher (valid for any trek within 1 year), OR
    • Transfer booking to a friend (same trek, same date only).
Special Emergency Cancellation Policy

In cases of genuine emergencies, even cancellations made 1 day prior to trek start are eligible for:

  • 90% cash refund + 10% voucher (valid for 1 year, any trek in India)

Applicable only in the following cases (with valid proof):

  • Death in immediate family (parents, spouse, children, siblings).
  • Hospitalization of the participant (minimum 48 hours).
  • Fracture (arm/leg) within 7 days before trek start.
Important Terms & Conditions
  • Change of trek batch is subject to seat availability.
  • Transfer of booking to a friend is allowed only if they meet the mandatory eligibility criteria.
  • Trekoholics reserves the right to amend or cancel these policies without prior notice.
Booking & Payment Terms
  • Verify all booking details (dates, documents, participant info) at the time of reservation.
  • Payments must be completed within the specified timeline to confirm a seat.
  • Cash refunds apply only to payments made in cash. Payments made via voucher, discount, promo code, or non-cash methods are non-refundable in cash.
  • Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 15–30 working days.
Voucher Terms
  • Vouchers are non-transferable and cannot be combined with other offers.
  • Valid only for treks booked directly with Trekoholics in India.
  • Must be redeemed using the registered participant’s email ID or phone number.
  • All standard trek booking terms also apply to vouchers.
Itinerary Modifications
  • Trekoholics may modify, shorten, or cancel a trek due to weather conditions, transport delays, health emergencies, or other operational reasons.

If Trekoholics cancels before trek start:

  • You may select an alternate trek/date, OR
  • Accept a trek voucher valid for 1 year, OR
  • Transfer booking to another trek (paying any price difference).

If a trek is abandoned after it begins, no refund or voucher will be issued.

Force Majeure Clause

Trekoholics will not be held liable for cancellations or changes caused by factors beyond its control, including but not limited to:

  • Natural calamities (landslides, earthquakes, storms, heavy snowfall/rain).
  • Strikes, curfews, war, pandemics, government restrictions.
  • Road blockages, trail closures, or permit withdrawal by authorities.

Inclusions & Exclusions – Bali Pass Trek

✅ Inclusions

Accommodation

  • Day 1: Guesthouse stay at Sankri (triple/quad sharing).
  • Day 2 to Day 4: Comfortable camping in high-quality tents.

Meals

  • All meals (vegetarian + eggs) from Day 1 Dinner to Day 5 Breakfast.
  • Nutritious meals prepared by an experienced trek cook.

Support Team

  • Base Camp Manager – manages coordination, communication & emergencies.
  • Certified Trek Leaders – trained in mountaineering and first aid.
  • High-Altitude Chef – ensures healthy meals during the trek.
  • Experienced Local Guides – number depends on group size.
  • Support Staff – for smooth operations and logistics.

Trek Equipment

  • Sleeping bags, mattresses, and utensils.
  • All-weather trekking tents (2/3 sharing), kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent.
  • Camping stools, walkie-talkies for coordination.
  • Technical gear: ropes, helmets, ice axes, harnesses, gaiters, and microspikes (as required).

First Aid & Safety

  • Complete medical kit with oxygen cylinders, stretcher, oximeter, BP monitor & stethoscope.

Transportation (as per itinerary)

  • Dehradun ↔ Sankri (Day 1 & Day 5) if booked through Trekoholics add-on.
  • Cloakroom facility at Dehradun.
  • Mules/porters for carrying common/group equipment.

Permits & Documentation

  • All required trek permits and forest entry fees (for Indian nationals).

Certification

  • Trek Completion Certificate from Trekoholics after successful completion.

❌ Exclusions

  • Trek insurance for Indian nationals/Non-Indian nationals (including NRI/OCI cardholders).
  • Meals during transit (before reaching Sankri and after leaving Sankri).
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, snacks, etc.).
  • Mule/porter service for personal luggage (available at extra cost).
  • Emergency evacuation, hospitalization, or medical expenses.
  • Additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances like:
    • Natural calamities, landslides, or road blockages.
    • Vehicle breakdowns or delays.
    • Government restrictions or permit withdrawal.
  • Anything not specifically mentioned under the “Inclusions” list.

Here is what trekkers have to say about their experience at Kedarkantha Trek

December 28, 2023

5 star rating to everything from accommodation to food, conveyance and guidance throughout the trek. My guide for Kedarkantha trek was Richpal bhaiya who is highly experienced in trekking. Throughout the trek, he was soft spoken with everyone, listening their concerns and was personally assisting people with their different needs. I highly recommend them to everyone looking for kedarkantha trek and other treks.

January 30, 2025

Completed Kedarkantha summit on 30.1.25 with Trekoholics. It was an awesome experience with the best guidance and best food by Devendar Bhaiya and Raju Bhaiya. They were the best part of the programme. Specially gulab jamun and simai made by Devender Bhaiya at this altitude is unforgettable. Many many thanks to them. Highly recommended.

January 30, 2025

I had a fantastic experience on the Kedarkantha trek with Eco Hiking. The trek was well-organized, with great food, supportive guides, especially Devendar Ji, and breathtaking views. Reaching the summit at 12,500 ft was unforgettable, and the snowy trails made the journey even more magical. Highly recommend Eco Hiking for an amazing Himalayan adventure!

January 22, 2025

I had an amazing experience trekking Kedarkantha with Trekoholics, a Uttarakhand-based company. Their service was excellent, with quality equipment and hot, delicious food even at the highest altitudes. The best part was their unbeatable pricing, offering incredible value for such a memorable adventure. Highly recommended!

December 04, 2024

Trekoholics Trekking Team exceeded my expectations! Knowledgeable guides, impeccable logistics, and a genuine commitment to sustainability made for an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommend!

December 30, 2022

Wonderfull experience!! Everything from pick up to drop was very well planned and executed. Our guide whome we called Devendra Bhaiya is a wonderful person. He made and served food just like home. I would highly recommend him for anyone who wants to have a good experience.

December 21, 2023

It was an great and amazing experience with them they welcomed us with so much love the food,experience,staff,guide everything was on point so polite so helpful must must try trekking with Trekoholics.

December 26, 2023

It was a marvellous experience with Trekoholics as they have done a commendable job especially dealing patiently with the slow walkers, arranging necessities for them and fulfilling the demands as soon as possible. I am looking forward for more trekking trips too with Trekoholics 😀😀😃😃😊😊👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏👏👏10/10 service ❤️❤️❤️😃😃😀😀🥳🥳

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