- Overview
- Trip Outline
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- Reviews
- Booking
- FAQ
Kedarkantha Trek – Best Winter Trek in India for Beginners & Nature Lovers
The Kedarkantha Trek is widely regarded as one of the best winter treks in India, offering a magical experience for snow lovers, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts. Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand, this trek takes you to a stunning altitude of 12,500 feet, making it an ideal choice for beginner trekkers and experienced hikers alike.
Why Choose the Kedarkantha Trek?
Snow-Laden Winter Trails
From December to April, the entire trail is covered in thick snow, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. It's perfect for those looking to experience snow trekking in the Himalayas.
360° Panoramic Views from the Summit
The Kedarkantha summit offers unmatched views of Himalayan peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the scenic Rupin Valley.
Enchanting Campsites
Camp at Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake surrounded by pine forests, and Kedarkantha base camp, located in a snow-covered meadow under the stars.
Rich Forests and Wildlife
Walk through ancient oak and pine forests. The region is home to rare Himalayan birds and animals, making the trek a treat for wildlife lovers.
Local Culture & Villages
Start from Sankri village, a quaint Himalayan hamlet. Experience local hospitality, culture, and the charm of traditional wooden homes.
Kedarkantha Trek Overview
-
Trek Duration: 6 Days (including travel from Dehradun)
-
Trek Distance: Approx. 20 km (round trip)
-
Maximum Altitude: 12,500 feet (3,800 meters)
-
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
-
Best Time to Visit:
-
December to April for snow
-
April to June and September to November for pleasant weather
-
How to Reach Kedarkantha Base Camp
-
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
-
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
-
Base Camp Location: Sankri Village (reachable via a 10-hour scenic drive from Dehradun)
Essential Kedarkantha Trek Tips
-
Get Fit: Prepare with daily walking and light cardio.
-
Gear Up: Carry snow trekking shoes, waterproof gloves, thermal layers, and a good-quality backpack.
-
Hydration & Acclimatization: Drink plenty of water and take rest breaks to prevent altitude sickness.
-
Be Responsible: Follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the Himalayan ecosystem.
Final Thoughts – Why Kedarkantha Trek Should Be on Your Bucket List
Kedarkantha Trek is a perfect choice for those who want a snow trek in the Himalayas with minimal difficulty and maximum reward. It’s beginner-friendly, scenic, and deeply immersive. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or on a guided group trek, this trail guarantees incredible memories, breathtaking views, and a true winter adventure in the Indian Himalayas.
Region: Uttarakhand
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Trek Grade: Easy to Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,800 m)
Total Trek Distance: Approx. 25 km
Best Season: December to April (for snow trekking), October to November (autumn foliage)
Pickup & Drop Location: Dehradun
Trip Description: Kedarkantha Trek – The Perfect Himalayan Summit Adventure
Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly Himalayan winter treks in Uttarakhand. Starting from the scenic village of Sankri, this 5-day adventure offers a perfect mix of snowy trails, pine forests, wide meadows, and a breathtaking summit climb.
The trek route is well-marked and rich in natural beauty. As you hike through Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, expect to witness dense oak and pine forests, frozen streams, and vibrant Himalayan flora. The highlight of the journey is the Kedarkantha summit (12,500 ft), which offers 360° panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Kedarnath range.
Ideal for beginners and experienced trekkers alike, Kedarkantha Trek is especially magical during winter months when the trail is blanketed in fresh snow, creating a postcard-perfect landscape. Autumn (October–November) offers golden forest views and clear skies.
Whether you’re chasing snow, alpine beauty, or a Himalayan escape, this trek is a must-do for every mountain lover. With minimal risk and maximum reward, Kedarkantha is one of the best winter treks in India.
Itineraries
Day 1
Dehradun to Sankri
Your Kedarkantha trekking adventure begins with an early morning pickup from Dehradun. Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning mountain roads of Uttarakhand, covering approximately 200 kilometers in 8 to 10 hours. As you travel deeper into the Garhwal Himalayas, the changing landscapes set the tone for the days ahead. Reach Sankri, a charming village at an altitude of 6,400 feet, where you'll spend the night and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2
Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Begin your first day of trekking from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab, covering around 4 kilometers in 5 hours. The trail winds through dense pine forests, maple trees, and open meadows, offering a serene Himalayan experience. You’ll ascend from 6,400 feet to approximately 9,100 feet, gradually acclimatizing to the altitude. Camp overnight near the frozen Juda Ka Talab, a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by thick forest—a perfect setting for a peaceful night under the stars.
Day 3
Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
On day three, trek approximately 3 kilometers from Juda Ka Talab to the Kedarkantha Base Camp. This part of the journey takes you along a scenic ridge trail under oak and pine trees. As you gain altitude, breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks like Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, and Swargarohini begin to unfold. Settle into your campsite at the base of Kedarkantha peak and enjoy a magical evening under starlit skies in the heart of the Himalayas.
Day 4
Summit Kedarkantha and Return to Juda Ka Talab
Rise early for the most exciting part of the trek—your summit push to Kedarkantha Peak, standing tall at 12,500 feet. The 6-kilometer round trip takes 6 to 7 hours and rewards you with stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayas. Witness the majestic sunrise illuminating peaks like Yamunotri, Gangotri, and Har Ki Dun. After soaking in the panoramic beauty, descend to base camp for lunch, and continue trekking back to Juda Ka Talab for your overnight stay.
Day 5
Descend to Sankri and Drive Back to Dehradun
On the final day, trek 6 kilometers from Juda Ka Talab back to Sankri, marking the end of your Kedarkantha Trek. After reaching Sankri, embark on a scenic 8 to 10-hour drive back to Dehradun. As your unforgettable Himalayan journey comes to a close, you'll carry with you lasting memories of the Kedarkantha summit and the beauty of Uttarakhand's winter wonderland.
- Accommodation in campsites & Sankri guesthouse
- Group transfers from Dehradun and back (Tempo Traveler/Innova)
- All meals from Day 2 breakfast to Day 4 dinner
- Experienced trek leaders, local guides, cooks, and helpers
- Camping gear, sleeping bags, mats, and forest permits
- All applicable taxes
- Meals during road travel (Day 1 & Day 5)
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
- Bottled water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages
- Personal trekking gear
Yes, it’s one of the best beginner-friendly Himalayan treks with a proper trail.
December to April for snow; October–November for golden forest views.
Yes, trekking gear like jackets, shoes, poles can be rented.
Yes, especially from December to March.
Limited network after Sankri. No signal during the trek.
Dry toilets at campsites, no permanent bathrooms on the trail.
There are no reviews yet.