Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand, known for its snow-covered trails, forest landscapes and rewarding summit climb. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek offers a complete Himalayan experience with dense pine forests, open meadows and panoramic views from the summit. The Kedarkantha Trek is especially popular during the winter months when the entire route is covered in snow, making it an ideal choice for beginners as well as experienced trekkers looking for a classic winter trekking experience.

The Kedarkantha Trek typically spans 4 to 6 days and begins from the village of Sankri in Uttarakhand. The trail passes through dense forests, clearings and high-altitude campsites before reaching the summit of Kedarkantha.

The highlight of the trek is the summit climb, which offers panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks. The route is well-defined and relatively short, making it one of the most accessible summit treks in India.

• Snow-covered trails (winter): One of the best treks for experiencing snowfall

• Summit climb: Panoramic views of Himalayan peaks from the top

• Dense pine forests: Scenic forest sections along the route

• High-altitude campsites: Camps with wide mountain views

• Beginner-friendly summit trek: Ideal introduction to Himalayan trekking

The Kedarkantha Trek is widely regarded as one of the best winter treks because of its consistent snowfall, well-marked trails and accessible difficulty level. During winter, the entire landscape transforms into a snow-covered environment, with frozen trails, snow-laden trees and clear mountain views.

Unlike many other treks that become inaccessible in winter, Kedarkantha remains open and offers a safe and enjoyable snow trekking experience.

The Kedarkantha Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with basic fitness as well as experienced trekkers.

The route includes gradual ascents and a slightly steeper summit climb, but does not require technical climbing skills.

Kedarkantha is a year-round trek, but the experience varies by season:

• December to March: Best for snow trekking and winter landscapes

• April to June: Pleasant weather with clear views and greenery

• September to November: Crisp weather and excellent mountain visibility

The winter season is the most popular due to snow-covered trails.

Most itineraries span 5 days, depending on the route and pace. This duration allows for a gradual ascent, summit attempt and return journey.

The trek typically starts from Sankri, a small village in Uttarakhand that serves as the base for several trekking routes in the region. Sankri is accessible by road from Dehradun.

• Beginners looking for a winter trek

• Trekkers interested in a summit experience

• Adventure travelers seeking snow trekking

• Small groups and first-time Himalayan trekkers

Trekkers should prepare with basic cardio exercises, walking or hiking before the trek. Warm clothing, waterproof gear and proper trekking shoes are essential, especially during winter when temperatures drop significantly.

Unlike alpine lake treks such as the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek, the Har Ki Dun Trek focuses more on valley landscapes, forests and village life. The trek offers a more gradual and culturally rich experience compared to high-altitude routes that involve steep ascents and multiple mountain passes.

• Keep a day of buffer before booking your return flight/train ticket (to account for any delays due to weather or otherwise.

• You will be out of mobile network area for all days of the trek. Please inform your loved ones that you will be lost in the most beautiful part of the world for next few days.

• If you experience any symptoms of High Altitude Sickness (also known as Acute Mountain Sickness), please inform the trek lead immediately. Do not ignore the symptoms.

• Being hydrated during the trek is the mantra. Practise drinking enough water to keep yourself hydrated. It will also help reduce the symptoms of high altitude sickness.

• Non-skid, deep treaded, high-ankle trekking shoes

• Pair of lightweight Slipper/Sandals

• Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants (2)

• Full sleeves T-shirts / Sweatshirts (1 for every 2 days of trekking)

• Pair of thick woollen socks (1 pair for every two days of trekking)

• Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower

• Undergarments / Innerwear (1 for every day of trekking)

• Warm jacket closed at wrist & neck (1)

• Full sleeves sweater (1)

• Rain wear (Jacket & Pants)

• Pair of waterproof warm gloves (1)

• Woolen cap (1)

• Sun shielding Hat (1)

• Rucksack bag with rain cover (1)

• Day Pack Bag - Recommended for treks with summit days

• Head Torch / Flashlight with spare batteries (mobile flashlight will not be enough)

• UV protection sunglasses

• Water Bottle (2) (1 litre each)

• Utensils: Small size, Lightweight & Leak proof lunch box

• Plate, Spoon, Coffee/Tea Mug

• Your regular medicines and few others for emergency (if any)

• Dry Fruits, snacks, soft drinks etc

• Documents: Government issued Address Proof (Voter ID, Aadhaar, Driver's License, Passport) (mandatory)

• Documents: Doctor's Certificate (mandatory)

• Documents: Signed Disclaimer Form (will be shared before trekking) (mandatory)

• Transport from Dehradun to Campsite on first day

• Transport from campsite to Dehradun on last day

• All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner) - starting from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 7

• Accommodation on twin sharing basis at camps from Day 1 to Day 6

• Highly Experienced Trekking Guide

• Kitchen tents, toilet tents, sleeping tents, sleeping bags etc

• Hot water for drinking purpose shall be provided on request.

• Kitchen, dining and toilet tents will be used during the trek.

• Cooks/Helpers for carrying common equipment like rations / tents / utensils / groceries

• Skilled local staff who have ample knowledge of the route.

• Accommodation - tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats etc

• Safety equipment - as per requirements and basic first aid kit with a portable oxygen cylinder

• Permit - forest and camping fee included.

• Airfare / flight tickets, train tickets, bus tickets etc.

• Accommodation outside of camps

• Baggage offloading charges / porter or mule charges

• Travel Insurance

• Anything not mentioned in inclusions