Kedarkantha

A popular winter trek in the Govind Pashu Vihar area with pine forest, a frozen lake and a summit with wide views. Often chosen as a first snow trek.

DifficultyEasy-moderate
Duration5 days
Distanceabout 20 km round trip
Altitudesummit about 3,810 m
SeasonDecember to April for snow

About this page: Compiled from general knowledge and secondary sources. Distances and times are approximate and were not checked against an official page. Confirm road, permit and opening status before you travel. Never trek high altitude alone or without a registered operator in snow.

Highlights

  • Pine and oak forests in snow
  • Juda ka Talab lake
  • Summit panorama of Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch

Getting to the start

Sankri village; Dehradun to Sankri is a long mountain drive of roughly 190 km, usually 9-10 hours.

Itinerary (typical)

  1. Day 1: Drive Dehradun to Sankri. Long road day via Purola. Arrive in the evening and stay in a homestay.
  2. Day 2: Sankri to Juda ka Talab. A few hours of walking through forest to a frozen lake campsite.
  3. Day 3: Juda ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base. Short walk to the base camp; acclimatise and rest.
  4. Day 4: Summit and descend to Hargaon. Early start for the summit, then a long descent. This is the longest day.
  5. Day 5: Hargaon to Sankri and drive back. Walk down to Sankri and drive back or stay another night.

Stay and facilities

Camping on the trek; homestays at Sankri.

Basic toilet tents on organised treks; no electricity or reliable network after Sankri.

Permits

Entry is controlled by the forest department; operators normally arrange fees. Confirm current permit rules.

What to carry

See the trek preparation and packing guide for day-hike, supported-trek and expedition lists.

Safety and acclimatisation

  • Do not trek independently in snow; use a registered operator and guide.
  • Carry layers and waterproof gloves.

Cost

Operator-run treks usually charge a package fee that includes transport from the base, food and guides. Get written quotes and inclusions. Budget estimator

Responsible trekking

  • Carry out all litter.
  • Do not leave the trail or camp outside designated spots.

Who it suits

  • First-time trekkers who are fit
  • Winter trekkers with a guide

Map

Approximate area only. Do not navigate by this map.

Frequently asked questions

Can beginners do Kedarkantha?

Yes with a registered operator and good fitness. The summit day is long.

Sources and verification

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Prices, opening dates, road status and permits change often. Confirm with an official source before you travel.