Ecosystem of Kedarkantha Trek: Birds, Forests, and More

Kedarkantha trek lies within a protected area known for its rich biodiversity in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Govind Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. This region is home to a variety of birds, animals, and trees, including some of the rare species that are protected here to prevent them from going extinct. Flora and Fauna on Kedarkantha trek are something that make this journey truly special. 

Flora on Kedarkantha trek 

Lower Altitude Forests (Sankri to Juda Ka Talab – 6,400 to 9,000 ft)

Chir Pine and Deodar Cedar - Found on the trail between Sankri to Juda Ka Talab. Chir Pine trees can be recognized by their long, needle-like leaves. The roots of chir pine trees hold the soil firmly which helps in soil conservation. Also the long and dense stems provide a home to many birds.  

The Deodar Cedar tree is known as the “Tree of God” and is valued for its strong and durable wood and its pleasant sweet fragrance. Deodar tree is used in Ayurvedic medicine, construction, as an insect repellent and in many other ways. 

Mid-Altitude Forests (Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base – 9,000 to 11,000 ft)

Rhododendron: Rhododendron trees are only found in mountain regions, making the trails even more beautiful by their colorful flowers. Also the petals of rhododendron are edible and locals there make some of the most delicious dishes like chutney of rhododendron petals and sharbat. Also it is useful in traditional herbal medicine. 

Alpine Zone (Above 11,000 ft)

Brahma Kamal: Rare flower only found at high altitude and a plant that grows once in a year especially in monsoon season. Brahma Kamal is known as “King of flowers." This mystical flower holds a special significance in Indian mythology. 

Fauna on Kedarkantha trek 

Birds to spot during Kedarkantha trek

Himalayan Monal:  One of the most beautiful birds which can also give a tough competition to the peacock in beauty. Himalayan Monal is the state bird of Uttarakhand and the national bird of Nepal. 

Mammals on Kedarkantha trek

Snow Leopard: It is very rare to see a snow leopard. In winter the fur and the body of a snow leopard perfectly blends with the snow and is a silent king. It moves fastly without even making noise. 

A true Story : Face to Face with Leopard. 

It was the last day of the trek, the summit day. On the summit day , the walk started early in the morning when it’s dark and freezing everywhere. Everybody started walking uphill with headlamps and torches in the direction of light. The forest was so silent that what we could only hear was the crunch of snow beneath our boots. 

After covering some distance, there was something strange - two small sparky glowing lights coming toward us. At first everyone thought that it may be another group of trekkers. But soon our trek leader realized the truth. 

And he whispered “It’s a leopard”

The animal was walking slowly towards the group.

Everybody freezes. 

Our trek guide was an expert and he knew exactly what to do. He asked everybody to start banging their trekking sticks together loudly and repeatedly. The sound echoed through the forest. After a few tense moments, the leopard turned around and slowly disappeared into the trees. 

Why Protect Kedarkantha Trek's Biodiversity?

Uttarakhand is mainly and widely known for its rich biodiversity and is a famous spot for tourism. It is home to many species of birds, animals, and plants. Biodiversity of Kedarkantha trek also has some of the rare species like Himalayan monal, musk deer, snow leopard which are only found in mountains. Local peoples also rely on forests and tourism for their livelihood. But as per year the tourists increase, the environment gets harmed through noise, litter, and it also damages the homes of animals and plants. So protecting mother nature is our duty. Unless many of our species become extinct. By protecting biodiversity, we ensure that Kedarkantha remains healthy, clean, and beautiful for everyone - including future generations.