Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, the Kedarkantha Trek offers a breathtaking journey through pristine alpine landscapes and a glimpse into the serene beauty of the Garhwal region. For the adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts of Delhi, this trek stands as a compelling invitation to explore the tranquil wilderness just a few hours away from the bustling metropolis. With its snow-covered peaks, dense pine forests, and charming local villages, the Kedarkantha Trek is an ideal escape from the urban chaos.
This travel guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of the Kedarkantha Trek, starting from the capital city, Delhi. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan a successful and memorable expedition, from getting there to experiencing the wonders of this enchanting destination. So, fasten your hiking boots, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the Indian Himalayas.
How to Reach from Delhi to Kedarkantha?
Reaching the picturesque Kedarkantha from the bustling city of Delhi is an adventure in itself. Situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this trekking paradise offers an ideal blend of natural beauty and adventure. To embark on this thrilling journey, you’ll first need to make your way from Delhi to the trek’s base camp. In this guide, we’ll provide detailed instructions on how to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable transition from the city to the serene wilderness.
How to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi by Road
Step 1: Start your journey from Delhi and head towards Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, by taking the NH72.
Step 2: The road journey from Delhi to Dehradun takes approximately 6-7 hours, covering a distance of around 250 kilometers.
Step 3: Upon reaching Dehradun, you have two options:
- Continue your journey by road: You can hire a local taxi or take a bus to reach Sankri, the base camp for the Kedarkantha Trek. The scenic drive takes around 10-12 hours, covering a distance of approximately 210 kilometers.
- Take a shared taxi or local bus from Dehradun to a closer point like Mussoorie or Purola. From there, you can arrange transportation to Sankri.
How to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi By Train:
Step 1: Board a train from New Delhi Railway Station or the Old Delhi Railway Station to Dehradun. The most convenient train is the Nanda Devi Express, which operates daily.
Step 2: The train journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, and upon arrival in Dehradun, you’ll find yourself at the heart of Uttarakhand.
Step 3: Follow the road instructions mentioned in the “By Road” section from Dehradun to Sankri.
How to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi By Air:
Step 1: Book a flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun.
Step 2: The flight takes around 1 hour, making it the quickest way to reach Dehradun.
Step 3: Upon landing at Jolly Grant Airport, take a taxi or local transport to reach Dehradun city.
Step 4: Continue your journey to Sankri from Dehradun as mentioned in the “By Road” section.
How to Reach from Dehradun to Sankri?
Reaching Sankri from Dehradun is the next crucial step in your journey to Kedarkantha. Sankri serves as the base camp for the trek and is located approximately 200 kilometers away from Dehradun. Here’s how to get from Dehradun to Sankri:
By Road:
Private Vehicle: The most convenient way to travel from Dehradun to Sankri is by hiring a private taxi or cab. You can easily find taxis in Dehradun for this purpose. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand, and it’s advisable to hire a 4×4 vehicle since you’ll be traversing hilly and sometimes rough terrains.
Public Transport (Bus): If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can take a state-run or private bus to Sankri. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Reach Dehradun’s Mussoorie Bus Stand (ISBT Dehradun) or Vikas Nagar Bus Stand. These are the main bus stands in Dehradun where buses to Sankri are available.
Step 2: Inquire about buses heading to Sankri, and check the departure schedule. State-run Uttarakhand Road Transport Corporation (UTC) buses and private bus operators offer services to Sankri.
Step 3: Board the bus bound for Sankri. The bus journey will take you through scenic routes, providing beautiful views of the mountains and local villages.
Step 4: The bus ride may take approximately 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions and the route taken. Be prepared for a long journey.
Step 5: Upon reaching Sankri, you will find yourself at the base camp of Kedarkantha Trek, where you can arrange accommodation and prepare for your adventure.
Once you’ve successfully completed this journey, you’ll find yourself in Sankri, ready to embark on the Kedarkantha Trek. Be prepared for an exciting adventure filled with stunning landscapes, lush forests, and the opportunity to conquer the Kedarkantha summit.
Day by Day Trekking Guide from Delhi to Kedarkantha
The Kedarkantha Trek offers an exciting and immersive experience, allowing you to explore the stunning Himalayan terrain day by day. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you plan your adventure:
Day 1: Delhi to Sankri
- Your journey to Kedarkantha begins in Delhi. If you’re traveling by road, start early in the morning to ensure you reach Dehradun before dark.
- Depending on your mode of transportation (car, train, or flight), you will arrive in Dehradun.
- From Dehradun, follow the instructions in the “How to Reach from Dehradun to Sankri” section to reach Sankri.
- Upon reaching Sankri, get settled at your chosen accommodation, which may include guesthouses, homestays, or campsites.
- Take this opportunity to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude in preparation for your trek.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda ka Talab
- Wake up early, have a hearty breakfast, and prepare your backpack for the trek.
- Start the trek from Sankri to Juda ka Talab, a beautiful campsite.
- The trail leads through dense pine forests, and you’ll encounter meadows and streams along the way.
- The trek takes around 4-6 hours to cover a distance of approximately 4-5 kilometers.
- Arrive at Juda ka Talab, set up camp, and enjoy a night under the starry sky.
Day 3: Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
- After a rejuvenating night at Juda ka Talab, continue your ascent to the Kedarkantha Base Camp.
- The trail becomes steeper as you gain altitude, and you’ll be surrounded by snow-covered landscapes during the winter months.
- The distance to the Kedarkantha Base Camp is around 4-5 kilometers, and the trek takes about 3-4 hours.
- Once at the base camp, settle into your campsite and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Summit and back to Sankri
- Today is the highlight of the trek as you make your way to the Kedarkantha Summit.
- Start your ascent early in the morning to witness the sunrise from the summit.
- The trail is steep and challenging, especially in snowy conditions, but the sense of achievement at the summit is unparalleled.
- Reach the Kedarkantha Summit, which stands at an elevation of approximately 12,500 feet, and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks.
- After spending some time at the summit and capturing memories, descend to the Kedarkantha Base Camp.
- From the base camp, trek back to Sankri, covering a distance of about 12 kilometers, which may take 7-9 hours.
- Return to your accommodation in Sankri for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5: Sankri to Delhi
- After a night’s rest in Sankri, start your journey back to Delhi.
- Depending on your mode of transportation, follow the instructions in the “How to Reach Kedarkantha from Delhi” section to return to Delhi.
- The scenic drive or travel through Dehradun, along with the satisfaction of completing the Kedarkantha Trek, will make for a memorable journey home.
Travel Tips:
- It’s essential to check weather conditions and trail status before starting your trek, especially during the winter season.
- Ensure you have all necessary trekking equipment, including warm clothing and suitable footwear.
- Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness, and stay hydrated throughout the trek.
- Respect local customs and the environment, adhering to “Leave No Trace” principles.
- Be prepared for varying weather conditions, and always follow the guidance of your trek leader or guide for a safe and enjoyable experience.
This day-by-day itinerary will help you make the most of your Kedarkantha Trek, ensuring you have a memorable and safe adventure in the beautiful Himalayan region.
Conclusion
Kedarkantha Trek is a captivating journey from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene grandeur of the Himalayas. This adventure offers not only breathtaking natural beauty but also a chance to test your limits, conquer a summit, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a novice seeking an exhilarating experience, Kedarkantha has something to offer. With its pristine landscapes, vibrant local culture, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with scaling the Kedarkantha Summit, this trek is a testament to the beauty and wonder of the Indian Himalayas. It’s a journey that will stay with you long after you return to the city’s chaos.