Kedarkantha Trek

Having an early start after a healthy breakfast, we will head straight towards Juda Ka Talab which is based at an altitude of 9100 feet. It’s a 4km trekking journey and the approximate time for reaching the same is around 5 hours. The journey begins by moving out of Sankri village through an extension called Sor. Once the village is crossed the road takes a wide curve and climbs sharply. It’s an exquisite vision and a pictorial view that leaves all mesmerized. The trail is wide and one can hear the sounds of running streams all through but may not be in view till much further. The scenario however changes a lot in the summer months when the luscious meadows remain verdant green with hilly flowers of a unique kind. Crossing a few streams and continuing through the trail and rising sharp through dense oaks one can reach the beautiful pictorial spot of Jadu Ka Talab which can never be missed by any trekker due to its sharp contrasting and unique beauty.

The intoxicating journey continues the day when the trekkers are destined to trek towards Kedarkantha base which lies at an altitude of 11, 250 feet. The distance from Jadu Ka Talab to this destination is about 4kms and at a moderate speed, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach the place. After having the morning breakfast set out for the next journey where the trail is somewhat straightforward and quite visible.

In this trail, one will come across many shepherd huts in open meadows which are equally delightful to see. At an altitude of about 10,400 feet, one can visualize traces of snow in and around the track only if it is the winter months trekking. Just before reaching the Kedarkantha Base, one can enjoy the fascinating views of an arc-shaped range of snow-capped mountains comprising Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag and Ranglana standing out proudly showcasing their beauty. After reaching the base, set up the tent in a preferred selected place which is open and one can enjoy a clear view of the night sky. However, it is advisable to be based in a close group rather than in a much-scattered way in the dark.

However, at such a height it is possible to have cold waves so proper woollens should be carried for protection. Overnight sleep in the tent.

The fourth day of the trek is destined to conquer the Kedarnath Peak. Today the trekkers need to hike an elevation from 11,250 feet to 12,500 feet. The schedule of the day includes hiking to Kedarkantha peak and then again descending back till Hargaon camp which is based at 8900 feet.

The day begins early with a filling breakfast and enjoying the sunrise from the Kedarkantha meadows which is simply amazing, pure and divine. One can bask in the first rays of the morning sun and gain as much energy possible for the day ahead. On this route, the trekkers need to again cover a few portions of the oak forest but the journey through this trail is much easier and faster. Climbing through the forest till its end, one can find the Kedarkantha peak much closer. Towards the end of the trail and close to the top the trek becomes a little difficult and can be a little strenuous, especially for the first-time trekkers.
However, the view from the top and the amazing location is worth the effort. At the top of the peak, there is a beautiful yet small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There is a small shrine of Lord Ganesh too. The arresting 360 view of the snow-clad peaks of Uttarakhand is intoxicating and beyond words to be penned down.

After reaching the camp take a break for lunch and refreshments. Once relaxed, set out for descending furthermore to Hargaon camp. This time again, it’s a journey back through dense oak forests, pine and maple trees, shepherd huts and frozen streams. . On reaching the campsites set the tent and mark the end of another delightful day with dinner and overnight sleep at the tent.

Today the schedule is marked for descending further to Sankri which descends from 8900 feet to 6400 feet. The time for descending this approximately 6 km long trail takes about 4 hours or more at a moderate speed.

After having breakfast, pack the backpack to descend furthermore through a more clearly marked well-paved pathway, laden with small stones. Meandering through rich dense pine forests one can view the sight of streams flowing by in a slow and steady way. One can fill in the water here for the rest of the track.
Descending furthermore through the dense forests one can see the first signs of habitation and by evening one can reach Sankri. The last 2500 feet are filled with dense pine forests. On reaching the base, get back to the hotel and freshen up and get settled for the day. For dinner, one can enjoy nearby local dhabas, serving local food or one can enjoy delicious North Indian and Western cuisine at the hotel premises. Overnight stay at the homestay.

The journey concludes with the 10-hour drive from Sankri to Dehradun. Breakfast and Lunch will be on the way at a roadside inn, exclusive of charges. Reaching time at Dehradun station will be 6 pm, suitable for an overnight journey to Delhi.