Kedarkakantha Vs Kedarnath

Kedarkantha Vs Kedarnath: What’s The Difference

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Written by: Paridhi Mehrotra
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Trekking season is all about deciding the right place and then heading towards an unmemorable experience. Are you also one of those confused between Kedarkantha and Kedarnath? If yes, you are at the right place. A lot of times consider them the same, but it is essential to know all the aspects before choosing your destination. Since trekking is a cumbersome activity, planning is the most important thing. In terms of Indian locations, pilgrimage treks and non-pilgrimage treks are equally common. Read on to know more about the existing debate of Kedarkantha Vs Kedarnath.

Similarities in Kedarkantha and Kedarnath: Do they exist?

Apart from the height range of 3500 to 4000 metres, there is not much similarity. The origin of the name of both these places is based on lord Shiva, also known as “kedar”, increasing the cultural significance of the places. Located in the mountain abode of Uttarakhand, the distances from the capital city of Dehradun are also quite distinct. AQI is comparatively lower than the populated areas and you can surely find a lot of relief in the calm breeze and natural atmosphere. 

Kedarkantha
View from Kedarkantha in the Evening

While most people think that Kedarnath is the only trek which ends at a religious place, it is not completely true. Both these treks end at temples, even though Kedarkantha has a small and less famous temple, which only the locals revere. In terms of similarity, you can always learn from the experiences of frequent travellers, most of whom do not attribute any similarities. 

Basic Difference 

Kedarkantha is a winter trek, full of adventurous activities and picturesque places throughout the route. On the other hand, Kedarnath is a summer trek which has a long route and is mostly chosen by people who wish to visit the Kedarnath shrine, one of the many sacred pilgrimage sites of the Hindu community. It is also believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. 

Kedarnath
Kedarnath temple during Winter, PC: Amazing Kedarnath

Some people might wonder why it is important to know the difference. The sole purpose of distinguishing between these two phonetically similar treks is that there are numerous enquiries made every year considering that Kedarkantha trek is the one which leads to the Kedarnath temple. This is not at all the case, due to which people end up booking for the wrong trek and then have no other option than regretting. But we are here to put all your doubts at bay! The next segment elucidates on the numerous parameters which make the holy Kedarnath trek and the beautiful Kedarkantha trek miles apart (both verbally and metaphorically).

Kedarkantha Vs Kedarnath: All Aspects Distinguished

The terrain:

Kedarkantha trek: It is a roughly 20 km trek, spread across a number of nights to prevent burnout. The terrain is not steep and you can find ample support throughout the route. 

Kedarnath trek: The total distance ranges from 16 to 18 kilometres, depending upon which side you begin from. You might need to take more frequent breaks due to the terrain being steep and the trek is more challenging as compared to the Kedarkantha trek. 

Location & height:

Kedarkantha trek: It is located in the Uttarkashi district and falls under the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary region. The altitude is 3,800 metres, making it a fairly high peak. It is almost perfectly triangular in shape, making it a heaven for people who wish to indulge in photography and related pursuits. You begin from Sankri district, reach Juda ka Taal and finally the trek ends at Kedarkantha base camp. 

Kedarnath trek: It is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, and the trek ends at the Kedarnath temple. The temple is located at almost 3,600 metres above sea level, which can be considered as a benchmark for the end point of this trek. The last motorable point is Gaurikund, where people mostly reach by bus. After that, people take the next stop at Rambara, with necessary breaks in between. It is a part of Panch Kedar, which can be visited at once, through our package here.

Historical significance:

Kedarkantha trek: This place has a small stone temple of Lord Shiva along with Lord Parvati. Local people perform regular rites here, while many travellers might skip visiting the temple due to lack of knowledge. Though the historical significance is lesser in comparison to the Kedarnath trek, it has its own advantages in terms of offering a beautiful retreat in the winter season in the middle of snowclad mountains. 

Kedarkantha
A small temple at Kedarkantha Summit

Kedarnath trek: It is a revered temple of Lord Shiva, and considered as one of the Char Dham Yatra that holds central importance in the Hindu mythology. People visit it to pay homage to Lord Shiva, and this place has a very high mythological aura, as per the people who have visited the shrine in the past. You can witness the aarti, as well as the routine ceremonies. When the temple is closed for the winter season, the Shivling is also transported to another temple as the gates remain completely closed. 

Kedarkantha trek: If you visit in the summer season, bird watching and enjoying leisure time is the most you can make of your experience. In winters, the Kedarkantha trek gets transformed into a mini heaven. 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. 

Kedarnath
Closer view of Garhwal Temple Architecture in Kedarnath Temple, PC: Amazing Kedarnath

Kedarnath trek: Snow activities are limited, due to the location and surrounding temple. One can indulge in prayers and other yogic practices. A lot of saints can be found indulging in challenging pursuits. As far as the scenic beauty is concerned, you can have a look at a perfect sunrise once you reach Rambara. The decoration of the temple and the overall atmosphere is also an unforgettable experience. 

Best season to visit:

Kedarkantha trek: There is no specific time but 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. 

Kedarkantha
Lovely Views of Other ranges from Kedarkantha

Kedarnath trek: The temple is open only in the summer season, for a short period of six months. There is a streamlined registration process and the temple remains closed in winter due to unfavorable weather conditions. Though trekkers continue to visit for some more time, the premises remain closed. April to October is the best time to visit, and the only time when you can actually worship in front of the open temple. You can either trek the whole distance, or take the helicopter facility, which makes the journey a lot more easy but the cost is high. 

Difficulty level:

Kedarkantha trek: It spans for 20 kilometres roughly and the average time taken is three nights-four days if you plan your trip through some trekking agency. The summers offer an easy ascent, while the winter season has its own challenges due to snow. One must avoid visiting in the heavy rainfall month of July and August as the chances of accidents are high. 

Kedarnath
Decorated Kedarnath Temple during Special Occasion, PC: Amazing Kedarnath

Kedarnath trek: The trek is moderate due to the challenging terrain, and becomes difficult to very difficult in the winter season. People who wish to visit apart from the aforementioned months should be extra careful.

Accommodation before and after reaching the  summit:

Kedarkantha trek: The trek begins from Sankri village, 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. 

Kedarnath
Bank of Bhagirathi River near Kedarnath

Kedarnath trek: Tent facilities are available if you wish to take a break. People have certain makeshift options as well, but high quality permanent stay options are scarce near the temple. 

Feasibility for kids, elders and sick:

Kedarkantha trek: In summers, kids below five years and elders above 55 years can easily ace this trek, given other health parameters favour the trekking. In the winter season, if the weather permits, the preferable age group is 5 to 55 years

Kedarnath Dham
Crowded Ground of Kedarnath Dham, PC: Ayodhyawale

Kedarnath trek: Instead of age, health is the basic criteria before getting a permit for the trip. This is because of the fact that oxygen levels dip indiscriminately as one is about to reach the summit. Kids below 13 years should visit under supervision. For elderly people, a helicopter is advisable as the trek might impose a lot of challenges for people having health issues apart from heart problems as well. 

What do the frequent travellers say on Kedarkantha Vs Kedarnath?

As far as the Kedarkantha trek is concerned, you should plan it if you are looking for a complete package. You can indulge in bird watching, enjoying a picnic amidst lush green forests and the route has numerous waterfalls as well.

Due to high mythological significance, Kedarnath trek is mostly chosen by people who wish to visit the temple. You may or may not do so, it completely depends on you but due to the place being a revered site, a lot of activities are restricted in the area surrounding the temple. As per the last notification released in this regard, taking selfies or indulging in photography nearby the temple premises has been restricted by the authorities in the last season. These changes came amidst people using the area for illicit purposes, which was not in line with the sanctity of the place.  

Common Tips for Kedarkantha and Kedarnath Trek

Once you have made the final decision depending upon the group size, season, time of the year, and other related factors, it is time to step forward. Keep the following things in mind to get the most out of your trek, irrespective of whichever location you choose: 

  1. Plan your trek such that you reach the top early in the morning, as the sunrise view is something you cannot afford to miss. 
  2. Take adequate breaks, as and when required.
  3. Specifically for the Kedarnath trek, do check the official website before you head on your journey, so that you do not miss any chance to visit the temple. 
  4. Avoid ascending the slope in heavy rainfall or any kind of adverse climatic conditions. 

Conclusion: Choose Wisely

Now, you know enough differences between Kedarkantha and Kedarnath trek, so much so that you can easily explain to fellow travellers. As far as the final decision is concerned, you can choose as per your convenience. If you have enough time in hand, Kedarkantha should be your go-to choice. In terms of significance, both have their own ups and downs. If you are travelling in a group, the Kedarnath trek route is more or less monotonous and does not have many adventures or leisure activities to offer. The same is not true for the experientially rich Kedarkantha trek. 

In the whole pursuit of Char Dham Yatra, Kedarnath is just a part of the four destinations, while some people prefer to go to only one place. You can explore the options based on your time of visit and other health parameters, and we advise beginners to go on their first trek under the supervision of frequent travellers or a guide. 

Are Kedarkantha and Kedarnath the same?

Not at all. Though the name might be similar, they are treks in different districts of Uttarakhand, with varying distances and a completely distinct terrain. 

Which one of Kedarkantha Vs Kedarnath is more difficult?

Kedarnath is more difficult, irrespective of terrain. The difficulty level is directly proportional to the weather. If we see distance as a measure of difficulty, large portions of both treks can be covered by road transport.

For a beginner in trekking, should one visit Kedarkantha or Kedarnath?

In the summer season, the Kedarkantha trek is best for beginners. On the contrary, you can choose Kedarnath as your first trek if you are physically fit and ready for challenges. 

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Paridhi Mehrotra

Paridhi Mehrotra

Paridhi Mehrotra has spent the past 5 years in Dehradun, working closely with the environmentalists and social workers in remote areas. With a writing career spanning over a decade, she wishes to increase awareness regarding the mountainous regions. This way, she aims to play her part in popularizing the Indian tourism sector.

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