Kedarkantha in Western Garhwal area of Uttarakhand stands out as a premier trekking destination due to a host of reasons. At an elevation of 3800m and covering over 20 kilometers it promises an exhilarating journey!
Kedarkantha trekking route provides an ideal introduction to high-altitude experiences for newcomers to Himalayan summit treks, offering leisurely walks through lush pine and oak forest, serene alpine lake, camp excursions and thrilling ascent of peak that provides spectacular views from Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges in early morning, making this journey sought-after trek destination.
Kedarkantha Trekking, while suitable for novices, requires special skills and gear in order to navigate its terrain successfully. This article discusses its challenges as well as essential preparations needed for an enjoyable final destination. This trek offers lush forests, meadows, breathtaking landscapes all along its route despite steeper slopes each day; nevertheless it remains manageable enough to reach its summit within four to five hours per day (excepting summit day which requires nearly 9km in 7-8 hours ) thanks to mostly gentle gradient trails with steep and gradual climbs as well as gradual sections characterized by steep and gradual ascents at various points along its route.
Kedarkantha trekking adventure begins in the scenic village of Sankri in Uttarakhand at an elevation of 195 meters. Our vehicle travels back and forth from Dehradun to Sankri, taking in breathtaking sights along the way. On our second day, we'll begin the four kilometer trek that leads up to Juda Ka Taal; usually taking five hours in total. Beginning by slowly ascending through forest trails before ascending for two or three hours before finishing with a gradual decline through them and back. At the height of winter, snow may soon after you leave Sankri or may even exist within its borders. To ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, your trek guide may offer gaiters or microspikes depending on snowfall levels for extra safety and enjoyment.
Spring on the main route brings with it an instant transformation; lush Oak trees with their vibrant pine needles and maple leaves line the trail, eventually leading to meadows of green grass that provide an enthralling display of colors, before concluding with switchbacks traversing thick oaks before reaching Juda-Ka Taal camp site. A day's hike up to Kedarkantha Base Camp should take about 2.5 hours at an average pace; although more steep than before, its views remain stunning nonetheless.
The path begins by traversing dense forest composed of Oak and Pine trees that eventually give way to beautiful hills. From there, it quickly climbs upward through a rocky, sand-covered terrain before quickly ascending again uphill through an area with snow-covered terrain up to 700m elevation. From here an easy stroll through an earthy Oak forest leads to an expansive, wide area offering views of incredible snow-covered peaks with the Kedarkantha Base Camp nestled into this snowy setting at an elevation of 3400m elevation.
Trekking to Kedarkantha Base Camp can be accomplished easily and comfortably by those new to trekking, with just moderate physical endurance required for success. Even during winter's most extreme months, daily distance of 4-5 kilometers ensures an approachable hike without too many demands being placed upon you.
Summit Day
Kedarkantha summit can be difficult to reach due to the strenuous hike. We cover over 9 km over 7 to 8 hours on our trek, which usually begins around 3 AM and passes through dense Oak forest with an upward slope for one hour before emerging onto a rugged 60 degree slope, our last climb before we arrive at our final goal - all before reaching 3 pm when the journey officially begins.
Winter hikers might find this section particularly taxing as each step must traverse through deep snow, compounded with strong wind gusts and cold temperatures that drop as low as -7 Celsius. After four hours of hard slogging you will be rewarded by stunning views: warm sunlight gently illuminates snow-covered mountains with an amazing panorama at the summit; feeling proud and happy as your determination pays off as evidenced by an everlasting memory!
