Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi: How to Reach, Best Time to Visit and Itinerary

If you dream of walking on snow, camping under stars, and watching the sun rise over the Himalayas, the Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is perfect for you. It’s one of India’s most loved winter treks. The trail is full of beauty — snowy peaks, pine forests, and quiet mountain villages. Every step feels peaceful and refreshing.

Why You Should Trek to Kedarkantha

Kedarkantha stands tall at 12,500 feet in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand. It lies inside the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. The trek is famous for its simple route and breathtaking views.

You don’t need to be an expert trekker to enjoy it. Even beginners can complete it with a bit of preparation. The trail passes through forests, frozen lakes, and open meadows. During winter, snow covers the path and the trees shine in white.

The best part is the summit. From the top, you can see stunning peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak. The view is wide and grand. When the morning sun touches the snow, the mountains glow in gold. It’s a sight you’ll never forget.

How to Reach Kedarkantha from Delhi

The base village of the trek is Sankri, about 430 km from Delhi. The easiest way to reach is by bus and cab.

Take an overnight bus from Delhi to Dehradun. It takes about 6 to 7 hours. From Dehradun, you can take a shared jeep or taxi to Sankri. The drive takes another 7–8 hours, but the road is beautiful. You’ll pass forests, mountain streams, and small Himalayan towns.

If you’re driving yourself, start early from Delhi. You can stop in Dehradun or Mussoorie for the night and continue to Sankri the next morning.

What the Trek is Like

The Kedarkantha Trek is about 20 km long and takes 4 to 5 days. It’s a moderate trek, suitable for beginners.

You start from Sankri (6,400 ft), a quiet mountain village. The first stop is Juda Ka Talab (9,000 ft), a frozen lake surrounded by pine trees. During winter, the lake turns to ice. The campsite here feels like a dream, especially when it snows.

From there, you climb to Kedarkantha Base Camp (11,200 ft). The view starts opening up. You’ll see snowy peaks far away and clouds floating below. Nights here are cold but beautiful. The stars shine brighter than anywhere else.

The summit day starts early — usually around 3 AM. The climb is steep but short. When you reach the top at sunrise, you’ll see golden light spread across the Himalayas. The silence, the view, and the sense of achievement — it’s an unforgettable moment.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha Trek

The best time to do Kedarkantha Trek is in winter, from December to February. The trail is covered in snow, and the campsites look magical.

If you want milder weather, March and April are also great. The snow starts melting, and you’ll see flowers and green valleys.

Avoid the monsoon season (July to September). The trails are slippery and risky. The post-monsoon months (October to November) are also nice — clear skies and crisp air make for great trekking conditions.

Where to Stay and What to See Nearby

During the trek, you’ll stay in tents or alpine camps. Most trekking companies provide tents, food, sleeping bags, and guides. It’s simple but comfortable.

Before or after your trek, spend some time exploring Sankri and nearby areas. Visit the Someshwar Temple, an ancient Shiva temple in Sankri. You can also explore nearby Osla and Taluka villages, famous for their wooden houses and friendly locals.

If you have more time, try the Har Ki Dun Trek, which starts from the same region. It’s a little longer but equally beautiful.

Safety, Local Tips, and Budget

The Kedarkantha Trek is safe if you follow basic rules. Start your trek early every morning to finish before dark. Carry enough water, snacks, and warm clothes. The temperature at night can drop below -5°C, so pack thermals, gloves, and a woolen cap.

Use trekking poles on snowy sections. Walk slowly on ice. Hiring a local guide helps — they know the route and can handle emergencies.

There’s no mobile network after Sankri, so tell your family before the trek. Respect the environment and don’t litter.

A 5-day Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi usually costs ₹6,000–₹10,000. This includes transport from Dehradun, guides, camping gear, food, and permits.

Sample 5-Day Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Take an overnight bus from Delhi to Dehradun. Day 2: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (7–8 hours). Stay overnight. Day 3: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab. Camp by the frozen lake. Day 4: Trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp. Rest and enjoy sunset views. Day 5: Early morning summit climb. Descend to Sankri and stay the night. Day 6: Drive back to Dehradun and return to Delhi by evening.

This plan gives you enough time to enjoy the trek without rushing.

Final Thoughts

The Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi is more than just a trek. It’s a journey into the heart of the Himalayas. Every day offers something special — snow, silence, and views that take your breath away.

It’s perfect for beginners, solo travellers, and anyone who loves the outdoors. You don’t need fancy gear or long holidays. Just a weekend, a warm jacket, and a love for mountains.

So pack your bags, gather your friends, and head out for this unforgettable adventure. The Himalayas are waiting for you — and Kedarkantha is the perfect place to start.