Kedarkantha: A Complete Guide
Overview
The Kedarkantha trek begins at 6,000 feet in the small village of Sankri, Uttarakhand. The Kedarkantha trek takes you through dense pine and oak tree forests, frozen lakes, and snowy trails. To the 12,500-foot Kedakantha peak, with panoramic views of snow-clad peaks almost the entire way.
The entire trek from Sankri to Sankri takes about 4 days, plus additional days for travel from Dehradun and beyond.
Mythology of Kedarkantha
Kedarkantha, like the rest of Uttarakhand, is strewn with mythological references. The Mahabharata claims Kedarkantha to be the location where Lord Shiva in his bull avatar sought refuge from the Pandavas.
They meditated in the valley before fleeing to Kedarnath after being disturbed by the locals. Lord Shiva’s Trishul, which stands atop the mountain, is also said to protect the valley and its inhabitants.
When is the best time of year to visit Kedarkantha?
Although the Kedarkantha trek is accessible all year, it is one of the few Himalayan treks that is best done between December and the end of April, giving trekkers the opportunity to not only see the snowy landscapes but also to trek on crackling snow.
The Kedarkantha trek is not too difficult, with just enough snow and no drastic temperature changes, making it suitable for even inexperienced hikers.
Itinerary for the Kedarkantha Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Dehradun
Day 2: Hike from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab.
Day 3: Hike from Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp.
Day 4: Hike from Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Peak and back to Hargaon Campsite.
Day 5: Return to Dehradun via Hargaon and Sankri
Accommodation Alternatives During your Kedarkantha Trek
Sankri:
Sankri is a small village with only a few homestays and a few hotels. Homestays are a more affordable option that provide an authentic Himalayan experience. Prior booking is required from December to March, as this is the peak trekking season in this region.
Please keep in mind that Sankri does not have ATMs or banks, so bring plenty of cash with you.
Visiting Kedarkantha Throughout the Kedarkantha Trek
There are no homestays along the Kedarkantha trail other than Sankri, so you must rely on the trail’s existing campsites or camp on your own. You won’t have to worry about it if you trek with an organisation or choose a trekking package that includes accommodation because you’ll be staying in their designated campsites along the trail.
If you plan to camp alone, you must bring all necessary camping equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, and liners. Sankri also rents out this service.
Food Options for the Kedarkantha Trek-
Apart from Sankri, the trail only has a few tea houses that serve a few simple options like Maggi and snacks. The likelihood of them being open, however, is uncertain and should not be relied on entirely.
Choosing a trekking package that includes food and lodging is your best bet for making the necessary arrangements. Those who wish to trek alone must bring all necessary supplies, as well as a portable stove and fuel.
Kedarkantha Trek Permits and a Local Guide
Kedarkantha trekking permits are only issued if you are accompanied by a registered forest department local guide, which is a mandatory rule enforced by the authorities of Govind Vihar National Park. In addition, the local guide will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits from the Sankri forest office.
Hiring a local guide not only ensures your safety by keeping you on track and assisting you in dealing with emergencies and other uncertainties along the way, but it also provides you with an interesting insight into the region’s local culture and geography. Booking a local guide in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons.
Local Guide Fee: ₹1,000 per guide
Things to Think About Before Starting the Kedarkantha Trek
- After Mori, there are no ATMs, so bring enough cash from Dehradun to last the entire trek.
- There is no mobile connectivity after Purola. Only a limited BSNL network is available in and around Sankri.
- During the peak season, which runs from November to January, lodging, guides, and equipment must be reserved in advance.
- Pack lightly because you will be carrying your backpack the entire time. It is recommended that you keep your backpack under 10 kg in weight.
- Travelling by train from Delhi to Dehradun is more comfortable and avoids delays.
- Hydrate yourself throughout the journey, beginning the moment you wake up.
- You can trek on your own with a local guide or join one of the many organisations that organise the Kedarkantha trek. The latter takes care of all of your lodging, food, and other formalities, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free trekking experience.
- Be a responsible hiker by not littering the trail or surrounding areas, as well as bringing any waste or plastic items back with you and properly disposing of them.