If you’re looking for the best winter trek in India, the Kedarkantha Trek should be at the very top of your list. Famous for its snow-covered trails, pine forests, frozen streams, and a stunning summit view, Kedarkantha is a perfect trek for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this trek offers a true Himalayan adventure without being too technically demanding. Whether you’re trekking for the first time or planning a winter escape, Kedarkantha delivers a magical experience.
Kedarkantha Trek Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand |
| Starting Point | Sankri village |
| Altitude | 12,500 ft (3,810 m) |
| Trek Distance | ~20 km (round trip) |
| Duration | 4–5 Days |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Best Season | December to April |
| Base Camp | Sankri |
| Suitable For | Beginners, solo trekkers, families, winter trekking |
Why Kedarkantha Trek Is So Popular
Kedarkantha is famous because it offers:
- Heavy snowfall from December to March
- 360° Himalayan views from the summit
- Beautiful campsites like Juda Ka Talab
- Dense pine and oak forests
- A safe and well-marked trail
- One of the best beginner-friendly summit climbs
Unlike many other Himalayan treks, Kedarkantha allows you to reach a true summit without advanced mountaineering skills.
Kedarkantha Trek Route
Sankri → Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp → Kedarkantha Summit → Return
The trek starts from the small Himalayan village of Sankri, which is also the gateway to many famous treks.
From Sankri, the trail gradually climbs through forests, meadows, and frozen lakes before reaching the summit.
Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (200 km | 8–10 hrs)
- Drive through Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori
- Reach Sankri by evening
- Stay in guesthouse or homestay
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km | 4–5 hrs)
- Trek through pine forests
- Reach the beautiful frozen lake of Juda Ka Talab
- Camp under starry skies
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km | 3–4 hrs)
- Climb gradually through snow trails
- Enjoy views of Swargarohini peaks
- Camp at Kedarkantha Base Camp
Day 4: Base Camp to Summit & Return to Sankri (8 km | 7–8 hrs)
- Early morning summit climb
- Witness sunrise over Himalayan peaks
- Descend back to Sankri
Day 5: Sankri to Dehradun
- Return journey
Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty
Kedarkantha is rated Easy to Moderate.
It is ideal for:
- First-time trekkers
- Winter trekking beginners
- People with basic fitness
The only challenging part is the final summit climb, which is steep but safe with guidance.
Best Time to Do Kedarkantha Trek
| Month | Experience |
|---|---|
| Dec – Jan | Heavy snowfall, winter wonderland |
| Feb – Mar | Snow + clear skies |
| April | Melting snow, green meadows |
| May – Nov | Not recommended |
The best season is December to March if you want snow trekking.
Kedarkantha Trek Cost
Typical Kedarkantha trek cost ranges between:
₹6,000 – ₹9,000 per person
This usually includes:
- Accommodation (guesthouse + camps)
- Meals during trek
- Trek guide
- Trek permits
- Safety equipment
- Local transfers from Dehradun
Travel to Dehradun is not included.
How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek
By Train
Dehradun Railway Station is well connected to Delhi, Haridwar & other cities.
By Flight
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport.
By Road
From Dehradun, take a shared cab or bus to Sankri.
Things to Carry for Kedarkantha Trek
- Trekking shoes (waterproof)
- Heavy winter jacket
- Thermal innerwear
- Snow gloves & woollen cap
- Sunglasses
- Trekking pole
- Headlamp
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Backpack with rain cover
Important Tips for Kedarkantha Trek
- Start preparing your fitness at least 2 weeks before
- Carry extra socks and gloves
- Stay hydrated even in cold weather
- Always trek with a registered guide or group
- Avoid plastic – follow eco-friendly trekking
Is Kedarkantha Safe?
Yes. Kedarkantha is one of the safest winter treks in India when done with a registered trek operator.
The trail is well-marked and has rescue support available in Sankri.
Why You Should Do Kedarkantha Trek in 2025
Kedarkantha gives you:
- Snow trekking
- Summit experience
- Budget-friendly adventure
- Instagram-worthy views
- A perfect Himalayan introduction
If you can do only one winter trek in India, Kedarkantha should be it.
