The Kedarkantha Peak Trek is a hidden gem in the Uttarakhand Himalayas, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, serene forest trails, and a rewarding summit climb. Known for its accessibility and mesmerizing winter beauty, it stands out as one of the most popular treks in India, especially for those seeking an immersive snow trekking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-timer, the Kedarkantha trek promises an adventure that will leave you spellbound by the grandeur of the Himalayas.
Kedarkantha Trek is known for its easy to moderate difficulty, making it ideal for beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. The trail has a gradual ascent, and while challenging at times, it doesn’t require extensive mountaineering skills. This trek offers an excellent introduction to winter trekking.
Trek starts from Sankri, a scenic village nestled in Uttarakhand. The trail takes trekkers through dense pine and oak forests, open meadows, and charming frozen lakes, leading up to the snow-capped Kedarkantha Peak. Along the way, trekkers encounter quaint hamlets, rich flora, and vibrant birdlife, offering a true immersion in Himalayan beauty.
Reaching the Kedarkantha summit at 12,500 feet offers stunning 360-degree views of major Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Swargarohini, Mt. Black Peak, and Mt. Bandarpoonch. Watching the sunrise over these peaks is a moment that captivates every trekker.
Stunning Winter Experience
Kedarkantha is renowned for its snow-covered landscapes during the winter months. From December to March, the entire trek transforms into a snow-laden paradise, offering trekkers the magical experience of walking through dense forests and meadows blanketed in snow.
Beginner-Friendly
While the summit reaches a respectable altitude of 12,500 ft. (3,810 m), the trek itself is graded as easy to moderate, making it an ideal first-time trek for beginners, yet equally appealing to experienced trekkers.
Accessible & Well-Maintained Trails
With clear, well-marked paths and a straightforward route, Kedarkantha is one of the best-managed Himalayan treks. The support system, including local guides, porters, and guesthouses in Sankri, ensures a hassle-free trekking experience.
360-Degree Himalayan Views
The summit offers panoramic views of some of the most iconic peaks in the Indian Himalayas, including Mt. Swargarohini (20,512 ft. / 6,252 m), Mt. Bandarpoonch (20,722 ft. / 6,316 m), Mt. Kalanag / Black Peak (20,955 ft. / 6,387 m), and parts of the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges.
Snow Trekking
The trek is famous for its pristine snow trails, especially between December and March, turning it into a true winter wonderland.
Stunning Summit Views
The reward at the summit is unparalleled – a panoramic view of some of the tallest and most iconic peaks in the Indian Himalayas.
Beginner-Friendly
The trek is ideal for first-time trekkers, perfectly balancing adventure and ease. The gradual ascent, clear trails, and relatively low altitude make it accessible for those new to trekking.
Rich Flora and Fauna
As you trek through the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, you’re surrounded by diverse wildlife, dense forests of pine, oak, and maple, and a wide array of bird species.
Winter (December to March) – Recommended
This is the best time if you’re looking to experience snow. The entire trail gets covered in a thick blanket of snow, offering a surreal experience of trekking through a white landscape.
Summer (April to June)
Ideal for trekkers who prefer a greener landscape with blooming wildflowers and pleasant weather. The snow would have melted by this time, but the clear skies and lush green meadows make the trek equally beautiful.
Monsoon (July to September) – Not Recommended
The trail can become slippery due to heavy rains, and landslides are a risk during this period. Avoid going in the Rainy season.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (around 220 km from Sankri). You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Sankri.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Dehradun (around 200 km from Sankri). You can hire a taxi from Dehradun or take a local bus to Sankri.
By Road
You can take a bus or taxi from Dehradun to Sankri. The drive is scenic, taking around 8-9 hours through winding mountain roads and passing towns like Mussoorie, Naugaon, and Purola.
Mt. Swargarohini: 20,512 ft. (6,252 m)
Swargarohini is a group of four peaks, with Swargarohini I being the tallest and most famous for its mythological significance, believed to be the path to heaven.
Mt. Bandarpoonch (Bandarpunch): 20,722 ft. (6,316 m)
Bandarpoonch is part of the greater Yamunotri region and is known for its striking presence near the Yamuna River’s source.
Mt. Kalanag (Black Peak): 20,955 ft. (6,387 m)
This is one of the prominent peaks in the Bandarpoonch massif. These towering peaks form the stunning backdrop for many treks in Uttarakhand, including the Kedarkantha trek.