Kedarkantha Trek Route: Itinerary, Weather & What to Expect

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Kedarkantha Trek Route: Itinerary, Weather & What to Expect

Some treks are seasonal, some spiritual, and some purely adventurous—but Kedarkantha Trek is an evergreen Himalayan classic. Among all winter treks in India, the Kedarkantha trek route in December stands out for its deep snow, fairy-tale forests, and breathtaking 360° summit views.

Located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kedarkantha is widely regarded as the best beginner-friendly winter trek in India, especially from late December to January.


Kedarkantha Trek Location & Overview

  • Region: Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand

  • Mountain Range: Garhwal Himalayas

  • Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,810 m)

  • Trek Distance: ~23 km (round trip)

  • Duration: 5–6 days

  • Base Camp: Sankri Village

The trek passes through Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, a protected biosphere known for rare Himalayan flora and fauna.

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Kedarkantha Summer Trek Uttarakhand

Why Choose Kedarkantha Trek in December?

December transforms Kedarkantha into a snow paradise:
  • Thick snow carpets from Sankri onwards

  • Snow-laden pine & oak forests

  • Crystal-clear views of Himalayan peaks

  • Less technical, safer than many winter treks

  • Perfect balance of adventure & comfort

Himalayan Peaks Visible

  • Swargarohini

  • Black Peak

  • Bandarpoonch


Kedarkantha Temperature & Weather in December

  • Day temperature: 5°C to 10°C

  • Night temperature: 0°C to -10°C

  • Snowfall: Frequent (especially after mid-December)

Despite the cold, Kedarkantha is considered safe and well-supported with established campsites and routes.

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All-Weather Trek- Kedarkantha-Uttarakhand

All-Weather Trek- Kedarkantha-Uttarakhand

Sankri Village – Base Camp of Kedarkantha

Sankri Village (1,930 m) is a scenic Himalayan hamlet and the gateway to multiple iconic treks:
  • Kedarkantha

  • Har Ki Doon

  • Rupin Pass

  • Bali Pass

  • Phulara Ridge

Mythology & Culture

Nearby Osla Village worships Duryodhana as a protector—locals believe they are descendants of the Kauravas.


Kedarkantha Trek Route (December)

Trek Route Flow

Dehradun → Sankri → Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp → Kedarkantha Summit → Hargaon → Sankri

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Kedarkantha Trek Uttarakhand
Kedarkantha Trek Uttarakhand

Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrive at Sankri Village

  • Drive from Dehradun (190 km, 8–9 hrs)

  • Guesthouse / homestay stay

Day 2: Sankri → Juda Ka Talab

  • Trek: 5 km

  • Altitude: 9,000 ft

  • Snow-covered forest trails

  • Camp near frozen lake

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab → Kedarkantha Base Camp

  • Trek: 4 km

  • Altitude: 11,200 ft

  • Open clearings & mountain views

Day 4: Summit Day – Base Camp → Kedarkantha → Hargaon

  • Trek: 6 km

  • Summit altitude: 12,500 ft

  • 360° Himalayan panorama

  • Descend to Hargaon campsite

Day 5: Hargaon → Sankri & Departure

  • Trek: 6 km

  • Drive back to Dehradun


How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi

🚗 By Road

  • Delhi → Dehradun: 265 km (7–8 hrs)

  • Dehradun → Sankri: 190 km

🚆 By Train

  • Nanda Devi Express (12205)

  • Dehradun Express (12687)

✈️ By Flight

👉 Tip: Reach Dehradun a day before the trek.


Where to Stay

  • Sankri: Guesthouses, hotels, homestays

  • During Trek: Fully supported tented camps


Kedarkantha Trek – FAQs

What is Kedarkantha trek?

Kedarkantha is a high-altitude winter trek in Uttarakhand, famous for snow trails and beginner-friendly routes.

How difficult is Kedarkantha trek?

It is easy to moderate, ideal for first-time trekkers.

How long is Kedarkantha trek?

~23 km total, completed in 5–6 days.

Is Kedarkantha trek safe in December?

Yes, with proper gear, guides, and acclimatization.

How many days are required for Kedarkantha trek?

Minimum 5 days, ideally 6 days including travel.


Final Thoughts

The Kedarkantha trek route in December is a dream for snow lovers and first-time trekkers alike. From frozen alpine lakes and snow-draped forests to a spectacular summit panorama, it delivers a complete Himalayan winter experience.

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About me

I am Om. I am a Travel Consultant and a licensed Tourist Guide ( Approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), I am living in Rishikesh. I set up this blog to share my tips and experiences for traveling to inspire and help you to travel Himalayas & Spiritual Places in India.

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