The Golden Glow at Kedarkantha Peak
Kedarkantha trek is in one of the most significant religious areas, especially in the Hindu Mythology. The Temple of Lord Kedarkantha (Shivji), which sits at the base of the summit, has stood the test of time and is revered amongst spiritual believers. Millions of pilgrims move mountains to offer their prayers and seek blessings of the Hindu Deity each year.
The temple itself lies at the base of the Kedarnath Peak, facing the Kedar Parvat. A beginner level trek, Kedarkantha is especially beautiful in the winter months. One of the most remarkable crests in the Himalayan region, both nature lovers and ardent trekkers tend to enjoy the experience.
History of Kedarkantha
In general, Uttarakhand is splattered with great religious sights. Lord Shiv’s Bull avatar wandered in the region. He attained the form to escape from the Pandavas and meditated in the valley in his disguise. But, once his peace was disturbed due to the locals, he fled from Kedarkantha to Kedarnath.
Also, local hearsay says that the Trishul of the Lord, erected in the valley, keeps the place safe from destruction. There was ample proof in their belief in 2013 when the valley suffered great losses due to the massive floods in the region, but the Kedarnath temple was not harmed.
About the Kedarkantha Trek
This is one of those treks where you can climb the summit in the harsh winters. It’s a four-day beginner trek in Uttarakhand, which takes you to the frozen Juda ka Talab and the snow-clad paths. The magical sunrise from the 12500 ft Kedarkantha summit seems like heaven. You can also get the views of various peaks like Pangarchulla and Har Ki Dun from the summit.
The need to connect with your greater purpose and the belief in faith is such a connecting factor that even if you’re not a Hindu, you can feel the faith all around you. It sets the mood for when you start your climb.
The forested floors of the massive mountain peaks, with meadows of Pine Trees and possible snow kissing the hills, makes for a stunning backdrop to your communal journey. Also, right after the base camp, you’ll start witnessing stunning panoramic views all round of famous mountain summits along with the river Tons, which is fed by glaciers.
Kedarkantha Height / Altitude
Kedarkantha is an altitude of 3800 meters in height and offers a 360-degree view of Pangarchulla, Har ki Doon and Swargarohini peaks of the high Himalayas.
Best time to visit Kedarkantha trek
Although Kedarknatha trek can be done at any time of the year, it’s preferred in the winters from January to March as the trek is covered in the blanket of snow and offer some stunning snow-packed views.
It is one of those treks in India where you can easily find snowfall near Delhi in winter. Also, the trek has the most gorgeous campsites. Hence, do not forget to take your own camping gear and camp in the wild on this trek.
Weather
In the summer months of April – June, the temperature varies from 3°C to 8°C in daytime and -5°C to -1°C at night. Post monsoon season of September to December witnesses’ temperature of -4°C to 6°C in daytime and -8°C to -15°C at night. For January till April, the weather is -6°C to 2°C in daytime and -10°C to -18°C at night
Kedarkantha Trek:
6 Days / 5 Nights
Kedarkantha – A Queen of Winters
Kedarkantha is a picturesque mountain peak with an elevation of 12,500 ft. in the Himalayan range of Uttarakhand. It’s a famous winter trek that starts from Sankri which is located in Uttarakhand District, Kedarkantha peak nestled in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kedarkantha trek is covered with the beauty of dense forests of pine, oak, rhododendron, and deodar. In winter the whole trek is covered up with sheets of Snow under a glittering sky and the eyes will not forget the mesmerizing beauty of the Kedarkantha Trek. A complete trek of 21 km approx. is covered within 4 days. At Top of the Kedarkantha peak offers an unforgettable 360° panoramic view of the Himalayan range and witnesses 13 peaks Swargrohini, Bandarpuch, Nanda Ghunti, Kalanaag Peak, Yamunotri Range, Gangotri, Dropdi ka Danda etc.
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri
6400 ft. | 200 Km
Pick up from Dehradun ISBT / Railway Station early in the Morning and Start our Journey towards Sankri Base Camp through beautiful and scenic views of the Mountains where you will feel a love of nature, with mesmerizing landscapes and the beauty of Himalaya Flora & Fauna.
Sankri is located at an Altitude of 6400 ft. Sankri is a famous base camp for many Breathtaking treks mainly “Har ki Dun”, “Kedarkantha”, “Phulera Ridge” etc.
The Drive will take around 7-8 hours to reach Sankri and then Check-in at your Hotel and take a rest after a full day of Journey.
Day 2: Trek from “Sankri” to “Juda ka Talab”
9100 ft. | 4 Km
We start our Trek early in the morning after a Delicious Breakfast. This trek up to “Juda ka Talab” is situated at an elevation of 9100 ft. with surrounded by a luscious dense forest of Pine, Oak and Deodar Trees. We cross several Small villages and high-altitude Suspension Bridges over the streams and walk through beautiful meadows we reach our Destination.
Juda ka Talab is a beautiful & Auspicious lake surrounded by Mountains. There is a famous story behind the Kedarkantha Peak and Juda ka Talab Lake locals tell the story that once upon a time Lord Shiva meditate at this Peak as its name implies “Kedarkantha” and some droplets fell from the hair of Lord Shiva and this lake formed “Juda ka Talab”.
This lake is auspicious and picturesque as well. After refreshing, head to your tent for the night after a scrumptious Dinner.
Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab – Kedarkantha Base Camp
11250 ft. | 4 km
Wake up early and enjoy the splendid view of sunrise. On the third day, after a delicious Breakfast, we will start our trek towards Kedarkantha Base Camp situated at an elevation of 11,250 ft. This trek will be covered within 3 hours approx. on this trek, you will encounter dense pine and oak forest the path is covered with beautiful meadows, Himalayan Flora & Fauna.
From the Base camp, you will witness some mesmerizing Himalayan Peaks such as Bandarpuch, Swargrohini, Kalanaag etc. After reaching the campsite and refreshing yourself with nature, Enjoy your Delicious Dinner and Take a rest in your tents.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp – Kedarkantha Peak
12500 ft | 6 km
Today we will start our trek early at 2 am after breakfast and it will take 6-7 hours to get to the summit. There you will be an eyewitness to the splendid view of the Morning Sunrise and the jaw-dropping picturesque view of the Himalayan Peak ranges with filtered Sunrays from the Mountain peaks of Yamunotri and Gangotri Ranges. After spending some memorable time at the summit and coming down to the base camp. Reach the ca!mpsite and end the day with a delightful dinner.
Day 5: Trek from Base Camp – Sankri Village
6400 ft. | 6 km
On the 5th day Morning, we will descend towards Sankri after a delicious Breakfast, Continue on a trail and admire the scenic view of Himalayan ranges and the fascinating Path from the meadows & luscious forests of Pine, Deodar, Oak and Maple. Arriving at Sankri Village with a memorable & miserable trekking experience. luscious stay at Sankri village
Day 6: Sankri Village – Dehradun | Time to say goodbye
Drive 200 km
Now, is the final day to say goodbye to this lofty peak. After a delicious breakfast board, your vehicle and back towards the Dehradun with beautiful and ultimate memories & experiences.
After arriving in Dehradun we will drop you at Railway Station / ISBT and your package is Ending.
• Inclusion :
1. Transfer / Transportation
2. Breakfast & Dinner
3. Camping Gear & Equipment
4. Accommodation
5. Forest Department Fee & Permission
6. Trek Guide
If you have an doubts, Please let me know