Introduction
The three elements that make up the Kedarkantha peak are beautiful snow, thick white clouds and a panorama that will never be forgotten. Situated at a height of 12,500 feet above sea level and rated as a moderate to somewhat easy trek in terms of difficulty, Kedarkantha fulfils all the criteria for a wonderful winter trek. The view from the top of the mountain as well as the amazing trek through the snow is two reasons why one would want to go up the Kedarkantha trek. Kedarkantha got its name from a legendary tradition which says that the Kedarnath temple was meant to be built there first.
However, those working on the Kedarnath sculptures heard the sound of a cow nearby and, believing it to be a bad omen according to the Hindu mythology of the time, stopped mid-work. They were only able to carve up to the Lord’s neck. Shiva’s statue, that’s why the mountain got the name Kedarkantha. Apart from the historical mythology, Kedarkantha has a lot to offer including one of the most beautiful sunset/sunrise views in the world and much more. One of its unique features is that it is suitable for beginners, so if you’ve always wanted to trek but never did, Kedarkantha seems like a good place to start. There is much more about the location of the trek in Kedarkantha. mind, so let’s go through it one by one.
Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary
The walking distance can also be covered in 6 or 7 days. Since you don’t usually go solo hiking in this area, you’ll need to move according to your guide’s recommendations; however, the best time would be 5 days and the schedule for that is given below:
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri
The base camp of the Kedarkantha trek is at Sankri which is about 186 kilometres from Dehradun. So the Kedarkantha trek starts from Sankri and you can reach there by both rail and road to Dehradun. Alternatively, you can arrive by plane and then take a local bus or hire a vehicle or taxi to get to the base camp area.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Taal
Your teacher will give you spikes and gaiters to wear during the trip for your safety. On the second day of the walk, you will have to cover a total distance of 5 kilometres from Sankri to Juda Ka Taal. You start by walking for 10 minutes to warm up. En route, you will pass Swargarohini and in the afternoon you will reach Juda ka Taal where you will spend the night.
Day 3: Juda Ka Taal to Kedarkantha base camp
On the third day, you will start forming Juda ka Taal and in the late evening, you will reach Kedarkantha base camp where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the beauty of nature and spend the night there after dinner. The altitude of this place is roughly 11,200 feet and the total trek on the third day will be 3 to 4 kilometres.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha
It will be a long day because you have to drive 6 kilometres. Spend some time exploring the surrounding areas before sitting down to lunch. En route, you will see Black Peak, Gangotri, Bandarpoonch and many other places before proceeding to Hargaon on the same day.
Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri to Dehradun
On the last day of your trip, you will return to Sankari and then Dehradun. The total distance to cover on the last day is also about 6 kilometres, so it will be a long and easy day. On your return, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the local communities and take a break between meals. When you get back to Sankri, take a day off and leave for Dehradun the next day.
Things To Carry On Kedarkantha Trek
Mandatory documents
Take the following documents with you:-
- Original and Photocopy of Government Photo Identity Card (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voter ID etc.)
- Foreigners need a passport and a visa
- Medical certification
- Declaration Certificate
Tourist essentials
Backpack (50 to 60 litres) – The trip requires a well-built backpack with sufficient support.
Sturdy trekking shoes – Shoes should be sturdy and provide enough support. People sometimes wonder if sports shoes would be comfortable, but it is best to pack suitable trekking shoes.
Clothes
- Trekking pants – Since jeans are never travel-friendly, you will need at least 2-3 pairs of trekking pants for shorter trips and more for longer hikes.
- Jacket – Jackets are essential for hiking as they protect you from the elements.
- Warm layers of clothing – Warm woolen layers or fleece should be worn. Wear more layers in winter (at least two to three) and less clothing in summer.
- T-shirts – take quick-drying t-shirts.
- Poncho – Keeps you dry if you are hiking on a rainy day.
