Kedarkantha 2024: The Best Winter Trek in India

6 Days 5 Nights
Overview

Why Choose Kedarkantha?

The Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand, India, offers an unforgettable Himalayan adventure, perfect for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Over 6 days (including travel from Dehradun), this moderate-level trek immerses you in pristine, snow-covered landscapes, dense forests, and breathtaking summit views. Reaching the summit at 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) is challenging but incredibly rewarding, making it one of the finest beginner summit climbs in the Indian Himalayas.

  1. Incredible Summit Climb:
    Trek through snow-laden paths and climb steadily to the summit, where panoramic views of the upper Himalayas await. The sense of accomplishment is unparalleled!
  2. Stunning Clearings & Campsites:
    This trail offers unique clearings, providing scenic resting spots and beautiful campsite locations, ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
  3. Enchanting Forest Trails:
    Walk through diverse forests that captivate with their beauty, giving a sense of being surrounded by unspoiled nature.
  4. Ideal Winter Trek:
    From December to March, Kedarkantha is blanketed in snow, creating a magical winter trekking experience. The snow-covered pathways and mountain vistas offer postcard-perfect scenes for nature lovers and photographers alike.

At GetSetTrek, we believe that informed trekkers make for safer, more fulfilling journeys. The Kedarkantha trek offers incredible rewards, but it requires thoughtful preparation. Our detailed trek guide provides everything you need to know—day-by-day expectations, essential gear, and tips on acclimatization. With over a decade of experience on this trail, our expert guides are committed to your safety and enjoyment, sharing valuable insights, and ensuring a truly memorable Himalayan adventure.

Trek Name: Kedarkantha

Adventure Type: Trekking

Grade: Easy to Moderate

Duration: 6D/ 5N

Altitude: 12,500 Ft.

Base Camp: Sankri | Mandal | Kharsadi

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse

Season: Spring | Winter | Autumn

Month: November | December | January | February | March | April

Rail Head: Dehradun

AirPort: Jolly Grant Airport (28 km away from Dehradun)

Bags
  • Backpack (40-60 L): Sturdy with a supporting frame and a rain cover (mandatory).
  • Daypack (20 L): Mandatory for those offloading backpacks. Not required if carrying your own backpack.
Footwear
  • Trekking Shoes: No sports shoe. opt for sturdy shoes with good grip and ankle support (e.g., FORCLAZ 100, 500, 600). Break them in a week before the trek to prevent blisters.
  • Socks (3 pairs): 2 cotton, 2 woollen (for campsite and sleeping).
Clothing
  • Trek Pants (3 pairs): Lightweight, quick-dry pants recommended. Avoid denim, shorts, or 3/4 pants.
  • Collared T-Shirts (3 pairs): Light, full sleeve to prevent sunburn. Avoid bright colours.
  • Full Sleeve Woolens (2 pairs): Fleece preferred over wool for its warmth and lightness.
  • Thick Jacket: Windproof or down jacket.
  • Thermal Inners: Lightweight upper and lower (optional).
Accessories
  • Rain Protection: Lightweight poncho (preferred) or raincoat.
  • Balaclava/Scarf: For ear and neck coverage.
  • Gloves: Waterproof gloves (synthetic) and warm fleece/woolen gloves.
  • Sun cap: For sun protection.
  • Sunglasses: UV-blocking; no blue or multi-tone lenses. Essential for snow. If using spectacles, opt for photochromatic lenses or large sunglasses that fit over them.
  • Trekking Pole: Mandatory.
Other Essentials
  • Toiletries: Sunscreen (SPF 40+), lip balm, moisturizer, toilet paper, wet wipes, soap, and towel.
  • Cutlery: Plate, spoon, mug, and lunch box (for hygiene).
  • Water Bottles: Two 1-liter bottles (disposable bottles not allowed).
  • Headlamp/Torch: Mandatory (with spare batteries).
  • Plastic Covers: For compartmentalizing items and wet clothes.
Medical Kit (Mandatory)
  • Medicines: Diamox, Crocin, Avo mine, Avil 25mg , Combi flam , Disprin (6
  • First Aid: Crepe bandage, gauze, Band-Aids (10), cotton roll, antiseptic cream (e.g., Betadine), ORS (10), Moov spray.
  • Avoid sports shoes; trekking shoes are essential.
  • Layer with lightweight clothing (fleece preferred) rather than bulky jackets.
  • Use synthetic quick-dry trek pants and collared T-shirts for comfort and protection.
  • Ensure all gear is weather-appropriate and reliable for high-altitude conditions.
  • Always carry personal cutlery for hygiene.
Day 1: Begin Your Adventure – Scenic Drive from Dehradun to Sankri

Day 1: Begin Your Adventure – Scenic Drive from Dehradun to Sankri

Drive Distance: 200 Km | Duration: 9-10 hours | Pick up Point: Prince Chowk, Dehradun (If transportation opted from GetSetTrek) | Pick up Time: 6 am | Location of GetSetTrek basecamp: Sankri | Altitude: 1,950m / 6,400 ft. | Network: Available JIO  

Your journey begins with an early morning meet-up in Dehradun at 6:00 AM, where our team will pick you up for the scenic drive to Sankri. It’s essential to arrive on time so that we can depart promptly and make the most of the day ahead. Begin your journey with a scenic 10-hour drive from Dehradun to Sankri, covering 200 km. Enjoy views of Mussoorie, Mori, and Naitwar, as well as the winding Yamuna and Tons Rivers. The last 22 km takes you through the lush Govind National Park, rich in flora and fauna.

Arriving in Sankri, check into your hotel and explore this popular “trekker’s hub,” base for treks like Har Ki Dun and Phulara Ridge. Stroll through the village, meet fellow trekkers, and take in the sunset over the Himalayas. After a delicious dinner, relax and prepare for tomorrow’s trek.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab

Day 2: Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab

Altitude: 2800 m / 9100 ft. | Trek Distance: 4-5 km | Accommodation: Tents

After an early breakfast, begin your trek from Sankri to Juda ka Talab, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by cedar, maple, and oak forests. The trail ascends gradually, taking you through a mix of pine forests and streams. In winter, the trail is snow-covered, so be prepared with proper winter gear. Keep an eye out for wildlife like Himalayan langurs, wild boars, and martens along the way. Upon reaching Juda ka Talab, enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow-covered landscape. The lake often freezes in winter, providing perfect photo opportunities. Set up camp for the night, enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, and take in the starry night sky before dinner and rest.

Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Altitude: 3100 m / 10,100 ft. | Trek Distance: 4 km | Accommodation: Tents

The day begins with a warm breakfast under the morning sun before starting the trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp. As you follow the marked path, you’ll traverse through dense cedar, oak, and maple forests. Soon, the forest opens into sweeping meadows, revealing expansive Himalayan views. This route is both beginner-friendly and gradual, with a steady pace making it enjoyable even in winter, when the snow-covered landscape adds to the charm.

At the base camp, take time to rest, soak in the scenery, and snap some photos. As night falls, savour a hot dinner beneath a dazzling starlit sky. The high-altitude air is cold, so ensure you’re layered up for warmth before settling into your tent, ready for the summit push at dawn.

Day 4: Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak, Descend to Juda-ka-Talab

Day 4: Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak, Descend to Juda-ka-Tala

Today is the summit day! We start early to catch the sunrise from Kedarkantha peak, so have a quick breakfast and begin the trek. The route initially takes you through oak and pine forests, where the crunch of snow and nearby streams enhance the experience. Soon, the path opens, revealing the summit—a challenging final incline. Reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Enjoy the sunrise, visit the small temples of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, and capture the scenery.

After enjoying the summit views and capturing memories, we’ll begin our descent to the base camp for lunch. From there, we continue downhill to Juda ka Talab. The descent is faster and easier, so we’ll reach Juda ka Talab by evening. Here, we’ll set up camp and rest for the night, marking the end of day four’s trek.

Day 5:  Juda-ka-Talab to Sankri

Day 5:  Juda-ka-Talab to Sankri

Altitude: 1950 m / 6400 ft. | Trek Distance: 4-5 km | Accommodation: Hotel

Today marks the final descent from Juda ka Talab back to Sankri. Covering around 4 km in about 3-4 hours. After breakfast, enjoy a last Himalayan sunrise before beginning our trek down. Relish the forested trails and scenic valley as we make our way to Sankri, where you can settle into your hotel, rest, or explore the village. The village offers a glimpse into traditional life, with small shops selling wooden handicrafts and a chance to connect with locals. End the day with dinner, reflecting on an incredible journey.

Day 6:  Departure day (Sankri to Dehradun)

Day 6:  Departure day (Sankri to Dehradun)

Drive Distance: 200 km | 10 hrs approx.

The amazing journey will come to an end today. With wonderful memories, we will head back to Dehradun today. You will be provided a vehicle to go back to Dehradun from Sankri. Given the time frame of the drive today, we will leave the hotel early in the morning. It could take up to ten hours to travel the 200 kilometers from Sankri to Dehradun. The package doesn’t include the price of today’s lunch or dinner. With a heart full of memories, we shall return from the same picturesque journey. We will arrive in Dehradun between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., so please adjust your future reservations appropriately.

Day 1: Embark on a Scenic Journey: From Dehradun to Mandal’s Hidden Beauty

Day 1: Embark on a Scenic Journey: From Dehradun to Mandal’s Hidden Beauty

Drive Distance: 170 Km | Duration: 7-8 hours | Pick up Point: Prince Chowk, Dehradun (If transportation opted from GetSetTrek) | Pick up Time: 6 am | Location of GetSetTrek basecamp: Nirvana Tons River Stay | Altitude: 1,150m / 3,773 ft. | Network: Available JIO 

Your journey begins with an early morning meet-up in Dehradun at 6:00 AM, where our team will pick you up for the scenic drive to Mandal. It’s essential to arrive on time so that we can depart promptly and make the most of the day ahead. Begin your journey with a scenic 8-hour drive from Dehradun to Mori, covering 170 km. Enjoy views of Mussoorie, Mori and Mandal as well as the winding Yamuna and Tons Rivers. Upon arrival in Mandal, settle into charming riverside cottages, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Savor a delicious local meal, relax, and unwind, as the anticipation for tomorrow’s adventures builds. Relax, and unwind, as the anticipation for tomorrow’s adventures builds.

Day 2: Explore Hanol Temple, Cheed Mahavriksh Samadi, and Local Village Life

Explore Hanol Temple, Cheed Mahavriksh Samadi, and Local Village Life

Altitude: 1,150m / 3,773 ft. |  Accommodation: Nirvana Tons River Stay  

Start your day with an early breakfast at Nirvana Tons River Stay, Mandal, before setting out to explore the nearby villages. Nestled along the scenic Tons River, Mandal is surrounded by lush pine forests, terraced fields, and majestic mountains, making it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts. Discover the local heritage by visiting the Cheed Mahavriksh Samadi, a unique 208-year-old tree memorial that draws visitors for its historical significance. Immerse yourself in the area’s rich cultural roots, shaped by the Jaunsari tribe, believed to be descendants of the Mahabharata’s Pandavas. Marvel at the distinctive wooden architecture of local temples, like the Mahasu Devta Temple in nearby Hanol, dedicated to the revered Char Mahasu Devta.

For adventure seekers, Mandal offers thrilling activities such as fishing, river rafting, river crossing, and rock climbing on the Tons River, along with trekking on pristine mountain trails. This peaceful riverside destination invites travellers to escape, connect with nature, and experience the unique culture and traditions of Uttarakhand.

Experience Uttarakhand’s rich culture with local cuisine, traditional folk dances, and a cozy bonfire, then relax and recharge for tomorrow’s trek.

Hanol Temple
Day 3: Mandal to Juda-ka-Talab

Day 3: Mandal to Juda-ka-Talab

Altitude: 2800 m / 9100 ft. | Trek Distance: 4-5 km | Accommodation: Tents

After an early breakfast, begin your trek from Mandal to Juda ka Talab, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by cedar, maple, and oak forests. The trail ascends gradually, taking you through a mix of pine forests and streams. In winter, the trail is snow-covered, so be prepared with proper winter gear. Keep an eye out for wildlife like Himalayan langurs, wild boars, and martens along the way. Upon reaching Juda ka Talab, enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow-covered landscape. The lake often freezes in winter, providing perfect photo opportunities. Set up camp for the night, enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, and take in the starry night sky before dinner and rest.

Day 4: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

Day 4: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp base

Altitude: 3100 m / 10,100 ft. | Trek Distance: 4 km | Accommodation: Tents

The day begins with a warm breakfast under the morning sun before starting the trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp. As you follow the marked path, you’ll traverse through dense cedar, oak, and maple forests. Soon, the forest opens into sweeping meadows, revealing expansive Himalayan views. This route is both beginner-friendly and gradual, with a steady pace making it enjoyable even in winter, when the snow-covered landscape adds to the charm.

At the base camp, take time to rest, soak in the scenery, and snap some photos. As night falls, savour a hot dinner beneath a dazzling starlit sky. The high-altitude air is cold, so ensure you’re layered up for warmth before settling into your tent, ready for the summit push at dawn.

Day 5:  Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak, Descend to Juda-ka-Talab

Day 5:  Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak, Descend to Juda-ka-Talab

Summit Altitude: 12,500 ft | Distance: 6-7 km | Accommodation: Tents

Today is the summit day! We start early to catch the sunrise from Kedarkantha peak, so have a quick breakfast and begin the trek. The route initially takes you through oak and pine forests, where the crunch of snow and nearby streams enhance the experience. Soon, the path opens, revealing the summit—a challenging final incline. Reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Enjoy the sunrise, visit the small temples of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, and capture the scenery.

After enjoying the summit views and capturing memories, we’ll begin our descent to the base camp for lunch. From there, we continue downhill to Juda ka Talab. The descent is faster and easier, so we’ll reach Juda ka Talab by evening. Here, we’ll set up camp and rest for the night, marking the end of day four’s trek.

Day 6: Juda-ka-Talab to Mandal

Day 6:  Juda-ka-Talab to Mandal

Altitude: 1950 m / 6400 ft. | Trek Distance: 4-5 km | Accommodation: Nirvana Tons River Stay

The amazing journey will come to an end today. With wonderful memories, we will head back to Dehradun today. You will be provided a vehicle to go back to Dehradun from Sankri. Given the time frame of the drive today, we will leave the hoToday marks the final descent from Juda ka Talab back to Sankri. Covering around 4 km in about 3-4 hours. After breakfast, enjoy a last Himalayan sunrise before beginning our trek down. Relish the forested trails and scenic valley as we make our way to Sankri, where you can settle into your hotel, rest, or explore the village. The village offers a glimpse into traditional life, with small shops selling wooden handicrafts and a chance to connect with locals. End the day with dinner, reflecting on an incredible journey.

Day 7:  Departure day (Mandal to Dehradun)

Day 7:  Departure day (Mandal to Dehradun)

Drive Distance: 200 km | 10 hrs approx.

The amazing journey will come to an end today. With wonderful memories, we will head back to Dehradun today. You will be provided a vehicle to go back to Dehradun from Mandal. Given the time frame of the drive today, we will leave early in the morning. The package doesn’t include the price of today’s lunch or dinner. With a heart full of memories, we shall return from the same picturesque journey. We will arrive in Dehradun between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., so please adjust your future reservations appropriately.

Includes
  • All meals are included with proper hygiene parameters.
  • Triple/double sharing tent accommodations are available.
  • During the trek, there will be morning and evening tea with a small refreshment.
  • Guest house with double, triple, or quad occupancy.
  • All tolls and forest fees.
  • Trekking gears (tents, sleeping bags, ropes, gaiters, crampons etc.)
  • First Aid Medical Kit.
  • Expert Guide
Excludes
  • Food during pick and drop transfers
  • Porters/mules charges
  • Personal expenses
  • Any optional activities expense.
  • Insurance
  • Anything apart from the inclusions 5% GST extra

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Kedarkantha 2024: The Best Winter Trek in India
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