Kedarkantha Trek from Delhi – A Snowy Himalayan Adventure for Every Wanderer

If there’s one trek that captures the magic of the Himalayas in just a few days, it’s the Kedarkantha Trek. Often called the “Queen of Winter Treks,” this journey offers everything an adventurer dreams of — snow-covered trails, dense pine forests, charming villages, and sweeping 360° mountain views from the summit. For trekkers starting from Delhi, the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi is an easy yet unforgettable introduction to the mountains.

Whether you’re a first-time trekker or a seasoned hiker looking for a short escape from the city, Kedarkantha promises both challenge and serenity. Let’s dive into what makes this trek so special, how to plan your journey, and why it should be on your travel list this season.

Introduction – The Magic of Kedarkantha

Perched at an altitude of around 12,500 feet, Kedarkantha is located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. The trek is a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty — from icy meadows and frozen lakes to clear views of snow-capped peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana.

What sets Kedarkantha apart is its accessibility and all-season charm. While it’s most famous as a winter trek (December–March), the trail is open almost year-round. During winter, the trail transforms into a wonderland blanketed in snow, while spring brings blooming rhododendrons and lush greenery.

The summit climb, especially under a starlit sky or with the sunrise painting the Himalayas golden, is an experience every trekker remembers for life.

How to Reach Kedarkantha from Delhi

Getting to Kedarkantha from Delhi is part of the adventure. The journey unfolds beautifully, taking you from bustling city streets to peaceful mountain villages.

By Road:

The most common route is via Dehradun. From Delhi, it’s a 6–7-hour drive (around 250 km) to Dehradun. You can take an overnight bus or train from Delhi ISBT or Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station.

From Dehradun, you’ll drive another 8–9 hours (around 200 km) to Sankri, the base village for the Kedarkantha trek. The route passes through scenic hill towns like Mori and Purola, following the turquoise waters of the Tons River.

By Train or Air:

You can also take a flight or train to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport and continue by road to Sankri.

Many trekking companies provide Delhi-to-Delhi packages, covering transportation, accommodation, meals, and guides — making the logistics easier and more affordable.

The Trek Route – Step Into a Snow Globe

The Kedarkantha trek usually spans 5 to 6 days, covering approximately 20 km round trip. The route is beginner-friendly, with gradual ascents and well-marked trails.

Here’s a common itinerary for the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi:

Day 1: Delhi to Sankri (overnight journey)

Start your adventure with an overnight drive to Sankri. The journey through Mussoorie and Naugaon is filled with picturesque valleys and pine-covered slopes.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab

The trek officially begins! A 4 km trail through oak and pine forests leads to the enchanting Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake surrounded by snow in winter. It’s your first campsite — serene, scenic, and perfect for star-gazing.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp

The climb continues for about 4 km to the base camp. The higher you go, the more breathtaking the views become. From here, you can see the majestic snow peaks that you’ll conquer the next morning.

Day 4: Summit Day – Kedarkantha Peak and Return to Base

Start early, around 3–4 AM, to catch the sunrise from the summit. The 3-hour climb may be steep, but once you reach the top, the 360° panoramic view makes every step worth it. You’ll descend back to the base or to Hargaon camp for the night.

Day 5: Descend to Sankri and Drive Back

Trek down to Sankri and celebrate your achievement. Most groups head back to Dehradun by evening or continue to Delhi the next day.

Best Time to Visit Kedarkantha

Though Kedarkantha is open almost all year, each season offers a distinct experience:

Winter (December to March): The most popular season, when snow blankets the trail and the summit turns into a snowy paradise. Perfect for first-time snow trekkers.

Spring (April to June): Forests bloom with rhododendrons and the weather is pleasant — ideal for nature lovers.

Autumn (September to November): Crisp skies, fewer crowds, and golden landscapes make for great photography and peaceful trekking.

Avoid the monsoon months (July–August) due to heavy rains and slippery trails.

Budgeting and Essentials

For a Kedarkantha trek from Delhi, expect a total budget of around ₹6,000–₹10,000 if you join a group trek. This usually includes transportation, accommodation (camping), meals, trek permits, and guide charges.

If you’re going independently, your budget will depend on:

Delhi to Dehradun transport: ₹800–₹1,500 (one way)

Dehradun to Sankri jeep: ₹700–₹1,000 per person

Homestay or camp: ₹500–₹1,200 per night

Guide and permit: ₹1,000–₹1,500

Pro Tip: Always book your trek with a certified local operator for safety and proper guidance, especially during snow season.

Pack wisely — warm layers, waterproof shoes, gloves, a headlamp, and sunscreen are essentials. If trekking in winter, gaiters and trekking poles are highly recommended.

Safety and Local Tips

Kedarkantha is considered one of the safest Himalayan treks, even for beginners, but preparation is key.

Acclimatize: Spend a night in Sankri before starting the trek to adjust to the altitude.

Hydrate well: Even in cold weather, dehydration is common. Carry a reusable bottle.

Follow your guide’s instructions: Weather in the Himalayas changes quickly; your guide’s experience is invaluable.

Leave no trace: Carry back all waste — respect the pristine environment and local communities.

Locals in Sankri and nearby villages like Taluka are warm and welcoming. Try local dishes like mandua roti, rajma chawal, and garhwali dal, and support homestays for an authentic experience.

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time after the trek, there are plenty of beautiful spots to explore nearby:

Har Ki Dun Valley: Another iconic trek starting from the same region.

Yamunotri Temple: A sacred Himalayan pilgrimage site about 70 km away.

Purola & Mori Villages: Perfect for a peaceful day amidst apple orchards and mountain views.

These nearby attractions make the Kedarkantha trek from Delhi a complete adventure — blending trekking, culture, and Himalayan exploration.

Final Thoughts – A Journey Worth Every Step

The Kedarkantha trek from Delhi isn’t just about reaching a summit — it’s about rediscovering your connection with nature. Every turn reveals a new landscape, every campfire sparks new friendships, and every sunrise reminds you of how vast and beautiful the mountains truly are.

For many, it’s a gateway trek — the one that inspires a lifelong love for the Himalayas. Whether you’re escaping city chaos, chasing snow, or simply seeking peace, Kedarkantha welcomes you with open arms and breathtaking views.

So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and leave Delhi’s bustle behind. The mountains are calling — and Kedarkantha is waiting.