Kedarkantha is a famous trek in the state of Uttarakhand. Please note that it is different from the famous Kedarnath Trek. It takes on an average of 6 days to complete the trek. Kedarkantha trek is quite recommended for beginners and even for hiking enthusiasts. Kedarkantha Trek is an easy to moderate trek. It is one of the most popular treks. The reason why Kedarkantha is popular because of the summit climb.
Before heading on to a trek, you must research about the trek. It would be best if you dive more in-depth and explore all possibilities. Any trip can turn better with proper planning. Different people have different methods of researching.
Through this article, you’d get good idea about Kedarkantha Trek. It will also help you to know what you need to have in mind before heading on to the Kedarkantha trek.
Contents of this Trek Guide
Kedarkantha Legend: History Behind its Name
Kedar Kantha translates to the Throat of Lord Shiva. Hindu mythology believes that it is at this place, Lord Shiva’s peace was disturbed while he was hiding from Pandavas on his bull. The local people of Kedarkantha believe that Lord Shiva protects them. He also brings prosperity to their village. He is highly respected and worshipped in this region.
Best Season to do Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is open and does- able in all seasons. But it is highly recommended to do this trek in winter. Especially the months of December-January are the ideal time for this trek.
This trek is fondly remembered as Kedarkantha Winter Trek by many. Kedarkantha trek in December – January becomes even better because it snows in Kedarkanta during this season. The snow-covered trail is a sight to behold.
Difficulty Level Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is an easy trek. But, it takes around six days to complete the hike but can be done with ease even by beginners. If you wish to take your hiking experiences to a whole new different level, Kedarkantha is the trek for you. It is quite suitable for seasoned trekkers as it offers the kick one gets after trekking.
The trail can get quite steep at places. Yet this trek has not been difficult and capable of HAPE or serious AMS in the past. But, it is always recommended to get acclimatized to the mountains.
How to Reach Kedarkantha?
Kedarkantha has got good connectivity with the neighboring towns and cities. There are plenty of options to reach the point of the trek by road, train, and flight. But, it can depend on how much you wish to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas deeply.
By road
Delhi to Dehradun: 260 km
Dehradun to Sankri : 200 km
Sankri is the last point where vehicles are allowed. Sankri to Kedar Kantha trek is around 7 km. You can easily find direct buses from Dehradun to Sankri from the bus stop near the Railway station.
Reaching Kedarkantha by Train
The nearest railway station is the Dehradun Railway Station. You can opt for an overnight train from Delhi to Dehradun. The Nandadevi Express leaves from Delhi at 11:50 P.M and reaches Dehradun at 5:40 A.M. You can also choose to board the Dehradun Express, which shall leave from Delhi at 9:10 P.M and shall reach Dehradun at 5:00 A.M.
Reaching Kedarkantha by Air
The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport, which is situated in Dehradun. You can take a direct bus from Dehradun to Sankri or choose to book a taxi. After reaching Sankri, you’ll have to trek for around 7 km to reach Kedarkantha.
Itinerary of Kedarkantha Trek
- 1st day : Dehradun to Sankri
- 2nd day : Sankri to a place called Juda ka Talab
- 3rd day : Juda ka Talab to Base camp of Kedarkantha
- 4th day : Journey from Kedarkantha base camp to Kedarkantha Peak. Then it would be best if you descended to Hargaon.
- 5th day : Hargaon camp to Sankri
- 6th day : Sankri to Dehradun
Accomodation in Kedarkantha Trek:
Booking.comSankri is the last place where you can find lodges and homestays. You’ll get to live among nature. You can book a tour package which would easily make arrangements from your dodging and lodging. You can also rent or buy your tents and camp wherever you wish to.
In these times, therefore, it is highly recommended to get yourselves a tour package booked in advance. You indeed won’t find much of Hotels or guesthouses on the trail to Kedarkantha.
Solo Trip to Kedarkantha
Kedarkantha is the ideal trek for solo travellers and hikers. It is considered an easy hike if done with proper preparations. The reason why it is suitable for solo travellers is that it is a single mountain. It has got multiple exit points in cases of emergency. It is also relatively safe altitude and health-wise.
Kedarkantha Trek Package
Multiple travel companies are offering Kedarkantha trek packages. In this space, I’ve tried to consolidate all the popular options along with their features. The decision to book your travel package should be sure yours to make and shall be based on research and scaling out all possible options.
India Hikes
- The price for the Kedarkantha trek is approximately Rs. 9750.
You can book your trek from here - Indiahikes is one of the leading companies for trekking.
- They offer 6 days trek itinerary.
- they have highly professional trek leaders.
- The price starts from Rs.6,990 for a single adult.
- They offer a 6 Day,5 Night package.
- The general itinerary is the same as that of other travel companies.
- The thing that makes them different from others is the affordability and genuinely positive reviews.
How to Economically Plan Kedarkantha Trek?
The cost of the trip will largely depend on you. You could cut down the cost of travelling, accommodation, and snacks. Traveling by train is going to be very cost-effective to reach Dehradun which will cost you 650 INR from Delhi. from Dehradun take the government bus leaves early morning from Dehradun railway station which will cost you around 500 INR.
Available Mobile Network in Kedarkantha
BSNL has been shown to work fine in this area before Julota. As per the local people, you can get the airtel network at the Kedarkantha peak summit. You call your loved ones from the peak and share the beauty of the Himalayas with your loved ones.
Last ATM
The last ATM is at the village MORI. It is highly advisable to withdraw the necessary amount of cash from Purola, which has three ATMs. Though there is not much option to spend in Sakri and on the trekking route you can enjoy local food. Tea, maggie, and momos are all-time favorites in freeze weathers of the Himalayas.
Kedarkantha Trek Temperature
The temperature is generally around -10 degrees Celcius in January, February. It typically snows heavily in these months. The temperature starts rising around March April and is quite pleasant around April, May, and June. July, August, September has rainy season but is still equitable.
November witnesses a temperature of about a maximum of 10-degree Celcius whereas a minimum of around 0 degrees Celcius. The most pleasant climate is the winter months of November, December, January. For nature and snow lovers this time of the year is the ideal climate for Kedarkantha Trek.
Things to Carry for the Kedarkantha Trek
This is one of the best winter treks and if you are planning in winters, warm clothes are mandatory. Windcheaters, Rain covers, and bag packs to keep your luggage water-free. Walking stick is an essential commodity. It will help to reduce your fatigue as you will be able to transmit your weight on to the ground.
Water bottles: It is essential to keep yourself hydrated throughout the trek. Water is an integral part of trekkers be it for drinking or for maintaining body temperature.
Energy bars and energy drinks containing caffeine can help you provide instant energy. Instant energy is essential in case of boredom, fatigue, or even in emergencies.
First Aid Kit
Essential medicines like Paracetamol for fever, body pain. Tinidazole Metronidazole for Stomach ailments. Diamox for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Band-aids and surgical dressings for wounds or injuries. Warm clothes and gloves. It would be best if you keep yourselves warm throughout the trek. For that, you must carry warm sweaters, jackets, thermals, scarf, woolen gloves, etc.
Comfortable Trekking Shoes
There is a high possibility that you’d witness snow on your trail. Therefore it is advised to have good quality waterproof shoes for trekking this mountain peak. It is one of the best investments you could make on yourselves for this trek. For walking on a train full of snow, gaiters are must recommended which will keep your socks dry and protect your feet from the snow.
Personal Utility Kit
The sun rays fall directly in the mountains as compared to plains. The mountain sun rays are considered to be more harmful to the skin. Therefore you must carry sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40 or above. A moisturizer and a lip balm are also essential to provide protection and prevent damage.
Also Read : Backpacking tips for beginners
Do not forget to carry toilet rolls and wipes. You would have to defecate in the open so keep yourselves prepared mentally. It would be best if you also brought a quick-dry towel along with you.
Since it is corona time, you must carry hand sanitizers and hand washes. Therefore, you must remember that mask is not advisable while performing a heavy exercise like trekking. Social distancing and Hand hygiene are the virtues that will prevent you and your fellow trekkers from keeping safe.
Things To Pack
- Jacket
- Poncho / Raincoat
- Inner layer
- Fleece or T-shirt
- Track Pant
- Socks ( 4 pairs)
- Trekking Shoes
- Wollen Cap
- Rucksack ( 40L )
- Muffler
- Pair of extra cloths
- Undergarment
- Slippers
- Sunscreen (SPF 40)
- Sunglasses
- Torch
- Water Bottle
- Tissue Roll
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal Toiletries
- Medicines
- First aid kit
- Thermal or sweater
Kedarkantha Trek Permit
A permit is required to enter the Kedarkantha which is located within Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. A local guide is mandatory to get a permit for the Kedarkantha trek.
Kedarkantha in Times of COVID Pandemic
Kedarkantha is open to tourists. RT-PCR report of Covid 19 is not compulsory, but it can depend on your travel package. Please remember while trekking mask is not advisable. It could lead to severe complications like hypoxia and could also trigger AMS. It would be best if you continued following hand hygiene and social distancing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kedar Kantha trek easy? Or How challenging is the Kedar Kantha trek?
- Yes, Kedarkantha is a comparatively easy trek. It can be done even by beginners. If you are planning to start your hiking expeditions, you certainly should give Kedarkantha a shot. It is also known as the best winter treks for beginners.
What is the current situation at Kedarkantha Trek, keeping in mind COVID 19?
- Kedarkantha is open for visitors. It would be best if you get an RT-PCR Covid negative, although it is not necessary. But it is best to be safe and follow social distancing.
What is the Kedar Kantha trek km distance?
- It is approximately a 25 km trek.
What is Sankri to Kedarkantha trek distance?
- The sankri to Kedarkantha trek is around 7 km.
Facts About Kedarkantha at a Glance
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate level
- Kedarkantha trek cost: 6k to 10k approximately.
- Duration: Around 4-6 days
- Altitude : 3810 meters
- Temperature in winters: 10 to 0 degree celsius
- Kedarkantha Trek best time: December-January
- Trek starting point: Sankri Village
- Kedarkantha base camp: Gaichawan Gaon
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