Why Kedarkantha Is One of Uttarakhand's Most Beloved Treks
Rising to an altitude of 3,810 metres (12,500 feet), the Kedarkantha peak in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary of the Uttarkashi district is considered one of the finest winter treks in India. The trail offers a perfect combination of dense pine and oak forests, open snow meadows, frozen lakes, and a 360-degree panoramic summit view that rewards every step of the climb.
Whether you're a first-time trekker or a seasoned high-altitude hiker, Kedarkantha strikes a balance between accessibility and genuine mountain adventure that few treks in the Himalayas can match.
Trek at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarkashi District, Uttarakhand |
| Maximum Altitude | 3,810 m (12,500 ft) |
| Trek Duration | 4–6 days |
| Total Distance | Approx. 20–22 km |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
| Base Camp | Sankri Village |
| Best Season | December to April (Winter), May to June (Spring) |
How to Reach the Base Camp at Sankri
The nearest major railhead is Dehradun. From there, shared jeeps and private vehicles ply the route to Sankri via the Purola–Mori road. The journey from Dehradun to Sankri takes approximately 8–9 hours by road. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is well-connected to Delhi and other major Indian cities.
Day-by-Day Trail Overview
- Day 1 – Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (2,708 m): A moderate 4–5 km walk through thick pine forests leads to the beautiful Juda Ka Talab, a small lake that often freezes in peak winter. Camp here for the night.
- Day 2 – Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,150 m): A relatively gentle ascent through snow-covered meadows. The base camp sits in a wide clearing with dramatic views of surrounding peaks.
- Day 3 – Summit Push and Return to Sankri: The summit climb starts pre-dawn and involves a steep but short ascent. Views from the top include Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and the Black Peak. Descend to Sankri the same day or the next morning.
What to Pack
- Layered thermal clothing and a down jacket (rated to at least -10°C in winter)
- Waterproof trekking boots with ankle support
- Microspikes or crampons for icy summit sections
- Trekking poles for descent stability
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), UV-protection sunglasses, and a balaclava
- High-energy snacks: nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit
- Personal first aid kit and altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor)
Permits and Regulations
The Kedarkantha trek passes through the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. Trekkers are required to obtain a forest entry permit, which can be arranged at the forest check post in Sankri. This is usually handled by registered trekking operators. Camping is restricted to designated zones, and open fires are not permitted inside the sanctuary.
Acclimatization and Altitude Awareness
While Kedarkantha does not reach extreme altitudes, altitude sickness can still affect trekkers who ascend too quickly. Follow the principle of climb high, sleep low, stay well hydrated, and do not skip rest days if you feel unwell. Descend immediately if symptoms such as severe headaches, nausea, or disorientation persist.
Final Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trek
- Book with a reputable, certified trekking operator who provides a trained guide and first aid support.
- Start the summit push by 4–5 AM to reach the top before clouds build up around mid-morning.
- Carry enough cash — ATMs are not available beyond Purola.
- Respect local wildlife and do not litter on the trail.