Kedarkantha is a pretty peak within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the greater Himalayan National Park in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. The adventure begins in the beautiful village of Sankri, roughly 200 kilometres from Dehradun Sankri is not just a base camp, it is the perfect place to begin with getting yourself busy in the lush forests and wonderful landscapes. Surrounded by pine forests and bristling apple orchards, it welcomes trekkers warmly.
The trek route passes through dense deodar, oak, and pine-covered trails which offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, the most thrilling one being during sunrise and sunset. Nature coupled with trekking experience proves to be an unforgettable experience at Kedarkantha.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the Kedarkantha trek, from its location and distances to the elevation and why any adventure with Anywhere Taxi Service - one of the best taxi services and tempo travelers in Dehradun - would be the perfect starting point.
It is rated as a moderate trek, so it is accessible to a large group of people: beginners to quite experienced adventurers.
Trail Summary
• Distance: About 20 kilometres round trip.
• Elevation Gain: Starting from Sankri 6,400 feet the summit will be a gain to a maximum of 12,500 feet Kedarkantha Peak.
•Duration: The trek typically spans 5 to 6 days, accounting for travel to and from Dehradun.
Real conditions
The trek is manageable but does require a good degree of fitness. One should prepare themselves for steep ascents, especially on the way to the peak. It is great to do some physical training before one goes for the trek, training the cardiovascular system and the body as a whole.
This trek is appropriate for anyone having a good fitness level. The beginners can prepare themselves by undertaking walks on smaller trails and adding endurance activities like jogging or cycling to their routine. Experienced trekkers will love this trail, due to wonderful scenery and a refreshing experience.
Getting to Kedarkantha is absolutely hassle-free, with various travel options available:
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which connects the whole of India. From there, you will hire a taxi to Sankri. The drive will take around 6-7 hours, acquainting you with the breathtaking mountain roads that await you.
By Train
However, the distance between Dehradun Railway Station and the town centre is around 10 kilometres. You can reach different cities from there. Upon your arrival, you can get an auto/rickshaw or local bus to reach Sankri.
By Road
For all driving enthusiasts, Dehradun is easily accessible from all national highways. State-run buses can be taken to Sankri and even a taxi can be hired for a more decent ride.
Ride from Dehradun to Sankri, with Anywhere Taxi Service the best taxi service in Dehradun, making your ride silky smooth. Now you can even sit back, relax with the view, as we commit ourselves to providing a comfortable as well as satisfactory trip.
In actuality, weather has much to do with your trek experience. Kedarkantha has three major seasons.
Winter (December to March)This is the best time when the region turns into a wonderland in the peak trekking season. Day time stays about 5°C, while the night drops to -5°C degrees. The white trails will turn into magic which will attract all kinds of thrill-seekers around.
Summer (April to June)
Summer months are fantastic with temperatures ranging between 10 and 20 degrees. The best season for those people to enjoy the flower blossom and lush greenery without fighting off the snow.
Monsoon (July to September)
In fact, it's the worst season to trek during the monsoon. So much rain makes the trails slippery, and the landslides become more probable. So, avoid trekking during these seasons for safety reasons.
The following is an indication of temperature ranges for every season:
• Winter: -5°C to 5°C
• Summer: 10°C to 20°C
•Monsoon: 15°C to 20°C
Ensure you pack appropriate clothing for the climate. In winter treks, particularly, ensure that you have warm clothing and insulated jackets. You will also need gloves and sturdy trekking shoes. Sometimes, even with light clothes in summer, a rain jacket will suffice.
In a nutshell, here's a general outline for the Kedarkantha Trek:
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
• Departure: Take the tour in the morning.
• Travel Time: Sankri is reachable within 6-7 hours of drive, some mountain scenery being witnessed along that way.
• Check-in: Unwind at the accommodation, and then start exploring the village and welcome its residents.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Taal
Distance for Trekking: 6 km.
• Trek Duration: 5-6 hours.
• Trail Overview: This is a hike through dense pine and oak forests to an untouched lake girded by snowy mountains.
•Camping: Setup a camp and spend the night gazing at the stars in serenity.
Day 3: Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
• Trek Distance: approximately 4 kilometres.
• Trek duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.
• Trail Overview: This is the kind of challenging steep climb to the base camp with wonderful views as you ascend.
• Camping: It's a good time to reach the base camp, pitch your tents, and bond with fellow trekkers.
Day 4 Summit Kedarkantha Peak
• Trek Distance: Approximately 6 kilometres round trip.
•Time taken for trek: Approximately 6-8 hours including summit and return.
•Early Start: Aim to start as early in the day as possible to make an attempt for a summit. Expect snow cover on the trail.
• View from the Summit: Hike to the summit and take in breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
• Debriefing: Return to the base camp for the night after a full day of being in the moment.
Day 5: Base Camp to Hargaon
•Trek Distance: Approximately 6 kilometres.
• Trek Time: 4-5 hours.
• Trail Overview: The trail boasts beautiful meadows with a combination of descent and level paths for travelling. There are many places here for excellent scenic photography shots.
• Arrival Hargaon arrives, and a great dinner is served. Camp is erected, and a refreshing day through its achievements.
• Physical fitness : Ensure one engages in considerable amounts of physical training prior to the trek.
• Pack Basics : Carry warm clothing, snacks, trekking poles, and a first-aid kit.
• Rehydrate : Continue drinking water throughout your trek to stay hydrated.
• Respect Nature : Use only the marked trails that would protect this natural beauty from your side.
If you’re looking for a comfortable ride from Dehradun to Kedarkantha, Anywhere Taxi Service is a smart choice as we provide the best taxi service in Dehradun. Our friendly drivers ensure an enjoyable and reliable travel experience through the mountains, maximising your adventure right from the start.
Q1: Is Kedarkantha trek suitable for a beginner?
Absolutely! The trail is a moderate kind, hence it is suitable for someone who is in good physical condition.
Q2: When is the best time to visit Kedarkantha?
The most popular time is in the winter of December to March, but lovely scenery can be found during summer, from April to June.
Q3: How should one prepare for the trek?
Prior training focusing on strength and cardio can enhance your trekking experience considerably. Don't forget to pack the right clothing and gear!
Q4:Can we go alone on this trek?
It is also possible to trek single-handedly, but joining a group is always recommended for safety as well as sharing the better scenery.
Q5: What are the accommodations like during the trek?
Trekking involves camping in tents at designated spots, allowing for a unique experience amidst nature.
So, pack your bags and get ready to have an amazing time in Kedarkantha with Anywhere Taxi service, the best taxi service in Dehradun!