Trek Overview
Adorned with ravishing beauty of falling snow and fringed with pine trees, The Kedarkantha Peak is one of the most sought after snow trekking destinations in India. With falling winter snow it’s a mesmerizing pictorial view and what’s more attractive, is the view of the Mighty Himalayas from the trails right to the top. Nestled at a height of 3810 meters which is about 12,500 feet this is an ideal trekking trail which covers a consolidated distance of 20 kms. The distance is not much and the trekking trail is neither very difficult which enables even the first time trekkers to set on the adventure and enjoy the beauty of nature at its best. With charming and captivating sights of snow clapped Himalayas, the verdant greenery, lush landscapes, myriad collection of flora, frozen ponds, to the sights of mesmerizing peaks, this trek have all the delightful marvels that a trekker wish to experience and view in his journey. Not only for the adventure seekers and trekkers, to enjoy thrilling challenges, the Kedarkantha Trek is an ideal destination for the nature lovers to bask in the beauty of undisturbed nature and enjoy delightful and blissful moments with exhilarating experiences.
Based in Western Garhwal in the Uttarakashi district, the Kedarkantha Trek is known for being one of the easy treks of the country which can be attended by people who are in experienced trekkers and have no knowledge of prior trekking. However physical fitness is required where one should be able to jog at least for 4 kms in 30 minutes before committing for the trekking tour. As the altitude rises the air becomes thin and people needs to carry backpacks too, which can all be very difficult, without proper physical fitness.
Trekking in Uttrakhand is always a pleasure due to its ravishing beauty and panoramic natural views that cannot be matched with any other destinations within the country. But among all the fascinating locations and thrilling trekking sites available it is the snow treks of Kedarkantha which inspires every trekker a lot. In fact it has a lot of reasons of being such a terrific trek which makes it so popular among the enthusiastic travelers. The very first reason is the availability of snow till the end of April making it one of the best winter trek destination of all. And what more one can view the lovely snows at a height of only 10,000 feet lying at the base of the pine trees. The next reason for its popularity is the lovely campsites, where every site is unique in its own way and does not match the beauty with any other campsites in the journey. Another beauty of this treking trail is that it starts from dense pine forest where one can begin the trekking trail walking over the bed brown dried leaves creating a unique experience and a magnificent view that is absolutely unparallel. Last but not the least is the splendid jaw dropping breath taking view of the famous snow clapped mountain summits that comes into view as soon as one steps in Kedarkantha base and the view gets more stunning which each step towards the summit. In a whole the trekking tour promises refreshing and heart filled pleasure which makes the destination so attractive to millions of visitors throughout the year.
Though Kedarkantha trek can be conducted almost the whole year but the aspiring views that it provides in the winter months from December to April cannot be compared with summer times. The snow clapped trekking trails and the buckets of snow at the base of the pine trees are a fascinating beauty to savor and which remains only available during the winter days. In fact for the locals the winter months are a time for rejoice and they enjoy with a number of festivals during this time. However it is better to avoid the monsoon time for trekking in these trail.
Trek Highlights
- Kedarkantha is a trek blushing with beauty, giving photographers a perfect opportunity to capture the snow falling from the pine trees that looks like magic dust
- The ‘I rule the world’ pose at the top of Kedarkantha Summit will make a wonderful profile pic and with stunning views in the backdrop, it will make your friends jealous too!
- Experience the lovely campsites, where every site is unique in its own way and does not match the beauty with any other campsites in the journey.
- Get a chance to camp around frozen Juda ka Talab where was once a place for meditation of Lord Shiva.
- Experience walking in the middle of the night in, the head torches lighting the way and watching the sunrise from the top of a mountain before you reach Summit.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
- Drive Distance: 200 km (approx. 10-11 hrs)
- Route: Scenic drive through Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori
- Stay: Guesthouse in Sankri
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
- Trek Distance: 4 km (approx. 4-5 hrs)
- Highlights: Dense pine and oak forests, frozen lake in winter
- Stay: Camping at Juda Ka Talab
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base
- Trek Distance: 4 km (approx. 3-4 hrs)
- Highlights: Gradual ascent, stunning mountain views
- Stay: Camping at Kedarkantha Base
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Kedarkantha Peak; Descend to Har Gaon
- Trek Distance: 6 km (approx. 6-7 hrs)
- Highlights: Sunrise at Kedarkantha Peak (12,500 ft), 360° Himalayan views
- Stay: Camping at Har Gaon
Day 5: Har Gaon to Sankri
- Trek Distance: 5 km (approx. 3-4 hrs)
- Highlights: Leisurely descent through forests and meadows
- Stay: Guesthouse in Sankri
Day 6: Drive Back to Dehradun
- Drive Distance: 200 km (approx. 10-11 hrs)
- Arrival: Dehradun by evening
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival at Sankri
Departure: 6:00 AM from Dehradun | Drive Duration: 9-10 hrs | Stay: Guesthouse/Homestay in Sankri
Start the journey from Dehradun at 6:00 AM, driving a scenic 220 km route to Sankri. This journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, with a stop for lunch at a local eatery, and continues through the Govind National Park.
Upon arrival in Sankri, check-in to the hotel and relax. You can explore the Sankri village or enjoy the stunning sunset view of the Greater Himalayas. Dinner can be enjoyed at the hotel or local dhabas.
Highlights: Scenic drive through Govind National Park, beautiful sunset, local cuisine.
Day 02: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab
Trek Distance: 4 km | Trek Duration: 5 hrs | Stay: Camping at Juda-ka-Talab
After breakfast, embark on a 4 km trek to Juda-ka-Talab, situated at an altitude of 9100 feet. The trail weaves through dense pine and oak forests, crossing bridges and streams. You’ll encounter local villages and wildlife, including Himalayan Langurs and boars.
Upon arrival, settle at the campsite by the beautiful Juda-ka-Talab lake, surrounded by oak and pine forests. You can enjoy nature walks or simply relax under the stars by a campfire.
Highlights: Trek through forests, wildlife sightings, stunning lake views, starry night sky.
Day 03: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base
Trek Distance: 4 km | Trek Duration: 2.5 hrs | Stay: Camping at Kedarkantha Base
After breakfast, trek towards Kedarkantha Base at an altitude of 11,250 feet. The trail takes you through pine and oak forests and meadows. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag, and Ranglana mountain ranges.
Upon reaching Kedarkantha Base, set up camp. The evening offers a spectacular view of the stars and the Milky Way. Rest for the night in your tent, surrounded by the serenity of the mountains.
Highlights: Views of Himalayan peaks, camping with spectacular night sky views.
Day 04: Kedarkantha Base to Kedarkantha Peak & Descend to Hargaon Camp
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 7 hrs | Stay: Camping at Hargaon Camp
Start early to conquer Kedarkantha Peak at 12,500 feet. The trek is challenging but the panoramic views from the peak are worth every step. At the top, enjoy a view of the snow-capped mountains and a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
After taking in the views, descend to Hargaon Camp, passing through dense forests and meadows. Set up camp and enjoy a warm dinner and possibly a campfire under the stars.
Highlights: Sunrise at Kedarkantha meadows, summit views, camping under the stars.
Day 05: Hargaon Camp to Sankri
Trek Distance: 6 km | Trek Duration: 4 hrs | Stay: Guesthouse in Sankri
Descend from Hargaon Camp to Sankri, passing through dense pine forests and villages. The trail provides scenic views of Har Ki Dun Valley and the local flora and fauna.
Upon reaching Sankri, you can either relax at the guesthouse or explore the village. This is a great opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions.
Highlights: Scenic descent, Har Ki Dun Valley views, local village exploration.
Day 06: Departure from Sankri to Dehradun
Drive Distance: 220 km | Drive Duration: 9-10 hrs
After breakfast, begin the journey back to Dehradun. The drive takes about 9-10 hours, providing one last opportunity to soak in the stunning beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Upon arrival in Dehradun by evening, the trip ends. You can either catch your train or flight from Dehradun Railway Station or Airport, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Kedarkantha trek adventure.
Highlights: Scenic drive back to Dehradun, farewell to the mountains.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusions:
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping).
- Meals while on trek (Veg. + Egg).
- Trek equipment (Sleeping bag, mattress, kitchen & dining tent, crampon, utensils, tent).
- All necessary permits and entry fees.
- First aid medical kits, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional trek leader, guide, and support staff.
Exclusions:
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the inclusions.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Change/Cancellation of Booking by the Participant
Process
The cancellation process is completely automated. Please log in to your Mountain Hike account and follow the instructions on your dashboard. You can choose between Instant Refund or Cash Refund as per the policy below.
Replacement of Participants
Participants can be replaced through the Mountain Hike dashboard if the booking status is “Paid” and at least 5 days remain before departure. If you face issues, email themountainhike@gmail.com with a screenshot of the error. The new participant must submit a signed undertaking form.
Note: Any Volvo/Train transport booked for the original participant will be automatically canceled and is non-transferable.
Cash Refund Policy
Cash refunds apply only for bookings made without promotional codes or vouchers. Refund amounts will be deducted as follows:
- 30+ days before departure: 5% deduction
- 15-30 days before departure: 50% deduction
- Less than 15 days before departure: No Refund
Refunds will be processed to the original payment method and are based on the Base Price of the trek, excluding transport, insurance, and portage fees.
Voucher Refund Policy
Voucher refunds are available for all types of bookings, including promotional offers. Refund amounts will be:
- 5+ days before departure: No deduction
- Less than 5 days: No Refund
Vouchers are valid for 10 months from the date of issue. The refunded voucher amount does not include service tax paid during the original booking.
Cancellation or Change Initiated by Mountain Hike
We reserve the right to modify or cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, natural disasters, low participation, or any force majeure events. If this occurs, you will be given the choice of:
- A replacement event of equivalent value
- A full refund (processed as a voucher valid for 6 months)
If cancellation is due to low participation, participants can choose between a cash refund or a voucher.
Changes/Cancellation After Departure
Due to Force Majeure
No refund will be provided for cancellations due to force majeure after departure.
Other Reasons
If cancellations occur for reasons other than force majeure, we will attempt to arrange alternative services or provide a refund in the form of a 6-month voucher (or cash, if preferred).
Participant Dropout During the Event
No refund will be provided if a participant voluntarily drops out of the trek. Any additional costs incurred for return arrangements will be borne by the participant.
Early Return from an Event
If a participant returns early due to force majeure or an event ending sooner than planned, additional expenses (extra nights, transport) must be covered by the participant.
Emergency Evacuation
In case of a medical emergency, we will arrange evacuation to the nearest hospital. Any costs for porters, vehicles, ambulance services, or hospitalization must be covered by the participant.