Kedarkantha Trek: Complete 2026-27 Guide (Cost, Best Time, Itinerary & Difficulty)
The Kedarkantha Trek is a 4–6 day snow trek in Uttarakhand’s Govind National Park that climbs to a 12,500 ft (3,810 m) summit from the base village of Sankri. Often called the “Queen of Winter Treks,” it is India’s most popular beginner-friendly winter trek, best done between December and April when the trail is under fresh snow.
If you’re planning your first Himalayan snow trek this season, this guide answers everything — cost, best time, difficulty, itinerary and how to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi.
What is the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha Trek is a Himalayan winter trek in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, inside Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. It covers roughly 20 km over 4–6 days and summits Kedarkantha peak at 12,500 ft. The trail passes pine and oak forests, the frozen lake of Juda-ka-Talab, and open snow meadows, ending at a small Shiva temple on the summit.
| Detail | Kedarkantha Trek |
|---|---|
| Location | Sankri, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand |
| Max altitude | 12,500 ft (3,810 m) |
| Distance | ~20 km (round trip) |
| Duration | 4–6 days |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Base camp | Sankri village |
| Best season | December to April |
| Nearest railhead / airport | Dehradun / Jolly Grant |
What is the best time for the Kedarkantha trek?
The best time for the Kedarkantha trek is December to April. For heavy snow and the classic “snow trek” experience, choose December–January. For lighter snow, sunnier days and clearer summit views, choose February–March. By April the snow melts into green meadows.
| Month | Conditions | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Nov (late) | First light snow, cold nights | Early-season, fewer crowds |
| Dec–Jan | Heavy snowfall, freezing (night −5°C to −10°C) | Deep snow, snow camping, photography |
| Feb–Mar | Lighter snow, sunny, clearer skies | First-timers, stable weather |
| April | Snow melting, meadows opening | Easiest conditions, families |
New to snow trekking? A gentle winter option like the Brahmatal Trek also makes a great first snow trek — compare both before you book.
How much does the Kedarkantha trek cost?
The Kedarkantha trek generally costs between ₹6,000 and ₹14,000 per person, depending on duration (4N vs 5N), group size, inclusions and whether transport from Dehradun/Delhi is added. Ex-Sankri packages sit at the lower end; Ex-Delhi packages that include transport, meals, camping and a certified guide cost more.
What the cost usually includes: accommodation (guesthouse + tents on sharing basis), all meals on the trek, trained trek leader and support staff, forest/trail permits, camping and safety equipment, and basic first aid with oxygen support.
For current dates and Divine Trail’s exact per-person price, see the Kedarkantha Trek itinerary & booking page.
Check Kedarkantha dates & price →
How difficult is the Kedarkantha trek?
The Kedarkantha trek is rated easy to moderate and is suitable for fit first-time trekkers. You walk about 6–7 hours a day and gain altitude gradually, which lowers the risk of altitude sickness. The summit-day push on snow is the most demanding part, but with basic fitness and proper layering, beginners complete it comfortably.
Fitness prep: build cardio for 3–4 weeks before the trek — aim to jog ~5 km in under 40 minutes, plus some stair/step training. Carry warm layers, waterproof trekking shoes, gloves and thermals.
Kedarkantha trek itinerary (5 days / 4 nights)
- Day 1 — Dehradun to Sankri (~200 km drive): Scenic 8–10 hr drive via Mussoorie/Purola to the base village, Sankri (~6,400 ft). Overnight in a guesthouse.
- Day 2 — Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab (~4 km): Trek through pine and oak forests to the frozen lake campsite (~9,100 ft).
- Day 3 — Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base (~4 km): Climb into open snow meadows to the base camp (~11,250 ft).
- Day 4 — Summit day + descent (~6 km): Early-morning summit push to Kedarkantha peak (12,500 ft) for sunrise views, then descend to a lower camp.
- Day 5 — Trek to Sankri, drive to Dehradun: Walk down through the forest and drive back.
Kedarkantha trek from Delhi usually adds one day either side for the Delhi–Dehradun journey (≈520 km), making it a 6-day trip.
How to reach Kedarkantha (from Delhi & Dehradun)
- By road: Delhi → Dehradun (~6–7 hrs), then Dehradun → Sankri (~200 km, 8–10 hrs). Government buses run from ISBT Kashmere Gate to Dehradun.
- By train: Overnight trains (e.g. Nanda Devi Express, Dehradun Express) from Delhi to Dehradun railway station.
- By air: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~25 km from the city).
Base camp is Sankri; from there the trek begins on foot. Mobile network is limited to BSNL around Sankri, with no connectivity higher up.
Kedarkantha vs other winter & autumn treks
- Want more snow, still beginner-friendly? Try the Kuari Pass Trek — big Himalayan views (Nanda Devi, Dronagiri) in winter.
- Prefer a short summit + temple combo? The Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila Trek is ideal for autumn and early winter.
- Ready to browse all seasons? See every Himalayan option on the Divine Trail Trips & Treks page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many days does the Kedarkantha trek take?
The Kedarkantha trek takes 4–6 days. Ex-Sankri it is usually 5 days/4 nights; from Delhi it is around 6 days including travel.
What is the best time for the Kedarkantha trek?
December to April. December–January offers heavy snow, while February–March gives lighter snow and clearer skies.
How much does the Kedarkantha trek cost?
Between ₹6,000 and ₹14,000 per person, depending on duration, group size, inclusions and starting point (Sankri or Delhi).
Is the Kedarkantha trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is graded easy to moderate and is one of India’s most popular beginner winter treks, provided you have basic fitness.
What is the altitude of the Kedarkantha summit?
The Kedarkantha summit is at 12,500 ft (3,810 m).
How do I reach Kedarkantha from Delhi?
Travel from Delhi to Dehradun (train/bus/flight), then drive ~200 km to Sankri base village, where the trek starts.
