Kedarkantha Trek Height and Distance: A Comprehensive Guide

The Kedarkantha Trek is the best beginner-friendly trekking experience and most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand, India. Popular among adventurous trekkers, it’s located within Govind Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park in Uttarkashi district of western Garhwal Himalayas. The trek is famously known for its beautiful winter landscapes, scenic snow covered trails, outstanding campsites, camping experience near the frozen lake, healing & peaceful moment with nature, unforgettable experience of mid-night hiking, adventurous & a tough summit push, and panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks from top of the Kedarkantha summit.

Reaching at the maximum altitude of about 12,500-feet above sea level, the Kedar kantha peak provides a rewarding 360-degree view of the mighty Himalayas including Mt Swargarohini, Mt Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, Ranglana range, and Yamunotri range, as an achievement of the difficult summit climb.Kedarkantha Trek Highlights

The trek route takes about 2-3 days to reach the Kedarkantha peak from the Sankri base camp, covering a distance of 10 km. Kedarkantha stands at an elevation of 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level, and can be accessed from the Kedarkantha Basecamp with a steep ascent of 1,250 feet in elevation gain. The route from here involves navigating certain steep stretches to reach the summit. This section of the trail towards the Kedarkantha summit is very steep and can truly test the physical strength of trekkers, especially beginners.

Kedarkantha Trek Height: Key Elevation Points

1. Sankri (1,950 m / 6,400 ft)
   The journey begins in Sankri, a scenic village that serves as the base for the Kedarkantha Trek. Situated in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Sankri is the ideal starting point for several trekking routes in the region. At 6,400 feet, it sets the stage for an exciting adventure.

2. Juda Ka Talab (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
   Approximately 4 kilometers from Sankri, Juda Ka Talab is a serene high-altitude lake, surrounded by dense pine forests. It is a popular campsite where trekkers stop to rest and enjoy the tranquil surroundings at an altitude of 8,858 feet.

3. Kedarkantha Base Camp (3,350 m / 11,000 ft)
   The Kedarkantha Base Camp is the final resting point before the summit push. Situated at 11,000 feet, this location offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscapes, giving trekkers a chance to acclimatize before the challenging ascent to the top.

4. Kedarkantha Summit (3,810 m / 12,500 ft)
   The summit stands tall at 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level. Reaching the top rewards trekkers with spectacular 360-degree views of some of the most iconic Himalayan peaks, making the difficult climb worthwhile.

Total Trekking Distance of Kedarkantha Trek

The Kedarkantha Trek covers a distance of approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) in total, with the journey from Sankri to the summit and back being the most popular route. Below is a breakdown of the trek’s distances:

• Sankri to Kedarkantha Summit Distance:
  The most common route, covering about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) one way, starts from Sankri, passing through Juda Ka Talab and Kedarkantha Base Camp, before reaching the summit.

• Dehradun to Sankri Distance:
  For trekkers traveling from Dehradun, the journey to Sankri covers a distance of approximately 200 kilometers by road.

• Delhi to Sankri Distance:
  If you’re traveling from Delhi, the total road distance to Sankri is around 450 kilometers.

Trekking Routes to Kedarkantha

The Kedarkantha Trek offers several routes, each providing a unique experience:

1. Gaichwan Gaon Route:
   This slightly longer route starts from Gaichwan Gaon and joins the main Sankri route at Juda Ka Talab. It is a quieter trail, ideal for trekkers looking for solitude amidst nature.

2. Kotgaon Route:
   The Kotgaon route is another hidden gem for trekkers. It offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayan ranges and a more remote, peaceful experience compared to the main route.

3. Hargaon Route:
   Starting from Hargaon, this route is often used as a return path after summiting Kedarkantha. It is generally considered an easier route to take.

4. Juda Ka Talab Route:
   The Juda Ka Talab route is the most popular and direct trail to the summit, passing through meadows and forests before reaching the base camp and eventually the Kedarkantha peak.

Conclusion

The Kedarkantha Trek is a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. With an elevation of 12,500 feet and a trekking distance of around 20 kilometers, it remains an accessible and thrilling trek for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Whether you’re starting your journey from Sankri, Dehradun, or Delhi, each step brings you closer to nature and self-discovery. By understanding the trek’s elevation details and distance, trekkers can better prepare for the challenges ahead, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the majestic Himalayas.

So, gear up and let Kedarkantha’s breathtaking beauty inspire your next trekking adventure!