Why Kedarkantha Trek is the Best Snow Trek in India
Located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Kedarkantha Trek (3,810 m) is known for its stunning summit views, snow-covered forests, and beginner-friendly route. Unlike other high-altitude treks, you can reach the summit even in peak winter, making it the most popular winter trek in India.
Why Kedarkantha Trek Is a Must-Do Experience
Often called the “Queen of Winter Treks,” the Kedarkantha Trek offers an unforgettable Himalayan adventure that perfectly balances beauty, thrill, and accessibility.
1. Starts from the Scenic Village of Sankri
Your journey begins at Sankri, a charming mountain village where you can experience authentic Garhwali culture and warm local hospitality before heading into the wilderness.
2. Juda Ka Talab – A Frozen Lake with a Story
On the second day, you trek to Juda Ka Talab, a serene lake that completely freezes during winter. According to legend, it was formed from a droplet of water from Lord Shiva’s hair—this mythical touch adds magic to your trek.
3. Breathtaking 360° Panoramic Summit Views
From the Kedarkantha summit (12,500 ft), you’ll witness a spectacular 360-degree Himalayan skyline, including peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Draupadi Ka Danda II.
You can also spot distant mountain ranges of Har Ki Doon Valley, Rupin Valley, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Also check out: Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek for majestic meadows and sunset views.
4. Beginner-Friendly Yet Rewarding
Unlike many high-altitude Himalayan treks like Brahmatal Trek or Nag Tibba Trek, Kedarkantha offers an easy-to-moderate trail suitable for first-time trekkers without compromising on adventure or scenic beauty.
Learn more: Beginner-Friendly Treks in India
5. A Digital Detox in the Mountains
After leaving Sankri, you’re completely off-network, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, silence, and yourself.
Key Highlights
- ❄️ Guaranteed snow trails (December to April)
- 🌲 Dense pine & oak forests
- 🏕️ Beautiful campsites like Juda Ka Talab & Hargaon
- 🏔️ 360° Summit View (Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch)
- 👌 Perfect for beginners & first-time trekkers
Kedarkantha Trek Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Region | Govind National Park, Uttarakhand |
| Duration | 6 Days / 5 Nights |
| Trek Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Highest Altitude | 3,810 m |
| Best Season | December – April (Snow Trek) |
| Starting Point | Sankri Village |
| Ending Point | Sankri |
| Trek Distance | ~20 km |
Detailed Itinerary (6D/5N)
Detailed Itinerary – Kedarkantha Trek (6 Days / 5 Nights)
Starting & Ending Point: Dehradun
Trek Route: Dehradun → Sankri → Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp → Summit → Hargaon → Sankri → Dehradun
Day 1: Dehradun → Sankri (200 km | 8 hours drive | 6,400 ft)
- Meet at Dehradun Railway Station/Airport by 7 AM.
- Begin scenic drive via Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Purola & Mori along the Tons River.
- Arrive at Sankri village, gateway to the trek.
- Trek briefing & safety instructions.
- Evening at leisure and exploration of local market.
📍 Overnight stay: Guesthouse/homestay in Sankri
🍽 Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Sankri → Juda Ka Talab (4 km trek | 5–6 hrs | 9,100 ft)
- Start the trek post breakfast.
- Gradual ascent through pine & oak forests covered in snow, spotting tiny streams and wildlife.
- Reach Juda Ka Talab, a small frozen lake surrounded by tall trees.
- Hot dinner, warm campfire (weather permitting).
📍 Overnight stay: Campsite at Juda Ka Talab
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp (2.5 km | 3–4 hrs | 11,250 ft)
- Trek through dense forest and snow patches.
- Open views of Himalayan peaks begin to appear.
- Reach base camp by afternoon — relax & acclimatize.
- Early dinner and prepare for summit push next morning.
📍 Overnight stay: Base Camp (Tents)
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Early Dinner
Day 4: Summit Day – Base Camp → Kedarkantha Peak (3,810 m / 12,500 ft) → Descend to Hargaon (5 km trek)
- Wake up at 2–3 AM for early start.
- Summit trek in head torches — snowy trail and stargazing experience.
- Reach Kedarkantha peak by sunrise. Enjoy panoramic views of Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch & Rupin-Supin range.
- Spend time at summit → descend slowly to Base Camp, then trek to Hargaon campsite.
📍 Overnight stay: Hargaon (Tents)
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Hargaon → Sankri (4 km | 4 hrs)
- Easy descent via forest and village pathways.
- Reach Sankri by afternoon and collect trek completion certificates.
- Evening celebration, storytelling, and cultural interactions.
📍 Overnight stay: Guesthouse in Sankri
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Sankri → Dehradun (200 km | 8 hrs drive)
- Morning drive back to Dehradun after breakfast.
- Arrival by 6–7 PM, trip ends with unforgettable memories.
🍽 Meals: Breakfast
Things to Carry
Warm layering, waterproof snow trekking shoes, thermals, gloves, trekking pole, UV sunglasses, 2L water bottle, head torch, personal medicines.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 12–60 years
- Basic physical fitness
- No serious heart / breathing issues
- Prior trekking is beneficial but not necessary
Best Time to Do Kedarkantha Trek
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| December–February | Heavy snow, winter trek, best for photography |
| March–April | Melting snow, clear trails, spring views |
👉 December to mid-March is the ideal time if you want the Instagram-worthy snow trekking experience.
How to Reach Sankri
- By Air: Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant)
- By Train: Dehradun / Haridwar Railway Station
- By Road: Direct buses or cabs from Dehradun
Expert Tips for Trekkers
- Do acclimatization walks at Sankri before starting the trek
- Stay hydrated even in cold weather
- Wear proper layered clothing – avoid cotton
- Keep battery-operated devices warm to avoid freezing
Why Choose Advenzone for Kedarkantha Trek?
✔️ Certified trek leaders & local guides
✔️ Quality tents, sleeping bags (-10°C rated)
✔️ Fresh meals on trail
✔️ Emergency response support
✔️ Permit & campsite arrangement
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is Kedarkantha Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s one of the best treks for first-timers with gradual ascent.
Q2. How cold does it get during winters?
Temperatures drop to -5°C to -10°C at night at higher campsites.
Q3. Is it safe to trek in snow?
With proper gear and professional guides, it’s safe and enjoyable.
Q4. Can children trek?
Yes, kids 12+ years with good fitness can participate.
Q5. Do we get snow in April?
Light snow possible till mid-April. For deep snow, choose December–February.
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