If you are planning a winter trek in India, Kedarkantha Trek would be a right choice. A perfect picturesque trek in the lap of the Himalayas lying at the altitude of 12,630 feet with mesmerising views along the climb up to its summit point. The trail starts with a dense forest of giant pine and oak trees that will further turn into a white blanket of snow covered highlands in every direction. At the end the summit leaves you astonished with stunning 360 degree views of DhaulaDhar ranges and famous peaks/mountain summits.
Dehradun to Sankri
The drive from Dehradun to Sankri is an enchanting hill drive of 10-11 hour stretching over approx 210 Km ride via Musoorie, Damta, Naugaon, Purola, Mori and Naitwar. We started early morning from Dehradun and reached Sankri by evening where we stayed in a homestay . Sankri is a small village in Uttrakhand and there are lot of options to stay but most of them are homestays. These homestays provides food and lodging. After reaching we went for a stroll in Sankri market. One can easily find all the trek related stuff in that market.
Sankri to Juda ka Talab
The day started with chilled morning, locals doing their daily works, mules passing by and lots Himalayan Bhutia dogs trying to get friendly with you. Post breakfast we started our trek from the local Sankri road entering into the local trails and then dissolving into the forest of broad leaves trees. The path goes through Saud village which is a gentle climb. A lot of locals mostly women and children will be seen on the way carrying wood and dried leaves for their cattle. Walking trails of this day will be steep sometimes and sometimes it will be leveled grounds with green and dense forests running along with you. End of the day we set our campsites which is located near to Juda Ka Talab and is a closed camping site surrounded by tall pine and oak trees and mountain slopes. We reached the campsites by afternoon and stayed in camps enjoying the serenity scattered around this place with evening sunset and glittering sunrise in the morning.
Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Post breakfast we started from JUDA KA TALAB and trek through the pine and oak trees to reach the open highlands below the summit. As we move forward into forest suddenly at the end of forest trails we started to see a wide meadow stretching in front of mighty Dhauladhar Ranges. This camping site has excellent picturesque views and is the main highlight of the trek. There were green pastures nearby and the views towards Himachal which were unending. One can roam around this place easily and can soak all the fresh tidings of nature's gift .We camped here for the night.
Kedarkantha base to Kedarkantha peak
It was a long day as we made the final push towards summit. We started climbing before the break of dawn. The route goes on the western ridge of the mountain and it gets very steep at multiple points. We walked in a zig zag manner on the snow slopes and 2 hours later we came across two huts that offer refreshments. As the sun rises sky will show dramatic colors and the transformation leaves you speechless. The trail started steeper from here and we found knee- deep snow in some places. Towards the end of the trail and close to the top the trek becomes a little difficult and can be a little strenuous but the view from the top and the amazing location is worth the effort. The arresting 360 view of the snow clad peaks of Uttarakhand is intoxicating and beyond words to be penned down. The most prominent peaks visible from the top are Swargarohini, Black Peak and Bandarpoonch peaks. One can relax at the top for some time and enjoy the magical beauty of nature and then descend towards base camp by noon time. Night stay at basecamp.
Kedarkantha basecamp to Sankri
Its a last day on the trek. Post Breakfast we headed back to Sankri. Walking through the pine forest we reached Sankri. Overnight stay in the same homestay.
Sankri to Dehradun
After having local delicacies in the breakfast made by house owner we headed back to Dehradun.
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