If you wish to experience winter trek in India then Kedarkantha trek should be one on your list. The Kedarkantha trek in the uneven Garhwal of Uttarakhand is an amalgamation of natural beauty, challenging terrains and adrenaline gushing surroundings. Whether you are an experienced trekker or this would be your first long hike, this trek will take the breath away by it’s snow capped peaks, lush pine trees and peaceful campsites. In this blog we are going to delve into all the details about Kedarkantha trek – its itinerary, what’s special in the Kedarkatnha trek and various kedarkanta trek packages.
Overview of the Kedarkantha Trek
- IC Destination: Govind National Park, District Uttarkashi., UTTRAKHAND.
- Altitude gain: Up to 12,500 feet
- Dration: 5–6 days
- Distance: 20–24 km
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- hen to Go: December-April
- Starting Point: Sankri Village
The Kedarkantha trek is no less than a winter wonder land which you will get absolutely surprised on each and every next step- green creamy ice layer meadowsA walk under wooden logs(yes monsoon and in fresh snow, soft to feet!)Chirping birds for their meal( bread-Jam together by arrangement via trekkers they meet)layer of moth at start, thick later as you climbEven your ways drain out and forms ponds which are shallow enough with crystral clear views of reflection from around;-Beautiful:) What more -kedar kantha peak is famous among the youth not just because of its beauty filling foamy green creamy toppings but also –a-place-child.The view it provides gives random visuals from high ups on slopes till top. The accessibility is the primary reason why it’s decidedly one of The most famous damaged trek among the climbers begginers, trekkers and experienced hikers.
Aspects of the Kedarkantha Trek
Scenic Campsites
You will trek pass some of the beautiful campsites on route like Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp and Hargaon. These retreats are fantastic camping places where you can just chill and feel that you´re off the grid. Juda Ka Talab with frozen lake is the most scenic camping spot and comes as a once in a blue moon chance to experience serenity among pine woods.
Summit Views
The most gratifying trek part is Kedarkantha Peak. The view from top is really outstanding, you can have a 360 degree panoramic view all around towards distant & close by peaks such as- Swargarohini, Bandarpunch & Black Peak. Cracking the view of sun rise and the peaks glistening with frost are imprinted in a hikers mind. The 360-degree view from the top is simply enchanting.
Flora and Fauna
Kedarkantha is located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary which provides a stunning view of the flora and fauna. The hike passes through dense, oak– and pine-fushed forests where you could spot the state bird of Himachal Pradesh, the Himalayan monal and pheasants among other or even glimpse a snow leopard if fortune favours.
Cultural Experience
KEDARKANTHA, India — The Kedarkantha Trek is as cultural and traditional as it is natural and adventurous. It’s an oportunity for trekkers to know about local pahari culture also. The villages that you pass through or arrive at en route Sankri or Hargaon have friendly folks who live in stone homes characteristic of this part of the state. The friendliness and easy going life style of the villagers give us a good understanding of rural Himalayan Life, apart from being one of treks´ highlights.
Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Sankri
Drive to Sankri, the set off point of the trek. the drive ( approx 7-8 hrs ) is picturesque and once you reach Sankri, you will be given information on the trek and I’m personally meet yo…ur other trekkers. This is an acclimatization day.
Day 2: Sankri – Juda Ka Talab
Day 2 is a 4 km trail through dense foliage, river crossings and gradual inclines to hike up to the Judith ka Talab camp site. This section is particularly lovely, with crunchy snow trails to the frozen lake. A great location to set up a camp and spend the night beneath the stars.
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp We knew that no matter where we walked, amid all this snow, there would be only one way to go.
Towkrds the Kedarkantha Base Camp (approx 4kms), walk from the camp to base is of about 3-4 hours Follow Day 3 – And trek up probably for around another kms. The trail is through thick tree cover and if getting to the base camp becomes difficult for you, don’t worry, because you will be treated with stunning views of Mountains who are dearth in this region. The Kedarkantha Base Camp is wonderful for photography and relaxation for the final summit push.
Day 4: Summit Day
Summit day is certainly the most challenging, yet ultimately rewarding portion of the trek. You’ll start hiking early in the morning, and it’s some 7km to the peak. If you’ve got a head for heights, the views from the rocky peak are anything but underwhelming and although bracing, cold as you rise towards it on this crisp, brisk morning is worth savouring once you crest the summit. The snow mountains look amazing in the morning sunshine. After the viewpoint, there is a descent so that we can get back at Hargaon camp for an overnight sleep.
Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri
Day trek of around 6kms from Beeradi to Sankri. Hiking downward this morning, allow your emotions to descend as well as you bid farewell to the glorious Himalayan mountain range for one last time.
Kedarkantha Trek Packages
We have different Kedarkantha trek packages run by us and various others that suit requirements, budget and group size. Typically, most of the trek organizers provide you with an all-in package where it may include the transportation, your meals, camping stuff and also leaders who will guide you through. Here are some of the favorite operators offering Kedarkantha trek packages:
Trekyaari
Trekyaari offers a 5-day trek package for Kedarkantha in which the accomodation, climbers, all food and from and to dehradun to sankri on snow vehicle is covered. They also offer discounts on trekking gear and bus booking, which is great for the penniless trekkers.
Trek The Himalayas
The operator has an extremely well planned 6 day itinerary as well and the stays are royal both in hotels and campings. They offer a package that includes food, experienced guides, forest permits and medical assistance. For those looking for a slightly less independent trek, this is another top choice.
JustWravel
JustWravel’s trek package includes travel to and from Dehradun, meals, stay and guide service for 5 days. They also offer backpack off load services and also gear rental so it is a fair amount to pay by the trekkers who just want extra facilities during the trek.
Cliffhangers India
Reasonable package up to six days including all meals, as well as camping equipment, experienced professionals and ransfers by Dehradun has been offered by Clifhangers India. This is the best offer for budget-oriented to a somewhat luxurious trekkers not to miss out on any part of trekking experience.
Indian Treks
So book a 5 day trails with Indian Treks would b’ infulcde Transport, foods and logs also the trek support. They come with a panoramic view of all the peaks around, which is the trek’s concluding touch.
Essentials to pack for the Kedarkantha Trek
Physical Fitness: As it is a beginner trek – you should be minimum fit. Train cardio and hike with a pack to get acclimated to the elevation, as well as used to maneuvering on the terrain.
Clothing and Equipment: The correct clothing is vital if one is going to be comfortable out for a winter walk. Carry layers of warm clothing, a water-resistant trek shoe, gloves, headlamp and any personal medicines. Most of your trek operators will have a packing list for you to refer to.
Health and Fitness: Stay well hydrated throughout the trek, avoid consuming alcohol. Give the body time to adapt to altitude and remember that a healthy, trek leader always has the last word in your safety.
Conclusion
Kedarkantha trek is a winter wonderland trek in the Himalayas for beginners it is easily the Kashmir of Uttarakhand. Not a minute on this walk – from the stunning views at its high points to inequality of rewarding cultural encounters – can pass without gifting you memories that will out-live you! Since there are many Kedarkantha trek package in India to choose from, thus it becomes easy for each one of you to pick something that suit to their’s taste and pocket. Kedarkantha is a once in a lifetime experience for everyone who treks, from novices to veterans of the ranges. So, toss those old suitcases into the bin, jack up your boots and get ready for a journey through the winter wilderness of Uttarakhand.
