Chasing Snow and Sunrise: My Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi

There’s a special kind of thrill in leaving Delhi behind at night, boarding an overnight bus with a backpack, and not knowing exactly what the mountains will reveal. That’s exactly how my Kedarkantha Trek began — a winter escape into the heart of Uttarakhand, where snow, pine forests, and crisp Himalayan air promised adventure. Nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Kedarkantha is famous for its snow-capped trails, panoramic summit views, and serene campsites that feel miles away from city life.

Here’s a glimpse into my journey, with tips, anecdotes, and everything you need to plan your own adventure.

Boarding the Night Bus: Delhi to Dehradun

I left Delhi around 9:00 PM from ISBT in a Volvo, hoping to catch a few hours of sleep before the trek began. Sleep, of course, was patchy — my mind kept replaying pictures of snow-laden forests, frozen streams, and the summit bathed in sunlight. By 6 AM, we reached Dehradun, groggy but buzzing with excitement. A quick stop at a roadside dhaba for chai and maggi revived me, and I could already feel the difference in air, temperature, and pace compared to Delhi.

From Dehradun, the journey continued to Sankri, the base village of the trek. The drive is about 8–9 hours, winding through pine forests, rivers, and small mountain villages. We stopped for tea and photos along the way — each stop felt like a glimpse into another world, calm and untouched. By late afternoon, Sankri appeared, with wooden cottages, curling smoke from chimneys, and the first teasing view of snow-capped peaks.

Preparing for the Trek: Best Time and Local Tips

Kedarkantha can be trekked throughout the year, but winter is undoubtedly the most magical.

Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowy trails, frozen lakes, and crisp nights. Essential to pack warm layers.

Spring (Mar–Apr): Blooming rhododendrons, melting snow, and moderate weather.

Summer (May–Jun): Clear skies and greenery, though snow is gone.

Autumn (Oct–Nov): Crisp air, golden forests, and fewer crowds.

Before the trek, we arranged our forest permits and guides at Sankri. “Vaha itne baje aana, form fill karna hai,” our homestay owner said in his cheerful Garhwali accent. Following local advice, keeping warm, and carrying layers made the trek much more enjoyable.

Day 1: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

The first day of trekking is relatively gentle, winding through dense pine and oak forests. Snow crunched underfoot, and I couldn’t stop pausing to look around — the sun filtering through branches, small birds flitting from tree to tree, and the faint scent of wet pine needles.

By afternoon, we reached Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake that looked like glass reflecting the surrounding snow-dusted trees. We set up camp nearby and huddled around a small stove, sipping hot masala chai while clouds rolled past in the sky above. That night, the stars seemed impossibly close, and I realized that being away from city lights makes you notice things you normally overlook.

Day 2: Base Camp and Summit Preparations

The second day takes you to Kedarkantha Base Camp. The trail becomes steeper, and meadows begin to open up between forested sections. The wind picked up, carrying the crisp scent of snow and distant forests. Small frozen streams crossed our path, and tiny huts along the way added a touch of human warmth to the wilderness.

We reached the base camp by evening and spent time acclimatizing. Local guides shared tips about summit day, and fellow trekkers exchanged stories. That night, I sipped a cup of tea, staring at the mountains glowing under moonlight — a moment of serenity I’ll never forget.

Day 3: The Summit Experience

Summit day began in the darkness of 3:30 AM, with headlamps lighting the way and frost crunching under our boots. The climb was steep, but the anticipation of the view kept spirits high. Around 7:00 AM, we reached the Kedarkantha Summit.

Words fail to capture the magic — snow glistening in the sunlight, the Himalayan peaks stretching endlessly, and a silence so profound it made every early wake-up worth it. I poured myself some lukewarm tea from my flask and just stood there, letting the sheer scale of the mountains sink in. Every photograph I’d seen before paled in comparison to the real moment.

Descending and Exploring Nearby Attractions

The descent via Hargaon is less strenuous but equally scenic. Rolling meadows, frozen streams, and small wooden huts dotted the trail. Back in Sankri, a simple chai at a roadside stall felt like a celebration of the journey, a way to slow down and savor the last moments in the mountains.

If you have extra time, nearby attractions include:

Har Ki Dun Valley: A beautiful extension for trekkers seeking more adventure.

Ruinsara Tal: A serene glacial lake perfect for day treks.

Local Villages: Sankri and Taluka offer insights into traditional Garhwali life and culture.

Travel Tips, Safety, and Budget

Packing: Warm layers, gloves, trekking shoes, and a sturdy backpack are essential.

Fitness: Moderate stamina is enough, but some cardio prep helps.

Guides and Permits: Mandatory, easy to arrange in Sankri.

Safety: Stick to trails, hydrate well, and watch for icy patches.

Budget: A 4–5 day Kedarkantha trek from Delhi costs around ₹6,000–₹10,000, including travel, food, stay, and guides. Homestays in Sankri range from ₹500–₹1,000 per night.

Why Kedarkantha Trek is Unforgettable

Kedarkantha isn’t just a trek; it’s a complete Himalayan experience. From waking up in snowy camps to sipping tea on the summit while clouds drift below, every moment immerses you in nature. The trek is accessible, scenic, and soul-refreshing, perfect for anyone looking to escape city life and reconnect with the mountains.

Whether it’s your first Himalayan trek or your tenth, Kedarkantha promises awe-inspiring views, peaceful forests, and memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bag, catch that night bus, and let the mountains welcome you with open arms.