Unveiling the Splendors of Kedarkantha: An Enthralling Summit Trek

A Breathtaking Introduction

Nestled amidst the snow-capped splendor of Uttarakhand’s Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, the Kedarkantha trek beckons adventurers with its enthralling summit experience. Resting at an altitude of 3,810 meters (12,500 feet), this captivating trail offers a tantalizing blend of pristine landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of the mighty Himalayas. Spanning a distance of approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) over a span of five invigorating days, the Kedarkantha trek emerges as an ideal initiation into the world of high-altitude trekking for novices and seasoned adventurers alike.

The Enchanting Journey Begins

The adventure commences with a scenic drive from the vibrant city of Dehradun, winding through the picturesque hills of Mussoorie and the majestic Kempty Falls. As you traverse the winding roads flanked by sparkling mountain streams and enchanting blue pine forests, the breathtaking beauty of the region unfolds before your eyes. The final stretch of the journey takes you through the captivating Govind National Park, where exotic flora and fauna flourish amidst the dense coniferous forests and scattered apple orchards.

Upon reaching the quaint village of Sankri, perched at an altitude of 1,950 meters (6,400 feet), you’ll be greeted by unparalleled views of the majestic Mt. Swargarohini, particularly during the golden hours of sunset. Sankri serves as the base camp for numerous treks in the region and is the starting point for the Kedarkantha adventure.

Embarking on the Kedarkantha Trail

The first day’s trek from Sankri takes you through the charming village of Saud, where you’ll encounter a series of wooden bridges spanning gurgling streams. The trail winds through dense maple and oak forests, their floors carpeted with a tapestry of fallen leaves. During the winter months, this path transforms into a winter wonderland, with soft snow blanketing the branches and the ground below, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.

As you ascend gradually through the zigzagging trail, the landscape shifts from dense foliage to open clearings, offering glimpses of the majestic peaks in the distance. The first campsite, Juda-ka-Taal, a picturesque high-altitude lake surrounded by emerald-green oak and pine forests, awaits you at the end of the day’s trek.

Conquering the Summit

The following day’s trek towards the Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,413 meters/11,200 feet) takes you through dense, primeval oak forests, with the occasional sighting of rhododendron buds and vibrant grasslands in the spring season. As you approach the base camp, a stunning panorama of snow-clad peaks, including the towering Kedarkantha, Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kalanag, unfolds before your eyes.

The ultimate challenge awaits on the summit day, as you embark on a pre-dawn trek at around 3 AM, navigating through numbing cold temperatures and icy mountain winds. The initial trail winds through dense oak forests before opening up to a clearing, where two paths lead to the summit. The steep ascent, with an inclination of 45 to 60 degrees and knee-deep snow during the winter months, tests your endurance and determination.

Upon reaching the surreal summit of Kedarkantha at the break of dawn, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of renowned mountain peaks and ranges, including Gangotri, Yamunotri, Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Har Ki Dun. A square arrangement of stones dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati marks the summit, adorned with a trishul (trident) pointing skyward as a sacred shrine.

Retracing Your Steps

After basking in the glory of the summit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Juda-ka-Taal, where you’ll set up camp for the night and bask in the star-lit skies, reflecting on the exhilarating day’s accomplishments. The final day’s trek takes you back to Sankri, where you’ll bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and embark on the journey back to Dehradun, carrying with you a lifetime of cherished memories.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Kedarkantha Trek

To ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience, this comprehensive guide covers every aspect of the Kedarkantha trek, from essential preparations to detailed itineraries, packing lists, and frequently asked questions. Discover the highlights, challenges, and nuances of this captivating adventure, and equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on this remarkable journey.

Preparation and Planning

Fitness and Training

Before embarking on the Kedarkantha trek, it’s crucial to assess your physical fitness and prepare accordingly. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging, running, or cycling, to build endurance. Incorporate strength training exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups to improve muscular strength and stability. Aim to jog or run for 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in 25-30 minutes and walk continuously for 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) on a slight incline to meet the fitness benchmark for this trek.

Essential Gear and Packing List

Proper gear and equipment play a vital role in ensuring your safety and comfort on the trek. Invest in high-quality, non-skid trekking shoes, a warm and waterproof jacket, thermal base layers, and a sturdy backpack with a rain cover. Don’t forget to pack essential items like a headlamp, water bottles, a personal first-aid kit, and sun protection gear. Refer to the comprehensive packing list provided to ensure you have everything you need for a successful and comfortable trek.

Permits and Documentation

Obtaining the necessary permits and documentation is crucial for a seamless trekking experience. Your trekking operator will typically handle the required forest permits and camping charges on your behalf. However, you’ll need to carry a copy of your ID proof and a medical certificate confirming your fitness for the trek. Additionally, it’s highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies during the trek.

The Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sankri (1,950 meters/6,400 feet)

The adventure begins with a scenic 9-10 hour drive from Dehradun to the quaint village of Sankri, passing through the picturesque hills of Mussoorie and the majestic Kempty Falls. Sankri serves as the base camp for numerous treks in the region and offers stunning views of Mt. Swargarohini, especially during sunset. Overnight stay in local guesthouses.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda-ka-Taal (2,773 meters/9,100 feet) – 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), 5 hours

The first day’s trek takes you through the village of Saud and into the dense maple and oak forests, crossing several wooden bridges and streams along the way. During the winter months, this path transforms into a winter wonderland, with soft snow blanketing the surroundings. The day’s trek culminates at the picturesque Juda-ka-Taal, a high-altitude lake surrounded by emerald-green forests, where you’ll set up camp for the night.

Day 3: Juda-ka-Taal to Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,413 meters/11,200 feet) – 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), 3 hours

The trek gradient steepens as you ascend through dense primeval oak forests, with occasional sightings of rhododendron buds and vibrant grasslands in the spring season. The Kedarkantha Base Camp offers stunning panoramic views of snow-clad peaks, including Kedarkantha, Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kalanag.

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Summit (3,810 meters/12,500 feet) and back to Juda-ka-Taal (2,773 meters/9,100 feet) – 8 kilometers (5 miles), 4 hours

The ultimate challenge awaits on the summit day, as you embark on a pre-dawn trek at around 3 AM, navigating through numbing cold temperatures and icy mountain winds. The steep ascent, with an inclination of 45 to 60 degrees and knee-deep snow during the winter months, tests your endurance and determination. Upon reaching the surreal summit of Kedarkantha at the break of dawn, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of renowned mountain peaks and ranges. After basking in the glory of the summit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Juda-ka-Taal, where you’ll set up camp for the night.

Day 5: Juda-ka-Taal (2,773 meters/9,100 feet) to Sankri (1,950 meters/6,400 feet) and Departure – 8 kilometers (5 miles), 4 hours

The final day’s trek takes you back to Sankri, where you’ll bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and embark on the journey back to Dehradun, carrying with you a lifetime of cherished memories.

Inclusions and Exclusions

What’s Included

• Meals during the trek
• Dinner on arrival day in Sankri
• Forest permits and camping charges (only if availing transportation through the trekking operator)
• Tents, sleeping bags, and mats
• Safety equipment, including static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, and pulleys
• Experienced trek guide, cook, helpers, porters, and mules for carrying common luggage
• Services of a certified trek leader

What’s Not Included

• Meals during road journeys
• Transportation from Dehradun to Sankri and back
• Carriage of personal bags during the trek
• Any kind of insurance
• Any personal expenses or expenses not specified in the inclusion list

Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility and Fitness

• Is the Kedarkantha trek suitable for beginners? Yes, the Kedarkantha trek is an ideal choice for beginners looking to embark on their first summit trek in the Himalayas. With a difficulty level of BRS 2 (Bikat Rating Scale), it offers a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility.
• What’s a good fitness benchmark for this trek? If you can jog or run for 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in 25-30 minutes, walk continuously for 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) on a slight incline, and perform basic exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups, you are physically ready for the Kedarkantha trek.
• What skills do I need to complete this trek? While no specific technical skills are required, you should be familiar with using a sleeping bag, toilet tents, sleeping tents, and have basic knowledge of mountain mannerisms.
• What is the minimum and maximum age limit? The minimum age limit is 9 years, but minors between 9 and 17 years old must be accompanied by their parents or guardians. If you are above 60 years old, you will need a medical certificate from your doctor confirming your fitness for adventure activities like trekking.

About the Activity

• Where is the Kedarkantha trek located? The Kedarkantha trek is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, with the starting point being the village of Sankri, approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Dehradun.
• What are some highlights of the Kedarkantha trek? The journey to the base camp in Sankri, passing through the picturesque hills of Mussoorie and the majestic Kempty Falls, is a highlight in itself. The stunning views of Mt. Swargarohini from Sankri, camping near the beautiful Juda-ka-Taal lake, and the breathtaking panoramic vistas from the Kedarkantha summit are among the trek’s highlights.
• What are some challenges of the Kedarkantha trek? While the trek is suitable for beginners, acclimatizing to high altitudes and trekking for 7-8 hours on the summit day, with steep ascents and knee-deep snow during winter, can be challenging. The trek is a blend of gradual and steep ascents, testing your endurance and determination.
• What is the best season for the Kedarkantha trek? The best time to undertake the Kedarkantha trek is from December to February, when the region is blanketed in snow, offering a winter wonderland experience.
• What is the accommodation type during the trek? On trekking days, you’ll be staying in twin-sharing tents. If you prefer an individual tent, you can request one for an additional cost.

Temperature and Connectivity

• What is the temperature like during the Kedarkantha trek? In the winter months of December to February, the temperature can plummet to sub-zero levels, with daytime temperatures ranging from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius (32 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit) and night temperatures dropping as low as -10 to -15 degrees Celsius (14 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Is there cellular network connectivity throughout the trek? There is no mobile reception after Sankri. Even in Sankri, you can only access BSNL and JIO networks. The homestays in Sankri have Wi-Fi connectivity available on a paid basis.
• Where is the nearest ATM located? You can find the last ATMs in Parola, a small town on the way to Sankri.

Transportation and Logistics

• How do I reach the starting point of the Kedarkantha trek? The starting point of the Kedarkantha trek is Sankri village, which is accessible by public buses and shared jeeps from Dehradun. Your trekking operator can also arrange shared transportation from Dehradun to Sankri and back.
• If I choose to travel to the base with the trekking operator, what is the pick-up point? The pick-up point for shared transportation arranged by the trekking operator is typically outside ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal) in Dehradun at 7:00 AM.
• What time is the drop-off on the last day of the trek? Expect to reach Dehradun late in the evening, around 8-9 PM. If you plan to travel to Delhi overnight, ensure you book your transportation accordingly to account for any unexpected delays on the road.

Equipment and Gear

• What equipment is provided by the trekking operator? The trekking operator will provide common gear like tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and all necessary technical climbing equipment (if required). Safety equipment for rescue operations, such as static rescue ropes, seat harnesses, carabiners, and pulleys, will also be provided.
• Can I rent equipment from the trekking operator? Yes, you can rent trekking shoes, trekking poles, fleece jackets, and rucksacks from the trekking operator. If you have any other specific requirements, you can discuss them with the operator’s representative.
• Where will I receive the rented items? You will receive your rented equipment in Sankri on the first day of the trek.
• Where do I have to return the rented items? The trek leaders will collect the rented equipment from you at the end of the trek on the last day.
• Are there local shops to rent or buy equipment? Dehradun has a sufficiently large market for purchasing or renting trekking equipment. However, it’s advisable not to leave any last-minute shopping, as there will be limited time due to immediate transportation to Sankri.

Facilities and Additional Services

• Can I offload my bag during the trek? Although not recommended, you can offload your bag at an additional cost. Request this service while making your booking, and it can be arranged. (Note: Offloading bags means additional resources on the trail, such as ponies or porters, which can put extra strain on the environment. It also goes against the spirit of trekking by eliminating a level of endurance and discomfort from the experience, which are factors at the heart of an outdoor adventure activity.)
• Can I leave any extra luggage at the base of the trek? Yes, you can leave extra baggage at the homestay in Sankri, which can be collected on your return journey.
• What are the meals like during the trek? On all trekking days, you will be provided with three full meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in addition to evening snacks and tea. The meals are vegetarian and the menu is pre-decided for all days of the trek. Eggs are also provided on certain days. If you have any specific food-related allergies or restrictions, you can inform the local staff during the trek, and your requests will be accommodated. The trekking operator tries to provide a variety of food across meals to avoid repetition and cover all nutritional needs.

On campsites, the team will dig dry pits and assemble a toilet tent to provide safe and secure quarters. A shovel will be provided within the toilet tent as well. Using water in the toilet tent is restricted; you will need to carry your own toilet paper. On more difficult expeditions, toilet tents are not carried to the higher camps (above base camp) due to space restrictions for pitching the tent.

In case you get your period during the trek and don’t have sanitary napkins, the trek leaders can provide them to you. If you need any other kind of assistance, you can inform the trek leaders. Irrespective of gender, the leaders are gender-sensitized and equipped to assist you in any way you need them to.

The trekking operator’s team carries a first aid kit and all the basic medicines required during the trek. They are equipped to be the first responders in case of any injury or health-related issues. For higher expeditions, they also carry a HAPO (High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema) Bag and oxygen cylinders to tend to any altitude-related health conditions.

There are charging points at the homestay in Sankri, but the region is prone to long hours of power cuts. Once you leave Sankri, you will be camping in the wilderness with no access to electricity.

A copy of your ID proof and a medical certificate are the mandatory documents required for this trek. The soft copies should be sent to the trekking operator, and the originals should be carried with you during the trek.

Yes, the trekking operator will provide you with an undertaking form through email, which will need to be filled out and submitted after booking.

The trekking operator’s batch sizes for the Kedarkantha trek are capped at 15, with a trek leader to trekker ratio of 1:8. This ratio, based on their years of experience, has proven to deliver the best trekking experience for individuals and groups. Capping the group size ensures individual attention to each trekker, ensuring that no signs of distress or need during the trek go unnoticed. It also helps form a more cohesive group with better energy, which helps define the rhythm and pace of the days on the trek.

As you go higher on the Bikat Rating Scale (BRS), since the stakes are higher, expeditions have an even smaller group size with a ratio of expedition leader to climber set at 1:2.

The trekking operator follows a rigorous regime of hiring and training experts in the field. Each trek leader is a certified mountaineer with years of experience. In addition to their qualifications, they also go through practical and situational training to tackle any sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. The unpredictable nature of the mountains demands readiness for any circumstance as best as possible, which is a controllable asset that the operator tries to nurture.

Their field experts are also trained in basic medicine and first-aid response.

Since the trekking operator is a learning-based organization, they help you climb the ladder of difficulty within the sphere of outdoor adventure systematically. Their on-ground training modules are designed to guide you through the upskilling process so that you are ready to take on bigger challenges.

All the gear used on their treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in quality and condition. They are continually looking to obtain the best equipment available in the market to ensure optimum safety.

Along with the staff you see on-ground, the trekking operator has a team of superheroes working in the background to give you the best experience possible. Their background team also comprises local staff from each area who know the region best. Having local support helps with studying the area, pre-planning, execution, and receiving timely support in case of emergencies in these remote locations.

The trekking operator’s on-field staff is in constant contact with their teams based in primary locations to eliminate any avoidable delay in reaching additional help and support when required. They try to use the best communication tools available, including satellite phones, in regions where they are not restricted.

It is absolutely safe for women to embark on treks with this operator. They recognize, value, and embody the ideology that the world of outdoor adventure can benefit from diversity. They make it their mission to create outdoor spaces as equally accessible and safe for all genders as possible. They also encourage women leaders in the outdoors, and all of their staff (irrespective of gender) is gender-sensitized. As for accommodation, in case there are no other women on the trek, a solo female trekker is provided with a separate single-occupancy tent.

In addition to their qualifications, the trekking operator’s trek leaders are trained to tackle any sudden conditions that may present themselves on the ground. During the recce stage, they study the trail in great detail and map out rescue routes before opening it up for trekkers. They also have local support staff stationed in each area to arrange for emergency services at the place of need as quickly as possible.

The trekking operator mobilizes road rescue efforts where their trek leaders bring the person to be rescued down to the trailhead from where a car can take them to the nearest healthcare facility. The cost of rescue is not covered in the trek fee charged. It must be borne by the participant. However, if you opt for insurance, the cost of rescue operations can be claimed from the insurance company on production of valid proof, e.g., doctor’s prescription and hospital bills. Please note that the trekking operator is only a facilitator and not a party in the insurance policy. You need to raise the claim request directly with the insurance company. The trekking operator is not responsible for any rejection of claims. You can call the insurance provider directly for any clarifications related to the insurance policy. Although not mandatory, they recommend buying insurance. You don’t necessarily have to get the insurance they provide; you can pick an insurance company of your choice and get a policy directly from them. If you need more information on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy, get in touch with their customer support team.

All the gear used on their treks and expeditions is tried and tested, maintained for good quality, and is overall top-notch in condition. They are continually looking to obtain the best equipment available in the market to ensure optimum safety.

That will depend on the nature of your medical condition. Give them a call, and one of their representatives will help you understand what is best for you. If not this trek, they are sure there would be plenty of other options you can choose from their vast portfolio to pick as your next adventure.

There are several measures the trekking operator takes to prevent overcrowding on some of the most popular trails. Some of them are capping their group size at 15, capping the number of trekkers on a trail to 250 per season, constantly looking for newer trails and routes to spread the crowd around, and providing incentives to their trekkers to try unexplored territories with them. They have put in place a system of dynamic pricing, which is the first of its kind in the trekking industry, incentivizing trekkers to choose less crowded trails by offering higher discounts. They have noticed that since they started this system, it has helped spread out the crowds between trekking routes. They are also going international to relieve some stress on the Himalayan landscape and explore newer ranges and design newer experiences for their community. If you want a more detailed description of all their measures in this regard, please read their article “Simple solutions to overcrowding on Himalayan Treks.”

Some basic things to remember when using a dry toilet are: do not use water, do not dispose of anything non-biodegradable inside the pits, carry your own roll of toilet paper, and remember to cover up after yourself to leave a clean toilet for your fellow trekkers. Everything else is much the same as using an Indian-style home toilet!

Most wet wipes are not biodegradable, which means it could take 100 years or more for them to decompose – not the best thing if you are trying to ‘Leave No Trace,’ right?

Since most sanitary waste is not biodegradable, the trekking operator recommends that you pack your pads or tampons neatly, store them in a zip-lock bag, and bring them back down with you, where there are better options to dispose of them. In case you do not have zip-lock bags, ask their trek leaders for them, and they should be able to provide them to you.

Each trekker is responsible for the use and hygiene of their own eating utensils. As a measure to maintain proper hygiene, the trekking operator does not provide plates and spoons. Also, dipping your hands in cold water to wash your own utensils adds something to the overall joy of high-altitude living, wouldn’t you think?

On making the payment for the trek, you will receive a booking confirmation along with the packing list and a copy of the undertaking form via email. You will subsequently receive emails detailing documents required, how to prepare physically and mentally for the trek, information on the pick-up location on the first day, etc. Please add the trekking operator’s email address (info@bikatadventures.com) to your trusted emails list to ensure their emails don’t go to your spam folder.

A WhatsApp group will be formed a few weeks before departure. Members from the trekking operator’s team are on those groups as well. Feel free to seek any clarifications you require regarding the trek on the group itself. Updates related to transportation, pick-up point, pick-up timing, accommodation, etc., will be shared on the WhatsApp group as well.

Yes, the trekking operator creates a WhatsApp group a few weeks before the departure date so that the flow of information remains smooth and transparent.