Kedarkantha Trek in Sankri

A winter trek in Uttarakhand from Sankri village to Kedarkantha Summit at about 12,500 ft, known for snow-covered trails, pine forests and 360-degree Himalayan views. The trip runs from Dehradun, with a hotel night in Sankri and three nights in dome tents.

The days cover the drive along the Yamuna and Tons rivers, the forest trek to Juda Ka Talab, the climb to base camp, a pre-dawn summit push for sunrise, and the descent. The source describes it as a moderate trek suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

Highlights

• Sunrise from Kedarkantha Summit at about 12,500 ft
• Views of the Yamunotri, Gangotri and Kinnaur Kailash ranges
• Camp near Juda Ka Talab, a high-altitude lake linked to Lord Shiva
• Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag and Ranglana views from base camp
• Snow-covered pine and oak forest trails in winter
• Drive along the Yamuna and Tons rivers to Sankri village

At a glance

• 5 days, 4 nights
• Route: Dehradun → Sankri → Juda ka Talab → Base Camp → Kedarkantha Summit → Juda ka Talab → Dehradun
• Pick-up and drop: Dehradun or Sankri
• Region: Uttarakhand
• Max altitude: 12,500 ft.
• Trek distance: 18 KM
• Stay: Standard Hotel
• Camps: Dome Tents
• Meals: All Meals
• Transport: Force Tempo Traveller
• Guide: Trip Leader

Know before you go

• Toilet Facilities: Campsites generally use dry-pit toilet tents, so trekkers should follow the hygiene and waste-disposal instructions given by the trek team.
• Bathing During Trek: Avoid bathing at higher campsites because of extremely cold temperatures and limited water availability.
• Bonfire Policy: Bonfires are arranged only where permitted and remain subject to weather conditions, forest regulations and availability.
• Vegetarian Meals: Fresh vegetarian meals are served during the trek as they are easier to prepare, store and digest at high altitude.
• Weather Can Change Quickly: Snowfall, rain, strong winds or road conditions can affect the planned itinerary at any time.
• Plan B Is Important: The Trek Leader may change the route, campsite, timings or summit plan whenever required for the safety of the group.

Things to carry

• 60-70 litre rucksack with rain cover
• Daypack with rain cover
• 1 litre thermos or reusable water bottle
• Waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support
• Torch or headlamp with extra batteries
• Glucose, ORS, chocolates, biscuits and dry fruits
• Personal medical kit, if required
• Original government-issued ID card
• 2 trekking pants
• 4 T-shirts, preferably 2 full-sleeve and 2 half-sleeve
• Fleece and woollen sweater
• Fleece jacket and down jacket

FAQs

• Is Kedarkantha Trek suitable for beginners? Yes. Kedarkantha is considered an easy-to-moderate trek and is a great choice for first-time trekkers. However, basic fitness and preparation are important, especially for the summit day.
• What is the difficulty level of Kedarkantha Trek? The trek is graded easy to moderate. Most sections are manageable, while the steep and snowy summit climb makes the final ascent more challenging.
• What is the maximum altitude of Kedarkantha Trek? The Kedarkantha Summit stands at approximately 12,500 ft above sea level, offering spectacular 360-degree Himalayan views.
• How long is the Kedarkantha Trek? The trekking route covers approximately 20 km, with the distance divided across multiple days for gradual altitude gain and comfortable trekking.
• What is the best time for Kedarkantha Trek? Kedarkantha is especially popular during the winter months, when snow transforms the forests, campsites and summit trail into a beautiful Himalayan landscape.

Prices are per person, plus 5% GST.