Table of Contents
Overview
Popularly known as the “Queen of Winter Treks”, Kedarkantha Trek is one of the finest trekking expeditions of Uttrakhand. The trek is done in the winter season, from November to February.
While it offers a memorable experience for various reasons, the one among all has to be its moderate level difficulty gradient. The highest that you conquer here is around 12,500 meters. It is a beginner friendly trek, perfect for seasoned trekkers as well.
As the name suggests, the main highlight of the trek is the Kedrakantha summit, partially visible from day one of the trek. As you reach up there, the panoramic view is breathtaking. You get to witness the allure of peaks like Bandarpooch, Black Peak, Swargarohini, etc.
With base camp at Sankri, the trekkers cover around 23 kilometres, taking around 6-7 days depending on the itinerary picked. It is located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Utarkashi District.
It is rightly said that the Kedarkantha trek offers a perfect blend of adventure and culture. During the trek, you get to experience the Garhwali culture of the locals. They are very warm and friendly, helping trekkers and visitors in every way.
In this article, we have provided you a brief guide of the Kedarkantha Trek including the ideal season, itinerary, and more.
Best time to do Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkatha Trek is accessible most of the year. You will find trekkers on the route for about 10 months except in July and August. It is so because both are the monsoon months and it rains cats and dogs in Uttarakhand.
Winter season: While the trek is a year-round one, it is experienced the best in the winter season, From December to February. The temperature levels remain between 10 degree celsius to 5 degree celsius. It drops below 0 degree celsius and goes as down as -10 degree celsius.
In winter, it starts snowing from December last and continues till February. The heavy snow covers everything in sight including the route, camping spots and the Kedarkantha peak. It is so beautiful out there with the white landscape and foggy climate. The highlight remains trekking in the forests where trees are covered in powdery snow.
If you are looking for your first winter trek as a beginner, this is it. It will offer you the perfect amount of adventure and beauty.
When planning the Kedarkantha trek in Winter, it is essential to layer yourself well. At least 5 war layers are needed including thermals, sweaters, cardigans and trench coats to remain safe and warm. Bring other essentials as well such as first-aid kit, water bottles, snacks, etc.
Spring Season: The spring season, lasting from March to April, is another convenient time to plan the Kedarkantha Trek. Pick this time frame if you are looking for a more serene experience. It is less crowded than the peak winter season and the snow is still there, so you can witness a white wonderland but with less tourists around.
The temperature remains between 15 degree celsius and 18 degree celsius during daytime and drops down to 0- 5 degree celsius at night. You can find some snow at higher altitudes in March but by April, it all melts away with rising temperature levels. The burst of colourful flowers makes the entire region come alive. It feels like walking in a garden of vibrant flowers.
As you plan the Kedarkantha Trek in the Spring season, make sure to carry both cotton as well warm clothes to wear according to the unpredictable weather.
Summer season: Another ideal time to enjoy the serenity of Kedarkantha Trek is in the summer season, from May to June. The bright sun leads to warm days and not so cold evenings and nights. There is greenery all around.
The daytime temperature hovers around 20 degree celsius to 24 degree celsius. At night, it goes down to around 10 degree celsius. The region experiences occasional rainfall by the end of June.
The peak season is completely over by now, hence you can have a more isolated experience.
Carry light, breathable, cotton clothes along with 2 warm layers for the evening.
Note: After the summer season, the trek remains closed for July and August due to heavy rainfall.
Autumn Season: As soon as the monsoon gets over, the trails are open again in Autumn season from September. The crisp season lasts till November. The temperature is mild, ranging between 10 degree celsius to 15 degree celsius during daytime. It fluctuates between 0 degree celsius to -5 degree celsius at night.
Since, there is still time for the winter season to hit the state, it is not cold in autumn. However, as we proceed towards the month of November, there is a chill in the air of Uttarakhand.
With crystal clear views, it is the perfect time to plan the Kedarkantha trek as the golden hues of the season cast a magical cast over the entire region.
Carry a few cotton and at least 4 layers of warm clothes to fight the unpredictable climate of autumn.
Kedarkantha Trek Package, Inclusions and Exclusions:
The Kedarkantha Trek cost starts at ₹6,500 per person with Cliffhangers India. The price may vary depending on group size, season, and additional services. It ranges somewhere between 6,500 INR to 15,000 INR.
Cost Breakdown
Permits & Entry Fees: Around ₹500 per person (arranged by Cliffhangers India).
Transportation: Delhi → Dehradun (train/Volvo) → Sankri (shared taxi/jeep). Costs vary depending on vehicle type.
Accommodation: Included in the trek package (tents/homestays). Upgrades available at extra cost.
Meals: Veg meals included during the trek. Trekkers can carry snacks for energy boosts.
Guide/Porter: Included in Cliffhangers India package for safety and support.
Inclusions
Transportation: Pickup and drop from Dehradun or Haridwar to Sankri and back.
Accommodation: Comfortable tent stays with sleeping bags and mats.
Meals: Nutritious vegetarian meals during the trek, with variety ensured.
Trek Leader & Support Staff: Experienced guides for a safe and guided trekking experience.
Trekking Gear: All necessary equipment including tents, sleeping bags, gaiters, crampons, and trekking poles.
First Aid: Basic medicines and first-aid support available throughout the trek.
Exclusions
Lunch on the first day.
Personal expenses.
Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusion list.