5999 / Per Person

Kedarkantha Trek

Altitude :
12500 ft.

Duration:
5 Days

Trek Length
20km

Base Camp:
Sankri

Trek Difficulty :
Easy to Mod.  

    Altitude :
    12500 ft.

    Duration:
    5 Days

    Trek Length
    20km

    Base Camp:
    Sankri

    Trek Difficulty :
    Easy to Mod.  

      Overview

      At an elevation of 4,000 metres (12,500 feet), the magnificent Himalayan peak known as Kedarkantha can be found in Uttarakhand’s Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. Kedarkantha is considered to be one of the state’s most challenging mountains. The Kedarkantha trip will excite you with a wide variety of flora and fauna, regardless of whether you are hiking on freezing winter trails or passing through glossy lush pine forests. This is because the Kedarkantha journey passes through a variety of ecosystems.

      When you hear the term “Kedarkantha,” wonderful mental imagery likely come to mind. One of the first images that captures your attention is of Lord Shiva atop an immense Himalayan mountain, imparting his blessing on the world below him. The magnificent mountain peak that is nestled in the Himalayas of Uttrakhand is called the Kedarkantha pinnacle, and it stands at a height of around 4,000 metres (12,500 feet).

      Even though the Kedarkantha Trek is a fantastic option throughout any season, however, it is particularly popular during the winter months and is considered to be one of the best winter treks in India. Trekkers are blown away by this incredible hike, which, until the end of April, blankets the landscape with snow. Even at elevations as low as 10,000 feet, one may get stunning vistas of snow-covered summits that are surrounded by towering woods.

      The trip to this magnificent home begins at Sankri, which is situated around 197 kilometres away from Dehradun. Dehradun is the starting point of this expedition. When travelling by car from Dehradun to Sankri, the trip will take around seven hours. Over the way, you will travel along winding roads set against the background of towering mountains, and you will be in close proximity to boiling mountain rivers. Before arriving in the distant hamlet of Sankri, you pass through the towns of Mussoorie, Damta, the village of Nain Bhag, Purola, Harsaadi, and Natwad along the way. Throughout the journey, you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramas of Mussoorie and high-altitude mountains, and rivers like as the Yamuna, Ganga, Kedarganga, Supin, and Tons will invigorate you with the sparkling waters of their streams.

      Sankri is a picturesque town in the Himalayan foothills that sits at a height of around 1,900 metres (6,400 feet). It is the location of the trek’s base camp for the Kedarkantha mountain. You will go through local paths and through lush woods as you make your way to the holy mountain lake of Juda ka Talab on the trekking route that departs from Sankri.

      During your journey to Kedarkantha, you will pass by a number of incredible campgrounds, each one more breathtaking than the last.

      At an elevation of around 3,000 metres (about 9,000 feet), the first campground, Juda Ka Talab, is the most attractive of the three. The tranquil beauty of Juda Ka Talab will make you blink twice before you believe it’s possible that you’re really at a place that exists. The glacial lake is encircled on all sides by a dense forest consisting of towering oak and pine trees, with massive mountains serving as a backdrop. This creates the impression of a protecting shield. The temperature of Juda Ka Talab fluctuates from -12 to -1 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months, 15 to 17 degrees Fahrenheit during the spring and summer months, and -2 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn season.

      When you reach the open highlands immediately below the Kedarkantha top, you will have travelled around 4 kilometres from Juda ka Talab, passing through pine and oak woods along the way. You come out onto a broad meadow that serves as the Kedarkantha base camp just as the forest gives way. The Kedarkantha base camp is the second campground along the Kedarkantha hiking path. It can be found at a height of 3,500 metres (11,250 ft).

      In order to reach the summit of Kedarkantha, which is situated at an altitude of 3 kilometres and 12,500 feet, you must first make your way upwards from the base camp on Kedarkantha. At the peak of Kedarkantha, you will be astounded by the vista of the massive mountain ranges that surround you in all directions.

      This hike is fantastic because it takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of the Himalayas. A breathtaking vista of wide highlands, broad meadows, steep slopes, and soaring mountain ranges will greet you as you make your way from the base camp of the Kedarkantha hike to the beautiful peak.

      At the top of the mountain, you will be greeted by a breathtaking view of mountain ranges in every direction. Not only will you be able to see well-known peaks such as Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kalanag, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and DhaulaDhar ranges, but you will also see hundreds of other virgin mountains that have not been touched by human hands. It is a sight that you will remember for the rest of your life if you see this picture-perfect landscape, since each individual frame seems to be an image from a postcard.

      In the Uttarakhand Himalayas, the Kedarkantha Trek is known for being both one of the simplest and most appealing hikes. This walk is one of the nicest and most pleasant treks in India, and it can be done at any time of the year. However, the most beautiful time of year to do the hike is in the winter.

      Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri

      Distance: 198Kms | Time: 7-8 hours drive

      At seven in the morning, hikers will be collected either from the Dehradun train station or at Petal Nager. It is going to be a lengthy journey, but the whole way is going to give magnificent scenic views, which will make you feel anxious to go to the spot where you will go hiking. You will have a lot of fun and also pass through Govind National Park before you get to Sankri, which is located 22 kilometres away. We will arrive at Sankri about 5:00 in the evening, and after we are settled in, you will have the opportunity to visit the Sankri sour hamlet before retiring for the night in a homestay located in Sankri.

      Distance: 4kms | Time: 3 hours trek

      We start our hike from Sankri and make our way to Juda-Ka-Talab, which is around 4 kilometres away. At an elevation of 2,800 metres (9,100 feet), Juda-Ka-Talab provides you with stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. During the course of the hike, you will pass through a thick forest that has a carpet of pine and maple leaves, both of which are sure to astonish you. You will arrive at the breathtakingly lovely location known as Juda Ka Talab after traversing a number of streams and oak woodlands. This location will provide you with views of nature that are sure to capture your attention. Your night spent in tents will give you the impression that you are dozing off in the bosom of mother nature. 

      Distance: 3kms | Time: 4hours trek

      We will begin the journey to the base of Kedarkantha, which is situated at a height of 3,500 metres, in the wee hours of the morning. You will go through an oak and pine forest that is rather thick at first, but it will eventually open out into some lovely meadows. You may also get a breathtaking view of some of the most famous mountains in the Himalayas, such as Kala Nag, Bandarpoonch, and Swargarohini. Your accommodations for the night trek will be in tents, providing you with an unobstructed view of the sky filled with twinkling stars while you sleep. 

      Distance: 11kms | Time: 7-8 hours trek

      The fourth day of the trip will begin at 2 in the morning so that you may see the dawn from Kedarkantha peak. After a light and nutritious breakfast, we will begin our ascent to Kedarkantha Summit, which is situated at an altitude of 12500 feet. During the hike, you should be sure to drink water after every 15 minutes, and you should be prepared for the temperature to be chilly at the summit due to the wind. As we make our way up to the peak, the temperature will begin to drop, making today the most challenging day of the trip. The wind chill might reach -15 degrees as the temperature drops. You will get a view of the Himalayan mountains in every direction. After climbing to the top of Kedarkantha, you may take in the breathtaking and otherworldly beauty of the natural world. After spending half an hour there, we will return to Juda ka Talaab by way of Hargaon, and in the meanwhile, you will get to enjoy some snow sliding.

       

      Distance: 4kms trek and 180kms approx. drive

      Time: 2 hours trek and 7-8 hours drive

      Following breakfast, you will begin the hike that will take you back to Sankri. This is the last day of the hike, and we will be making our way back to Sankri from Juda-ka-talaab. The descent from Juda-ka-talaab to Sankri will take around two to three hours. On your trip back to Sankri from the outlying village, you will get the opportunity to take in a stunning panorama of the Sankri Valley. As one travels down the route, the woodland that surrounds it becomes more thick until it eventually breaks apart to expose the sankri. You are about to go on a journey that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime, so be ready to say farewell to an incredible hiking experience. You will, however, be delivered to the Dehradun train station no later than 9 PM.

      • 5 days premium trek
      • Double sharing basis of tents through the trek.
      • Dehradun to Sankri & Return Transport in Tempo/Bolero/Sumo Vehicle
      • All meals – vegetarian
      • Campfire at Camps (If Available)
      • Trekking permits and forest camping charges
      • Trekking equipment (Tents, sleeping bags, ice axes, ropes, etc.)
      • Expert trek leader (qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering courses)
      • Services by Expert Team (guides, cooks, helpers)
      • Safety equipments (first aid, medical kit, etc.)
      • Achievement Certificate
      • Memories of Life Time
      • Pickup from your place
      • Luggage carries charges
      • Food during travel
      • Any kind of personal expenses

      • As you climb to higher altitudes, the air grows thinner and less oxygen is present. The amount of oxygen in our blood is equivalent to the proportion of haemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen. At altitudes above around 2,100 metres (7,000 feet), the amount of oxygen carried by our blood starts to decrease. At the same time, the human body possesses both immediate and long-term adaptations to altitude that help it somewhat compensate for the shortage of oxygen.

         

        A Great First Trek for Anyone Who Wants to Get Into Hiking:

        1. The Kedarkantha Trip is a Moderate level trek in terms of fitness requirements. The track is well-marked and has only modest inclines and declines. Water fountains may be seen at various points throughout the path. However, it’s still best to be ready if you’re planning your first major Himalayan trekking adventure. Here is a plan for getting in shape for the trip.
        2. Our hikes are typically designed such that you cover around 9 kilometres in six hours, however this might vary somewhat depending on the terrain. It’s about the same as walking 6 kilometres an hour over the plains, therefore the speed is around 1.5 kilometres per hour.
        3. Following this plan, you may train yourself to run 3 kilometres in 30 minutes. Always begin your workout routine with some light stretching and warm-up moves.
        4. Follow this training schedule for trekking fitness required:
        • Week 1: Walk for 10 minutes at a fast pace, jog for 10, and finish with a slow stroll for 10 minutes.
        • Week 2: 15 minutes of jogging, followed by a 5-minute brisk walk. A leisurely stroll that takes no more than 5 minutes
        • Week 3: Walk briskly for five minutes. Jogging for 15 minutes A brisk stroll that takes no more than 5 minutes
        • Week 4: Do a brisk 5-minute walk, then a 25-minute jog, and finish with a 5-minute cool down.

      A Great First Trek for Anyone Who Wants to Get Into Hiking:

      1. The Brahmatal Trek is an Easy to Moderate level trek in terms of fitness requirements. The track is well-marked and has only modest inclines and declines. Water fountains may be seen at various points throughout the path. However, it’s still best to be ready if you’re planning your first major Himalayan trekking adventure. Here is a plan for getting in shape for the trip.
      2. Our hikes are typically designed such that you cover around 9 kilometres in six hours, however this might vary somewhat depending on the terrain. It’s about the same as walking 6 kilometres an hour over the plains, therefore the speed is around 1.5 kilometres per hour.
      3. Following this plan, you may train yourself to run 3 kilometres in 30 minutes. Always begin your workout routine with some light stretching and warm-up moves.
      4. Follow this training schedule for trekking fitness required:
      • Week 1: Walk for 10 minutes at a fast pace, jog for 10, and finish with a slow stroll for 10 minutes.
      • Week 2: 15 minutes of jogging, followed by a 5-minute brisk walk. A leisurely stroll that takes no more than 5 minutes
      • Week 3: Walk briskly for five minutes. Jogging for 15 minutes A brisk stroll that takes no more than 5 minutes
      • Week 4: Do a brisk 5-minute walk, then a 25-minute jog, and finish with a 5-minute cool down.
      • It is essential that you arrive at the starting point of any hike or excursion in the best possible physical condition and readiness.
      • The hike is not tough; in fact, if you can keep both your feet and your mind calm and strong during the journey, you will discover that the hike is rather simple.

         

      • Points to remember for safety in the trek:

       

      • When you are out on a hike, bear in mind that you may not always be with your guide and that you may not always be on the correct trail.
      • The majority of individuals glance both where they are going and where they are going while they are walking; this might produce twitching in your legs, which can make the whole journey difficult.
      • It is imperative that you see your physician if you are experiencing any kind of health issue.
      • It is imperative that I have my medical equipment with me at all times; it is of the utmost significance.
      • Indiantreks will ensure that you have a fully stocked first aid kit at all times, including oxygen cylinders and other medications that may be required throughout the trek.
      • In the event that any of the trekkers have any more difficulties, the stretcher is used to transport them back to the base camp.
      • During the Kedarkantha walk, our camp is situated close to the tree line, so you won’t have any trouble getting enough oxygen there.
      • In the event of a medical emergency, you should seek the assistance of your guide or another trekker who is knowledgeable in the area.

      • Directions to go to Dehradun:

        • By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the domestic airport that serves Dehradun, and it receives frequent flights from the main metropolises located across India.
        • Traveling by Train: The Dehradun junction is the closest railway station, and it has excellent connections to major cities located around India.
        • By Road: The road network in and around Dehradun is extensive and convenient. To get to Dehradun from Delhi or any of the other surrounding cities, you have the option of either driving there yourself or hiring a cab or taxi. In addition, there is a consistent bus service between Dehradun and the surrounding areas because to the extensive road network.

      PARTICIPANTS MUST BRING FOR KEDARKANTHA- TREK

      • 50–60 ltrs backpack
      • Strong hiking boots: a leather upper is best because it gives your ankles more support. If you don’t have a pair yet, you should get one as soon as possible and wear it a lot so that it breaks in well. This will help keep blisters from forming.
      • Tennis shoes or sandals that are light enough to wear in camp
      • Two pairs of thick wool socks, if possible.
      • Two pairs of everyday nylon socks to wear underneath the wool socks to prevent blisters.
      • One shirt for hiking, preferably with long sleeves.
      • Long John top: This is also called thermal underwear, and it should be made of wool if it is the first layer.
      • Two each of warm shirts and pants for camp
      • 1 each rain cot/poncho
      • Warm Jacket: 1
      • One pair of wool gloves as thick as can be bought on the market.
      • Long Johns: The first layer should be wool if possible.
      • Under wear: 2-3 changes Shorts or pants for hiking: 1
      • Sunscreen lotion is up to you. Chap stick or lip balm is optional.
      • Water bottle: Two 1-liter bottles (Pepsi bottles work well), make sure they don’t leak.
      • Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp is best because it frees up your hands for work. If you bring a flashlight, bring extra batteries.
      • Items for the bathroom, like a toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. And a small one-person medical kit.
      • Cotton or nylon for a sun hat. Sunglasses: Those with an anchor are best.

       

      Must Read Articles

      Best time for the trek

      🗓️ Best Time to Trek — A Guide by Octatrav

      One of the key advantages of many Himalayan treks is that they remain accessible for a large part of the year. Most trekking routes open up in March, welcoming trekkers with springtime freshness and moderate temperatures. This season continues through late June, offering pleasant weather and clear views—ideal for a memorable trekking experience.

      🍁 Trekking resumes in mid-September and continues until late November, when the landscape transforms with golden leaves and crisp air. This autumn window is perfect for those who prefer scenic beauty combined with clear skies.

      ❄️ Winter trekking, although breathtaking, comes with challenges. From December to mid-March, most high-altitude trails get buried under heavy snow, making them inaccessible or risky. Government authorities usually restrict entry during this time to avoid mishaps due to extreme cold, snowfall, and avalanches.

      ✅ Summary:

      • Spring & Summer (March–June): Best time for pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.

      • Monsoon (July–Early September): Most trails are closed due to safety concerns.

      • Autumn (Mid-September–November): Ideal time with great weather and views.

      • Winter (December–Mid-March): High snow levels; many treks remain closed.

      With Octatrav, you’ll always be informed about the best seasons for your chosen trek. Our expert guidance ensures that you trek during the safest and most scenic times of the year, making your adventure both memorable and secure.

      This trek is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty, with a rating that can vary from easy to challenging depending on your experience and fitness level.

      The journey begins at a base village situated around 6,000 ft, gradually ascending to a maximum altitude of nearly 11,500 ft over the course of a few days.

      While the route mostly involves a pleasant hike through scenic landscapes, here are two main reasons why it falls under the moderate category:

      – Long daily distances: On average, you may be covering 10 km per day, which demands good stamina and consistent pacing.
      – Limited exit points: Most treks of this nature have only one route in and out, making emergency exits or quick returns difficult in case of unforeseen situations.

      How to Prepare for a High-Altitude Trek

      Fitness Guide by Octatrav

      Preparing for a trek requires building both stamina and strength. One of the best ways to get started is by jogging, which targets the same muscles used during trekking—calves, glutes, and hamstrings. It’s a simple and effective way to improve endurance without the need for any equipment.

      Minimum Fitness Target

      To trek comfortably, you should be able to run 5 km in under 60 minutes. This ensures that you can maintain a steady pace and handle long walking hours at altitude.

      How to Achieve This?

      Here’s a structured plan you can follow:

      🏃‍♂️ Cardio Training:

      • Jog at least 4 times a week – consistency is key.

      • Start small – begin with 2 km runs and gradually increase the distance.

      • Pace improvement – once you’re running 5 km, aim to bring your timing down to under 35 minutes.

      • Maintain for 2 weeks – consistently hitting this goal helps build real endurance.

      ⏳ Training Duration:

      Prepare for at least 4–6 weeks based on your current fitness level. The earlier you begin, the better your trek experience will be.

      💪 Strength Training Routine

      Combine cardio with strength workouts to build muscular endurance:

      • Squats – builds quads, glutes, and hamstrings.

      • Lunges – mimics trekking motion; strengthens the entire lower body.

      • Step-ups – improves climbing strength for steep trails.

      • Core exercises – planks, Russian twists, leg raises for balance and stability.

      • Back workouts – deadlifts, bent-over rows, and shoulder presses to carry your backpack with ease.

      🧘‍♂️ Flexibility & Recovery

      • Stretch daily – especially your calves, hamstrings, quads, and lower back.

      • Incorporate yoga or Pilates – enhances flexibility and mental focus.

      • Take rest days – they are essential for muscle recovery and injury prevention.

      🔁 Trek-Ready Summary

      • 🏃‍♂️ Cardio: Build stamina through jogging.

      • 💪 Strength: Focus on legs, back, and core.

      • 🤸‍♂️ Flexibility: Stretch regularly and stay injury-free.

      • ⏳ Consistency: Stick to a 6–8 week routine for best results.

      Why Choose Octatrav for Your Trekking Adventure?

      Trekking in the Himalayas is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re walking through snow-covered paths, lush forests, or peaceful riversides, choosing the right trekking operator is crucial for a safe and comfortable journey.
      Octatrav stands out as a trusted name in the trekking world. Here are 10 strong reasons to choose Octatrav for your next high-altitude adventure:

      1. Experienced Professionals

      Octatrav’s team includes highly trained professionals who know the terrain, weather, and routes in depth. Their insights and support will elevate your trekking experience.

      2. Focused on Safety

      Trekking at altitude can be unpredictable. Octatrav ensures your safety by equipping the team with first-aid kits, oxygen, and emergency protocols for any situation.

      3. Small Group Sizes

      To give you personal attention and a relaxed experience, Octatrav keeps group sizes small. This also reduces environmental impact and makes for smoother trekking.

      4. Eco-Friendly Trekking

      Octatrav encourages responsible travel. From minimizing plastic use to proper waste disposal at campsites, they help you leave no trace.

      5. Comfortable Camping

      After a long day of trekking, good rest matters. Octatrav sets up cozy camps with quality tents, warm sleeping bags, and hot meals so you sleep well and stay energized.

      6. Nutritious Meals

      Fueling your body right is essential. Octatrav serves fresh, nutritious meals for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians to keep your energy levels high throughout the trek.

      7. Affordable Packages

      You don’t have to overspend for a great experience. Octatrav offers budget-friendly packages that include accommodation, meals, guidance, and permits—everything you need.

      8. Relaxed & Scenic Pace

      Octatrav designs treks that balance exploration and rest. You’ll get ample time to absorb the beauty around you without rushing through the journey.

      9. Customizable Itineraries

      Want a special experience? Octatrav helps you tailor the trek to your preference—be it a solo hike, photography-focused trail, or a slower pace.

      10. Trusted by Trekkers

      Octatrav is praised by many happy trekkers for its hospitality, safety, and professionalism. The positive reviews speak for themselves.

      Why Choose This Himalayan Trek for Your Next Adventure? – by Octatrav

      Exploring the Himalayas is a dream for many, and every trail has its own magic. Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned explorer, here are ten reasons why your next trek with Octatrav can be an unforgettable experience:

      1. 🏔️ Breathtaking Scenery

      Enjoy mesmerizing views of snow-covered peaks, lush green valleys, sparkling rivers, and alpine forests. Each turn on the trail feels like walking through a postcard.

      2. 🏡 Rich Cultural Experience

      Pass through remote villages where you can interact with warm-hearted locals, witness age-old traditions, and taste authentic mountain hospitality.

      3. 🌿 Diverse Flora and Fauna

      From rare Himalayan birds to elusive animals like musk deer or black bears, the region is rich in biodiversity. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers will find every step rewarding.

      4. 🥾 Moderate Difficulty Level

      Most Himalayan treks are rated as moderate, which makes them suitable for beginners with preparation, and still exciting for experienced trekkers looking for beauty and challenge.

      5. 📖 Mythological & Historical Depth

      Many Himalayan regions are steeped in legend and ancient lore. Walking these trails often feels like stepping into a living story from Indian epics or ancient folklore.

      6. 🤫 Peaceful & Untouched

      Less commercialized treks offer serene trails where you can disconnect from city chaos and truly reconnect with nature and yourself.

      7. ⛺ Unique Campsites

      Camp under a sky full of stars, beside rivers or deep in pine forests. The silence, the chill, the camaraderie — it’s an experience that stays with you forever.

      8. 🎒 Adventure Add-ons

      Beyond trekking, enjoy photography, bird watching, star-gazing, or even meditative moments in nature. It’s not just a trek — it’s a full adventure retreat.

      9. 🌅 Magical Sunrises & Sunsets

      Witness golden hours like never before — with Himalayan peaks glowing pink, orange, and gold. These views are pure magic and make every effort worthwhile.

      10. 💪 Personal Growth

      Trekking challenges your body and mind, pushing you beyond limits. By the end, you’ll not only have beautiful memories but also a stronger, more confident version of yourself.