Overview

The Kedarkantha Trek is a beautiful winter trek in Uttarakhand and an excellent choice for those looking to experience Himalayan trekking and a snow-covered summit. Known for its scenic trails, peaceful forests, winter landscapes, and rewarding summit views, the Kedarkantha Summit Trek offers an exciting experience for first-time Himalayan trekkers. The trek takes you through the picturesque route from Mussoorie to Sankri, Juda Ka Talab, and Kedarkantha Base Camp before reaching the summit.

Perfect for Beginners

The Kedarkantha trek distance is 25+ km, with an easy-to-moderate gradient. The well-defined trail passes through pine and oak forests, open meadows, and beautiful mountain landscapes, making it an enjoyable introduction to Himalayan trekking. The Kedarkantha trek height reaches 12,500 ft (3,810 m), allowing trekkers to experience a high-altitude summit without an extremely demanding route.

Beautiful Campsites Along the Trail

One of the highlights of the Kedarkantha winter trek is its scenic camping experience. The trail takes you through snow-covered pine forests, peaceful clearings, and areas surrounded by oak and rhododendron trees. You will also come across the famous Juda Ka Talab, which freezes during winter and becomes one of the memorable stops on the route. Kedarkantha Base Camp offers a beautiful setting for camping, while the surrounding mountains and forests make the journey as enjoyable as the summit itself.

Panoramic Views from Kedarkantha Summit

Reaching the Kedarkantha summit is one of the most rewarding parts of the trek. Starting early in the morning allows you to reach the summit around sunrise, when the surrounding Himalayan landscape looks especially spectacular. From the top, you can enjoy views of Kinner Kailash in Himachal Pradesh along with peaks and ranges around the Yamunotri and Gangotri regions, including Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandar ki Poonch. You can also see Har Ki Dun and surrounding valleys from the summit.

The Kedarkantha winter trek is particularly known for its snow-covered mountain scenery and expansive Himalayan views.

The Legend of Kedarkantha

The Kedarkantha peak is also associated with local mythology, adding a cultural and spiritual dimension to the trek. The name Kedarkantha is connected with Lord Shiva, and according to local belief, this was a place where Lord Shiva meditated before moving towards Kedarnath.

Juda Ka Talab is also linked to the legend of Lord Shiva, with local mythology describing it as a pond formed from water droplets falling from his hair. Another notable sight along the trek is Swargarohini, whose name means "Stairway to Heaven." According to the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, reached heaven with his dog from this region.

With its snow-covered trails, beautiful campsites, Himalayan views, and rich mythology, the Kedarkantha Trek offers a memorable introduction to trekking in the Indian Himalayas.

Secure your registration with just a 20% deposit today and pay the remainder 30 days before the departure date. Your journey awaits! ✈️

7 Nights 8 Days 09 Jan, 16 Jan, 23 Jan, and more Mussoorie
Dates and Rates
Group Departures
date & duration availability price
Itinerary
  • Day 1: Arrive at Mussoorie 
  • Day 2: Travel from Mussoorie to Sankri
  • Day 3: Trek to Juda ka Talab from Sankri
  • Day 4: Trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp from Juda ka Talab
  • Day 5: Trek to Kedarkantha Peak from then back to Kedarkantha Base Camp
  • Day 6: Trek to Sankri from Kedarkantha Base Camp
  • Day 7: Travel from Sankri to Mussoorie
  • Day 8: Travel back to home.

Detailed Itinerary for Kedarkantha Trek:

Day 1: Mussoorie

Altitude: 6,170 ft (1880 m)

On Day 1 you arrive in Mussoorie, you will now check-in to a 3-star hotel spend some time unwinding. Later, you meet your fellow Nomads for a quick introductory session after which you will have a short briefing on tomorrow's trek with your trek lead. You will stay the night in Mussoorie.

Day 2: Sankri

Altitude: 6,455 ft (1,920 m)
Travel Duration: 7-8 hours

On Day 2, you start traveling towards Sankri from Mussoorie. The beautiful drive takes you through banks of Yamuna river and later Tons river. You will also see picturesque pine trees on the route today. As you arrive in Sankri, you will notice that the air is crisper and extremely fresh, making this a refreshing change from your city life. You check in to a resort in Sankri post-arrival and spend some time relaxing. Sankri, is as gorgeous as can get giving you brilliant photo-opportunities. A good evening stroll around the village is perfect to fill up your Instagram feed & to get yourself warmed up for the trek the next morning. Stay the night at the resort in Sankri. 

Day 3: Juda ka Talab

Altitude: 8,858 ft (2,700 m)
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

Today you wake up early, freshen up and after a hearty breakfast, start your trek. The trail today is mostly uphill and takes you through a beautiful forest section for the most part of the trek. To start with, you walk from Sankri to Saur village and from here is where the actual climb starts.  Towards the end of today's trek, you reach the famous Juda Ka Talab, the pond that freezes during winters and this is where you will be camping tonight.  

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp

Altitude: 11,253 ft (3,430 m)
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

The trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha base camp is not long but is definitely steep. The trail gives you good views of the Rupin & Supin valley and goes through the abandoned huts of villagers and shepherds. Post the steep stretch you will walk through pine forests and into a clearing, a meadow surrounded by rich oak and Rhododendron forests on one side. This is the Kedarkantha Base Camp and this is where you will be camping the night. You will be given an early dinner and asked to go to bed quite early after prepping you for the summit climb the next day. 

Day 5: Kedarkantha Summit Day

Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,810 m) / 11,253 ft (3,430 m)
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours

Today is the day of the summit and you start the trek at 3 AM in the morning. The climb to the summit is about 4-5 hours long and depending on the amount of snow, the trek lead and guide will decide on the best possible way to reach the summit. If all goes well, you will reach the summit just in time for sunrise. From the peak the sunrise is extremely rewarding and astounding. From the peak, you can get a clear view of the Kinner Kailash ranges in Himachal Pradesh. Kedarkantha winter trek offers mind blowing views of the snow clad mountains. You will also see various mountains from the Yamunotri & Gangotri region such as Swargarohini, Black Peas, Bandar ki Poonch etc. and you can also see the Har Ki Dun peak and some other underlying valleys. You will spend some good amount of time on the peak before heading back down to base camp. Upon reaching base camp, you can unwind for the rest of the day and stay overnight in the Kedarkantha Base Camp. 

Day 6: Sankri

Altitude: 6,455 ft (1,920 m)
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

On Day 6 you start your journey back to Sankri passing the Juda Ka Talab and finally arriving in Sankri. You can choose to relax in the resort or you can head out for a beautiful walk and catch the glimpse of sunset in the vallet. Stay the night in Sankri.  

Day 7: Mussoorie

Altitude: 6,170 ft (1880 m)
Travel Duration: 7-8 hours

Today you start traveling towards Mussoorie. You can expect to arrive in Mussoorie in late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and rest for the day. 

Day 8: Your City

Travel back to your city.

Trek Insurance

Trekking in the Himalayas comes with its own set of risks. While adventure is fun and can be extremely thrilling, nature can be unpredictable, and to help secure you during your trek, it is of utmost importance that you are covered with insurance.

We've gone a step ahead and made sure that you don't have to worry about scouting for the best insurance option out there. When you trek with us, your insurance comes as a part of your inclusions. To know more about the benefits covered and sum insured, click here.

Risk and Liability 

We will endaevor to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstances and natural disasters such as landslide, road blockage, flood, snowing, cancellation of flight and delay, any type of sickness including altitude sickness.

Fitness Criteria 

This trek requires a good level of fitness.

If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and along with streamlining your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can rest assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life. 

Do’s and Don’ts:

  • We believe in leaving the mountains in a better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
  • Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colours and heavy apparel as much as possible.
  • A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
  • Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
  • If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
  • Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
  • Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers
  • If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately
  • Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek
  • To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek
Connect with us

You need more information?

Premium Perks
Premium Perks
  • Enjoy 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in Mussoorie for a comfortable stay before and after the trek.
  • Stay 2 nights at a resort in Sankri before heading into the mountains.
  • Enjoy 3 nights of organised camping, with dedicated kitchen, dining and toilet tents.
  • Get porter support for up to 5–6 kg of personal luggage, so you trek lighter.
  • Trek with an experienced Trek Leader and an experienced high-altitude support team.
  • Enjoy meals prepared by a dedicated high-altitude chef and support team.
  • Get personal accident insurance included for added peace of mind.
  • Leave your extra luggage safely in Mussoorie while you trek.
  • Get access to MFAP (Mountain Fit Assessment Program) to assess your trek readiness and prepare with a personalised fitness plan.
  • Receive a personalised Dri-Fit T-shirt and TrekNomads goodies.
Inclusions
Inclusions & Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Dehradun Airport pick up and drop off (For a group of 4 & above)
  • Transportation to & fro from Mussoorie to Sankri
  • 2 nights 3-star hotel stay at Mussoorie/Dehradun with breakfast
  • 2 nights resort/hotel stay at Sankri
  • 3 nights tented accommodation during the trek
  • Porter for 1 Bag (Max 5-6 kgs)
  • Trek equipment: Sleeping bags, Mattresses, Utensils, Ropes
  • Tents: Trekkers tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent
  • Entry Permit Fee, Guide Fee & Driver Bata
  • Standard vegetarian food for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner during trek days
  • 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
  • Local Guide (Number of guides depending on the group size)
  • 1 High Altitude chef & support staff
  • Porters for carrying common equipments (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries)
  • The facility of keeping extra luggage at Mussoorie when leaving for the trek
  • Insurance, meals, transportation and daily salary of guide & porter
  • Basic First Aid Kit 
  • Personal accident insurance
  • All government, local taxes and service charges
  • 15% discount coupon on Gokyo Trek Apparel and Gear
  • 10% discount coupon on Fast&Up products
  • 20% discount coupon on BMore products
  • Personalized Dri-Fit T-shirt
  • TrekNomads goodies

What is NOT included in the tour

  • Personal trekking gear
  • Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc (calculated per person)
  • Excess baggage/porter charges
  • Local sightseeing and entrance fee, camera fee, etc
  • Mineral water or any type of soft drinks
  • Hot water for shower, etc, during the trek 
  • Extra meals apart from inclusions
  • Food during travel days
  • Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
  • Any other tickets like cable chair, cable car, etc.
  • All personal, medical, evacuation and emergency expenses like extra day stay out of itinerary, helicopter services and vehicle charges due to delays, landslides and evacuation
  • Expenses incurred for guide or porter during extra days stay, transport, flight, helicopter service, etc (divided amongst the group which utilises the services of guides/porters on extra days)
  • Expenses incurred for accommodation, travel, food, etc due to the closure of trek route by government officials, defence personnel and tourism department based on weather conditions, security concerns, etc
Type of Trek
Himalayan Treks
Trek Gradient
Moderate
Treknical Details

Other Details:

  • Trek Gradient: Easy-Moderate
  • Trek Distance: 25+ Km
  • Assembling Point: Mussoorie
  • Travel Distance: 200+ Km  
  • Best Months to trek: January, February, March, April, May, June, From Mid September, October, November, December
FAQ's

How difficult is the Kedarkantha trek?

It's graded easy-moderate, making it one of the more beginner-friendly winter treks in the Indian Himalayas. The trail covers around 25km over 8 days, and is designed to be manageable even for first-time trekkers.

What is the highest point on this trek?

The Kedarkantha summit itself, sitting at around 3,810-3,830m (12,500 ft). You'll also pass through Kedarkantha Base Camp at 3,430m along the way.

When should you plan your Kedarkantha Trek?

December to March is considered the ideal window for the classic snow-covered experience, though the trek is also open across January, February, March, April, May, June, and again from mid-September through December.

Where does the trek begin and end?

The trek assembles in Mussoorie. From there, you travel to Sankri by road, and the actual trekking begins from Sankri, passing through Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp before the summit push.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

You'll stay in a 3-star hotel in Mussoorie for 2 nights, a resort in Sankri for 2 nights, and tented accommodation along the trail for 3 nights, with twin or triple sharing in trekker tents.

Is this trek suitable for someone trekking for the first time?

Yes, this is specifically positioned as a good entry point into Himalayan trekking. That said, the page still recommends a good baseline level of fitness, along with a four-month training regime if you're not already active.

What is Juda Ka Talab?

It's a pond along the route that freezes over in winter, tied to local mythology about Lord Shiva. It's also one of the overnight camping stops on Day 3 of the trek.

Is porter support included?

Yes, a porter is included for one bag per person, up to 5-6 kg. Additional porters are provided for common equipment such as tents, rations, and utensils.

What food is provided during the trek?

Standard vegetarian meals are included for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner throughout the trekking days, prepared by a dedicated high-altitude chef and support staff.