Kedarkantha Trek

Add-ons

Items	Price (₹)	Items	Price (₹)
River Rafting (with Safety Kayaker)	1500	Bungee Jumping	2500
Offloading (Backpack)	1600	Single Occupancy Tent	1600
Trekking Shoes Rental	550	Down Jacket Rental	550
Trekking Pole Rental	250	Poncho / Rain Cover	200
Gloves	200	Thermal Water Bottle	300
Insurance	100 / day

History and Legends of the Kedarkantha Trek

Kedarkantha, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, holds a special place in local lore. The name “Kedarkantha” combines “Kedar” (Lord Shiva) and “Kantha” (throat). Legend has it that Kedarkantha was initially chosen as the site for the Kedarnath temple. However, due to interruptions, the temple was constructed at its current location in Kedarnath.

One legend tells of Lord Shiva disguising himself as a bull to evade the Pandavas and seeking refuge at Kedarkantha. The peak still bears the marks of Shiva’s trident (trishul). Another tale speaks of how Shiva’s throat turned blue (kantha) after consuming poison to save the world. This act of self-sacrifice is commemorated by the peak’s name. Trekking Kedarkantha is not only an adventure but also a spiritual journey through rich Himalayan culture and history.

Kedarkantha Trek Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kotgaon

Morning: Arrive at Kotgaon (6,500 feet) by road.
Afternoon: Check-in at the guesthouse.
Evening: Briefing and orientation by the trek leader.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kotgaon.

Day 2: Kotgaon to Juda Ka Talab

Morning: Trek from Kotgaon to Juda Ka Talab (9,100 feet).
Distance: 5 km | Duration: 4-5 hours.
Highlights: Scenic pine forests, picturesque lake.
Accommodation: Camping at Juda Ka Talab.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base

Morning: Trek to Kedarkantha Base (11,250 feet).
Distance: 4 km | Duration: 4-5 hours.
Highlights: Panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Accommodation: Camping at Kedarkantha Base.

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Summit and Back to Kotgaon

Early Morning: Summit Kedarkantha (12,500 feet) for a breathtaking sunrise.
Afternoon: Return to Kotgaon.
Distance: 12 km | Duration: 6-7 hours.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kotgaon.

Day 5: Departure from Kotgaon

Morning: Check-out and bid farewell to the mountains.

Day 6: Optional River Rafting in Rishikesh

Optional Activity: River Rafting on the Ganges (2-3 hours, thrilling rapids).

Note on River Rafting

River rafting can be added to your Kedarkantha Trek for an extra thrill. The choice of rafting on the Ganga or Yamuna River will be made based on the safest and most suitable conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the Kedarkantha Trek?

The Kedarkantha Trek is a popular winter Himalayan trek in Uttarakhand known for its snow-covered trails, forest walks, and a rewarding summit climb offering sunrise views over the Garhwal Himalayas.

Q2: How difficult is the Kedarkantha Trek?

The trek is considered Easy to Moderate. It is suitable for beginners with basic fitness, especially popular as a first snow trek in the Himalayas.

Q3: What is the altitude of Kedarkantha peak?

Kedarkantha Peak is located at an altitude of approximately 3,810 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level.

Q4: What is the best time to do the Kedarkantha Trek?

The best time is from December to April for snow trekking and from April to June for clear forest and meadow views.

Q5: How many days does the Kedarkantha Trek take?

The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days, including travel from Dehradun to Sankri and return.

Q6: What are the major highlights of the trek?

Key highlights include Sankri village, Juda Ka Talab, Kedarkantha Base Camp, summit climb, snow forests, and panoramic sunrise views from the peak.