A Complete Guide to Kedarkantha Trek Route
Embarking on the Kedarkantha Trek is a thrilling adventure through the Garhwal Himalayas, and a comprehensive guide to the Kedarkantha Trek Route is your roadmap to this unforgettable journey. This trek, known for its breathtaking beauty and challenging terrain, typically starts from the charming village of Sankri in Uttarakhand. The route takes you through dense forests, picturesque hamlets, and snow-covered trails, culminating at the majestic Kedarkantha Peak. Along the way, you'll witness the mesmerizing Tons River Valley, dense pine forests, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. To make the most of this adventure, consider opting for a kedarkantha trekking, which offers a well-organized and hassle-free experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor and cultural richness of the region while conquering this remarkable trek.
Nestled in the breathtaking Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India, Kedarkantha beckons adventure enthusiasts with its awe-inspiring beauty. Towering at an impressive elevation of 12,500 feet, this majestic Himalayan peak is renowned not only for its panoramic vistas but also for the sacred Kedarkantha Temple perched upon it. If you're contemplating when to embark on this stunning trek, ponder no further. The best time for the Kedarkantha trek offers the most favorable conditions to explore this natural marvel. For those beginning their journey from Delhi, the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi is a convenient way to commence your adventure into the heart of the Himalayas.
Which is the best route for Kedarkantha trek?
The most popular and recommended route for the Kedarkantha trek is from Sankri village in Uttarakhand, India. This route offers stunning scenery and is well-suited for both beginners and experienced trekkers, making it the best choice for most travelers.
Here are the best routes for the Kedarkantha trek.
1. Sankri
2. Juda ka Talab
3. Kedarkantha Base
4. Kedarkantha Peak
5. Gaichwan Gaon
6. Kotgaon
1. Sankri
Starting the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi, Sankri, Dehradun means it begins in Dehradun city. To start well, it's suggested that trekkers come a day early or before 6 am on the same day. Enjoy exploring the beauty of the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi, Sankri, Dehradun. Since it is a long journey starting early in the day will give you a good head start and the pleasant weather will make the whole thing much easier and enjoyable. Your first stop would be Sankri located 220 km away from the starting point. Of course, this journey can be taken by car. Since the journey is long you can stop at various popular restaurants for food and refreshments.
The scenic beauty all around makes this long journey a short one, and you will reach Sankri sometime in the evening. You will also come across Govind National Park before you reach your destination and be witness to a beautiful collection of Flora that is specific to this area. Do not forget to make prior bookings for a hotel in Sankri as last-minute bookings will mean more hassle for you. You can explore the Sankri Village as well as enjoy the scenic beauty of the setting sun on the Greater Himalayas from Sankri before calling it a day.
2. Juda ka Talab
Starting fresh the next day, your trekking trip will finally begin! After a healthy breakfast (keep it light!) your next destination would be Juda Ka Talab situated at an altitude of 9100 ft. This 4 km journey will take 5 hours. As soon as you reach the road, a sharp climb will begin going through thick forests trees, maple, and pine leaves. The picturesque view will leave you mesmerized and the carpet of brown will have you spellbound. You might also catch the Himalayan Languars swinging through a maze of trees although the animals are so fast, you’ll have to keep an eye out for them. Boars, martens, and hares are also found here. Soon enough Juda Ka Talab will come in your view. With a giant lake to the left and a thick forest to the right, Juda Ka Talab makes for the perfect campsite. With warm drinks to fight the low Kedarkantha temprature, a light supper, a walk under the bright night sky you won’t want anything. If you ever dreamt on sleeping under the stars well, there’s no better view.
3. Sankri to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Moving along the trek, the next destination is the Kedarkantha base camp, nestled at an impressive altitude of 11,250 ft. Covering a distance of approximately 4 km, this section of the journey is notably swifter, typically requiring about 2.5 hours for the average trekker to reach their destination. The path to the base camp is relatively more straightforward, guiding you through enchanting forests and picturesque meadows adorned with shepherd huts. For those venturing on the Kedarkantha trek during the winter season, there's even a chance of encountering delicate traces of snow as you progress. As you draw closer to the base camp, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama featuring snow-capped peaks like Bandarpoonch, Ranglana, Swargarohini, and Kala Nag, all majestically gracing the horizon.
Upon arrival at the base camp, it's prudent to arrange your campsite in closer proximity to fellow trekkers for safety reasons. As night descends, brace yourself for an awe-inspiring spectacle—the Milky Way stretching across the night sky, a sight that will surely leave you spellbound. Considering the significant altitude, it's essential to be well-prepared with warm clothing to combat the chilly Kedarkantha weather. Relish an overnight stay at this sublime location, immersing yourself in the beauty of the star-studded night sky before embarking on the next phase of your memorable trekking adventure.
4. Kedarkantha Peak
Finally, it is time for you to conquer what you came for; the Kedarkantha peak. This time the Kedarkantha height would be at 12,500 ft and after hitting the peak you will have to descend the same day to Horegaon Camp; 8,900 ft. This journey is 7 hours long with a walk of 6 km, the longest so far. There are several trails to reach the top but it would be suggested to take the main trail that has an even elevation. The journey can get quite strenuous and the temperature in Kedarkantha quite low closer to the Kedarkantha peak but don’t worry, the view is worth it. The Once you reach there you can finally see the Kedarkantha Temple in all its glory. The temple is stood facing the Kedar Parvat. You can relax there for a while before starting the descent. The journey would be similar to the one you took earlier in the day, but the view is so beautiful that you’ll never have a dull moment. You can set your camp at the Horegaon campsite and finally rest after a long day. You can also set a campfire and enjoy the view with your friends and family.
Read Blog: Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek
5. Gaichwan Gaon
Gaichwan Gaon, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, serves as a gateway to the enchanting Kedarkantha trek. This serene village, situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers alike. Gaichwan Gaon offers a peaceful retreat with its pristine landscapes, lush meadows, and the tranquil music of flowing streams. It's the perfect starting point for embarking on the Kedarkantha trek, which is renowned for its breathtaking vistas and snow-covered trails during the winter months. Trekkers often use Gaichwan Gaon as a base camp before venturing into the awe-inspiring Himalayan wilderness. Whether you're a seasoned trekker seeking adventure or a nature lover in search of tranquility, Gaichwan Gaon welcomes you with open arms to experience the mesmerizing beauty of the mountains.
6. Kotgaon
Kotgaon serves as a crucial stopover on the Kedarkantha trekking route, offering trekkers a unique and memorable experience. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,900 ft, it marks a significant point in the journey. The distance to reach Kotgaon from the preceding base camp is around 3 km, and the average trekker usually takes about 2 hours to complete this segment. As you tread through this picturesque terrain, you'll encounter lush forests, charming hamlets, and the warm hospitality of the local residents. Kotgaon's quaint beauty and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place to rest, rejuvenate, and soak in the serenity of the Himalayas. This part of the trek is not just about the physical challenge but also about embracing the cultural richness and natural splendor of the region. So, pause for a moment in Kotgaon, savor the tranquility, and prepare yourself for the next leg of this incredible journey towards the Kedarkantha summit.
After that, it will take you about 10 hours to return back to Dehradun. You can travel home from there by whichever conveyance best suited to your taste. This guide has been planned keeping first time trekkers in mind. Comfortable and with ample amount of time for rest you will find this trip fun and restful. The Kedarkantha trek best time would be in the months of December to February. For Kedarkantha trek cost you can
How long does Kedarkantha trek take?
The Kedarkantha trek takes approximately 4 to 6 days to complete, depending on factors like your starting point, trekking pace, and weather conditions. It's a moderate trek that covers a distance of about 20 kilometers (round trip) through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Is the Kedarkantha trek easy or difficult?
The Kedarkantha trek is a bit challenging, but it's not too hard. It's good for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The difficulty depends on the weather, especially in winter when there's lots of snow.
During the trek, you'll go up and down hills, and it's not too tough for most people. But when there's snow, some parts can be tricky, especially the steep parts.
Overall, if you get ready properly with the right gear and take it easy, lots of people can enjoy the Kedarkantha trek. It has amazing views, different kinds of landscapes, and it's a taste of Himalayan trekking without being super tough.
Is Kedarnath trek risky?
The Kedarkantha trek is generally considered to have moderate risks, but it's not overly dangerous. Risks include weather-related challenges, altitude sickness, physical demands, and slippery trails. Proper preparation, including acclimatization, experienced guides, suitable gear, and monitoring weather conditions, can help mitigate these risks and make the trek safer. Trekkers should assess their own fitness level and take necessary precautions. Overall, with caution and preparation, the Kedarkantha trek can be a relatively safe adventure.
Conclusion
A Complete guide to the Kedarkantha Trek Route serves as a valuable resource for adventurers looking to explore the beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas. This trek, beginning in the charming village of Sankri and culminating at the majestic Kedarkantha Peak, offers a journey through diverse landscapes and breathtaking vistas. For those seeking a hassle-free and well-organized experience, the Kedarkantha trek package is an excellent choice. This package, including options like the Kedarkantha trek package from Delhi, not only simplifies logistics but also ensures an immersive and enriching adventure. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, the Kedarkantha trek promises a memorable journey through the pristine Himalayan wilderness.