Overview
Kedarkantha is a famous winter trek in India, known for its beautiful snowy trails and perfect summit views. With its easy to moderate difficulty and a perfect summit climb, it is an excellent choice for beginners, looking for a thrilling adventure without much difficulty. Reaching a maximum altitude of about 12,500 feet above sea level, the Kedar Kantha peak provides a rewarding 360-degree view of the mighty Himalayas, including Mt. Swargarohini, Mt. Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Ranglana Range, and Yamunotri Range—a true achievement of the challenging summit climb.
Highlights that make it a famous winter trek in India
Sankri Base
Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Sankri Village is not only the starting point of Kedarkantha but also the base for more than ten famous trekking routes, including Har Ki Dun and Rupin Pass. Its market, lined with trekking gear shops, porters, and food stalls, creates the perfect vibe of a Himalayan expedition base camp. Surrounded by snowy landscapes in winter, the village offers clear, charming views of Black Peak (Kala Naag), and Swargarohini, making the village even more enthralling.
Forest Walk
After starting the trek from the base village, the trail passes through calm and peaceful forests of deodar, rhododendron, and pine. The cool fresh air, the stream flowing beside the path, and the beauty of nature create a soothing environment. In winter, the scenery becomes even more magical. Snow covers the trees, powdered snow falls from the branches, and sunlight shines through the icicles, making it a scene you will fall in love with. On foggy days, the soft daylight creates a cinematic atmosphere, and if you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife such as deer and a variety of bird species, which makes the experience truly awe inspiring.
Juda ka Talab
This is a small lake in the forest and the first night camping spot on the Kedarkantha trek after completing a 4 km trek from Sankri. This campsite is a highlight of the trek because, in winter, the lake freezes, making it a perfect experience for anyone on their first trek. Walking over the frozen lake is possible only in peak winter when the temperature falls below zero.
Thrilling Summit Climb with the Best Himalayan Views
This is the major highlight of the trek that makes Kedarkantha special for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The climb to the peak becomes steep after moving ahead from the Kedarkantha Base Camp. During the ascent, you will also see a mountain ridge rising alongside you, which adds to the overall thrill of the climb. This section is considered difficult for beginners, but it is manageable with prior physical preparation. The reward for this tough climb is a breathtaking 360 degree view of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Mt. Swargarohini, Mt. Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, the Ranglana Range, and the Yamunotri Range. It truly feels like an achievement of a challenging summit climb.
Night Trekking and its Reward, the Sunrise Moment
Frequent mentions of sunrise view from summit by trekkers show that this is probably the most attractive moment of the entire trek. It even surpasses major highlights like the summit climb and the panoramic view from the peak. However, the perfect sunrise view is only possible if you reach the summit between 6 and 7 am. The peak is about 3 to 4 km from the Kedarkantha Base Camp and takes 2 to 3 hours to reach. The real chaos happens at night, when hundreds of trekkers make their way to the summit and the glow of their head torches forms a long trail of light. All of them have sacrificed their morning sleep just to witness this moment. The sunrise from the Kedarkantha summit is truly heart winning.
A Perfect Winter Setting
Kedarkantha in winter is an experience that completely immerses you in the season. Walking along its snow-covered trails, you notice how the white blanket softens every sound, making the forest feel calm and still. The frozen lake of Juda Ka Talab, the sharp yet refreshing air at the summit, and the slopes and meadows around Kedarkantha Base Camp are all covered in thick snow—perfect for pausing, playing, or simply taking in the view. Each step feels like an achievement as the peak opens up to sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains. The combination of quiet, snow, and open space makes Kedarkantha a true winter wonderland.
Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri Drive
Drive Distance: 190 km; 9-10 hrs
Altitude: 6,400 ft
The pickup is included in our Kedarkantha trek package, so you just have to reach Dehradun. For the convenience of everyone coming through different modes of transport, the pickup point is Prince Chowk.
As the journey is long for Sankri, we will start our day early in the morning while enjoying the scenic drive. On our way, we will cross famous hill stations like Mussoorie, and from there, the Yamuna River will accompany us to Naugaon. Don’t worry, another ethereal beauty River Tons, will join us from Mori to all the way till Sankri.
Sankri is a beautiful village surrounded by Himalayas and forest, creating a picture-perfect atmosphere. The village serves as a base for various other treks like Har Ki Dun, Ruinsara Tal, Bali Pass, etc. After reaching Sankri by the evening, you are free to explore.
We will end our day with a hot dinner and rest well for tomorrow.
Trek Distance & Time: 4 km, 3-4 hours
Altitude: 9,100 ft
Today marks the starting day of our trek as we will leave our cozy beds and head out for our first campsite – Juda ka Talab via Saud. After a delicious breakfast, we will start our ascend. The hike will be covered in snow, greenery, and different colours, depending on your chosen time of the year.
Juda ka Talab is a high-altitude lake surrounded by a thick forest of oaks, maple and pine. The lake is said to have formed when Lord Shiva opened a strand of hair from his bun, and water droplets fell from it, creating this lake. There are several other interesting tales related to this beautiful lake, but the fact that it is a lovely lake remains true.
We will finish off our day with a hot dinner while sharing stories and rest for the night.
Trek Distance: 4 km, 2-3 hours
Altitude: 12,000 ft at Dayara Top
The next day, wake up early to enjoy the glow of sunrise and freshen up for the day. Today, we will head for Kedarkantha Base Camp & closer to the summit.
The hike won’t be tiring, but it is not a cakewalk. Giant trees and the Himalayas will accompany you while motivating you to be strong. After walking through the dense forest, the trail will open to an open field, which will be our campsite.
We will have our dinner early and sleep because the next day, we have to wake up at 3 am to chase the sunrise on the peak.
Trek distance & Time: 12 km, 7-8 hrs
Max Altitude: 12,500 ft
As mentioned earlier, we will begin our day early at 3 am and get ready for the most exciting part of the trek – Summit Climb. Whichever season you choose, it will still be a bit cold in the morning, even in summer or spring, so pack your clothes accordingly. During winters, the weather will be harsher, and the snow will reach your knees; it is advised that you rent proper gear and equipment like crampons and gaiters.
After hiking for around 4 km with a final inclination climb of 40° to 60°, you will finally reach the summit. Seek blessing from the small Kedarkantha temple made of stone arrangement of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Relish in the most beautiful sunrise from a Himalayan Mountain Peak and discover yourself.
From the summit, enjoy the 360° views of the Himalayas and try to identify peaks like Swargrohini 1,2,3, Bandarpunch & Kalanag. You can also see Har Ki Dun and Rupin Valley from the top.
We do believe in living in the moment, but capturing them to preserve the memories forever is also essential. After clicking on many photos and videos, we will start our descent.
We will head for our favourite Juda ka Talab and spend another beautiful night under twinkling stars after a hot & delicious supper.
Trek distance & Time: 4 km, 3 hs | Drive: 185 km; 9-10 hrs
After the well-deserved night’s rest and breakfast, we will start our final block of descent and head back to Sankri. From Sankri, we will bid final goodbye to the mountains with a promise to return back soon and leave for Dehradun via the same route we came.
Kedarkantha Trek Package (Dehradun to Dehradun)
Price Inclusion
Accommodation for 4 nights: Stay is included from Day 1 to Day 4 (base camp to base camp). It includes camping for three nights during the trek and a homestay, guesthouse, or hotel at Sankri on Day 1 for one night on a triple-sharing basis. Single and double-sharing options are available at an additional cost.
Transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun): Transport from Dehradun to Sankri base camp and back is included.
Meals: Meals from dinner at Sankri on Day 1 to breakfast at Sankri on Day 5 are included.
Trek Equipment: All essential trek equipment is included, such as sleeping bags, kitchen and dining tents, utensils, mattresses, personal tents, toilet tents, and crampons (if needed).
Forest Entry and Permits: All required fuel charges, tolls, forest entry fees, and permits are covered.
Experienced and Certified Guides: A qualified, professional team, including a mountaineering-certified trek leader, guide, cook, and support staff, will accompany you.
Emergency Kit: First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinders, and stretchers are provided to ensure the safety, comfort and well-being of all participants.
Trek Certificate & HDT Badges: Receive a trek certificate and HDT badges to celebrate your adventure.
GST (5%): Included in the package cost.
Price Exclusion
Meals during Transfer: Meals are not included while traveling to and from the trek starting points.
Emergency Evacuations: Any charges related to emergency evacuation are not included
Personal Expenses: Any meals or accommodations outside of the provided itinerary or additional services not listed in the inclusions.
Personal Luggage Carrying: Charges for mules or porters to offload personal luggage are not included in the package.
Add-ons–
BackPack Offloading – INR 1450 for the entire trek
Insurance – Starting at INR 380 per person
Best Time for Kedarkantha Trek
The best time for Kedarkantha Trek is during the winter months, especially from December to April, when the entire trail is covered with snow. Although the months between December to February are the coldest and the temperature remains below zero at night, this is the time when the landscape around the trail turns into a wonderful paradise. During this time, thick snow covers the trail, and trekkers can enjoy fresh snowfall. Sometimes the path becomes a bit difficult due to heavy snowfall, but it is very much liked by trekkers as it adds thrill and challenge to the trek. Trekkers can enjoy walking on the snow and see the snow-capped peaks visible from a distance. The sunrise from the mesmerizing peak is breathtaking, offering views of the mighty Himalayan peaks under bright, clear skies. Though these months are mostly cloudy, if you are lucky, you can enjoy the bright landscapes under clear skies. The campsites are covered in a blanket of snow, and near Judha Ka Talab, trekkers can even walk on the frozen lake. This is the best time for Kedarkantha trek and is preferred by both beginners and experienced trekkers as they get to enjoy the trek amidst unmatched Himalayan serenity. However, the harsh weather conditions demand proper preparation, which includes layers of clothing to deal with the cold nights, snow walking skills, etc. There may be a temporary suspension of the trek in case of excessive snowfall. Though the trek is accessible throughout the year, it is advisable not to go on this trek during monsoons.
Every season brings a different colour palette for the trek, so choose what you want to see.
Months – December to Mid-March
Temperature – Day: 8℃ to 10℃, Night: -10 degrees
Kedarkantha is the most famous winter trek in Uttarakhand for all the right reasons. During winter, the trail will be covered in thick sheets of snow. The days will be filled with cold winds, and nights will dip even lower in winter. Weather conditions during these months create a perfect atmosphere for snow and snowfall, resulting in a picture of white surroundings, a frozen lake and the mighty Himalayas in the background.
Kedarkantha Trek gives you the best opportunity to experience a winter trek, even if you are a beginner. It is not a technical trek, but you can still go to a snow summit. For seasoned trekkers, it is a joyful trek that is enough to fill your thrill levels.
This is a balanced trek combined with the perfect time of snow, teaching you how to walk in snow, make tents and overall live in a snow-covered world.
Months – March to April
Temperature – Day: 15℃ to 18℃ | Night: 0℃ to 5℃
The snow will start melting during this time, with rising temperatures and life and greenery returning to the area. You will encounter a splash of colours as various flowers begin blooming & the main highlight will be the bright pink, scarlet and oranges of Rhododendrons.
Spring is also a perfect time to enjoy mild cold weather, greenery and colours which will fill your heart with the backdrop of the Great Himalayan peaks.
Months – May & June
Temperature – Day: 18℃ to 24℃ | Night: 3℃ to 8℃
Bright sun and clear skies welcome you in summer on your trek. This is a perfect time to do this trek as it will be less crowded, leaving the trails, lake and summit all to yourself.
Summer won’t be scorching hot, and you will feel light, cool evening breezes. By the end of June, some pre-monsoon showers might catch up with you, so be prepared with raincoats or ponchos.
Months – September to November
Temperature – Day: 10℃ to 15℃ | Night: 0℃ to minus 5℃
Right after the monsoon season, the trek will remain fresh & green in September and October. The trails still be charged with greenery and colours, and the fragrance of maple and pine will linger in the air, adding more to your experience.
In November, the temperature won’t be harsh but you can feel the cold and the upcoming winter days.
Difficulty Level of the Trek
The trek is considered easy to moderate in terms of difficulty. The trek is easy because it is not a long trek, with gradual ascending every day, not difficult gradient terrain, and no long walking days except for summit climbing, even that is not technical.
A moderate level is considered because of the summit climb, which is steep at an inclination of 40° to 60°. This part of the trek is challenging but not technical, making it perfect for experiencing a summit climb of an altitude of 12,500.
As a prominent winter trek, walking in thick snow also takes it to a level higher than easy; it will challenge you both physically and mentally.
All trekkers are advised to start following a workout routine, a combination of both strength training and cardio. Being physically fit will help you enjoy the trek more without wasting time gasping and panting.
Preparation for the Trek [Physical Fitness, AMS]
Treks are all about fun, adventure, finding yourself, etc, but only for those who are mentally and physically fit. Because activities like treks, especially a Himalayan trek, challenge you on different levels in unimaginable ways and situations.
KedarKantha trek falls under easy to moderate level trek depending on your chosen time of the year. In summer, spring & autumn, you will find this trek easy. Known as one of the best winter treks in India, the snow takes the difficulty a level higher, making the preparation mentally and physically more important.
The trek difficulty dictates your level of fitness and preparations for it. As mentioned above, it can be an easy and easy to moderate level trek so prepare accordingly.
We take acclimatisation seriously and make sure that our trekkers get proper time to acclimatise and rest in between. We will only trek for a short number of kilometers every day, giving your body the time it needs.
In the beginning, the ascend from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab campsite can be challenging as it is going to be your first day and changing altitude. The good part is that the trail is easy to follow, and the terrain is manageable, even for kids. Facilitated with a proper workout regime you can really take note of the surrounding environment and not waste time in catching your breath.
For summer, spring, and autumn seasons, you can follow an easy-level fitness routine.
For Winter, you have to workout more because of the added difficult factors like cold climate, snow, and fog. The trails will have some snow in the beginning which will be hard in nature and hence slippery too. Moving forward, at the higher level the snow may reach your knee or waist level, and walking on powdery snow takes the test of your balancing skills, stamina level, endurance, and overall strength of your body.
- An easy level and weekend treks require a basic fitness level, where you should focus on building your stamina and strength. Start with walking/running and include a 45-minute to 1-hour workout (cardio + strength training).
- A level-up in a fitness routine is required for an easy to moderate level trek like start aiming to run 5 km in under 40 mins, and strength training is a must.
Mental preparation includes thorough research of the trek you want to do or decide to. Understand the terrain, difficulty level, and the ways to get fit for it, look up for sudden situations that may happen, and how to tackle them. Being prepared gives you an edge to keep calm & handle a difficult situation.
- Exercises to achieve the goal
Cardiovascular Training: Running, cycling, and swimming to boost stamina.
Strength Training: Focus on leg exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups for endurance.
Core Strength: Planks, mountain climbers, and Russian twists to maintain balance on uneven trails.
Flexibility Exercises: Stretching, yoga, and dynamic warm-ups to prevent injuries.
Mental Conditioning: Visualisation techniques, breathing exercises, and meditation to strengthen focus and manage stress on difficult days.
Tip: For moderate to difficult-level treks, practice exercises with weights. Seek professional advice accordingly.
- Extra Tips related to the diet, muscle recovery, and healthy lifestyle routine.
Diet: Incorporate proteins like lentils, eggs, paneer, whey protein, etc for fast recovery after a strenuous trek. Whole grains like wheat, barley, etc for sustained energy, and leafy greens like spinach, bitter guard, and any seasonal veggie for those extra nutrients and building the immunity system.
Muscle Recovery: Plan rest days and add stretching, relaxing yoga poses or foam rolling after every workout.
Lifestyle Routine:
Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Start sleeping upto 8 hours.
Stay hydrated – drink 2 to 3 liters of water. To incorporate more nutrients, including coconut water, fruit, and vegetable juices.
Altitude Sickness happens when your body cannot adjust to lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes. This happens mainly because your body doesn’t have enough time to acclimatize to a higher altitude or not enough time to get used to lower oxygen levels. 12,500 feet height of Kedarkantha is not really a concern, but chances are not zero too. So, being prepared is a key to fully experience a Himalayan Trek.
The trek also tests mental endurance. Waking up early, facing cold mornings, and staying motivated during long climbs are as much about attitude as physical strength. The pass day, in particular, requires calmness, focus, and trust in your team. Many trekkers finish the descent with a strong sense of achievement that stays with them long after the trek.
How to Prevent AMS on High-Altitude Treks-
- Gradual Ascent: Climb slowly to give your body time to adjust.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
- Rest and Sleep: Ensure ample rest, especially as you reach higher camps.
- Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.
What to Do in Case of AMS or Other Illnesses-
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water and avoid strenuous activity.
- Stop and Rest: Pause your trek to recover. Try not to cover your ears, offload your backpack, and sit down.
- Most Important – Inform your trek leader, they can assess the situation better and find solutions faster.
- Descend if Necessary: Descend immediately to base camp. Our team with the vehicle and necessary help will be there for further action.
- Seek Medical Help: After descending, our team will take you to the nearest hospital if needed.
- Nearest Hospital: Mori, Purola. For major issues- AIIMS Rishikesh.
Trek Essentials [What to Pack]
- 45-60 Ltr Bag Pack With Rain Cover & Comfortable Straps
- Hot and Cold Water Bottle Like Borosil and Milton
- Energy Bar, Dry Fruits, and ORS
- Personal Medical Kit
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses (UV Protected)
- 1 Neck Gaiters (Buff)
- Tiffin Box
- 2/3 Full Sleeves (Non-Cotton)
- 1 Full Fleece T-Shirt
- 1 Fleece Jacket (Woolen or Sweater)
- 1 Down Feather/ Hollofil Jacket
- 1 Waterproof Jacket/ Poncho
- 1 Pair of Thermal Inners (Upper and Lower)
- 2 Trek Pants (Avoid Shorts and Denim Pants)
- 1 Pair of Waterproof Gloves
- 1 Pair of Woolen Gloves
- Sun Cap
- Woolen Cap
- 4 Pairs of Cotton Socks
- 1 Pair of Woollen Socks
- 1 Waterproof and High Ankle Trekking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Floaters
- Hand Sanitizer and Sunscreen Lotion
- Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Toilet Paper
- Quick Dry Towel
- Lip Balm and Antibacterial Powder
- Moisturizer
- Aadhaar Card, Pan, or Passport for Applying Permit
- Trek Insurance
- Medical Certificate
- Self-Declaration Form
- Sleeping Bag
- Common Tent
- Mattress
- Dining Tent
- Camping Stool
- Walkie Talkie (For Team)
- Utensils
How To Reach Base Camp
Flight is the quickest and easiest means to reach the Dehradun. Booking a flight to this destination is not a hard job, you can get a flight from most metro cities in India.
The nearest airport to Sankri is Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport which is located approximately 25 kilometers from the city center. Several flight operators like Air India, Akasa Air, Vistara, and others operate flights to Dehradun, which makes your transportation easy and comfortable.
It is recommended to book a flight at least a month before traveling since the last moment flight booking is comparatively higher than the standard price. Considering the cost, we recommend you to take flights to Delhi, capital of India first. From there, you can take UTC, HRTC, buses, railway or hire a taxi to reach Dehradun.
Dehradun is one of the major cities in India and it is well-connected to other cities by train. So traveling here via train is another easiest way.
Your train transportation is served by the Dehradun Railway Station, which brings you directly to the destination from your hometown. You also can opt for Haridwar Railway Station to reach Dehradun. It is advised to make advanced bookings for trains but there are no issues in getting the service from any places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and more.
Road trip is one of the most exciting journeys to reach Dehradun and start the Kedarkantha Trek. It should not be any challenging matter since the city is connected with other major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh by National Highways.
It might be time consuming but the serene beauty of the Himalayan foothills will offer you a enjoyable experience.
You can take a bus from Dehradun Hill Station to Purola and from Purola take either a bus to Mori or a Shared taxi to Sankri. Make sure to reach Purola by daytime because transport is not available after evening.
Another option is direct buses to Sankri from Prince Chowk. This option only available during December end week and January first week when rush is more.
Kedarkantha Trek Map
The route map of Kedarkantha Trek typically follows these steps: Sankri → Juda ka Talab → Kedarkantha Basecamp → Kedarkantha Summit → Juda ka Talab/ Hargaon Campsite → Sankri.
To embark on the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi, travelers first need to reach Sankri, the trek’s base village. The journey from Delhi to Dehradun is easily accessible through various transport options, after which one can hire or share a cab to reach Sankri. The entire Kedarkantha Trek covers approximately 20 kilometers in a circular/same route beginning and ending at Sankri, not including the road travel. This detailed map illustrates the full trail, highlighting all campsites, trekking paths, elevation levels, and walking distances. Let’s explore the key insights from the map-
Current Weather & Temperature at Sankri Base
More Info about Kedarkantha
As Kedarkantha comes under Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, you will encounter various species of flora and fauna on your trek. In the year 2009, the Snow Leopard Project was started from here, making it essential and a reminder for you to be responsible trekker.
Flora
In Flora, you will see tall pine, maple, chir, oaks and deodar trees. Other common flora that are different from the rest of the country are horse chestnuts, walnuts, apple orchids, blue pine, silver firs, etc.
Trail of the Kedarkantha is filled with a diverse range of floral species that transform the landscape into a flower bed for nature lovers and photographers. As winter recedes and early spring arrives, typically from late March to April, the trail turns into a kaleidoscope of colors with wildflowers blooming in abundance.
Among the most beautiful floral species found along the trail is Reinwardtia (Yellow Himalayan Flax), a bright golden-yellow flower that adds more beauty to the meadows. Bauhinia variegata, commonly known as the Mountain Ebony, graces the region with its delicate pink and purple blossoms. The Primula denticulata (Drumstick Primrose), named for its unique spherical arrangement of tiny petals, thrives in the cool mountain air, painting the slopes in shades of violet and lavender.
A highlight of the Kedarkantha trek is the Rhododendrons, which bloom in hues of red, pink, and white, creating a contrast against the lush green backdrop. These flowers, revered in local culture, are not only admired for their beauty but are also used in traditional medicine and beverages. The Fragaria Nubicola (Himalayan Wild Strawberries), with their delicate white blossoms, later give way to tiny, flavorful berries enjoyed by trekkers and wildlife alike.
The Gentiana kurroo (Himalayan Gentian), a rare and medicinally significant plant, stands out with its deep blue or violet flowers, while the Persicaria capitata (Pink Knotweed) carpets sections of the trail with its soft pink clusters. The White Himalayan Lungwort, known for its medicinal properties, is another fascinating species that thrives in these high-altitude conditions. Completing this floral spectacle is the Viburnum grandiflorum (Grand Viburnum), a shrub with delicate white to pink flowers that enhance the beauty of the region.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these wildflowers play a crucial ecological role, supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies while contributing to the region’s biodiversity. The ever-changing floral landscape of Kedarkantha makes each trek a unique experience, as different elevations and microclimates offer varied displays of flora.
For trekking enthusiasts, experiencing the Kedarkantha Trail during peak bloom season is an delightful journey. The interplay of beautiful flowers against the peaks creates an beautiful spectacle, making this trail a dream destination for trekkers, photographers, and families.
Fauna
In wildlife, you can encounter Asian black bears, otters, musk deers, bharal, Himalayan tahr, civets, gorals and many more. In birds, you can spot Himalayan Monal Peasant (state bird of Uttarakhand), snowcock, bearded eagle, black eagle, owls, warblers, bulbul, and so on.
Take some time to read about the Leave No Trace Policy to understand and become a responsible trekker.
- Har Ki Dun Valley
- Phulara Ridge
- Lakha Mandal
- Mahasu Devta Temple, Hanol
- Ruinsara Tal
- Osla Village
- Bali Pass
SCI, Foreign Permit & Vehicle
HDT is registered with the IMF, and we can cater to the needs of SCL for Government Employees. According to the rule, the government of India provides its employees with a prospect where they’re allowed to apply for a 30-day special casual leave in a calendar year to do trekking, hiking, or whatever adventure pleases them.
Mail us at info@himalayandreamtreks.in or call us at +91 80896 93825, if you want to avail SCL.
For foreign nationals, permit charges are different, and hence the overall package price is different for foreign trekkers. Connect with us before booking your trek.
- For 4-6 people Ertiga/Bolero or equivalent vehicle.
- For 7 or more people, Force Traveller.
Booking Confirmation, Payment, Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
- Visit our website and select the trek you would like to book.
- Click the Book Now button and fill in the required details.
- Complete the payment by choosing from the available payment options.
- Once the initial booking amount is paid, you will receive an email confirmation with all trek details.
- The booking is considered confirmed only after receipt of the initial payment.
Booking Amount: 30% of the trek package at the time of booking.
Balance Payment: Remaining 70% to be paid at least 7 days before departure.
Payment Modes Accepted:
- UPI
- Bank Transfer (NEFT/IMPS/RTGS)
- Credit/Debit Cards (with applicable processing charges)
- International Transfers via Wise / PayPal / Bank Transfer (processing fees apply)
Payment Partners: Razorpay, PhonePe Business, State Bank of India, Wise, PayPal, Payoneer
Transaction Charges:
- Razorpay: 1%–4% depending on payment method (UPI, card, wallet, net banking, etc.)
- PayPal: Flat 5% transaction fee
- Free rescheduling up to 30 days before trek start date.
- 10% rescheduling fee (of paid amount) for requests made 29–7 days before trek.
- No rescheduling within 7 days of trek start; booking will be canceled with no voucher issued.
- Itinerary Adjustments: Himalayan Dreamtreks may adjust the schedule due to safety or unexpected conditions.
- Early Departure: If a trekker leaves before scheduled dates, food, stay, and transport costs will be borne by the trekker.
Cancellation by Trekker:
- More than 30 days before departure → 90% trek voucher (valid 1 year)
- 21–30 days before departure → 75% trek voucher (valid 1 year)
- 11–20 days before departure → 50% trek voucher (valid 1 year)
- Less than 10 days before departure → No voucher
- No-show → No refund or voucher
Cancellation by Himalayan Dreamtreks (HDT):
- In case of natural disasters, government restrictions, or adverse weather → 100% trek voucher (valid 1 year, usable for any HDT trek).
Dropout During Trek:
- If a trekker leaves due to health, fitness, or personal reasons → No refund.
- Trekker must bear all costs for return/retreat.
Refund Terms:
- Refunds are provided only as trek vouchers (valid for 1 year).
- Vouchers can be redeemed for any Himalayan Dreamtreks trek.
- No cash refunds will be issued.
FAQs
Both are famous winter treks in Uttrakhand; Kedarkantha gives you the chance to climb a summit, whereas Dayara Bugyal provides a meadow walk.
It is advised to withdraw cash from Dehradun itself. You might find other ATMs en route, but they remain mostly cashless and stopping vehicles like this also hampers our timeline.
The trip cost of the Kedarkantha Trek varies from INR 6,000 to INR 12,000, depending on the itinerary, group size, inclusive services, starting point, and the time of the year, you are planning for trekking.
Being a local tour operator and listed as a certified trekking company, HDT offers the Kedarkantha Trek Package (5D/4N) without transportation from Sankri to Sankri at INR 5,499/- per person and with transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun at INR 6,999/- per person, inclusive of 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax).
The package is inclusive of essential services like transportation, accommodation, meals, certified guide or trek leader, local sightseeing options, trail permit, and activities. As an on-ground tour operator, we have expertise in making arrangements and handling logistics to provide an unparalleled experience for our guests.
To make your trekking experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible, our travel experts and dedicated support staff are available to help you with any queries or issues related to the trek.
Yes, Kedarkantha Trek is perfect for all age groups, and we have often seen 10-year-old children on this trail walking with ease as if they were locals of the region. It is a easy-moderate trek with no significant difficulties to deal with, except the last summit section which is sometime a challenging part of the trek for children. Obviously, it is a mountain trek, and dealing with challenges like sickness, difficult terrain, and other factors is common, but it’s completely manageable, which is why this trek is perfectly suitable for families with children.
To experiencing snowfall, it is in peak winter from mid-December to January. During this period, it experiences the best snowfall of the season, and the entire trail is covered with a blanket of fresh snow, creating a beautiful winter wonderland in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. At this time, it attracts all the adventure and nature enthusiasts from all over India, making this trek a “must-do” in peak winter.
Snowfall generally begins at the start of December, peaks in January, and lasts until early February. However, unexpected snowfall has occurred in past years; in 2019, it was recorded in mid-October, and in 2022, it started in early February. Therefore, predicting the exact timing of snowfall can be quite uncertain and no one can guarantee when you will experience it. If you are planning to experience the best snowfall, it is strongly advisable to get regular updates from current weather forecasts.
Yes, the Kedarkantha Trek is safe and enjoyable, suitable for beginners. It has well-marked trails and manageable elevation gains. The trek is classified as easy to moderate in terms of difficulty, while passing through forests with a gradual ascent and reaching the maximum altitude of 12,500 ft (3,810 m) with the total trek distance of 20 km. However, arrival at altitudes above 8,000 feet increases the chances of AMS, but proper acclimatization and basic physical fitness are sufficient to prevent this challenge. And, to convert the difficulty of the winter snow into a wonderful experience, proper gear, following beaten paths over the snow-covered trails, and following your guide’s instructions are must.
Its snow-covered trails, dense forests, beautiful frozen lake, thrilling summit push, stunning sunrise, and the most rewarding views of Himalayan peaks make Kedarkantha Peak a unique winter trekking destination, famous among adventure and nature enthusiasts.
Also, Kedarkantha is connected with a mythological story told by locals, where Lord Shiva is believed to have meditated for many years in the past. The temple at the top of the peak was meant to be the original Kedarnath Temple; however, there is no evidence to support this claim. Additionally, as per the legend, the Juda ka Talab lake is also associated with Lord Shiva, adding spiritual significance to the lake.
Along with the religious aspect, the trek boasts unique natural beauty, especially when the entire trail gets covered in snow during winter, transforming it into a beautiful winter wonderland. The trek provides breathtaking views of some of the most prominent Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpunch, as well as other mountain ranges like Ranglana, Gangotri, Yamunotri, and the Sarutal Range.
The trek route takes about 2-3 days to reach the Kedarkantha peak from Sankri base camp, covering a distance of approximately 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) for the entire route. The height of Kedarkantha is 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level, that is accessible from Kedarkantha Basecamp with a steep ascent of 1,250 feet elevation gain. The trek route from here requires navigating certain steep stretches to reach the summit. This trail section towards the summit of Kedarkantha is very steep and can really test trekkers especially beginners’ physical strength.
You should not do it on your own without a guide. Officials have made it mandatory to obtain a trekking permit in your name and require you to be accompanied by a BMC-certified trek leader or guide.
First, you need to reach Dehradun from your hometown. From there, our guide/driver will lead you. The pickup point is near Dehradun Railway Station, Prince Chowk. The journey to Sankri, the starting point of our trek, takes approximately eight hours by road.
During the journey, you might experience motion sickness, so it’s advisable to carry a motion sickness tablet. Also, avoid eating unhealthy or heavy food since you will be traveling in a bus, tempo traveler, or Bolero for the entire day. The road condition is generally good, but some stretches between Mori and Sankri are under construction.
The journey is beautiful—you will witness the Yamuna River in its purest form, dense forests, and even some wildlife of the region.
At Sankri base camp, only Jio works well, but beyond that, the network fluctuates and sometimes disconnects. At the summit, you have a great opportunity to talk and share your experience with your family and friends, as you will get full network coverage for all major providers, including Jio, BSNL, Airtel, and VI.
Electricity is available only at Sankri base camp.
Rentals are available, costing around INR 2,000–3,000 per person for all required gear. Power banks are also available for rent.
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