Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, to the quaint Himalayan village of Sankri. This 9-hour journey winds through rolling hills, dense forests, and charming towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori, with the serene Tons River accompanying much of the route.
Arrive in Sankri by evening and settle into your guesthouse, resting up for the trek ahead.
Sankri, nestled in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, serves as the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek. Here, trekkers can acclimatize, stock up on essentials, and soak in the traditional Himalayan village vibe.
• Travel (approx.): 190 km, 8-9 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 4,200 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Sankri
• Meals: Evening Tea, Dinner
The trek begins with a gentle ascent through pine and maple forests. The trail meanders through verdant woodlands, alive with birdsong and glimpses of local flora and fauna. In winter, snow blankets the path, creating a fairytale-like setting.
After a few hours, reach Juda Ka Talab, a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by forest. Often frozen in winter, the lake is a picturesque campsite, perfect for a peaceful night under the stars.
Legend has it that this lake was formed when Lord Shiva untied his hair knot (“Juda”), letting water trickle down to create it.
• Trek (approx.): 4 km, 3-4 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 2,800 ft. / ⇓ 0 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Campsite
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Tea, Dinner
Today’s trek leads deeper into snow-laden forests and expansive meadows. As the trail opens into high-altitude clearings, majestic Himalayan peaks, such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag, come into view.
After 3–4 hours of trekking, arrive at Kedarkantha Base Camp, a wide, open clearing with panoramic views. The golden hue of the setting sun over snow-covered peaks is a sight to behold—a true photographer’s paradise.
• Trek (approx.): 8 km, 6-7 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 1,500 ft. / ⇓ 1,500 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Ghangaria
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Summit day starts early, often at 3 AM. The ascent is steep, especially with winter snow, but the climb is exhilarating, rewarding you with sweeping views of the Himalayas.
After 2–3 hours, reach the Kedarkantha summit (12,500 ft.). Take in 360° vistas of the Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Kinner Kailash ranges glistening in morning light.
Descend back to base camp for lunch, then continue to Juda Ka Talab for an overnight stay. Relish the serene surroundings one last time.
• Trek (approx.): 12 km, 7-8 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 4,100 ft. / ⇓ 4,100 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Guesthouse in Ghangaria
• Meals: Breakfast, Langar, Dinner
The final day is a gentle descent through pine and oak forests. Enjoy scenic clearings with views of the Har Ki Dun valley and distant peaks.
Arrive in Sankri by early afternoon to rest, explore the village market, and enjoy a hot meal. Pick up local handicrafts, including handmade woollen garments, as memorable keepsakes from your trek.
• Trek (approx.): 9 km, 3-4 hrs.
• Travel (approx.): 25 km, 40 min.
• Altitude: ⇑ 0 ft. / ⇓ 3,850 ft.
• Overnight Stay: Hotel in Joshimath
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, begin the drive back to Dehradun. Relish the last views of the valleys, rivers, and Himalayan landscapes.
As you return to city life, carry with you the memories of snowy peaks, tranquil forests, and the quiet strength of the mountains. The Kedarkantha adventure may end, but the mountains will always call again.
• Travel (approx.): 275 km, 9-10 hrs.
• Altitude: ⇑ 0 ft. / ⇓ 5,120 ft.
• Overnight Stay: N/A
• Meals: Breakfast
Awesome experience n I really like the way you explain n take care of us. surly I’ll join all treks from now on!
