Complete trek guide, best time to visit, difficulty level for one of the most beautiful winter's trek - Kedarkantha trek 2025.

Whenever we talk about going on a trek in winters, everyone suggests the Kedarkanta trek. But why is it so, what is it about the Kedarkanta trek? Why Everyone suggests this only, whether you are beginners or seasoned trekkers. And is it safe to do this trek in 2025-2026 and how will this trek look in 2025, let's everyone know something.

Kedarkantha trek is made up of a combination of 2 words kedar + kantha where kedar means name of Lord Shiva and kantha means throat. Kedarkantha is known as the throat of Lord Shiva and by the local people and our ancestors it is believed  that Lord Shiva used to meditate here at Kedarkantha before going to Kedarnath and he meditated here for many years.

Kedarkantha is situated at the western garwhal region in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. Kedarkantha is also a part of Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. Kedarkantha trek starts from the Sankri Village which is located at 1,950 meters (6,400 ft.) Sankri is a very quiet and beautiful village far away from the busy city noises. Sankri village is at a distance of 8-10 hours drive from Dehradun. Sankri is not only the base village of Kedarkantha but also of Har Ki Dun trek, Bali Pass trek and many other famous Himalayan treks.

Why is the Kedarkantha trek known as the most beginner friendly trek?

Kedarkantha trek is known as one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners due to several reasons. 

Easy to Moderate Difficulty

Kedarkantha trek starts from 6,400 ft. and Kedarkantha summit which will be the highest point of our trek is at 12,100ft. Kedarkantha trek itinerary is planned so well that you have to travel only 4-6 km per day and you gain your height gradually due to which beginners can complete the trek easily and the body also gets proper time to adjust to the height. There are no technical sections in Kedarkantha trek, you do not have to do any difficult things like climbing rocks, crossing rivers. And however much fatigue you have, you will get it on the summit day when you will see the sunrise and see the view from Kedarkantha summit, everything will be so rewarding and worth it.

Short Duration

Also why Kedarkantha trek is so popular, because it is a short duration trek and can be completed in just 4-5 days.Best for students, corporate employees who cannot take much leave then this is the best way to experience the Himalayan beauty in less days.

All-Season Beauty, Especially Winter

Kedarkantha trek remains open for almost 10 months in the year except in monsoon months because at that time the trail becomes so slippery due to rainfall. Kedarkantha shows its unique form in every season. But for a winter person or someone who wants to experience snow, December to March are the best months to see snow laden pine trees, snow capped mountain peaks and even completely frozen lake (Juda Ka Talab).

Safe and Well-Marked Trails

Why Kedarkantha is beginner friendly is because the trails of kedarkantha are well marked and safe. They are not steepy or challenging. Also at Kedarkantha there is very less chance of Altitude mountain sickness.Trekyaari provide experienced trek leaders, support staff, and high-quality equipment — making it a safe and well-supported experience.

Budget-Friendly

No one will want to miss this budget friendly and once in a lifetime experience. Especially in 2025 kedarkantha trek is at a super affordable price with group departures.

Kedarkantha Trek 2025: Why It Should Be on Your Bucket List

“Imagine standing on a snow-covered peak, the world around you painted in white, and 360 degrees of pure Himalayan magic… That’s Kedarkantha.”

Today, let’s explore what makes the Kedarkantha Trek 2025 so special — especially if you’re a first-time trekker.

The Grand Summit Experience

Why does everyone say that after reaching the summit kedarkantha feels so rewarding. Because after reaching at 12,500ft we got to see 360 degree panoramic views of mountains and we are all surrounded by majestic and famous peaks and can even spot 13 famous peaks like Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Swargrohini.  

Question for you all — when was the last time you felt that small, yet that powerful at the same time?

Winter Wonderland (December to March)

Winter 2025 is going to be a snow lover’s dream. Picture thick blankets of snow, frozen trails, and campsites that look like Christmas postcards.
If you’ve never seen snowfall before — trust me — the first time those flakes land on your jacket, you’ll feel like a kid again.

Forests from a Fairytale

Walking through dense pine, oak, and deodar forests — tall, silent, and timeless. In winter, a layer of snow makes it feel like nature has hit “pause” just for you.
You might even catch yourself whispering… because it’s that peaceful.

Sunrise You’ll Never Forget

On summit day, you start in the dark, guided only by your headlamp and the crunch of snow under your boots. And then, slowly… the first rays of the sun hit the peaks.
It’s not just a view — it’s a moment that stays with you long after you’re back in the city.

Camps That Feel Like Movie Sets

Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base, and more — each campsite has its own magic.
One night you might be by a frozen lake, another under a sky so full of stars it feels unreal. Every campsite feels like a reward for the day’s trek.

The Charm of Himalayan Villages

Your journey starts from Sankri — a small Garhwali village. Warm chai, home-cooked meals, and genuine smiles from locals welcome you. It’s a glimpse of a life that’s slower, simpler, and deeply connected to nature.

A Festive, Perfectly Timed Trek

Kedarkantha is open in winter, which means you can plan it over New Year, Christmas, or Republic Day weekends. Imagine ending your year — or starting the next — with a personal victory on a Himalayan summit.

Best Time to Do the Kedarkantha Trek (Month-wise Guide)

The Kedarkantha Trek can be done for most of the year, but each season gives a different experience. Here's a month-wise breakdown to help you choose the best time for your 2025 adventure:

December to March – The Classic Snow Season

Best for: Snow lovers, photographers, New Year & winter break

Why choose this?

• Snow-laden forests and frozen lakes

• Real “white winter wonderland” vibe

• Most popular time to do the trek

• Ideal for those who want a snow trek without high difficulty

Things to note:

• It can get really cold (as low as -8°C to -15°C at night)

• Trekking in snow is more tiring — but rewarding

April to June – Spring to Early Summer

Best for: Clear trails, mild weather, blooming landscapes

Why choose this?

• Melting snow and colorful rhododendron blooms

• Warmer days and clear views

• Easier walking conditions for beginners

Things to note:

• No snow at campsites by late April

• Ideal for those who want to avoid extreme cold

July to Mid-September – Monsoon Season

Best for: Offbeat explorers (but not recommended)

Why you should avoid:

• Landslides and slippery trails

• Low visibility due to clouds and rain

• Not suitable for first-time trekkers

September to November – Autumn Treks

Best for: Clear skies, golden forest trails, post-monsoon freshness

Why choose this?

• Crisp weather and excellent visibility

• Great for photographers

• Moderate cold, manageable for beginners

Things to note:

• Snow usually starts building by late November 

So, When Should You Go to the Kedarkantha Trek in 2025?

• For snow: Plan between mid-December 2024 to early March 2025

• For milder weather: Choose April or October 2025

• Avoid monsoon (July–August) if you're a first-timer

Kedarkantha Trek Route Overview

Most Kedarkantha treks start from Sankri village in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. The route takes you through pine forests, meadows, and snowfields before reaching the summit.

• Starting Point: Sankri (6,400 ft)

• Highest Point: Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 ft)

• Trek Distance: ~20 km total

• Duration: 4–6 days

Kedarkantha Trek 2025 – Detailed Day-wise Itinerary

Sankri to sankri 

Day1: The journey to Kedarkantha trek has started from Sankri Village. To make our body feel comfortable and to let our body adjust to the height, we will stay overnight in luxurious wooden cottages in Sankri and interact with each other. 

Day2: After having a healthy breakfast we will start our trek through dense oak and pine forests. After 4km of trek and gradually ascending to an altitude of 9,100 feet. We arrived at the Juda Ka Talab. During winter Juda Ka Talab gets so completely frozen that we can even walk on it. That's it for Day 2 at the Juda Ka Talab campsite we will set up our tent along with chatting, snow fighting, and enjoying a bonfire. This is how we will eat our first day of trek blanket of stars.

Day3: Today we will trek towards the Kedarkantha base camp. After traveling a short distance, we leave the forests behind and reaches at open wide meadows from where we start seeing snow capped mountains. After 4km of trekking and after reaching Kedarkantha base camp we will rest here and let our body adjust according to height. Today we will rest because tomorrow is going to be a tough day as we have to get up early around 2-3AM in the morning to witness the most beautiful sunrise.

Day4: Finally it's our summit day and however much I say about this day is still less because it is very difficult to describe its beauty in words. We start our trek early in the morning. At that time in the morning it is dark everywhere. Our trek starts by switching on our torchlights. And it is so peaceful during the morning that we can only hear the sound of the crunch coming from our feet walking on the snow.The excitement level is increasing with each step. After a few hours of trek we will reach Kedarkantha summit from where we will get to see the complete 360 degree panoramic view, we will stay here for sometime so that we can witness the beauty of Kedarkantha summit and then we will return to Juda Ka Talab.

Day5: The final day of our Kedarkantha trek, Today we head back to Sankri from Juda Ka talab. Walking on the same familiar paths, a sense of nostalgia sets in. After 2 to 3 hours of trekking, we reached Sankri. Once we arrive, it’s time for goodbyes - the trek has come to an end. There are tears in everyone’s eyes and countless memories in their hearts. 

Kedarkantha Trek Difficulty Level & Fitness Tips

The Kedarkantha Trek is rated easy to moderate — which is why it’s one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners. That said, even an “easy” trek requires basic preparation so you can enjoy the journey without physical strain.

Difficulty Level Explained

• Trail Type: Gradual ascents with some steep sections, especially on summit day.

• Daily Trekking Hours: 4–6 hours per day on average.

• Summit Day Challenge: The climb from Base Camp to the summit is steeper, combined with early morning cold, making it the most demanding part.

• Altitude Factor: Highest point is 12,500 ft — enough to feel the thin air, but the risk of severe altitude sickness is low if you pace yourself.

 How Fit Do You Need to Be?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a basic level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength will make the trek much more enjoyable. If you can walk 5–6 km comfortably in one go, you’re ready to start training for Kedarkantha.

Pre-Trek Fitness Plan (4–6 Weeks Before Trek)

Cardio Training (3–4 days/week):

• Brisk walking, jogging, or cycling for 30–45 mins

• Stair climbing is a great way to prepare for uphill trails

Strength Training (2–3 days/week):

• Squats, lunges, planks, and push-ups

• Focus on core and leg strength to handle uneven terrain

Flexibility & Recovery (2–3 days/week):

• Yoga or stretching to avoid stiffness and injuries

 Trek-Ready Habits

• Break in your trekking shoes before the trek

• Practice carrying a small backpack (5–6 kg) during walks

• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol/smoking before and during the trek

Pro Tip: Even if you’ve never trekked before, following this simple fitness routine will make your Kedarkantha experience smoother and far more enjoyable.

Kedarkantha Trek Weather & Temperature (Month-wise Guide)

Knowing what weather to expect is essential for planning and packing for the Kedarkantha Trek. Conditions vary drastically with the season, so here’s a month-by-month breakdown for Kedarkantha Trek 2025:

December to February – Peak Winter & Snow Season

Temperature:

Day: -2°C to 8°C | Night: -8°C to -15°C

Weather:

Heavy snowfall, frozen lakes, snow-laden pine forests.

Experience:

The most popular time for snow treks. Magical landscapes but very cold — be ready for multiple warm layers.

Tip:

Use good-quality snow trekking shoes and carry extra thermal wear.

March – End of Snow Season

• Temperature: Day: 2°C to 10°C | Night: -5°C to -8°C

• Weather: Melting snow, clear skies, slightly warmer days.

• Experience: Great mix of snow and warmer weather; fewer trekkers compared to December.

• Tip: Best for those who want snow but less intense cold.

April to June – Spring & Early Summer

Temperature:

Day: 8°C to 15°C | Night: 2°C to 8°C

Weather:

Lush green meadows, blooming rhododendrons, snow mostly gone by May.

Experience:

Comfortable for beginners who prefer milder conditions.

Tip:

• Light layers work fine; sunscreen is a must.

July to Mid-September – Monsoon (Not Recommended)

Temperature:

• Day: 12°C to 18°C | Night: 8°C to 12°C

• Weather:

• Frequent rain, cloud cover, slippery trails.

• Experience: Risk of landslides and leeches; not ideal for first-timers.

• Tip: Avoid trekking in this period for safety reasons.

Late September to November – Autumn Treks

• Temperature: Day: 5°C to 12°C | Night: -2°C to -8°C

• Weather: Clear skies, crisp air, golden-brown forest trails.

• Experience: Excellent visibility for photography and mountain views.

• Tip: A good time for beginners who want cold weather without snow.

Quick Recap:

• For snow: Mid-December to early March

• For mild weather: April or October

• Avoid: July–August (monsoon)

Essential Packing List for Kedarkantha Trek 2025

Packing smart is the difference between a comfortable trek and a miserable one — especially in the Himalayas. Here’s a beginner-friendly Kedarkantha trek packing guide so you don’t forget anything important.

Clothing (Layering is Key)

• Base Layer (Thermal Innerwear) – 1–2 sets for warmth in cold weather

• Mid Layer (Fleece/Sweater) – Retains heat without adding bulk

• Outer Layer (Down or Synthetic Jacket) – For insulation during extreme cold

• Trekking Pants – 2 pairs (avoid jeans, opt for quick-dry material)

• Full Sleeve T-shirts – 3–4, moisture-wicking

• Windproof/Waterproof Shell Jacket – Protects against wind and snow

• Woollen Cap & Neck Gaiter – Keeps head and neck warm

• Gloves – 1 warm fleece/woollen pair + 1 waterproof outer layer

• Socks – 3–4 pairs of warm trekking socks + 1–2 light cotton pairs

Footwear

• Trekking Shoes – Waterproof, ankle support, snow grip (e.g., Quechua, Columbia, or similar)

• Camp Sandals/Flip-Flops – For evenings at campsite

• Gaiters – Optional but useful for snow treks to keep snow out of shoes

Trekking Gear

• Backpack – 40–50L with rain cover

• Daypack – 15–20L for summit day essentials

• Trekking Poles – Great for balance and reducing knee strain

• Headlamp – Essential for summit day (hands-free)

Personal Items & Toiletries

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

• Lip balm (SPF protection)

• Toilet paper & wet wipes

• Quick-dry towel

• Hand sanitizer

• Toothbrush & small toothpaste

• Personal medications & basic first-aid kit

Hydration & Snacks

• Water bottles or hydration bladder (minimum 2L capacity)

• Energy bars, dry fruits, or chocolates for quick boosts

Optional but Recommended

• Camera/GoPro with extra batteries

• Power bank (electricity is limited on the trail)

• Small notebook & pen for journaling memories

Pro Tip: Pack light but don’t skip the essentials. Your backpack should ideally weigh no more than 8–9 kg for comfort.

Accommodation, Food & Toilets on the Kedarkantha Trek

When you’re heading into the Himalayas for the first time, comfort and survival basics matter as much as the views. Here’s what to expect on the Kedarkantha Trek in 2025:

Accommodation

• Base Village (Sankri) – You’ll stay in simple guesthouses or homestays with basic rooms, beds, and blankets. Don’t expect luxury; think cosy mountain vibes.

• On the Trek – All nights are spent in camping tents (usually 2–3 trekkers per tent). Tents are waterproof and come with foam mats & sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.

• Campsites are set in stunning locations — lakesides, meadows, or under a starry sky.

Food

• Trekking companies provide hot, freshly cooked meals — vegetarian by default.

• A typical day’s meals:

  • Breakfast – Parathas, poha, upma, bread with jam/butter, and tea/coffee

  • Lunch – Rice, chapati, dal, vegetables, salad

  • Evening Snacks – Pakoras, soup, tea/coffee

  • Dinner – A filling meal similar to lunch, sometimes with dessert like kheer or custard

• You can carry energy bars or dry fruits for quick snacks during the trek.

Toilets on the Trail

• Expect dry pit toilets at campsites — a small enclosed tent with a pit dug in the ground.

• Carry your own toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer.

• Since water is limited, avoid using it for cleaning — wipes and paper are your best friends.

• First-time trekkers often find it awkward at first, but you get used to it quickly.

Pro Tip: Pack a pair of lightweight camp shoes and a headlamp — they make nighttime toilet visits much easier.

Best Time to Do the Kedarkantha Trek

One of the biggest reasons Kedarkantha has become so popular is that it’s a year-round trek — but the experience changes drastically with the season. Your choice of time will shape the views, weather, and difficulty.

Winter (December to February) –  The Classic Snow Season

• This is when Kedarkantha transforms into a snow wonderland.

• Perfect for first-time snow trekkers — expect snow-laden trails, frozen lakes, and crystal-clear skies.

• Temperatures drop to -5°C to -10°C at night, so warm layers are a must.

• It’s also the busiest season, so book well in advance.

Spring (March to April) –  Snow Meets Flowers

• You’ll still see some snow at higher camps, but meadows start to bloom.

• Pleasant daytime temperatures (5°C to 15°C), making it easier for beginners.

• Less crowd compared to winter.

Summer (May to June) –  Lush Green Meadows

• Snow melts away, revealing rolling green landscapes.

• Clear mountain views, warmer nights, and longer days.

• Ideal for those who prefer trekking without snow and extreme cold.

Autumn (September to November) –  Golden Trails

• Post-monsoon skies are incredibly clear — great for photographers.

• Meadows turn golden, and you might spot early snow towards November.

• Balanced weather, moderate difficulty.

Pro Tip:
For first-time trekkers who want that perfect snow trek experience, mid-December to late January is unbeatable. If you want easier conditions, spring and autumn are your best bet.

How to Reach the Starting Point – Sankri

The Kedarkantha trek begins from a small but scenic village called Sankri in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Since Sankri is tucked deep in the Himalayas, reaching here needs a bit of planning.

Step 1: Reach Dehradun

• By Flight: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (about 25 km from the city center). You can take a taxi or cab to Dehradun city.

• By Train: Dehradun Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi.

• By Bus: Overnight buses from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) to Dehradun take around 7–8 hours.

Step 2: Dehradun to Sankri (200 km / 8–10 hours)

• From Dehradun, the drive to Sankri is long but incredibly scenic. You’ll pass pine forests, river valleys, and small hill towns like Mori and Purola.

• Options to get there:

  • Shared Jeep / Taxi: Easily available from Dehradun early morning.

  • Private Cab: More comfortable if you’re in a group.

  • Bus: Limited government buses leave in the morning from Dehradun to Sankri (usually around 5–8 AM).

Important Travel Tips for First-Time Trekkers

• Start early from Dehradun to reach Sankri before dark.

• Carry snacks and water — there aren’t too many food stops after Purola.

• Roads are narrow and winding, so if you get motion sickness, keep medicines handy

Accommodation & Food on the Kedarkantha Trek

Stay at Sankri (Base Village)

Your journey starts in Sankri, a quiet Himalayan village with stunning views of the Swargarohini range.

• Type of Stay: Small guesthouses, homestays, and basic hotels.

• Facilities: Clean rooms, warm blankets, and sometimes attached bathrooms. Don’t expect luxury — it’s all about comfort and warmth.

• Tip: Book in advance during peak winter months (Dec–Jan), as Sankri gets full with trekkers.

Stay During the Trek

Once the trek begins, you’ll be staying in tents at scenic campsites like Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp.

• Tents: Usually 2–3 person tents with sleeping bags and mats provided by the trek operator.

• Toilets: Dry toilets (pit-style) at campsites — basic but eco-friendly.

• Electricity: No charging points in the mountains. Carry a power bank.

Food on the Trek

Good food is fuel for trekking!

• Meals Provided: Your trekking team usually serves simple, hot, vegetarian meals — dal, rice, roti, vegetables, and soup.
  

• Snacks: Carry some high-energy snacks like dry fruits, energy bars, and chocolates for quick boosts.
  

• Water: Mountain streams are the main source; carry a reusable bottle and purification tablets or a filter bottle.

Permits & Fees for Kedarkantha Trek

To trek in Kedarkantha, you’ll need a forest entry permit as the trail passes through the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarkashi district.
Here’s what first-time trekkers should know:

• Forest Entry Fee – ₹150–₹300 per person (varies slightly for Indians and foreigners).

• Camping Charges – ₹50–₹100 per tent per night (often included in trek packages).

• Guide Requirement – Uttarakhand government mandates having a registered local guide for treks inside the sanctuary. If you’re booking with TrekYaari, this is already included.

• ID Proof – Carry a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID) for permit verification.

Where to Get Permits – Permits are arranged in Sankri before the trek starts. Your trek operator usually takes care of this.