If there’s one Himalayan trek that manages to be beginner-friendly, scenic, and budget-friendly at the same time, it’s the Kedarkantha trek. Starting from Dehradun, this trek takes you through snow-laden pine forests, frozen lakes, and picturesque campsites before finally leading to the summit at 12,500 ft.
I’ll share everything you need to know—duration, itinerary, package cost, best time, and tips. I’ll also guide you with a company recommendation in a natural way so you can plan confidently without wasting time on scattered details.
Kedarkantha Trek Duration
The Kedarkantha trek is usually 6 days and 5 nights when starting from Dehradun. Some seasoned trekkers complete it in 4–5 days, but if this is your first Himalayan trek, the 6-day itinerary is perfect.
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown:
Day 1 – Dehradun to Sankri (Base Village)
Distance: 200 km by road
Travel Time: 8–9 hours
Route: Through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori, and Netwar
Stay: Guesthouse or homestay in Sankri
This is a long but beautiful drive. The road winds through pine forests, apple orchards, and small villages before reaching Sankri (6,400 ft). Most trekkers spend the night here in cozy wooden lodges or homestays.
Day 2 – Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
Trek Distance: 4 km
Trek Time: 4–5 hours
You start trekking from Sankri and enter enchanting pine forests with snow patches (if it’s winter). By afternoon, you reach Juda ka Talab, a high-altitude lake that often freezes in winter. The campsite here is magical, surrounded by tall deodars and snowy meadows.
Day 3 – Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Trek Distance: 4 km
Trek Time: 3–4 hours
This day takes you higher, around 11,000 ft, where the views open up. The base camp sits at the foot of Kedarkantha peak, with clear views of surrounding Himalayan ranges. At night, you’ll witness a starry sky like never before—perfect for astrophotography.
Day 4 – Summit Day (Kedarkantha Peak)
Trek Distance: 6 km (up & down)
Trek Time: 7–8 hours
This is the most awaited day. You start before dawn, climbing steadily to the summit at 12,500 ft. The sunrise from the peak is nothing short of spectacular, with golden rays lighting up peaks like Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, and Yamunotri ranges. After spending time at the summit, you descend back to base camp and continue to Hargaon for the night.
Day 5 – Hargaon to Sankri
Trek Distance: 6 km
Trek Time: 4–5 hours
The descent is much easier, taking you back through dense pine forests and meadows. You’ll spend the night again in Sankri.
Day 6 – Sankri to Dehradun
Another long drive back (200 km, 8–9 hours), where you’ll be dropped off at Dehradun by evening. Most trekkers plan their return journey the next day, but if you’re catching a train or bus, book one after 9 PM.
Kedarkantha Trek Package Price
On average, the Kedarkantha trek package from Dehradun costs ₹6,000–₹9,000 per person. The price varies depending on the operator, season, and group size.
What’s Included in the Package?
Travel: Dehradun to Sankri and back in a tempo traveler or cab
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Sankri + tents during the trek
Meals: Nutritious vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 6 breakfast
Permits: Trekking and forest entry charges
Guide & Support Staff: Experienced trek leaders, helpers, and cooks
Safety Gear: First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and sometimes microspikes
What’s Not Included?
Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, trekking poles)
Backpack offloading/porter charges
Travel insurance
Extra hotel stays in Dehradun
Snacks, bottled water, or personal expenses
So, if you budget around ₹10,000–₹12,000, including rentals and travel to Dehradun, you’re set.
Best Time to Do Kedarkantha Trek
Kedarkantha is open most of the year, but its snow season (December to March) is the highlight. That’s when trekkers call it the “Queen of Winter Treks.”
December–January: Peak snow season; campsites and forests look magical.
February–March: Snow continues but weather is slightly warmer.
April–June: Meadows are lush green with blooming flowers.
October–November: Clear skies, crisp air, and golden autumn forests.
If you’re after a snowy adventure, winter is the best. But if you prefer clear trails and warmer weather, spring and post-monsoon months work well too.
Why Choose Kedarkantha as a First Trek?
Moderate Difficulty: Suitable for beginners with basic fitness.
Stunning Campsites: Juda ka Talab, Kedarkantha base camp, and Hargaon are considered some of the most scenic campsites in Uttarakhand.
Snow Experience: One of the few treks where you’re guaranteed snow in winter.
360° Summit View: Unlike other treks where views are restricted, Kedarkantha offers panoramic Himalayan ranges.
For someone new to trekking, this is a safe yet rewarding introduction to the mountains.
My Company Suggestion
I personally recommend checking out The Searching Souls (TSS). They are quite reliable, keep group sizes manageable, and focus strongly on safety. I’ve noticed they don’t compromise on meals and always have experienced trek leaders. Their Kedarkantha trek packages usually cost around ₹6,500–₹8,000 depending on season and slots.
Of course, there are several other companies you can explore, but if you prefer a tried-and-tested operator with good reviews, TSS is a safe choice.
Quick Tips for Kedarkantha Trek
Pack Light but Smart – Carry thermals, a down jacket, gloves, and a rain cover.
Trekking Shoes Matter – Invest in waterproof, high-ankle shoes with good grip.
Fitness Prep – Do a few weeks of jogging or stair climbing before the trek.
Carry Essentials – Torch, water bottles, power bank, and personal medicines.
Stay Hydrated – Even in snow, drink enough water to avoid altitude sickness.
Don’t Overpack Snacks – The food provided on treks is filling; keep only light energy bars.
Final Thoughts
The Kedarkantha trek package from Dehradun is one of the most affordable and rewarding Himalayan adventures. Over 6 days, you’ll experience mountain drives, forest walks, camping under starry skies, and finally, a summit sunrise that you’ll never forget.
If you’ve always dreamed of your first Himalayan trek, Kedarkantha is the one that gives you the perfect balance of challenge, comfort, and beauty. With packages starting under ₹9,000, it’s an adventure well within reach.
So pack your bags, get your layers ready, and let Kedarkantha be your entry point into the magical world of trekking.
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