Kedarkantha Trek

Himalayan Trekking

Easy

Kedarkantha Trek

 
 
 
 

 

Max Altitude
 6 Days
 20 Km
 Uttrakhand
 India
 

Overview

Trek Name: Kedarkantha Trek

Days: 6

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Sankri

Season:Spring | Autumn | Winter |

Month:January | February | March | April | October | November | December |

Country: India

Altitude: 12500 Ft.

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Rail Head: Dehradun

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 20 Km.

Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.

AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport, which is 28 km away from Dehradun

Highlights:

  • Services from Sankri to Sankri
  • Base Camp Accommodation: Guest house stay with attached washroom (no bunk beds).
  • Complimentary cloakroom at base camp for safe storage.
  • Pickup & Drop Location: Nearest Railway Station
    Pickup: 06:00 AM | Drop: 06:30 PM–07:30 PM (weather/road dependent)
    Keep a buffer day and arrive a day early to avoid delays.

Who Can Participate

  • Age Requirement:
    • Minimum 9 years
  • First-timers are welcome, though prior trekking experience is preferred. Good fitness is a must.
  • Fitness Criteria:
    • The Trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance by jogging in 35 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 80 minutes without stress
    • If the trekker prefers cycling he/ she should be able to cycle 10 km of distance in 30 minutes.
  • If the trekker wants to carry a backpack then he/she should be able to carry a 10-12 kg backpack. If opt Off-load option then the trekker should be able to carry a 3-5 kg backpack.
  • If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-29), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
  •  

Itinerary

Day-1: Arrival at Sankri

  • Altitude: 1,950m/ 6,400 ft.
  • Drive Distance: 220 km |10 hours approximately

Day-2: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab

  • Altitude: 2800 m/ 9100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4-5 km | 5 hours approximately

Day-3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base

  • Altitude: 3100 m/ 10,100 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | 2.5 hours approximately

Day-4: Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak, Descend to Hargaon camp

  • Altitude:
    • Peak – 3,800 m/ 12,500 ft.
    • Hargon – 2,700 m/ 8,900 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 6-7 km | 7 hrs approximately

Day-5: Hargaon camp to Sankri

  • Altitude: 1950 m/ 6400 ft.
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | 3-4 hours approximately

Day-6: Departure day (Sankri to Dehradun)

  • Drive Distance: 220 km | 10 hours approx
Note:
  • Keep a buffer day in your travel plan.
  • If buffer day is not used in the travel then it can be used to Explore Dehradun.
  • Distance, Altitude, and Trekking hours are approximate and rounded off.
  • Keep the original and copy of ID proof handy.
  • Come one day early if planning to come by plane.

Day 1: Arrival at Sankri

  • Altitude: 1,950 m / 6,400 ft
  • Drive Distance: 220 km | approx 10 hrs
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Network: Jio available

The journey begins from Dehradun with a scenic drive to Sankri village, the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek. The drive passes through beautiful locations such as Mussoorie, Mori and Naitwar while following the Yamuna and Tons rivers.

The final stretch enters Govind National Park, known for its rich flora and fauna. Upon arrival in Sankri, check into the hotel and relax. In the evening you can explore the village and enjoy views of the Himalayan peaks.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

  • Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4–5 km | approx 5 hrs
  • Accommodation: Tents

Today the trekking journey begins from Sankri towards the beautiful alpine lake Juda Ka Talab. The trail gradually ascends through dense forests of pine, oak, cedar and maple trees.

During winter months the trail is often covered with snow, making the trek even more scenic. After a few hours of trekking you reach Juda Ka Talab, a serene lake surrounded by thick forests and mountain views.

Camp overnight near the lake and enjoy a beautiful starry night in the mountains.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

  • Altitude: 3,100 m / 10,100 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | approx 3 hrs
  • Accommodation: Tents

After breakfast the trek continues towards Kedarkantha Base Camp. The trail passes through dense forests before opening into beautiful alpine meadows.

The route offers magnificent views of surrounding Himalayan valleys and peaks. The campsite at Kedarkantha Base provides stunning views and prepares trekkers for the summit climb the next day.

Rest early and prepare for the summit trek.

Day 4: Kedarkantha Summit and Descend to Hargaon Camp

  • Kedarkantha Peak: 3,800 m / 12,500 ft
  • Hargaon Camp: 2,700 m / 8,900 ft
  • Trek Distance: 6–7 km | approx 7 hrs
  • Accommodation: Tents

The day begins early with a summit attempt to Kedarkantha Peak. The trail gradually climbs through forests before becoming steeper near the summit.

From the top you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Black Peak.

After spending some time at the summit, descend via the base camp and continue towards Hargaon campsite for the night.

Day 5: Hargaon Camp to Sankri

  • Altitude: 1,950 m / 6,400 ft
  • Trek Distance: 4 km | approx 3–4 hrs
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Today is the final day of trekking as you descend through forest trails back to Sankri village.

Enjoy beautiful views of the Har Ki Dun valley while descending. Upon reaching Sankri you will check back into the hotel.

Spend the evening relaxing, exploring the village or interacting with locals.

Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun

  • Drive Distance: 220 km | approx 10 hrs

After breakfast depart from Sankri and begin the return drive to Dehradun.

The journey follows the same scenic mountain roads. Expect to reach Dehradun by evening around 6:30–7:30 PM.

Plan onward travel accordingly.

Trek Essentials

Backpack with rain cover(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stickAdvisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box1 Nos
SnacksEnergy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical KitConsult your doctor

 

T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt1 Nos
Fleece jacket1 Nos
Windproof Jacket1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)2 Nos
Fleece Pant1 Nos
Waterproof gloves1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant1 Nos

 

Head torch1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap1 Nos
Woolen cap1 Nos.
Balaclava1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
SunglassesUV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses

 

Trekking shoes1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops1 Pair
Cotton socks6 pairs
Woollen socks1 pairs
Gaiters1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes1 Pair (NK provides when required)

 

Sunscreen1 Nos
Moisturiser1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers1 Nos
Antibacterial powder1 Nos
Quick dry towel1 Nos

FAQs

Kedarkantha is one of the most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand. The trek offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks such as Yamunotri, Gangotri, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, and the Swargarohini range. Beautiful campsites like Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp, and Hargaon are surrounded by dense pine forests and provide spectacular sunrise and sunset views.

Yes, the Kedarkantha Trek is considered one of the best treks for beginners. The trail is well defined, and daily trekking distances are manageable. With basic fitness and preparation, beginners can enjoy the trek comfortably.

Yes, it is possible to go on a solo Kedarkantha trek. However, it is recommended to join a group or trek with a guide for safety reasons. During winter the trail can be covered with snow, making navigation more challenging.

Electricity is generally available only up to Sankri village. Beyond Sankri, there is no electricity on the trekking route, so it is advisable to carry power banks and extra batteries.

Yes, carrying some cash is recommended for personal expenses in Sankri or during travel. ATMs are limited in the region and may not always be reliable.

The weather on the Kedarkantha trek can be cold, especially in winter. Temperatures may range between 10°C and -3°C. Snowfall is common from December to April, making the landscape beautiful but the trail more challenging.

  • Warm layered clothing and thermals
  • Trekking boots
  • Woollen socks and gloves
  • Warm cap or hat
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Trekking poles
  • Backpack with rain cover
  • Water bottles
  • Personal medication and basic first aid
  • Power banks or spare batteries
  • Energy bars or snacks

Yes, backpack offloading services are available. This allows trekkers to carry only a daypack while their main luggage is transported separately by porters or mules.

Yes, most trek operators provide a facility at Sankri where trekkers can safely store extra luggage before starting the trek.

Accommodation during the Kedarkantha trek includes guesthouse stays in Sankri and camping in tents at different campsites during the trek. Tents are usually shared, and hot meals are provided at camps.

The Kedarkantha trek package usually includes accommodation, meals during the trek, camping equipment, experienced guides, support staff, first aid assistance, and necessary trekking permits.

The total trekking distance of the Kedarkantha trek is around 20 km. The trek generally takes about 5–6 days to complete and starts from Sankri village.

Payment & Cancellation Policy:

When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip.
25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation
50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India
25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India

 

Cancellation Policy:

• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded.
• If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded
• If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded.
• No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition.
• No refund is made during the running tour.
• The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable

Note: New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.