Best time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

Planning to go trekking towards the Kedarkantha peak and can’t plan out the perfect time? We have you sorted – you can make the best out of this adventurous trek if you go at the right time. Though any time is feasible for seasoned trekkers, beginners might need lots of guidance with respect to the planning part. It is commonly known as the best winter trek of Uttarakhand, as the snow-covered peaks offer resplendent views and you make memories to cherish forever. Dive in to brace yourself regarding the optimum time for this trek so that nothing goes wrong and you cherish each and every adventure you aim at! 

Suggestion for the 2024-25 Season

This season there has been ample snowfall in the region, leading to increased footfall. As there is no contrary advisory as of now, you can scale the Kedarkantha peak in the initial months of 2025 without any hassle. In case you have never been to a winter trek, this is your chance. Make sure you check the government advisory before planning out, to prevent any last-minute troubles.

As far as the safe time for trekking is concerned, you can plan out anytime when it is not raining heavily or the overall atmosphere is conducive for climbing. The adventurous trekkers in this area swear by the fact that this trek should not be tried without having the necessary trekking gear. With that, you are all set to begin 2025 with all the fun and adventures Kedarkantha trek has to offer you. 

What is the Kedarkantha trek? 

Kedarkantha is a winter trek, full of adventurous activities and picturesque places throughout the route. It is located in the Uttarkashi district and falls under the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary region. The terrain is not steep and you can find ample support throughout the route. It is worth noting that Kedarkantha trek is not the one which leads to the Kedarnath temple. It is almost perfectly triangular in shape, making it a heaven for people who wish to indulge in photography and related pursuits. You begin your adventurous trek from Sankri, reach Juda ka Taal and finally the trek ends at Kedarkantha summit, where you reach through the base camp. 

• State: Uttarakhand
• District: Uttarkashi
• Last motorable spot: Sankri village
• Sightseeing: throughout the route
• Total distance: 20 km
• Average altitude: 12,500 feet above sea level

Overall Best Season

The best season depends upon the actual motive of the trip. Since there are no specific restrictions, you can visit in summer as well as winter. 

1. If you visit in the summer season, bird watching and enjoying leisure time is the most you can make of your experience. 
2. In winters, the Kedarkantha trek gets transformed into a mini heaven. 
3. The snow sports are available at a number of places and people even engage in bonfires and other winter fun activities. You will find ample spots throughout the trek from where you can glance at the Himalayas.
4. As there is no specific time, the winter season sees increased footfall and there are solo as well as group excursions. It is one of the most famous treks of Uttarakhand at this time, due to a variety of reasons ranging from accessibility to scenic beauty. 
5. The summers offer an easy ascent, while the winter season has its own challenges due to snow. 
6. One must avoid visiting in the heavy rainfall month of July and August as the chances of accidents are high. 

Planning for Kedarkantha Trek

You can plan your trek as follows- 

• Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri 
• Day 2: Head towards Juda ka Talab for camping
• Day 3: Trek to Kedarkantha base camp
• Day 4: Final trek to the summit (peak) early morning then return to Juda ka Talab the same day
• Day 5: Head back to Sankri and take further transport to Dehradun. 

Best time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek 

For winter and summers combined, the window of December to May is feasible for Kedarkantha trek. To have a deeper understanding of the Best time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek, we have dissected the seasonal feasibility for you: 

Spring season

Months: March to April

Temperature range: Between 15 degrees and 0 degrees

Reason: If you are not comfortable in journeying during the snowfall season, this might prove to be the best time. The trek route is beautiful as snow begins to melt and the flowers are blooming all around. 

Caution: Be mindful of patches of snowy areas, which might be a bit slippery. 

Summer season

Months: May to June

Temperature range: Between 24 degrees and 3 degrees

Reason: For people who wish to trek solo or are looking for peace, the summer season offers a lot more than that. The moderate temperature is suitable for people of all ages, and the beginners can find a lot of time to explore in this season. 

Caution: Plan a bit as per the rainy season as mid June might have occasional showers. 

Monsoon season

Months: July to September

Temperature range: Between 20 degrees and 3 degrees

Reason: Trekking is a big NO in this season, because the conditions might not be in favour (more often than not). Rigorous rainfall will make the trek much more difficult and might also lead to accidents. 

Caution: Do not plan your trek in this season, even if the weather report does not suggest chances of rainfall because the weather is highly unpredictable. 

Autumn season

Months: September to November

Temperature range: Between 10 degrees and -5 degrees

Reason: If you love greenery, this is the best time for you. With the fresh surroundings following the monsoon season, the Kedarkantha trail gets transformed into a green meadow, with fresh air all around. 

Caution: Even if this is not the time for winter trek, night time temperatures might drop really low, so you should be prepared for such a scenario in advance. 

Winter season

Months: December to Mid March

Temperature range: Between 8 degrees and -10 degrees

Reason: The trek route is snow-laden, offering awe striking views and a winter haven. You can indulge in a lot of photography and enjoy the backdrop of white Himalayas. 

Caution: Adequate clothing and trekking gear is a must. 

Difficulty Level of Kedarkantha Trek 

It is easy to moderate, as per the past experiences of trekkers. It is the best winter trek for beginners due to adequate stops and easy terrain. The trek begins from Sankri district, where accommodation is easily available and the views are also breathtaking. Juda camp also provides limited accommodation but the views are worth the toll. On the other hand, Kedarkantha base camp has enough resources for you to prepare for the trek ahead. 

Conclusion

The best season is the one you are most comfortable with. If you are travelling in a group, the Kedarkantha trek route is less monotonous and has a lot of adventures as well as leisure activities to offer. For solo travellers as well, this trek has a lot to offer. As mentioned before, you need to be a bit more careful when travelling with kids or elderly people as the terrain might prove to be challenging for them at some points. Overall, it is a suitable trek for beginners and professionals alike, so plan as per your convenience. You are sure to be thrilled and surprised at the same time!