About Kedarkantha Trek
Covered with a pristine white blanket of snow in winter and flanked by verdant forests of deodar, chir and oak, the Kedarkantha peak is among the most sought-after snow trekking of India.
The white cover on the pathways of the trekking route enhances the beauty of the trek, which becomes the centre of attraction for the trekkers undertaking the ascent. They feel themselves in the lap of Mother Nature, which leaves them spellbound.
The powerful Himalaya presents a spectacular view of its snow-capped ranges. The Kedarkantha peak stands tall at an altitude of 12,500 ft. it offers mesmerizing and awe-inspiring visuals of Black Peak, Bandarpunch, Swargarohini, Devkyara, Vijay Top, Rupin Pass and Chainsheel Valley.The peak offers panoramic view of the region.If you wish to feel like an eagle with a bird’s eye view, this trek is for you. So don’t miss out on views of Purola, Mussoorie and Dhungiri.
The ascent to the peak is marked by following a trail, which keeps the group intact without the fear of being lost in the wilderness.
This is an ideal trek and covers a consolidated distance of 18 km. The trekking trail facilitates the first-time trekkers to be cast into trekking while they enjoy the breathtaking views en route. Apart from the view of the sublime peak, the trek has multiple things to offer - which include rich and diverse flora and fauna, the frozen lakes, the burbling streams, the replenished water sources, the chilling breeze, the roaring cataracts and the vibrant culture and tradition of the quaint region - to the trekker who takes back not merely memories but many such moments to cherish.
The stunningly incredible views and the moments of adventure are the main attraction on the trek trail. This is an ideal destination for a nature lover who enjoys every moment far from the madding crowd.
Kedarkantha peak is situated in Uttarakashi district of Uttarakhand in the West Himalayan region and houses Govind Wildlife Sanctuary too. This is an easy trek and can be undertaken by those who have little experience of trekking as well. Physical fitness is of utmost importance. You must ensure that you cover at least 4 km in 30 minutes before enrolling for the trek as the Himalaya is a reservoir that tests your endurance as well. This is required to maintain the stamina required to successfully complete the trek.
History Of Kedarkantha
Legends have it that the Kedarkantha had been selected as a place by Shiva for his abode. But a cow from a village called Sirga (which is at the same altitude as Kedarkantha) mooed and disturbed the lord during his penance. So as destiny had it, he decided to move to the place where currently Kedarnath stands. Had it not been so, Kedarkantha would have been one of the Chaar Dhaams.
Note:-
- Will transport all your belongings for you so that you only have to carry your day pack with camera. water bottle and jacket.
- We serve three meals a day including snacks and drinks.
- We provide a variety of tasty healthy food including Indian, Chinese and Western meals Wlth lots of vegeta bles and fruit.
- Kedarkantha is a trek blushing with beauty, giving photographers a perfect opportunity to capture the snow falling from the pine trees that looks like magic dust
- The ‘I rule the world’ pose at the top of Kedarkantha Summit will make a wonderful profile pic and with stunning views in the backdrop, it will make your friends jealous too!
- Experience the lovely campsites, where every site is unique in its own way and does not match the beauty with any other campsites in the journey
- Get a chance to camp around frozen Juda ka Talab where was once a place for meditation of Lord Shiva
- Experience walking in the middle of the night in, the head torches lighting the way and watching the sunrise from the top of a mountain before you reach Summit
Mumbai/Ahmedabad/Surat: Bdts Hw Exp 19019
Meet team Bhatakna as we get ready for an amazing tour ahead. Board the train and settle down at your respective seats allotted by the tour guide.
The journey is going to be filled with games & interactive sessions.
Train Name: Bdts Hw Exp 19019
Train Timing: 00:20 Am.
2 Overnight journey in train.
Day 1 : Drive From Haridwar To Sankri Base Village (198 Kilometers, 8 Hours Drive )
- The group will assemble at the pickup point at 09:00 AM.
- We'll drive towards Sankri village which is the base camp for the Kedarkantha Trek.
- Upon reaching Sankri, we'll check in to our designated homestay. The rest of the day is at leisure and travelers are advised to rest.
- In the evening, Dinner will be served followed by an overnight stay in Sankri Village.
Note: The pickup point will be Dehradun Railway Station. (tentative)
Day 2 : Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Taal (4 Kilometers, 4 Hours Trek)
- After early morning breakfast, a small briefing session would be conducted by the trek leader where all the necessary details about the rest of the day will be shared.
- We will start our trekking journey. En route to our campsite, we'd be traversing through lush green forests consisting of pine trees with the Swargrohini Massif in the backdrop beckoning you closer.
- We will reach Juda Ka Taal after five hours of trekking. Upon reaching our campsite, we will have lunch.
- The rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner will be served in the evening followed by an overnight stay at Juda Ka Taal Campsite.
Day 3 : Juda Ka Taal To Kedarkantha Base Camp (3 Kilometers, 3 Hours Trek)
- The day will start with morning tea followed by breakfast.
- The Trek Leader will give you a briefing about the day before we proceed.
- Afterward, we'll start the trek towards the Kedarkantha Base Camp, which takes about 3-4 hours.
- Upon reaching and checking into the campsite, we'll have a warm lunch.
- The rest of the day is at leisure and we'll relax by indulging in activities like snowball fights and other fun games.
- Lastly, we'll have dinner at the campsite followed by an overnight stay at Kedarkantha Base Camp.
Day 4 : Trek To Kedarkantha Peak | Back To Sankri (12 Kilometers, 8 Hours Trek)
- We will finally begin our trek towards Kedarkantha Peak.
- We'll get up at 02:00 AM as we'll be needing an early start.
- Afterwards, the group will trek up to the Kedarkantha Summit.
- After reaching the summit, we'll enjoy the view from the top and witness the beautiful sunrise from the summit.
- Shortly afterward, we'll head back to the Kedarkantha Base Camp once again.
- Upon reaching, Lunch will be served at the campsite.
- It's the last night at the campsite so we will have a farewell bash.
- Overnight stay at Juda ka Taal campsite.
*Additionally, you get a 360-degree view of the whole Himalayan Region from the Kedarkantha Top. Some of the peaks are Gangotri, Swargarohini, Banderpooch, Kinner Kailash, etc.
Day 5 : Sankri To Haridwar (198 Kilometers, 8 Hours Drive )
- After early morning breakfast, we'll head down towards the Sankri Village from Juda ka Taal.
- Upon reaching Sankri, we'll stop and freshen up at our designated hotel, and lunch will be provided.
- Shortly afterward, we'll proceed towards Dehradun. (Reach Dehradun by late evening.)
- The group will disassemble here and be on their separate ways with a heart full of contentment and a mind full of memories.
It’s the last day of the trip.
We board our trains back to our respective city.
22:55 Pm – On reaching your respective city the trip ends.
Goodbye hugs! Until next time, Bhatakna!!
What is included in the tour
-
Sleeper Train Tickets To & Fro. ( only if you take mumbai to mumbai package)
- Accommodation in Haridwar on 3/4 sharing basis ( only if you take mumbai to mumbai package)
- Accommodation (Guest house, Home stay, Camping)
- Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required)
- Welcome refreshment
- Three times meals (Veg+egg): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- All necessary permits and entry fees
- First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
- Mountaineering qualified & professional guide and Support staff.
- Transport from Dehradun to Sankri and Retun (According to itinerary)
- Porter or mule charges for carrying camping equipment and rations
- Morning Tea
- Evening Tea with snacks
- Guide Charges
- Hot drinking water
- approved trek completion certificate
- Dry fruits, chocolates, biscuits, toffees provided during the trek
What is NOT included in the tour
- Porter/mule for personal bags
- Any meals or services not mentioned in inclusions
- Any charges for video cameras or still cameras
- Charges for soft drinks or any other beverage
- Your stay in Haridwar X Haridwar people on arrival(can be added using add on the section while booking)
- Personal expenses such as tips, laundry or telephone calls
- Any costs arising from unforeseen circumstances like landslides, bad weather or road blocks, etc
- Any kind of personal expenses.
- Food during the transit.
- Insurance.
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
- Backpack (Min 55 Ltrs with rain cover): You must pick a good quality backpack with a comfortable fit and straps that won’t give you shoulder pain. You can check out your nearest Decathlon store for a good trekking backpack.
- Day backpack (20 – 30 Ltrs): When you head towards the summit, you are required to carry only a few necessary items and for that, you need a day backpack as you will leave your bigger one on the campsite.
- Floaters or Sandals: Although the entire trek requires a good quality shoe, you still need to let your feet breathe to avoid chafing and blisters. When you are at the camp, a good pair of sandals and floaters will help you to move freely.
- Trekking Shoes: A good trekking shoe is comfortable, provides ankle support, and has a good grip as well. They shouldn’t be chunky, instead, they should be lightweight and sturdy.
- 3 Quick Dry Tees: You must keep at least three pairs of quick dry tees so that you can wash them in between stops for proper hygiene.
- 2 Track Pants: A good pair of track pants made of polyester will let your skin breathe. They’re lightweight, dry easily, and comfortable to walk around in. You can easily avoid chafing and rashes by investing in a good pair of track pants.
- 3 Pair of Cotton Socks: Cotton socks are extremely comfortable to move around in and are lightweight as well which is why you can always count on a good pair of cotton socks while trekking. However, keep in mind to change them and avoid wearing them when they are wet.
- 1 Pair of Woolen Socks: A good pair of woolen socks, especially merino, are comfortable, limit odors and provide adequate insulation from the cold so you can wear them at night.
- 1 Poncho: A poncho is an evolved form of a raincoat that provides coverage to your body as well as your bag and ensures total water protection from rain.
- 1 Heavy Jacket: It’s emphasized that you need to carry proper layers so you can avoid getting cold which is why you need to carry a heavy jacket that you can put on over your other clothes.
- 1 Pair of Thermal: Thermal is a piece of garment that helps in keeping your body warm in cold temperatures. It is a necessary item that you need when going on a high-altitude trek.
- Quick-dry towel: A quick dry towel will help in maintaining proper hygiene. It must dry quickly because the wet fabric will only increase the chance of bacterial growth.
- Windproof Jacket: As you ascend towards high altitude, you get hit by chilly winds and a windbreaker jacket is designed to resist them. They are lightweight and are made of synthetic fibers.
- Woolen Cap: A woolen cap will help prevent cold when you ascend to high altitude. You can also cover your ears to avoid any pain and discomfort you might face in them when going at high altitudes.
- Gloves: Insulated gloves help in maintaining proper body heat in your hands and also provide a better grasp on trekking poles.
- Sun Cap: A lightweight sun cap with side flaps is perfect to keep your head cool and avoid sunburns on a sunny day.
- 1 Scarf or Balaclava: Along with sun rays and chilly winds, you also get hit by dirt and grime during treks which is why it's important to carry a scarf or balaclava so you can cover your face when needed.
- Lip Balm: Your lips can become chapped due to the harsh cold winds so it's important to keep them moisturized.
- Cold Cream & Sun Screen (SPF 40+): To avoid sunburns and chafing, you need to put on sunscreen as well as cold cream.
- Antibacterial powder: To avoid rashes that develop from a bacterial infestation in your armpits and other parts of your body.
- Water Bottle 1 Lt.: Hydration is extremely important when it comes to trekking. Carrying a water bottle that you can refill with Himalayan water is a must.
- Headlamp or torch: You can’t rely on moonlight when you are in the mountains. A torch or even a headlamp with a fresh pair of batteries is always a good idea to bring along.
- Bag for all your Toiletries: A bag with all your essentials including napkins, toothpaste, sanitizers, paper soap, etc should be carried in a ziplock bag.
- Personal Medications and basic medical kit: A few cuts and bruises are almost inevitable when you are on a trek so carrying a medical kit with bandages, Dettol, etc is necessary.
- Dark Sunglasses / People who use spectacles (Use Photochromic glasses instead of contact lenses): Photochromatic glasses are specs that are designed to transform into anti-glare shades depending upon exposure to the sun. They are good when it comes to eye protection but one can also opt for clip-on glasses etc.
- Trekking Pole: The trekking pole assists in more than one way. It saves energy while also providing stability and helps you to maintain proper balance.
- Documents: Identification proofs like Aadhar Card, Drivers License.
- Extra Polythene: In case your clothes get wet or your garments don’t dry, you can carry them in polythene. However, make sure that all the plastic that you are carrying into the woods leaves with you. Don’t litter in the mountains.
- Camera: This should be obvious. To make sure that you get to capture all the great moments from your trek. Make sure that you have enough storage and some extra batteries as well.
IRCTC Rules
- Kindly note that Bhatakna makes its tickets from IRCTC certified agents.
- We use intelligent AI-based tools like ConfirmTicket to predict the confirmation probability of your ticket.
- It is essential to note that the tool does not guarantee a 100% confirmation for Waitlisted and RAC tickets and Bhatakna does not hold any control over confirmation of tickets.
- Incase train gets cancelled or the route gets changed due to any reason Bhatakna will not be responsible and alternate solution will be provided at monitory cost.
- We advice to book your trip at least 30 days prior to improve your possibility of getting a confirmed tickets.
- Kindly note that our team members will get in touch with you to provide alternate options for trains where you can hold a chance of a confirmed ticket which may have some monetary difference in the ticket amount which if you confirm to upgrade shall be liable to pay.
- Incase the predictability tool doesn't work and you get a RAC or Waitlisted ticket, team Bhatakna wouldn't be responsible for it.
- Incase the participant wants to cancel the train tickets & opt for flight, the cancellations charges would be applicable.
Should we bring some medicines with us?
Yes, it is always advisable to carry your own medical kit with medications for headaches, nausea, etc.
What type of food is served during the trek?
It’s extremely important to make sure that you eat nutritious food so you can maintain your energy during the trek. We serve eggs to make sure you get proper protein intake and serve different kinds of Indian cuisine.
Can we change the itinerary?
Yes, we can make changes to some extent but only if we find your suggestions and demands feasible.
Can you customize the Kedarkantha trek?
Yes, it’s customizable but it depends if what you are asking for is something we can afford to deliver.
Is Diamox advisable or not?
Not, it’s not but if you are taking it, then make sure that it’s prescribed by your doctor.
Why is the Kedarkantha trek the best winter trek?
There are many reasons why ‘Kedarkantha Trek' is considered to be one of the best winter treks but some of the most significant ones are that this trek is easy to do, is budget friendly, and ends with a picturesque view of snow-capped peaks that leaves the travelers feeling content. It also gives you an opportunity to learn more about Pahari customs and culture.
Cancellation for Kedarkanta trek
- Cancellation 30 days before the starting date of the trip — Get your full trek fee back in an Bhatakna Cupon OR get a monetary refund with 15% cancellation charges.
- Cancellation between 30 days and 20 days before the starting date of the trek — Get 80% of the trek fee in an Bhatakna cupon OR get a monetary refund with 50% cancellation charges.
- Cancellation less than 20 days before the starting date of the trek — No monetary refund, get 50% of your fees in an Bhatakna Cupoun .
- Cancellation less than 15 days to Departure:No refund will be provided for any amount paid.
- Cancellation incase your not well and could not join:Incase you are unwell it is advisable to take rest however kindly note that you can find a replacement for yourself no refund or transfer is applicable incase of any illness or covid cases
