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Kedarkantha Trek 2025
The Kedarkantha Trek 2025, located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttarakhand, is a winter appropriate nature trail that entirely immerses you in snow clad trekking trails, beautiful Himalayan mountain views and a combination of difficulty and ease while trekking.
This easy to moderate trek is among the most popular treks in India and a perfect trek to introduce you to the magical world of trekking at an altitude of 12,500 feet, you will be camping next to a frozen lake and it will give an opportunity to summit a peak while being lost in Garhwali culture.
This guide on the Kedarkantha Trek 2025 will take you through every aspect of it such as the day-wise itinerary, preparation guidelines, safety tips, and ways to enjoy this once in a lifetime journey in the lap of Himalayas!
Why Kedarkantha in 2025?
Kedarkantha Trek is famous for its winter beauty, which turns into a white wonderland between November – April covering the trail with thick snow. From December to February, be prepared for heavy snow, frozen lakes, and 360-degree views of peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag when you hike the Sankri to Kedarkantha trek in the year 2025.
The Kedarkantha Trek covers over 20–24 km in a duration of 5–6 days and blends an excellent mix of adventure and culture and takes you through the pine forests, Garhwali villages and immerses you into in the backdrop of a famous sacred Lord Shiva temple at the summit. Kedarkantha is the perfect trek for both sunrise views and anyone wanting an easier Himalayan trek.
Detailed Itinerary: A 6-Day Adventure
Day 1 : Sankri- The start of the journey from Deharadoon.
The Kedarkantha Trek journey begins at the capital of the state of Uttarakhand: Dehradun. Around 6 in the morning – 09:00 AM shared Bolero/Tempo Traveler from Prince Chowk or ISBT, arranged by your trek operator. Sankri (6,400 ft) is a long 8–10 hour drive (200 km) through the hills of Mussoorie, Kempty Falls, and the valleys of the Yamuna and Tons rivers. Pause mid-journey to enjoy a hot lunch on the roadside dhaba (roadside eatery) near Purola, filling up some fresh mountain air in the lungs.
In the evening, you will reach Sankri, a picturesque Garhwali settlement and the base of many treks in the Himalayas. Check-in to a simple homestay such as, The Grand Shiva Homestay, where blankets and hot water are aplenty. Once you check in, you receive a briefing from your trek leader; he will give you details about the trek itinerary and safety protocols.
In the evening, stroll through the small market to find a local café for chai and have a conversation with the villagers about their ancestry linked to the Mahabharata. Dinner includes local dishes such as dal and mandua ki roti, and gets you into the mood for the trek. With temperatures falling to 0°C, bundle up and get some sleep for the trail.
Day 2: From Sankri to Juda ka Talab — Day 02 — Into the Wilderness
Having breakfast (parathas, porridge) as early in the morning as possible before you start your trek at 08.00. Juda ka Talab (9,100 ft) − 5 km trail, that takes 4–5 hours, and is a soft adventure for the newbie, who is headed for Himalayas. Shaded by dense woods of pine and oak, with a stream gurgling nearby, the path winds its way up. You will walk through the village of Saur, where the local Garhwal simplicity can be seen in the wooden houses and terraced fields.
In the afternoon, you will arrive at Juda ka Talab, a frozen (in winter) lake surrounded by snow-covered pines. The lake is steeped in mystique as it is believed to be an extension of Lord Shiva Juda his hair. Camp in alpine tents, enjoy a warm lunch and spend the afternoon of shooting photos or snowballs. The golden hue of Swargarohini ridges at sunset is reason enough to endure the night cold clad in -5°C to -10°C temperatures. At night, after dinner (khichdi, soup) and inside a warm sleeping bag, you could sleep under the stars.
Day 3: Juda ka Talab — Kedarkantha Base Camp – Rise and Shine
Post breakfast, start for a shorter 4 km hike to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 ft) takes around 2.5 hours to 3 hrs. The trail becomes steeper, and snow-covered paths will necessitate careful footing (microspikes may be available). The forest trek will take you through greenish pine groves, patches of open clearings or dhoks, and picturesque views of the peaks of Bandarpookh and Kalanag. Depending on which way you look, shepherd huts are often on the view.
Reach base camp by noon — a vast pastureland giving 180° sight of lofty ranges veiled with snow. We proceed in the afternoon for a warm lunch, and then go for an acclimatization walk for our summit climb. So you spend the afternoon as a group — building a snowman, enjoying some tea or just taking in the views. With night comes magical moments: a campfire (if allowed) and stargazing under the clear skies of the Himalayas. As the temps get low, layer up and get to sleep for the dawn summit push. Food entails hearty meals to help with the big day ahead
Day 4: Summit Day & Back To Hargaon or Juda ka Talab
The ultimate highlight comes today: the summit of Kedarkantha Peak. Kick-offs are directed by headlamps in the two a.m. to 3 a.m. window, and participants are fed either sandwiches or protein bars to go. The climb over 2–3 hours to 12,500 ft is steep with snow and ice requiring microspikes and trekking poles. Your guide will maintain a moderate pace for safety on the narrow, winding trail.
The summit itself is like entering a postcard. At the top is a small Lord Shiva temple, decorated with a trident, where villagers believe that god meditated. Upon sunrise, you get a 360° view of your Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch and Black Peak, Gangotri-Yamunotri ranges. Take 30–45 minutes to enjoy the views, take pictures, and pray. You can literally feel a sense of achievement.
Start by trekking down from the summit to the base camp (2 hours) for a well-deserved brunch before walking another 7–9 km, up to Hargaon (8,900 ft) or Juda ka Talab (9,100 ft) depending on the itinerary. Suspending your breath to the forested Hargaon campsite is something but hard to see, while Juda ka Talab is a distance to the again, to the frozen lake. There are stories of the summit, hot snacks and a big dinner in the evening. Rest well, you have reached the top!
Day 5 — Heading back to civilization — Hargaon or Juda ka Talab to Sankri
After breakfast, Start the 4–8 km downhill trek to Sankri, a leisurely 3–5 hour trek which goes through forests and meadows. The more gradual slopes seize the scenery that surrounds you, the blue air off the evergreens, a breath come from a distant peak. Get to Sankri by early afternoon to find things such as a comforable guest house, hot showers, and a chance to charge any depleted devices (BSNL/Airtel services come back online here Are you reading you made it Sankri section?)
The rest of the afternoon, immerse yourself in the culture of Sankri Experience Garhwali culture as you visit household, relish pahadi food like mandua ki roti, or purchase woollen shawls. A lot of groups have a send off party with certificates for completing the walk. The evening meal is a smorgasbord of local produce, and the guesthouse is cozy enough for a good night’s sleep prior to the long drive back.
Day 6: Dehradun to Sankri — Goodbye to the Himalayas
Following breakfast (07:00–08:00 AM), you will board your vehicle for the 200 km return to Dehradun, following the picturesque route back through Purola and Mussoorie. The 8–10 hour journey is also broken with a lunch stop at a dhaba. You will arrive by 5:00–7:00 PM at Prince Chowk or ISBT of Dehradun for further travel or an overnight stay (Lemon Tree is a comfortable place to stay). Look back on your journey while already planning the next Himalaya trek,
What Makes Kedarkantha Special?
- Winter Wonderland: Between December and February, the trail is covered with heavy snow (2–4 ft) and transforms Juda ka Talab and the summit into a snow-covered wonderland. The during November and March–April milder snow for less strenuous walks.
- Sweeping vistas from the summit of Kedarkantha with a 360° panorama from Swargarohini (the link to the Pandavas final ascent to heaven) amongst other epic sights (pardon the pun, haha).
- Juda ka Talab: A photographer’s delight and the go-to camping destination, it is a frozen lake framed by pines
- Garhwali Culture: Expect warm hospitality, folk tales and Mahabharata-era history in the Sankri and Saur villages.
- Faith Factor: The temple of Lord Shiva at the top brings us to a different platform, as trekker tend to stop for a while out there, using it for reflection.
- Flora and Fauna: The Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for Himalayan flora (rhododendrons, deodar) and fauna (monal birds, musk deer); a paradise for hard-core nature lovers.
How to Prepare for Kedarkantha
Physical Fitness
Although the Kedarkantha Trek 2025 is suitable for beginners, you do need a moderate level of fitness, especially for the summit day, which is 7–8 hours of steep ascent. Training 6–8 weeks before starting up:
- Cardio: Jog, cycle, or stair climb for 30–45 minutes every single day to practice endurance.
- Strength: Exercises such as squats, lunges, and planks help provide the legs and core with strength.
- Preparation: Walk 5–7 kms a day with a 10–12 kg bag on uneven terrain to simulate trek conditions.
Gear Checklist
Winter, High Altitude Packing:
- Outfit: Gore-tex jacket, thermal inners (2pairs), fleece, down jacket, quick-dry trekking pants, woolen socks (3pair), waterproof gloves, balaclava, woolen cap.
- Sample Gear List : 50-60L pack, trekking poles, headlamp with spare batteries, 1L water bottle, sunglasses (UV converts.06/ug SPF55 sunscreen, microspikes (often provided).
- Footwear: High-ankle, waterproof trekking boots (Example: Quechua) that have been broken in at least 2–3 weeks in advance Carry camp sandals.
- Others: Camera, power bank, dry bags, needle eco-friendly toiletries, ID card, cash ATM not available in Sankri.
Acclimatization and Health
- 3–4 liters of water every day for the equal purpose of preventing altitude sickness.
- Climb slowly, rest, and practice deep breathing.
- Have personal medicines (like allergy medications) or health problems directly related to a guide.
- Be aware of signs of altitude sickness (headache, nausea) and descend if serious.
Mental Prep
Or read blogs or watch videos (like those on the Indiahikes YouTube channel) and get an idea of the trail. Remain optimistic and adaptable, because the weather or the pace of the group may spoil your plans. Since there are many solo travelers as well as groups on the trek, feel free to make new friends along the way!
Safety First: Trek Smart
Guided/Support: Whether you opt to trek near home, Himalayan Hikers or Indiahikes, all offer local guides, medical kits, and oxygen cylinders-based support, and microspikes. Take cues from them on navigating the snow.
- Weather: Consult forecaststo view snowstorms (often a concern in Jan–Feb), such as AccuWeather. Never hike in poor visibility or after sunset.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Leave No Trace—remove garbage, have toilet tents, do not disturb wild animals Conserve water at high camps.
- Emergency cases: Whenever there has been a necessity of any kind of rescues, operators work with the different forest departments. Hospital: closest is in Purola (60km from Sankri) Bring along a simple first aid set, and also a whistle.
Cost and Booking
- Price: ₹4,999–₹7,500 (Sankri to Sankri) or ₹6,000–₹9,000 (Dehradun to Dehradun), includes lodging, vegetarian meals, guides, permits, and equipment (tents, sleeping bags) Note: travel to Dehradun, personal equipment, porters (₹300-₹500/day) NOT included.
- Booking : Book early 2–3 months in advance for slots in December–January via trusted operators like Himalayan Hikers, Indiahikes or Trek the Himalayas. Adv. 20–30 % Pay Online Balance in Sankri (Cash/UPI) Cancellations subject to refund policies
- Size of the Group: Choose smaller group (10–15 trekkers) trek offering more personalized experience. Check TripAdvisor reviews, to guarantee quality.
How To Get There
By Air: IndiGo or Air India will take you straight to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 22 km from the city if you’re headed from Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore. Fare of Taxis to Dehradun city is covered under the bracket of ₹500–₹800.
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station connects from:- Delhi (Shatabdi Express, 5–6 hours), Mumbai ( Dehradun Express, 24–30 hours), and Kolkata (Doon Express, 30–34 hours) IRCTC Book, reach a day prior
By Road: Overnight buses are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi to Dehradun (6–8 hours, ₹400–₹1,200). Shared operator arranged Bolero (₹800–₹1,200), or a private cab (₹4,000–₹5,000) from Dehradun to Sankri
Best Time for Snow
- Peak Snow (December–February): This is absolutely perfect if you aspire for thick snow, frozen Juda ka Talab, and icy trails. Day temps: 0 to 10 degrees Celsius; night: -10 to -2 degrees Celsius.
- Moderate Snow (November, March–April): Leftover snow at high elevation, friendly weather for novices. Day temps: 5C — 15C; night −5C — 2C.
- Stay Away (June–September): Monsoons mean muddy, slippery trails and landslides; summer lacks the trek’s snow-topped appeal.
Pro Tips for an Unforgettable Trek
- Equipment: The summit day is tough, so workout regularly. Beginners, don’t skip cardio!
- Photography: Juda ka Talab at sunset, summit sunrise & golden touch on Swargarohinie Bring a spare battery (cold sucks the power right out of em)
- No network after Sankri (only spotty BSNL coverage) Update family via guesthouse Wi-Fi at Sankri
- Culture: Mix with the locals of Sankri in form of eating their food, listening to folk stories and purchasing local handicrafts to give a boost to the economy.
- Sustainibility: Come Admire the Himalayas without Plastic, Trail, Flora or Fauna.
- After Trek: If you have extra days visit Robber’s Cave in Dehradun or go rafting and Laxman Jhula in Rishikesh.
Final Thoughts
Welcome to the Kedarkantha Trek 2025 — Six days of a snowy trek full of Himalayan mountains, frozen lakes, Garhwali warmth, and memories for a lifetime. Summary:Even if you are going there for the very first time or the hundredth, the exhilaration from summiting Kedarkantha and overlooking at the mighty ridges of Swargarohini, will be an everlasting memory, always and forever. Book in advance trust worthy operators like Himalayan Hikers or Indiahikes, travel light and get set for a wintry getaway of adventure and tranquility. Get set to answer the call of the Himalayas with Kedarkantha!
Kedarkantha Trek 2025: Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Kedarkantha Trek, and why is it popular?
Answer: The Kedarkantha Trek 2025 is a popular trekking destination in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand that takes 5-6 days to complete. Its peak is at an altitude of 12,500 ft (3,810 m) and is usually part of a 20-24 km circuit. Besides the temple of Lord Shiva that stands at the peak, it is well known for the breathtaking panoramic views of the Swargarohini & Bandarpoonch peaks that can be sighted from the temple, Juda ka Talab lake, and snow that comes in during winter (November to April). Its moderate difficulty level also caters to beginners making it a go-to spot for all trekkers. The culture of Garhwali people in the Sankri village offers a warm welcome.
When is the best time to do the Kedarkantha Trek in 2025?
Answer: The ideal timeframe is from November till April. The period of December to February is peak snow time, when trekkers can expect 2-4 feet of snow, frozen lakes, and temperatures between -10°C and 10°C. The months preceding and following are milder (beginning of November and March-April), which offers temperatures between -5°C and 15°C, making it ideal for novice trekkers. The stretch from June to September should be completely avoided due to monsoon rains and the risk of landslides, adding to the danger of the already treacherous slippery trails.
How challenging is the Kedarkantha Trek and who can participate?
Answer: The Kedarkantha Trek is rated as easy to moderate, and is suited for beginners with some level of fitness along with experienced trekkers. The path consists of sequential ascents with the summit day (7-8 hours, steep climb to 12,500 feet) being the most difficult. Anyone between the ages of 10 and 60 is able to partake as long as they are in good health. Participants must condition for 6-8 weeks of cardio (jogging, cycling) and strength workouts (squats, lunges). Those with heart or lung issues will have to clear it with a physician first.
What is the itinerary for Kedarkantha Trek in 2025?
Answer: A standard itinerary is 6 days (Dehradun to Dehradun):
DAY 1: Travel 200km from Dehradun to Sankri (6,400 ft, 8-10 hours).
DAY 2: Trek 5 km from Sankri to Juda ka Talab (9,100 ft, 4-5 hours).
DAY 3: Trek 4 km to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 feet, 2.5-3 hours).
DAY 4: Summit Kedarkantha Peak (12,500 ft) then descend to Hargaon (8,900 ft) or Juda ka Talab (7-9 km, 6-8 hours).
DAY 5: Return to Sankri (4-8 km, 3-5 hours).
DAY 6: Journey to Dehradun (8-10 hours).
What is the estimated price of the Kedarkantha Trek in the year 2025?
Answer: Price estimates vary between 4,999–7,500 Rupees from Sankri to Sankri, or 6,000-9,000 Rupees from Dehradun to Dehradun. This cost includes guesthouse accommodation, tenting, a vegetarian meal for the duration, appointed guides, documentation for legal passage through the area (permits), camping gear, and safety equipment which include but is not limited to microspikes and a medical kit. Exclusions include, but are not limited to, personal travel to Dehradun, personal effects, and hiring of porters for essential supplies. Porters are estimated to cost 300–500 Rupees. Book with operators such as the Himalayan Hikers or Indiahikes for reliability.
What’s the appropriate level of training required for the Kedarkantha Trek?
Answer: Commence workouts 6-8 weeks ahead of the trek.
Cardio: Jogging, cycling, or stair climbing for at least 30 minutes daily.
Strength: Squats, lunges, and planks in order to strengthen the core and legs.
Practice: Walks of 5-7km daily with a 10-12 kg bag expanded in overcrowded conditions. General health is recommended to withstand a steep 12,500ft climb.
What equipment and clothing are recommended for the trek?
Answer: Prepare for frigid weather with high chances of snow by packing:
Clothing: Gore-Tex waterproof jacket, 2 sets of thermal inners, fleece and down jacket, and high ankle waterproof trekking boots.
Equipment: 50-60L backpacks, trekking poles, one liter water bottle, sunglasses, trekking pants, and socks and gloves.
Footwear: Above ankle, waterproof sandals that have been broken in 2-3 weeks prior to trekking.
Optional: Eco-friendly toiletries, power bank, dry bags, camera. Typically, operators provide microspikes and other camping gear such as sleeping bags and tents.
Doesn’t the Kedarkantha Trek create dangers, especially during winter?
Answer: Yes, with appropriate snow precautions. Please trek with certified operators like Indiahikes or Himalayan Hikers that provide experienced guides, oxygen cylinders, medical kits, and microspikes for snow. Check weather forecasts to steer clear of snowstorms that are rampant in January and February. Hydrate and heed guides’ directions, which also includes monitoring for altitude sickness symptoms such as nausea and headache. The nearest hospital is located in Purola, 60 km from Sankri. Do not trek alone or during low visibility conditions.
What are the highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek?
Answer: Key attractions include:
Shimmering, thick snow from December to February and the frozen Juda ka Talab lake.
360 degree views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Gangotri-Yamunotri mountain ranges from the summit.
Lord Shiva temple at the summit, where local legends and myths are told.
People and cultures of Garhwali, Mahabharata era in Sankri and Saur villages.
Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and it’s biodiversity including the Himalayan Monal and Rhododendrons.
How do I reach the starting point of the trek?
Answer:
By Air:
Take an international flight operated by IndiGo or Air India to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun which is located 22 km away from the city center. Taxis to Dehradun cost 500 to 800 rupees.
By Train: Dehradun Railway Station is accessible from Delhi (Shatabdi Express, 5-6 hours), Mumbai (Dehradun Express, 24-30 hours), and Kolkata (Doon Express, 30-34 hours).
By Road: From Delhi you can board buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Dehradun (6-8 hours, ₹400-₹1,200). From Dehradun to Sankri, use operator-arranged Bolero (₹800-₹1,200) or private cabs (₹4,000-₹5,000). For the 6:00-9:00 AM start to Sankri, arrive in Dehradun the day before. Note the open-air waiting with chill winds.
What is the accommodation like during the trek?
Answer: In Sankri, guesthouses and homestays (triple/quad sharing) offering basic amenities such as hot water and blankets can be availed. On the trek, you can camp alpine style in tents (triple sharing) equipped with sleeping bags and mats. With night temperatures dropping to -10°C, thermals and water canisters are essential. Hygiene toilet tents are provided at campsites.
Are meals provided, and what type of food can I expect?
Answer: From Day 1 supper to Day 6 breakfast, vegetarian meals are mandatory, but are provided. Anticipate:
Breakfast: Chicken broth with bread, Parathas, Porridge, Eggs
Lunch: Rice, Dal, Sabzi, and Roti
Snacks: Tea, Maggi, Pakoras
Dinner: Khichdi, Soup, and local cuisine like Mandua ki Roti. Designed for high-functioning bodies, these meals are wholesome and aid sustainment for altitude. Carry personal snacks such as nuts or energy bars if required.
What about mobile coverage or the internet in the trekking region?
Answer: After Sankri, there’s no mobile network, though BSNL has some reception in select places. Guesthouses at Sankri might have Wi-Fi. You need to inform family, because from Day 2 to Day 5, you won’t be reachable. In these circumstances, use a power bank, because cold drains battery faster.
Is it safe for women? Can I go on Kedarkantha Trek alone?
Answer: Solo female trekkers can join group treks arranged by well-known companies, since they provide safety measures with mixed groups and guidelines (10-15 trekkers). Also, women-specific amenities (like toilet tents and separate tents) are available too. Choose well-reviewed operators from TripAdvisor to lessen safety concern.
What date do I need to arrange for the trek, and how do I arrange for it?
Answer: Through India’s reputable companies such as Himalayan Hikers or Indiahikes, arrange through them as well as Trek the Himalayas. For December to January peak season, you should arrange 2-3 months in advance to guarantee spots and markdowns. You pay 20-30% fee on the spot, then the rest in cash or UPI in Sankri. For cancellation, check guarantees for change due to weather or personal reasons.
What do I need to know about altitude sickness on the trek?
Answer: Possible altitude sickness starts at altitude 9,000 ft with headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Taking in adequate hydration, up to 3 to 4 litters daily, prevents this. Other preventative measures include:
Avoiding smoking and drinking.
Paying attention to the guide’s pace to avoid overexerting yourself.
Informing guides of persistent symptoms and descending immediately.
Relying on operators who carry oxygen cylinders for emergencies, at least one should be present.
Does Kedarkantha Trek promote ecological sustainability? How can I help?
Answer: Wasting and littering are a concern during hikes and reputable operators do adhere to eco-friendly practices by designating toilet tents. Further you can help by:
Supporting handicraft stores or homestays, these are also ideal for dining living in Sankri.
Staying on marked paths to protect fragile flora.
Ensuring no wrappers, bottles, or other types of waste are left behind.
Adhering to the no and low plastic policies, greatly helps.
Avoiding interfacing or interfering with wildlife.
Fastidious waste practices, especially the no plastic rule protects the environment.
What do I do if the weather becomes unfavorable while on trek?
Answer: Kedarkantha Trek during the January to February months can be tricky due to heavy snowstorms. This can dramatically delay or switch up the itinerary. Check with operator policies as treks are rarely canceled but done with partial refunds. Carrying a waterproof jacket and closely following guides’ instructions in adverse weather are wise choices. All checklists make for a pleasant experience. Kedarkantha Trek Guides keep track of weather patterns making route adjustments or changes in campaign time to remain safe. As added security guides do keep watch over weather increments for added safety.
Is it possible to hire a porter or mule to manage my backpack?
Answer: Yes, porters or mules can be hired for ₹300-₹500 each day (additional cost). Porters can be booked in advance through your operator. For summit treks, offloading your backpack (recommended 8–10kgs) will make the Kedarkantha Trek easier, but do carry your water and snacks in a small daypack.
Would you recommend anything after trekking in Dehradun?
Answer: If there is time left, visit Dehradun’s Robber’s Cave, Sahastradhara or Mindrolling monastery. Otherwise, Rishikesh (1-2 hours distance) is great for river rafting, Laxman Jhula sightseeing, and yoga retreats. I suggest booking hotels like Lemon Tree that offer comfortable stays after treks, and then book evening trains or flights after treks with extra time due to potential traffic.
