KEDARKANTHA: A Perfect Escape to the snowy mountains!!

A walk in the Himalayas is a dream of every trekker. Uttarakhand is a blessed state surrounded by the mighty snow-covered Himalayan peaks. A lot of trekkers, travelers, and backpackers visit the state and experience the best of nature. Trekking always comes with fun and adventure. Kedarkantha is one of the famous treks in Uttarakhand. It is also known as classic snow- winter trek. 

Kedarkantha is perched at an elevation of 3800 m in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. It is one of the easiest snow treks in India. Kedarkantha is truly a trekker’s delight. The peak is located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. Kedarkantha is dedicated to Lord Shiva. An old temple of Lord Shiva is located at the top of the peak. 

The trek is an easy to moderate trek and perfect for beginners. The total trek distance is 24km that can be covered in 5-6 days. The trek starts from Sankri village near Dehradun. A beautiful quaint hamlet also serves as a basecamp to other major expeditions like Har ki Doon, Roopkund, etc. High altitude snow trekking demands physical as well as mental fitness. It is advised to prepare yourself for the trek prior. 

Highlights of the Kedarkantha trek are the beautiful campsites of Juda ka Talab, which is nothing but twin freshwater lakes, Kedarkantha base, where you will experience snow and tall trees. The third and last beautiful campsite is Hargaon.  Kedarkantha top offers amazing and ravishing views of 13 mighty peaks like Swargarohini, Black peak, Bandarpunch, and Ranglana. It is one of the best treks in Uttarakhand with an adventure trekking trail. This winter trek passes through lush verdant meadows, dense pine forests, alluring streams, gorgeous maple trees, and amazing weather. A walk over the pristine white snow makes the trek a true adventure. 

Gorgeous landscapes, endless beauty, and chilly breezes will leave you speechless. The view from the top is something one traveler can dream of. The best time to visit Kedarkantha is in the months of April to June and in winter October to March. In the summer season, the weather remains mild and calm. Catch the clear views of the peaks during summers. In winters, the trail covered with snow and the temperature drops down in negatives. The trek becomes slight difficulty due to snow but one can do it very easily. Winters are best to explore the beauty of the trek. The temperature drops down in 0 to -15 in winter and winters are best to experience heavy snowfall. 

The starting point of the trek is Sankri village and to reach there one ha to reach Dehradun first. Dehradun is the capital city of Uttarakhand and is well-connected to all the major cities of India like Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata, etc. 

You can reach Dehradun by taking a direct flight, bus, or train from Delhi. Then take a local bus or taxi to reach Sankri which is 200km from Dehradun.

Kedarkantha also offers a chance to explore the Garhwal lifestyle and culture. The locals you will meet during the trek are very friendly and you will get a chance to enjoy the delicious pahadi cuisine. The spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks are astounding. The tranquil surroundings will make you stay longer. 

As it is a winter snow trek, it is important to be prepared with all the necessary things:

Things to carry:

• A good quality of backpack that is spacious, comfortable, and easy to carry. It should have enough space to carry all your necessary things. 
• Good quality of trekking shoes that are lightweight, comfortable and don’t hurt your feet. Gumboots are advised to carry for snow trekking.
• Carry warm clothes, thermal wear, socks, t-shirts, trousers, jackets, etc. for the trek. 
• Sunglasses
• Hat or sunscreen
• Trekking pole
• Always carry something to eat like chocolates, chikkis, etc.
• Water bottle
• Essential toiletries
• Medical kit

Other tips:

• It is advised to follow the instructions of the trek leader. 
• Do not wander alone. 
• If you are suffering from Asthma, blood pressure, etc. then it is advised not to do this trek.
• Exercise and do yoga at least 2 weeks prior to the trek.
• Eat healthily and stay fit.
• Do not litter and keep the surroundings clean and green.

Kedarkantha trek is an amazing adventure that will take give you an unforgettable experience. A perfect snow escape to the Himalayas will be mesmerizing. The trek is of moderate difficulty but it is a perfect pick for beginners and avid trekkers. Camping at higher altitudes will be amazing. You can enjoy the marvelous sunrises and star-glazed nights. The trek is best to spend your holidays and do something adventurous and thrilling. Winters are best to explore the Himalayas. Plan a trip to Kedarkantha and complete a summit at 12,500ft in just 6 days. 

Live. Travel. Explore!!