Overview
Winter Trek – Experience the Magic of the Most Popular Adventure Trek of the Himalayas – 2025
Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most sought-after winter treks in India, nestled in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Rising to an altitude of 12,500 feet, it is renowned for its snow-laden trails, mesmerizing campsites, and majestic views of peaks such as Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak (Kalanag).
Why Kedarkantha is a Must-Do Winter Trek
1. Snow-Covered Wonderland:
During the winter months, the trail transforms into a magical snowy paradise. Tall pine forests, sprawling meadows, and frozen lakes all blanket in fresh snow, creating a postcard-like setting.
2. Panoramic Himalayan Views:
Trekkers are rewarded with unobstructed views of some of the most iconic Himalayan summits. The summit provides a breathtaking 360° view, making the climb especially worth it.
3. Winter Camping Experience:
Camping amidst snow, under a canopy of stars, is one of the unique highlights of this trek. The trail features stunning campsites like Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp.
4. Moderate Difficulty Level:
This trek is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. With its gradual ascents and well-marked trails, it offers a balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment.
5. Rich Biodiversity & Culture:
The route goes through charming Himalayan villages, lush forests of oak, deodar, and rhododendron, and offers chances to observe local wildlife and bird species like the Himalayan monal and koklass pheasant.
6. Juda Ka Talab – A Frozen Gem:
A frozen lake surrounded by pine trees, Juda Ka Talab is an iconic stop on the route. It offers serene views and is a perfect spot for photography, camping, and quiet reflection.
7. Kedarkantha Summit Climb:
Climbing to 12,500 ft, the summit push starts early at 3:30 AM. Watching the sunrise from the peak, with the Himalayan ranges glowing in golden light, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Iitinerary
Day 1: Pickup from Dehradun Railway Station and Drive to Sankri (base camp) by Tempo Travellers 13+D
Total Distance: 190 km – 8/9 Hours journey
Mode of Journey: By taxi
Altitude: Sankri base camp – 1920 Meters
Night Stay: Our Swargarohini Hotel – on a share basis
Transport is organized for trekkers from Dehradun Railway Station in the morning, departing around 6:00 am to 7:00 am.
Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, is known for its beauty. The drive takes you through Rajpur road, offering a glimpse of Dehradun’s charm. After an hour, you reach Mussoorie, often called the “Queen of Hills.” Mussoorie is a popular vacation destination.
Dehradun to Mussoorie: The journey starts from Dehradun and takes you to Mussoorie. This hill station, surrounded by lush greenery and pleasant weather, is a great start to your adventure.
Mussoorie to Kempty Falls: You can detour to Kempty Falls, a refreshing spot with cascading water surrounded by hills.
Purola: The journey continues through Purola, where the terrain becomes more mountainous, offering glimpses of rural Himalayan life.
Beautiful Villages: You’ll pass by small villages, terraced fields, and pine forests. These picturesque villages provide a scenic break.
Stunning Valleys: As you approach Sankri, you’ll enter beautiful valleys with views of the Tons River Valley. The river, surrounded by lush green hills, is a visual delight.
The Last Stretch to Sankri: The final drive through dense forests and narrow mountain roads offers incredible views.
Sankri: Sankri is a picturesque village with stunning views of the mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset. Upon arrival, check into Hotel Swargarohini, freshen up, and enjoy evening snacks on the terrace with great views. Afterward, you can go for an evening walk before dinner.
Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest for the night in the mountains.
Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Trek Distance: 5 Km – 4/5 Hours Trek
Mode of Journey: On foot
Altitude: Juda ka Talab – 2700 Meters
Night Stay: Camp in tents – on a shared basis
Begin your day with a hot cup of coffee/tea at 6:00 a.m. and breakfast at 7:30 a.m. After instructions from your guide, begin your trek at 8:30 a.m.
The trek takes you through the lush forests of the Govind National Park.
Sankri to Juda Ka Talab: The forest trail is scenic, particularly during spring when the rhododendrons bloom. There are water crossings along the way, adding to the beauty of the trek. Juda Ka Talab, a small alpine lake surrounded by meadows, offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Kedarkantha.
Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base
Trek Distance: 3 Km – 2/3 Hours Trek
Mode of Journey: On foot
Altitude: Kedarkantha basecamp – 3200 Meters
Night Stay: Camp in a tent – on a shared basis
The trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp takes you through meadows and forests, with beautiful views of Kedarkantha Peak. The trail also passes through dense pine forests, offering a refreshing change of scenery.
Kedarkantha Base Camp offers 360-degree views of the Himalayan range, including Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch peaks.
Day 4: Trek from Kedarkantha Base Camp to Kedarkantha Summit (3800 Meters) and Descent to Hargaon Thach
Trek Distance: 11 Km – 6/7 Hours Trek
Mode of Journey: On foot
Altitude: Hargaon Thach – 2645 Meters
Night Stay: Camp in a tent – on a shared basis
Start early at 3:30 a.m. to reach the summit in time for a breathtaking sunrise. The trail to the summit offers magnificent views of surrounding peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and others. After spending time at the summit, descend to Hargaon Thach for the night.
Day 5: Trek from Hargaon Thach to Sankri
Trek Distance: 5 Km – 4/5 Hours Trek
Mode of Journey: On foot
Night Stay: Hotel – on twin share basis
As you descend from Hargaon to Sankri, enjoy the scenic views of apple orchards and the surrounding forests. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages and settlements. Once in Sankri, spend the night in comfort at a hotel.
Day 6: Return from Sankri to Dehradun by Tempo Travellers
Distance: 190 Km – 8/9 Hours journey
Mode of Journey: By Tempo Travellers
After breakfast, receive your certificates and take some final photos before bidding farewell to Sankri.
Inclusion
What is Included In This Trek?
Transport Facility from Dehradun to Dehradun. Tempo Travllers or Bolero Taxi
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in The Grand Shiva Hotel at Sankri Best Accommodation
Accommodation in tents on twin share basis
All meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Coffee, Snacks, Soup and Dinner
High quality tents
Sleeping bags
Mattress
Liner
Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
Dining Tent
Dining Table
Kitchen team
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide
Medical Kit
Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
Trek essentials
Necessary Items to Carry on a Trek
1. Basic Trekking Gear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack (with rain cover) | 50–60L with padded straps |
| Daypack (with rain cover) | 20–30L (if off-loading backpack) |
| Trekking Poles / Walking Stick | 1 |
| Water Bottle | 2 thermos flasks (1L each) |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte |
2. Clothing Guide (Based on Season)
| Item | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry collared T-shirt | 2–3 | 2–3 (Full sleeves) |
| Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves) | 2 | 2–3 |
| Fleece Jacket | 2 | 2 |
| Down Jacket | 1 (available on rent) | 1 (available on rent) |
| Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom) | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Quick-dry Trek Pants | 2–3 pairs | 2–3 pairs |
| Waterproof Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Woollen Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants | 1 | 1 |
| Lightweight Quick-dry Towel | 1 | 1 |
3. Head Gear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Head Torch | 1 |
| Sun Cap | 1 |
| Woollen Cap | 1 |
| Balaclava | 1 |
| Buff / Neck Gaiter | 1 |
| Sunglasses | 1 |
4. Footwear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Shoes (High ankle) | 1 pair |
| Flip-flops | 1 pair |
| Cotton Socks | 2–3 pairs |
| Woollen Socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 pair |
| Microspikes | 1 pair |
5. Personal Care Essentials
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | 1 |
| Toilet Paper | 1 roll |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 |
| Lip Balm | 1 |
| Light Towel | 1 |
| Moisturizer | 1 |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30–40) | 1 |
6. Personal Medical Kit
Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
Pain Reliever | 1 strip |
Motion Sickness Medicine | 1 strip |
Fever/Headache Medicine | 1 strip |
Allergy Medicine | 1 strip |
Diarrhoea Medicine | 1 strip |
Cream/Spray for Sprains | 1 |
Antiseptic Cream | 1 |
ORS | 1–2 packets |
Band-aids | 5–6 |
Cotton | 1 small roll |
Gauze | 2 pieces |
Scissors | 1 |
Tweezers | 1 |
Elastic Bandage | 1 |
Diamox 125/250 mg | 1 strip |
Diamox 500 mg | 4–5 pills |
Nifedipine 20 mg | 1 strip |
Dexamethasone (4 mg) | 1 strip |