The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in Uttarakhand, offering a perfect blend of adventure, serene landscapes, and panoramic Himalayan views. Nestled in the Garhwal region, this trek takes you through lush pine and oak forests, frozen streams, and charming snow-covered meadows, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned trekkers.
The trek culminates at the Kedarkantha summit, standing at 3,810 meters (12,500 ft), where you are rewarded with breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding peaks, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and the Gangotri range. Along the way, trekkers pass through quaint villages such as Sankri, Juda Ka Talab, and Kedarkantha Base Camp, which offer glimpses of local Kumaoni culture and hospitality.
1. By Air
The nearest airport to Sankri is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, about 200 km away. This airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Lucknow. Upon landing, travelers can hire a taxi or pre-arranged private transport to Sankri. The drive takes approximately 7–8 hours and passes through scenic Himalayan landscapes, winding roads, and quaint towns, giving a glimpse of rural Uttarakhand.
2. By Train
The closest major railway station is Dehradun Railway Station, roughly 200 km from Sankri. Trains from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other northern cities connect here. From Dehradun, private taxis, shared cabs, or tour operators like Hodophile Tour Travel provide direct transfers to Sankri, ensuring comfort and safety along hilly terrain.
3. By Road
Sankri is accessible by road from major towns and cities in Uttarakhand:
Dehradun → Sankri: ~200 km | 7–8 hours
Mussoorie → Sankri: ~150 km | 5–6 hours
Haridwar → Sankri: ~220 km | 8–9 hours
The route winds through charming towns like Uttarkashi, Mori, and Taluka, with opportunities for short stops to admire the scenery. Private taxis or pre-arranged tour vehicles from Hodophile Tour Travel offer door-to-door service, making the journey smooth and hassle-free.
4. Trek Starting Point
Sankri serves as the base for the Kedarkantha Trek. From here, trekkers begin their 2–3 day ascent through forests, meadows, and villages, culminating at the Kedarkantha summit. Local guides are available for hire, and accommodations in Sankri range from guesthouses to homestays, ensuring a comfortable start to the trekking adventure.
1. Sankri Village (0 km)
Sankri is the base village for the Kedarkantha Trek. Situated at an altitude of 1,950 meters, this quaint hamlet is surrounded by dense pine and oak forests. Travelers can enjoy peaceful village life, interact with locals, and prepare for the trek with homestay accommodations and local guides.
2. Taluka (18 km from Sankri)
Taluka is a small town on the way to Sankri, known for its scenic beauty and river valleys. It serves as a pit stop for trekkers and offers glimpses of rural Uttarakhand, with terraced fields, small temples, and traditional homes.
3. Mori (35 km from Sankri)
Mori is a picturesque town located along the banks of the Tons River. It is famous for its lush greenery, river views, and historical significance, including local temples and small forts. Travelers often stop here for a short break or photography before heading deeper into the mountains.
4. Uttarkashi (85 km from Sankri)
A larger town in the region, Uttarkashi is known as a spiritual hub and a base for many Himalayan treks. It has temples like Vishwanath Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Ghat, scenic viewpoints, and riverside promenades. Uttarkashi also offers basic trekking gear shops, accommodations, and transport facilities.
5. Yamunotri and Gangotri (130–150 km from Sankri)
Though a bit farther, these sacred sites are accessible for pilgrims or trekkers looking to extend their Himalayan journey. Yamunotri and Gangotri are revered for their divine river origins, snow-capped surroundings, and trekking paths, providing a spiritual dimension to the adventure.
6. Har Ki Dun Valley (60 km from Sankri)
Another stunning trekking destination, the Har Ki Dun Valley, offers lush meadows, alpine forests, and views of the Bandarpunch and Swargarohini peaks. Many trekkers combine visits to Kedarkantha and Har Ki Dun for a richer Himalayan experience.
7. Juda Ka Talab (4 km from Kedarkantha Base Camp)
A small alpine pond near the Kedarkantha Base Camp, Juda Ka Talab is perfect for photography, relaxation, and experiencing the tranquility of the mountains before the final summit push.
Arrive at Dehradun Airport / Railway Station or Delhi, and board a private taxi or bus arranged by Hodophile Tour Travel to Sankri Village.
Distance: Dehradun to Sankri ~200 km, 8–9 hours
En route, enjoy the scenic drive through towns like Mori and Taluka, crossing rivers and terraced fields.
Overnight stay in homestays or guesthouses at Sankri, acclimatizing for the trek.
After breakfast, start your trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab, a small alpine pond surrounded by meadows and forests.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: ~12 km | Moderate gradient
Along the way, enjoy views of oak and pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and small streams.
Overnight camping at Juda Ka Talab, soaking in the serenity of the mountains.
Early morning start for the summit push to Kedarkantha Peak (3,800 m).
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours round trip | Distance: ~7–8 km
Witness panoramic views of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak, perfect for photography and sunrise lovers.
Descend back to Juda Ka Talab Base Camp for overnight camping.
After breakfast, trek back from Base Camp to Sankri Village.
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: ~12 km
Enjoy the scenic descent through forests, streams, and quaint villages.
Board a pre-arranged taxi or bus to Dehradun / Delhi for onward journey.
Optional stops at Mori or Taluka for lunch and sightseeing.
Fitness Level: Moderate; suitable for beginners with basic trekking experience.
Gear: Trekking shoes, warm clothing, sleeping bag, trekking poles, and sunscreen.
Best Time: December–April for snow trekking; May–June for pleasant summer treks.
Accommodation: Homestays at Sankri, camping at Juda Ka Talab.
With Hodophile Tour Travel, all logistics—transport, camping gear, permits, and local guides—are handled, allowing you to focus entirely on the breathtaking landscapes and Himalayan adventure.
The Kedarkantha Trek is a popular winter and summer trek in Uttarakhand, located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. It offers stunning snow-clad landscapes, dense pine forests, and panoramic Himalayan views from the summit at 3,800 meters.
It is considered a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with basic fitness. Snow trekking during December–March requires additional preparation and trekking gear.
Winter (December–March): Ideal for snow trekking and experiencing the Himalayas covered in white.
Summer (April–June): Pleasant weather, green meadows, and clear mountain views.
The trek is approximately 20–22 km round trip from the base village of Sankri, usually completed in 4 days.
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- By Road: Private taxis from Dehradun (~200 km, 8–9 hours)
- By Train: Nearest station is Dehradun Railway Station
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
