Descriptions

The Kedarkantha Trek is one of India’s most iconic winter treks, nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi district. It combines scenic forests, snow-covered alpine meadows (bugyals), and panoramic Himalayan summit views, making it a favorite among both first-time and seasoned trekkers. 

Location & Access

• Starting Point: Sankri (1,950 m / 6,400 ft), a mountain village that acts as the base camp for the trek.
• Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun), about 210 km from Sankri.
• Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station (~200 km). 
• Road Connectivity: Accessible by road from Dehradun via Purola and Mori; shared taxis and buses serve the route. 

Trek Profile

• Duration: Typically 5–6 days (standard itinerary). 
• Total Distance: ~20–25 km round trip.
• Highest Altitude: 12,500 ft (~3,810 m).
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate — suitable for beginners with basic fitness.
• Season: Most popular in Winter (Dec-Apr) for snow trekking; also attractive in Spring and Autumn.

Why Kedarkantha Is Special

Kedarkantha is often called “India’s best winter trek” because unlike many Himalayan trails, it is well marked, accessible, and scenic, offering:

• Snow-clad landscapes and frozen lakes (Juda Ka Talab).
• Panoramic summit views of peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch.
• A balanced climb with manageable gradients, making it ideal for newcomers or family groups. 

In winter, the entire trail turns into a white wonderland with heavy snowfall, particularly from mid-December to February — the peak season for snow lovers. 

Route Highlights

Over its 5–6 days, the trek covers:

1. Sankri to Juda Ka Talab: Through oak and pine forests to a partially frozen alpine lake.
2. Juda Ka Talab to Base Camp: The trail ascends into open snowy slopes.
3. Base Camp to Summit (12,500 ft): Early morning climb with sunrise Himalayan views.
4. Descent & Return: Trek back downhill to Sankri.

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Program

Day 01: Arrive Dehradun (640M) - Sankri (1,950M) Drive: 193 km/7hr.

The first day will be an early morning departure from Dehradun to Sankri village, where our trekking route will start. This mountain journey is 193 km long, so we’ll have halts for lunch and toilets. As you reach Sankri by afternoon, you’ll see a little crowd, as this little village is the trailhead for many treks like Bali Pass, Har Ki Dun, Borasu Pass, and Bharadsar Lake, to name a few. We’ll be staying here for the night to get acclimatized to the altitude and weather. Overnight in the hotel
Meals: Dinner

Day 02: Sankri - Juda Ka Talab (2,700M) Trek 4km/ 5hrs

The next day, our trek will start after breakfast to Juda ka Talab. This trail is 4 km long, crossing village Saur, some water streams, and pine forests. Here the trail goes steep for some meters, some zigzag paths, and reaches the wide ridge and then to Juda ka Talab. This talab/pond freezes during the winter, and beautiful snowcapped peaks surround it. One of the famous peaks that you can spot among many is Swarga Rohini Peak. So, enjoy the day view of peaks and gaze at stars at night during this overnight camp.
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Day 03: Juda Ka Talab/Gujjar Hut - Kedar Kantha Base (3,413M) Trek 04Km/4hrs

In winter, as the temperature drops, the lake of Juda Ka Talab freezes into ice, and if you are lucky enough to witness that, you can walk on this lake. Now, after this wonderful experience, we’ll head to base camp. This trek to the base camp will have a splendid view of some grass patches and some snow beds and will reach huge open ground that is surrounded by the beautiful snow peaks of Swargarohini, Poonch, and Kalang. If it’s a moon night, then these same peaks will shine so brightly with white moonlight that even Kedarkantha Peak is visible right in front.
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Day 04: Kedar Kantha Base - Kedar Kantha Peak (3,810M) - Hargaon (9 km)

This final route has to start early, if possible, in the dark, as the sunrise from the summit looks really beautiful and mesmerizing. Walking on snow in the dark might be a little difficult, but the destination has a lot to offer. As soon as you reach there, just enjoy the dawn, and slowly the sun rays will come over all the peaks and give a beautiful sight that one can ever experience. This beautiful place will also have Gangotri and Yamunotri range view from an elevation of 12500 ft. After making lots of memories, just make up your mind to walk back to Basecamp. After lunch in Basecamp, we again start our trek down to Hargaon for overnight camping.
Meals: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Day 05: Hargaon - Sankri  Trek/ 05 Km

Morning after breakfast start your trek to Sankri that is 05 km from Hargaon, it will take you 4,5 hrs to reach the Sankri, overnight stay in the hotel. 
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner

Day 06: Sankari – Dehradun Drive 193Km/8hrs

After the trek, the last day of this trip will be a long drive back to Dehradun. We’ll start the day early with breakfast and leave as we have to reach Dehradun by the evening.

Meals: Breakfast

Permits & Regulations

• A forest entry permit from the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary authorities is mandatory for all trekkers. 

• A registered local guide is required; trekking without one is prohibited. 

• Valid government photo ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID) must be carried for verification. 

Cost & Packages (Latest)

Costs vary based on operator, group size, and inclusions:

• Basic-Range Packages: ~₹5,500–₹9,000 per person. 

• Standard Guided Trek: ~₹8,000–₹12,000 with meals, tents, permits. 

• IRCTC Winter Trek Packages: ~₹10,900 per person for Jan-Jun 2026 slots.

(Prices may change year-to-year; always confirm current rates with operators.)

Best Time to Trek

• Peak Snow Trek: Mid-December to February — ideal for heavy snow and classic winter scenes. 

• Spring: March–April — snow patches remain at higher camps with mild weather. 

• Autumn: October–November — clear skies and mild conditions.

• Monsoon: July–August — generally not recommended due to heavy rains and slippery trails. 

Weather Expectations

In winter, daytime temperatures can hover around 8–15 °C, with nights dropping well below freezing (–5 °C to –10 °C or lower).

Packing Tips

For winter treks:

• Insulated layers (thermals, down jacket). 

• Waterproof trekking shoes and crampons/spikes. 

• Headlamp, trekking poles, sunscreen, water bottle. 

Safety Notes

• Snow and ice can make sections slippery — poles and traction gear help. 

• Mild acute mountain sickness (AMS) is possible at summit altitudes; acclimatise well.

• Choose experienced operators to avoid overcrowding and safety compromise. 

FAQs

1. Where does the Kedarkantha trek start?
   It starts from Sankri village (6,400 ft), Uttarakhand.

2. What is the highest point of the trek?
   The summit is at about 12,500 ft (3,810 m) above sea level.

3. How many days does the trek take?
   It typically takes 5–6 days end-to-end.

4. Is Kedarkantha suitable for beginners?
   Yes — it’s classified as easy to moderate, suitable for beginners with basic fitness. 

5. Do I need a permit for Kedarkantha?
   Yes — a forest entry permit from Govind Wildlife Sanctuary is required.

6. Is a guide mandatory?
   Yes — a registered local guide is compulsory. 

7. When is the best time to go?
   Dec–Apr is best for snow trekking; Oct–Nov/Mar–Apr season are also popular. 

8. How much does the trek cost?
   Standard packages range ₹5,500–₹12,000+, depending on services. 

9. Can I trek solo without a group?
   Solo trek is possible but must include a certified local guide; independent hikes without permits/guides are prohibited. 

10. What weather should I expect?
    Day time may be ~8–15 °C; nights can drop below -5 °C in winter.

11. Is there mobile network on the trail?
    Connectivity is limited — available mainly in Sankri; absent on most trail segments. 

12. What are trek highlights?
    Snow fields, Juda Ka Talab, alpine camps, and Himalayan summit views.

Price & Inclusions

₹ 7,200/-

Inclusion Details

• Price Based on Per Person
• Accommodation for two nights in hotel,
• 3 nights in a dome tent on a sharing basis.
• Meals as per the above-mentioned program.
• Transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun.
• Professional trek leader / guide.
• Camping equipment: tent, sleeping bag, mattress.
• kitchen, toilet tent, 
• First-aid kit 
• Permit and entry fees

• ID Card
• Trekking shoes, a trekking rucksack, and a trekking pole.
• Sunscreen, lip balm
• Water bottle, 1 liter (min.)
• Full-sleeve T-Shirts
• Thermo Flask
• Fleece Jacket
• Trekking Poles
• Waterproof trekking pant and jacket
• Other trekking gear according to your requirement
• Raincoat or windcheater
• Cap and sunglasses
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Leather Gloves
• Extra memory card for the camera
• Track Suit
• UV-protected sunglasses
• Inner Fleece Gloves
• Water Bottle
• Warm clothes with thermals, gloves, caps, and socks.
• personal medical kit
• Full-sleeve T-Shirts
• Carry some food, like cookies and candy.
• Toiletries.
• Muffler

Exclusion

• GST 05%
• Offloading cost extra per bag pack per day: Rs. 300/- INR
• Personal expenses such as table drinks, room services items, telephone calls at the camps, tips, etc.
• Any additional expenses caused by or liability for disturbance in trip program due to or circumstances such as weather conditions, sickness, natural disasters, riots, etc.
• Liability for or insurance against injury, loss of life, accidents, or loss of goods.
• Any personal high-altitude porter, riding horse or pony.

HOW TO REACH DEHRADUN

People coming from Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai, Gujarat, or any other city should arrive in Delhi first, then get a train from Delhi to Dehradun.

Option 01: By Train

Nanda Devi Express to Dehradun Departure 11:30 pm: Reaches Dehradun 5:45
Dehradun Express to Dehradun Departure 9:10 pm: Reaches Dehradun 5:00 am
Take both overnight trains from Dehradun to the new Delhi-Dehradun Special A/C train from Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station, which is the best option for you. The train reached Dehradun railway station morning 5:45 to 6:30 am

Option 02: By Air

Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport in Dehradun. Located about 27 km from Dehradun city. There are flights available from all states to Dehradun; you can go online and book your tickets. These are easy ways for you, and you also save time. Taxis are available from the airport to Dehradun at all times and cost Rs. 800/* one-way.

Option 03: By Bus

You can reach Kathgodam from Delhi by bus; board it from Delhi’s Kashmiri Gate. It is good if you book the seats. Directly at the bus stand. But to get the bus tickets booked, you have to come to the bus stand a little early

The bus leaves Dehradun from Delhi at around 9 p.m. Frequent buses are available until midnight. It is a journey of about 7 to 8 hours.

(Reach Dehradun bus stand between 5:00 am and 6:00 am and the vehicle will be arranged from there.)

General Conditions:

• The prices are on a per-person basis and are net and non-commissionable
• Personal Insurance
• The class of travel on trains may change based on availability at the time of booking
• All prices are subject to any revision to the tax and tariff structure
• Our kitchen staff and the escort will give you the accompany till base camp
• All prices are subject to any revision to the tax and tariff structure
• The prices are on a per-person basis and are net and non-commissionable.
• Upon confirmation of the booking, we would require 50% of the total invoice, and the balance amount can be paid 30 days prior to the date of arrival.
• We reserve the right to cancel the tour in the absence of a deposit, balance, or final payment.

Book Your Insurance with Himalayan Holidays Call for info: (9717891140 Vikas Chauhan)

Note: Please ensure your insurance covers you for the heights you are likely to attain and for helicopter rescue as well. When you have chosen and booked your insurance, please provide Himalayan holidays with your insurer's name, their 24-hour emergency telephone number, and your policy number with them.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation Charges: Notice of cancellation must be made in writing in the name of Himalayan Holidays.
  For cancellations made 60 days prior to the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation fee of 25% of the invoice.
• For cancellations made within 60 to 30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 50% of the invoice. For cancellations made within 30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 100% of the invoice.
• In certain cases, the cancellation policy (including conditions applicable to the advance deposit made or required for holding the reservation) may differ and would be applicable as per the cancellation policy of that hotel / service provider. This will be charged in addition to the cancellation policy.

Unused Services and Refunds

• No refund will be made for any unused services or other arrangements due to any changes in schedule made by passengers while travelling. However, in certain cases, the refund will be considered as per the policy of the carrier, hotel, tour company, or other supplier used for providing services.
• A refund request must be made within 2 weeks of the completion of the trip.
• If there are any additional expenses due to bad weather or any other reason beyond the control of the tour operator on account of hotel stays, transportation, meals, etc., an extra bill will be raised. Neither Himalayan Holidays. nor the participating suppliers or hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses.

Responsibility, Liability

All the packages are sold under the business management of Himalayan Holidays, and they are in no way considered the principal or operator of the subject services. The right is reserved to cancel or alter any package as conditions require. Neither Himalayan Holidays nor the participating suppliers or hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses due to loss, delay or damage caused by accident, illness, bad weather, strikes or riots, roadblocks, etc.

Governing Law

This condition and each term shall be governed by and constructed in accordance with the laws of India without reference to conflict of laws principles, and disputes arising in relation hereto shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New Delhi.

*Making a booking deposit for the above tour will be treated as acceptance of our terms and condition.*

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