DETAILS
The region is situated in the serenity of the beautiful and stunning Garhwal Himalayas, Trekkers eagerly look forward to undertaking Kedarkantha trek as it provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty and spend time in the lap of nature. Besides, region’s scenic natural beauty is complemented with the charming hamlets, lush and green meadows, and breathtaking views of the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The meandering trail to the 12,000 ft tall summit passes through the Govind National Park that gives a beautiful view of the Himalayan flora and fauna.
The sight of the peaks of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag (black peak) and Ranglana and the highlight of the trek where the sunsets against the backdrop of the majestic and imposing snow-capped mountains are sure to fascinate everyone!. Kedarkantha trek ranks as one of the most beautiful and sought-after treks in the world. The “Juda-Ka-Talab” surrounded and covered by huge pine trees is a feast for the eyes.
THE TREK:
The exquisite journey of the charming peaks of the Kedarkantha starts from Dehradun. From Dehradun, it takes a long drive to Sankri situated at an altitude of 6,400 ft and takes approximately around 10 hrs to reach. The route passes thru Mussoorie. Though the route is remote the delightful sights on the way is sure to interest travelers. During this trail, trekkers come across majestic views of snowcapped mountains, lush green meadows, a variety of flora and fauna, maple trees, and frozen ponds!. Amazing surroundings of every campsite enveloped in pine trees appeal to one’s aesthetic senses. The trek is one of the least expensive and can be enjoyed with pleasure and comfort. The Kedarkantha trek is usually undertaken in winter
TREK HIGHLIGHTS:
- Region: Uttarakhand
- Starting Point: Sankri
- Ending Point: Sankri
- Duration: 6 days and 5 nights
- Ideal Time: December-April
- Level: Easy
- Total Distance: 20 Km
- Maximum elevation: 12,500 Ft.
- Weather: Best season to visit Kedarkantha is winter from December- April. It is full of snow during these months. Trekkers will see snows on the first day of the Kedarkantha trek itself while trekking from Sankri to Juda ka Talab.
- Communication: Emergency communication is difficult, as the route after Sankri will not have mobile connectivity. In case trekkers go with a troupe, walkie-talkies are available to communicate with the base camp. BSNL mobile connectivity works well on some sections of the Kedarkantha trek.
- ATM Points: Purola is the last ATM point here.
KEY FACTS ABOUT TREK:
- This is a ‘round the year’ trek and can be undertaken in both summer and winter.
- The campsite is great for bird watching ng and surrounded by beautiful snow peak and stunningly wide clearings in the forests.
- Har Ki Dun Road at Sankri is located at the confluence of the Supin River. A temple dedicated to Lord Someshwar Temple on the banks of the river is a worth a visit. There is also a small market in Sankri. Here, sunset is a treat to watch.
ITINERARY:
Day 1- Dehradun – Sankri – 210 Km – 8 Hrs
Dehradun – Sankri – 210 Km – 8 Hrs- Drive thru Garhwal, Mussoorie, Barkot, Sankri, Govind National Park on curved roads which give the most beautiful sights of mountain peaks. Travelers finally arrive at Sankri 13 km inside of the Govind National Park, camping in this charming village. Travelers can take a stroll in the evening in preparation for the Kedarkantha trek from the next day onwards!
Day 2- Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (9,100 Ft) –4 Kms– 4 Hrs
Get to see the view of remote lakes, pine and oak trees, ponds and the Himalayan beauty. After a healthy breakfast and warm up exercise for acclimatizing to the weather conditions, the trekking starts from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab. The trekkers first go thru Sor, which is an extension of Sankri. Thereafter, the road takes a wide curve and climbs sharply. The path moving along the stream leads to Kedarkantha. This unique sight truly mesmerizes everyone. The trail is wide and one can hear the sounds of running streams all through which may not be in view for long. This isolated lake amidst the beautiful snow-capped mountains is the perfect camping spot that reverberates the natural kaleidoscope with minute changes in light. Himalayan Langurs, boars, martens and hares can be spotted in this region. Stay for the night by a pond that resounds the beautiful wonder of pine and oak trees.
Day 3- Juda ka Talaab to Kedarkantha Base – (11,250 Ft) – 4 Kms – 3 Hrs
The day starts after breakfast. The stretch passes thru dense forests of pine and oak trees, steep ridges, green pastures, wild fauna and flora, surging meadows and the snowcapped mountains. Travelers also get to see shepherd huts in open meadows. This exotic stretches of natural beauty and surroundings leave unforgettable marks of charming memories in the trekker’s mind. Just ahead of Kedarkantha Base fascinating views a curved range of snow-capped mountains – ie. Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag and Ranglana stand majestically. Finally, arrive at the open beauty of the meadows at the base camp, and set up the tents and stay for the night. The nights are usually very cold and hence good woolen clothing is a must.
Day 4- Kedarkantha Base to Kedarkantha Summit and descend to Hargaon (12,250 Ft) –6 Kms – 7 Hrs
This is full of ascending and descending trek through the Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges in which trekkers first ascend to the mountain peak of 12,000 Ft and then descend to 9,000 Ft. A full breakfast should be taken as this will be a long day. Like the previous trails, the trekkers need to again cover a few portions of oak forest – however, the trek is easier and faster. At the end, the climb to the top will be a little difficult and strenuous especially for the first time trekkers. The climb is steep but offers some stunning views of the Himalayas. At the top of the peak, there are temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh. Have lunch against the majestic backdrop of the Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges. Take a break and descent to Hargaon to halt for the night. Enjoy the natural wonder and campfire.
Day 5- Trek from Hargaon back to Sankri (6,400 Ft) 6 Kms – 4 Hrs
After watching the sunrise and having breakfast, travelers prepare to go to Sankri, enjoy the beauty of the meadows and the beautiful Har Ki Dun Valley with the vast flora and fauna. If travelers have still some energy left, they can indulge in some local village site seeing to collect some local items as a souvenir. While, not many products are available one can always buy small handmade goods, wooden toys and wooden home décor items for friends and families.Retire for the day.
Day 6- Drive from Sankri to Dehradun – 210 Km – 8Hrs
Travelers carry pleasant memories of the trekking as they travel back to Sankri. As travelers travel on the same path from Sankri- Dehradun, the excitement at the start of the journey gradually subsides and is replaced with a rewind of thrilling experiences of the Kedarkantha trek.
INCLUSIONS
Accommodation:
Accommodation is available at Sankri and there are limited options due to the peak season. Here are some recommended hotels in Sankri where travelers can stay while visiting Kedarkantha. Some of the recommended hotels are:
- Swargarohini Hotel, Sankri: It is situated 1 km from Saur village, and 11 km from Netwar bus stop. This place has 24×7 accommodation (round the clock) with a friendly guest service.
- GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam), Sankri: It is one of the best-priced guesthouses for travelers, and is situated in a small suburb connecting the road from Sankri- Mori. There are 5 and 15 bedded dormitory available. It has hot water and attached bathroom in each room.
- Wild Orchid: It is one of best hotels in Sankri, and is located just before the reserve forest area. It has two floors and rooms. Rooms have attached bathrooms with both hot and cold-water facilities.
Meal:
Usually, only vegetarian meals are provided for the entire duration of the trek. In addition, breakfast, tea/ coffee, and light snacks are also given. Some of the meals provided are:
Activities:
Some of the activities done during the Kedarkantha Trek are:
- Camping
- River Crossing
- Trekking
- Paragliding
- Rafting
- Scuba diving
- Kids adventure camping
Other Inclusions:
Besides accommodation and food other inclusions of the Kedarkantha trek are:
- Necessary permits
- Medical and first aid kits
- Qualified, professional and well-experienced trip leader, well-informed guide and support staff.
TRANSPORTATION
Travelers can reach the place by a combination of the following modes – ie:
By Air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun is the nearest airport. This is well connected to many cities in India. Travelers can take either government buses or private taxis to Sankri which is at a distance of around 210 Kms with a travel time of around 8 Hours.
By Train: There is an overnight train from Delhi- Dehradun – ie. Nanda Devi Express with a journey time of around 6 Hours. Besides, Dehradun which is the nearest railhead is very well connected to many cities.
By Bus / Road: Dehradun is well connected to Kedarkantha and all northern cities due to good motorable roads. Bus services are available in plenty from Delhi- Dehradun. Travelers can choose sleeper, semi- deluxe, deluxe, AC Volvo buses as well. In addition to that Dehradun is well connected with Delhi by buses on daily buses from Kashmiri Gate ISBT. By bus, it takes approximately 10 hours for reaching Sankri and most the buses directly ply early in the morning to Kedarkantha. (Via- Dehradun).
THINGS TO CARRY
Some essentials to carry while heading out for a trek to KEDARKANTHA are:
- Backpack with rain cover
- Trekking Shoes
- Full sleeve / T-shirts and track pants
- Cotton / Woolen socks
- Full sleeves sweater or fleece jacket
- Thermal inners
- Gloves
- Sun cap
- Scarf
- Towels
- Lip balm
- Cold cream
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+)
- Water bottle 1 Lt
- Headlamp or torch with fresh pair of batteries
- Personal toilet kit and toilet paper
- Personal medicine kit
- Dark sunglasses (U/V protected)
- Walking stick (one)
- Camera
- Snow boots
- Trekking pole
- Duffel bag or large rucksack to carry gear while trekking- that is sturdy and strong.
- Toiletries
- Moisturizes
- Chapsticks
- Extra polythene bags ( for taking wet clothes)
- Medicines ex- muscle relaxant, antibiotics, vomiting and crape
- Dry fruits Ex- Fig, Cashew nut and Almonds, chocolates can be bought that serve as energy boosters.
HOW TO REACH
Travelers can reach Kedarkantha via Sankri since this the starting point from Uttarakhand. Dehradun to Sankri is around 220 km and this route pass through Mussoorie, Naugaon, Purola, Mori, Netwar and then Sankri in Govind Pashu National Park. To reach Kedarkantha there are two alternatives, one can go through Sankri by shared jeeps or public buses. Two direct buses run from Dehradun to Kedarkantha via Sankri leave early in the morning sometime around 5- 7 am which leave from nearby to the railway station. The journey takes 10-11 hours. In the alternative, travelers can travel by bus from Dehradun to Purola which is at a distance of around 145 Kms with a travel time of around 5 Hours. Even taxis / shared jeeps are available till Purola. Travelers can reach Kedarkantha by buses/taxis which is at a distance of around 20 Kms with a travel time of around 1 Hr.
ADVISORY
Due to adverse climatic conditions, travelers should exercise adequate pre-caution before embarking on this trip. Besides, their usual medicines, medications to handle respiratory problems, acute mountain sickness medicines should be carried in consultation with the family physician. A pre-trip medical checkup will be beneficial to decide on which medicines to carry. It is best to carry an extra reserve of the medication to handle any adversities.
Some of the other important medicines/accessories suggested to be carried are:
- To prevent extreme frostbites and freezing temperatures wear good and proper trekking boots for keeping warm.
- Avoid wearing thick socks to ensure good blood circulation.
- Diarrhea/antibiotics
- Using track pants is preferable
- This package has two variations – ie. one which has a pickup and drop from Dehradun and the other from Sankri.
- Climatic conditions differ in high altitudes so trekkers need enough time to get acclimatized in the plains.
- Adequate listening to the guide’s instructions will ensure that trekkers enjoy a smooth and comfortable trekking experience.
- Avoid alcohol during the Kedarkantha trek.
- Avoid using disposable plastic bags or any plastic wrapped items.
- Do not dump/litter the place with garbage since these places are an eco- friendly zones.
- Carry an extra pair of thermal innerwear
- Use only waterproof jackets and gloves
- Syringe kit- (mainly for diabetics)
- Antimalarial drugs/ medications
- Vision glasses: A spare for use if the one in use fails.
- Contact lenses – A spare for use if the one in use fails.
- Suture Kit- Kit is for use by local health care providers and requires a letter from the doctor on letterhead stationery.
- Inhalers
- Insulin
- Normal medicines as applicable for – BP, Thyroid and other health issues.
- Medical alert tags, necklace or bracelet (For emergency identification).
- Antacids
- Cough drops
- Decongestant
- Painkillers
- Saline nose spray
- Antifungal ointments
- Bandages-Multiple sizes, gauze, and adhesive tape
- Cream for blisters
- Disposable gloves
- Digital thermometer
- Water purification tablets
- Scissors and safety pins
- Cotton swabs
- Eye drops
- Tweezers
- Oral rehydration drops
