Kedarkantha: The Complete Route Guide

Kedarkantha is the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking — achievable for beginners, rewarding for veterans, and stunningly beautiful in winter.

When to Go

The best window is December to March. Peak clarity is in January, but temperatures drop to -10°C at camp. March offers warmer conditions but softer snow.

Getting There

Fly or train to Dehradun, then:

• Hire a taxi or shared jeep from Dehradun ISBT to Sankri (8-10 hours, ~₹2500 shared)
• Sankri is your base — hotels available, mobile signal exists

Permits

• Forest permit required: ₹150 per person
• Available at the Sankri forest checkpost
• Carry Aadhaar/passport copy

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Sankri (1920m) to Juda Ka Talab (2740m)

Distance: 5km | Gain: 820m | Time: 3-4 hours

The trail starts from Sankri village and immediately enters a dense pine and oak forest. The path is well-marked with red paint markers. Juda Ka Talab (the "split lake") is a small but beautiful frozen lake in winter. Camp here.

Day 2: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base (3500m)

Distance: 4km | Gain: 760m | Time: 3 hours

Short but steep. The tree line ends and you're into the open, snow-covered terrain. On clear days you get your first glimpse of the summit. Camp is in a protected hollow.

Day 3: Summit Day (3950m) + Descent to Sankri

Distance: 12km round trip | Time: 7-9 hours

Leave by 4 AM. The trail is marked with bamboo poles. Summit takes 2.5-3 hours from base. Views include Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag. Return to Sankri the same day.