Kedarkantha Trek in December 2026: Snow, Weather and What to Expect
Quick answer: Yes, you can do the Kedarkantha trek in December, but snow on a given date is never guaranteed. Good snow usually starts around mid-December and in some years arrives as late as 1 January. If deep snow is your priority, late December to early February is the safer window.
Last updated: 3 November 2026.
December is the month most people picture when they think of Kedarkantha, but the trail changes a lot between the first and the last week of the month. This guide explains what to expect week by week, how cold it gets and how to choose your dates. For a full month-by-month view, read our Kedarkantha trek best time guide.
What does Kedarkantha look like in December?
| Period | Snow | Crowds | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early December (1–10) | Patchy; light snow near the summit is possible | Lower | Cold nights, a mix of dry and snowy trail |
| Mid-December (11–20) | Fresh snow usually begins | Rising | Snow on the upper trail and the meadows |
| Late December (21–31) | Best chance of continuous snow | Highest (Christmas and New Year) | Snow-covered camps and a busy trail |
Most operators describe the same pattern: patchy snow in the first days of December, proper snow from around mid-December, and the heaviest snow in January and February.
Is snow guaranteed in December?
No. Snowfall depends on the western disturbances of that particular winter, so nobody can promise snow on a given date. One operator’s weather guide notes that snow can begin in mid-December but is delayed until 1 January in some years. Last winter shows why: one report said Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh had a large precipitation deficit until late January 2026, with snowfall forecast to return around 22–24 January. If snow is the main reason you are going, plan a date range, not a single date, and treat January and early February as the safest window.
How cold does Kedarkantha get in December?
Days are cold but manageable, while nights at the higher camps are far colder. Operators quote anything from about 0°C to −15°C at night, depending on the year and the camp. Thermal layers, a down jacket, gloves, waterproof shoes and gaiters are essential. Our winter trek packing list covers the full kit.
Is December a good month for beginners?
Kedarkantha is widely recommended as a first snow trek, but it is rated easy in summer and moderate in winter. On day one you climb roughly 2,650 ft from Sankri to Juda ka Talab, and within two more days you reach 12,500 ft, so a slow pace and plenty of water matter. We explain the Kedarkantha trek difficulty and how to manage the risks in our guide on whether Kedarkantha is safe in December.
How to choose your December dates
- Smaller crowds: go in the first half of December and accept patchier snow.
- More reliable snow: choose January or early February instead.
- Christmas or New Year: book early, because the last two weeks of December are the busiest period on winter treks.
- Flexible plans: pick a departure with a buffer day, since weather can delay a batch.
How much does a December Kedarkantha trek cost?
Prices depend on your starting point, group size and inclusions. See our breakdown of the Kedarkantha trek cost for 2026–27 before you compare operators.
Plan your Kedarkantha trek with Divine Trail
We are a Dehradun-based trekking company. See the Kedarkantha trek itinerary and dates for current departures, or contact our team to choose a batch that fits your dates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do the Kedarkantha trek in December?
Yes. Kedarkantha is run through December and is one of the most popular winter treks, but conditions change between early and late December, so keep your dates flexible.
Does it snow on Kedarkantha in December?
Usually, but not on a fixed date. Snow commonly begins around mid-December, and in some years it is delayed until about 1 January. Early December often has patchy snow.
How cold is Kedarkantha in December?
Days are cold but manageable, and nights at the higher camps can fall anywhere from about 0°C to −15°C depending on the year and the camp. Layering and proper winter gear are essential.
Is December the best month for Kedarkantha?
December is a good choice, but January and early February are generally the safest months for deep snow. Late December suits trekkers who want a Christmas or New Year trek.
Is Kedarkantha in December good for beginners?
Yes, with preparation. It is a popular first snow trek, but winter makes it harder than summer, so build fitness for three to four weeks and trek with an experienced guide.
How early should I book a December Kedarkantha trek?
For Christmas and New Year dates, booking four to six weeks ahead is recommended because popular batches fill quickly. Weekday departures in other weeks usually need less notice.
Sources
TrekKaro, Kedarkantha best time · Himalaya Shelter, Kedarkantha weather guide · Indiahikes, Kedarkantha winter guide · Indiahikes, crowd analysis · TrekGo, booking guide · Daily Jagran, 2026 snowfall report
