Kedarkantha Trek 2026 | Best Winter Trek in Uttarakhand

Kedarkantha Trek Package

Best winter trek in Uttarakhand for first-timers seeking Himalayan snow

Duration

5D / 44N

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation

12,500 ft

Total trek

44 km

Best Time

Dec - April

Base Village

Sankri

Overview What to Expect Itinerary Package Details Photos How To Reach FAQs Trek Map Reviews

Overview

The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding winter treks in Uttarakhand, attracting thousands of trekkers every year with its snow-covered trails, dense pine forests, scenic campsites, and breathtaking Himalayan summit views. Located inside the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in the Uttarkashi district, this iconic trek reaches an altitude of 12,500 ft (3,800 m) and offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience for both beginners and experienced trekkers.

The Kedarkantha Trek distance is approximately 20 km, typically completed in 4 to 5 days, beginning from the picturesque mountain village of Sankri, the official base camp for the trek. The trail passes through beautiful campsites including Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp, and finally the spectacular summit ridge.

The best time to do Kedarkantha Trek is from December to April, when the entire route is covered in fresh snow and transforms into one of the finest snow treks in India. The summit rewards trekkers with stunning 360° panoramic views of famous Himalayan peaks including Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Kala Nag, Kedarnath Peak, and the Gangotri range.

The Kedarkantha Trek difficulty level is considered Easy to Moderate, making it one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners, solo travellers, and first-time snow trekkers. The gradual altitude gain, short itinerary, and well-defined trail make it an ideal introduction to high-altitude trekking.

Located around 200 km from Dehradun, Sankri offers convenient road connectivity and makes the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi one of the most preferred long-weekend adventure experiences in North India.

What to Expect

Snow-covered pine forests that get more dramatic with every step up the trail
A night camp beside the frozen Juda Ka Talab lake under a sky full of stars
Gradual, well-marked trails suitable for first-time trekkers
Temperatures dropping below zero at higher campsites, especially in December and January
A 360° summit view of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Kedarnath, and the Gangotri range
Golden sunrise from the top, with light breaking over an endless Himalayan horizon
A warm Garhwali welcome at Sankri village before the trail begins

Itinerary

Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri

Your Kedarkantha Trek begins with an early morning departure from Dehradun, driving towards the remote mountain landscapes of Uttarkashi district.
Travel through scenic Himalayan roads passing Mussoorie, Barkot, and Mori, with beautiful valley views and changing mountain terrain along the route.
Witness rivers, pine forests, and traditional Himalayan villages as you move deeper into the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary region.
Reach Sankri by evening, the charming base camp village for the Kedarkantha Winter Trek.
Spend the evening exploring the peaceful mountain atmosphere and preparing for the trekking days ahead.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

Begin the first day of trekking through dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
Follow a gradual uphill trail surrounded by snow-covered landscapes during the winter season.
Reach the iconic Juda Ka Talab campsite, one of the most scenic highlights of the Kedarkantha Trek itinerary.
The frozen lake, surrounded by snow-laden trees and mountain views, creates a perfect Himalayan camping experience.
Spend the evening enjoying the peaceful wilderness and witnessing spectacular sunset colours across the Himalayan ridgeline.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Continue the ascent as the trail gradually opens from forest sections into wide snow-covered meadows.
Enjoy uninterrupted Himalayan views while trekking through one of the most beautiful sections of the Kedarkantha snow trek.
Reach Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,250 ft), located above the treeline and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Experience the true feeling of high-altitude Himalayan camping with snow underfoot and clear mountain skies overhead.
Rest and prepare for the most exciting day of the journey – the summit climb.

Day 4: Summit Day and Return to Sankri

Begin the summit push before sunrise and trek through snow-covered trails and steady switchbacks toward the Kedarkantha Summit.
Reach the summit at 12,500 ft, one of the most rewarding viewpoints among all winter treks in India.
Witness breathtaking 360° panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, Kala Nag, Kedarnath Peak, and the Gangotri range.
Spend time enjoying the summit experience and capturing unforgettable Himalayan memories.
Begin the descent and trek back to Sankri, completing the most memorable section of the Kedarkantha Trek.

Day 5: Sankri to Dehradun

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back from Sankri to Dehradun.
Travel through the beautiful valleys and mountain roads of Uttarakhand while enjoying the final Himalayan views.
Reflect on the journey through snowy forests, frozen campsites, and one of India’s most iconic winter summit treks.
Reach Dehradun by evening, carrying unforgettable memories of the Kedarkantha Trek and its stunning Himalayan landscapes.

Package Details

Included

Transport (Dehradun to Dehradun)
Acommodation in Alpine camps
Sleeping bags & mats
All meals during trek
Trek leader & support staff
Forest permit & entry fees

Excluded

Photos

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport for the Kedarkantha Trek is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. The airport is well connected with major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Jaipur. From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or take local transport to reach Dehradun, the starting point of the trek.

By Train

Dehradun Railway Station is well connected with major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Chandigarh. Regular trains make Dehradun one of the most convenient gateways for the Kedarkantha Trek.

By Car

Dehradun is easily accessible by road from Delhi (250 km), Chandigarh (170 km), Haridwar (55 km), and Rishikesh (45 km) via regular Volvo buses, state transport buses, and private taxis. Most Kedarkantha Trek packages begin from Dehradun, followed by a scenic drive through Mussoorie, Barkot, Mori, and Purola before reaching Sankri, the picturesque base camp of the Kedarkantha Trek. From Sankri, the trekking trail ascends through dense pine forests, snow-covered meadows, and beautiful campsites to the Kedarkantha Summit.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to do Kedarkantha Trek?

The best time for Kedarkantha Trek is December to April for a full snow experience. March and April offer clearer skies and slightly warmer temperatures, while December and January give the most dramatic snowfall and frozen trail conditions.

How difficult is Kedarkantha Trek?

Kedarkantha Trek is graded Easy to Moderate. The trails are well-marked, the altitude gain is gradual, and no prior trekking experience is required. It is one of the most beginner-friendly winter treks in India.

How many days does Kedarkantha Trek take?

The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days, including the drive from Dehradun to Sankri and back. The actual trekking spans 3 days on trail with a summit attempt on day 4.

What is the height of Kedarkantha summit?

The Kedarkantha summit stands at 12,500 ft (3,800 m) above sea level, offering a stunning 360° panoramic view of the Himalayas on a clear day.

What is the Kedarkantha Trek price?

Our Kedarkantha Trek package starts at just Rs. 6,499 per person, making it one of the most affordable winter trek experiences in the Himalayas. The package is fully inclusive so you can focus entirely on the trek without worrying about logistics. Our package includes accommodation in dome tents throughout the trek, all meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast, an experienced trek leader and support staff, camping equipment including sleeping bags and mats, forest permit and entry fees, and Dehradun pickup and drop.

How do I reach Sankri for Kedarkantha Trek?

Sankri is the base village for Kedarkantha Trek, located 200 km from Dehradun. The nearest railhead is Dehradun and the nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport. From Dehradun, a shared cab or private vehicle takes approximately 7 to 8 hours to reach Sankri. Many trekkers prefer our Kedarkantha Trek package that include transport from Dehradun to make the journey hassle free.

What should I pack for Kedarkantha Trek?

Key items to carry include warm layered clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, trekking shoes with good grip, sunglasses, sunscreen, a personal medical kit, and a sturdy backpack. Avoid heavy luggage as you will be carrying your daypack on the trail.

Is Kedarkantha Trek safe for solo trekkers?

Yes, Kedarkantha is one of the safest treks in India for solo trekkers. The trail is well-marked, regularly covered by trek operators, and passes through established campsites with support staff present throughout.

What is the temperature during Kedarkantha Trek?

Temperatures during Kedarkantha Trek vary by season. In December and January, it can drop to -10°C at higher camps. In March and April, daytime temperatures are around 5°C to 10°C, with cold nights still expected at base camp and the summit.

Can beginners do Kedarkantha Trek?

Absolutely. Kedarkantha is one of the most recommended treks in India for beginners. The gradual ascent, short daily distances, and well-supported trail make it highly accessible for anyone with basic fitness. A few weeks of regular walking or jogging before the trek is all the preparation you need.

Trek Map

Reviews

★★★★★

"Kedarkantha was everything I hoped for and more. The snow-covered trails, the frozen Juda Ka Talab at sunset, and that final push to the summit at 12,500 ft felt surreal. As a first-time trekker, I was nervous going in but the trail is very manageable and the team was incredibly supportive throughout. The sunrise from the top with the entire Himalayan range in front of you is something I will never forget. Absolutely worth every step."

Vanshaj Sahni

7 December 2025 · Google Review

★★★★★

"I have done a few treks before but Kedarkantha in January is on another level. Deep snow, freezing nights, and the most stunning views I have ever seen from a summit. The campsite at Kedarkantha Base was magical, waking up to snow all around and peaks glowing in the early morning light. The food was surprisingly good for a winter trek at this altitude. If you are thinking about it, just go. You will not regret it."

Anjali Pandey

14 February 2026 · Google Review

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₹6,499 per person

Ex-Dehradun (pickup & drop included)