Kedarkantha trek receives the ideal amount of snowfall for trekkers during the winter. Therefore, it makes one of the best snow treks in the Himalayas. Other than the snow, there are many other reasons people favour this winter trek, including the difficulties and stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. In India’s Uttarakhand, Kedarkantha is a Himalayan high peak. At 12,500 feet, it smoothly ascends to the sky, passing through pine and oak woodlands as well as verdant meadows. 

It is crucial to start planning for any snow trek at least a month or two in advance. Make a pre-plan to increase your stamina because this journey requires a strong level of fitness to be accomplished. Flight reservations made in advance save money. In this post, we’ll offer the itinerary and explain why this trip is the ideal winter snow trek in India as well as why it should be done.

Kedarkantha trek quick facts:

Start/ End Point of the Trek: Sankri village

Duration: 5N/6D

Trek Distance: 20 km

Kedarkantha Trek Altitude/Height: 12,500 ft

Temperature: Day (7°C to 15°C) and Night: (-5°C to 4°C)

Pick-up point: Dehradun railway station

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun

Cost per person: INR 6,999

Best time to visit Kedarkantha

The entire year is a good time to explore this Trek. Expect snowy hiking in the middle of December. The best time for snow trekking in India is from December through April. Due to the area’s frequent snowfall in the winter, stunning views of the snow haven are just the beginning of what is offered by the best snow trek in India.

Kedarkantha trek difficulty level

Kedarkantha Trek is easy to intermediate in difficulty level.  Due to the unpredictable nature of the weather in the Himalayas, temperatures during this period can fall as low as -10 degrees. 

Day-wise itinerary:

Day 01: Dehradun – Sankri – 210 km drive, approx 10 hours

Altitude: 6,400 ft.

Arrive at the Dehradun railway station early (6:30 am) and then take a 9–10-hour trip to Sankri. The trip from Dehradun to Sankri, which serves as our base camp, is stunning. We will cross Mussoorie, and then the Yamuna and Ton rivers will be traversed on the way. Hugging the mountainside and passing the trees and valleys of Garhwal below will mesmerize you as you travel along. 

There are numerous posts on the best snow trek, but this is just our recommendation. Our team has spent many years in Uttarakhand, discovering new trails and routes. Or rather, we can say this is one of the best snow treks in India for beginners who want to start their journey in the trekking world.

Day 02: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab – Trek duration – 4kms/5 hrs

Altitude Gain from 6,400 feet to 9,100 ft.

We will depart towards Juda ka Talab after breakfast. Shepherds and amiable mountain dogs that occasionally voluntarily assist us in navigating the route to the peak will be encountered along the way. The route will take a strong ascent after passing through the settlement. This day’s ride will include both simple and difficult climbs.

On this day, you will start to realize why the utmost importance was given to building up physical stamina.  There are many reasons why people come to conquer the best snow trek in India, but it is not a cakewalk. It never gets boring, and after crossing streams and winding through stands of tall oaks, one arrives at the magnificent Juda ka Talab campground. The encounter we had today is only the start of a brand-new journey.

Day 03: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base – Trek duration – 4 km/ 2.5 hrs

Altitude gained from 9,100 feet to 11,450 feet.

Our group will head out on its next journey today, where the route is rather clear and well-marked.

One can take in the magnificent vistas of an arc-shaped range of snow-capped mountains, including Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag, and Ranglana, just before arriving at the Kedarkantha Base. Your breath will be taken away by the area’s lush slopes and patches of snow. Immerse yourself and take in the tranquilly of Mother Nature. Beginners can simply try the Kedarkantha trek to get a sense of the intricacies of the world of snow trekking because it is manageable. However, there is no fun unless you challenge yourself and push past your comfort zone with each challenge you will face the following day.

Kedarkantha trek

Day 04: Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak; descend to Hargaon camp – Trek duration – 6kms/7hrs

Altitude gained from 11,250 feet to 12,500 feet, then descend to 8,950 feet

To give you ample time to stay at the summit, the team will begin its ascent as early as possible, at around 2:00 am. Another spectacular experience is seeing the sunrise from the mountain. We put our problems aside and reflect on what a lovely day it has been. The trek up the high slopes today requires a little extra effort, but it will be worth it. You will run through so many emotions and being on top of one of the best snow treks in India will soothe your soul. On this trek, special snow shoes are not required to walk in the snow. A good waterproof trekking shoe is sufficient for the snow trek. When there is snow, the Nomad Adventures team will provide micro spikes and gaiters.

As you get closer to the summit, the trail leading out of the deep forest will fade, but the beautiful vistas will keep your heart rate up. In comparison to other Himalayan peak treks like the Gaumukh Tapovan or Har ki Dun Trek, the trek to Kedarkantha Peak is quite simple.

You deserve praise because you’ve arrived at the destination of your trip. Keep your spirits high and keep moving with momentum to appreciate this unique experience.

Day 5: Hargaon camp to Sankri – Trek duration – 4 hrs/3 hrs

Altitude: 8,900 feet to 6,400 feet

We’ll begin descending to the base camp. Today, the pressure will largely be on your knees, so take special care as you descend. Many people find that descending the mountain is more difficult than ascending it. Stones will be used to lay out the trail, and a well-carved path will lead you to the ideal views of the Har ki Dun Valley. Keep your camera ready to document Uttarakhand’s unspoiled beauty.

Day 6: Sankri to Dehradun – 210 km drive, approx 10 hours

We are saying goodbye to the mountains today. After breakfast and tea, our team will depart for Dehradun.  You won’t be surprised to be gushing about the amount of snow you saw here after spending your five days in this winter paradise.

We are confident that this encounter will teach you things that no classroom with walls can ever teach. Excellent learning can be done outside. In addition to developing our sense of self, reaching new heights makes us more conscious of Mother Nature. We begin to provide as a person since we must care for the mountains in return if they teach us valuable lessons. In our Kedarkantha trek package, travel expenses, tented accommodation, meals, support staff, forest permits, safety medical kit, and knowledgeable trek are included to give you a wholesome experience.

Why you should attempt the Kedarkantha trek once in your life?

This is one of the few snow treks where you won’t get tired and part of your soul will want to keep coming back. The trail has a lot to offer, with one of the most celebrated views of the peaks at the top of the world. From our experience, we have listed a few reasons why you should do this trek.

  • For all the trekkers out there seeking an additional adrenaline kick,
  • Aside from the breathtaking vistas, this winter haven offers a glimpse into the Himalayan biodiversity.
  • The campsite will serve as your home while providing you with an unforgettable experience. Learn how to set up your tent, among other things. Our core team will give you a briefing on mountaineering etiquette that promotes respect for mother nature.
  • With its unexplored peaks and unspoiled beauty, it will give you a sense of the expedition, and you’ll get the impression that you have a task to do.
  • There is so much you can see while trekking in this region. Here, each day looks like a brand new day.
  • Every season has its charm. Whether it is a Himalayan trek in October or a snow trek in winter, the terrain and the views are very different. We have always encouraged trekkers to take it up to another level. Once you have done the same trek in the autumn, try the same in the winter and then spot the difference. You won’t be disappointed!

Lets us know in the comments below, what you think about the Kedarkantha trek.