Kedarkantha Trek by Hillway Travels: A Perfect Winter Adventure

The Kedarkantha Trek is one of the most enchanting and sought-after winter treks in India, attracting trekkers from all over the world to explore the pristine landscapes of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. Hillway Travels, a renowned trekking operator in India, offers a meticulously curated Kedarkantha Trek experience that combines adventure, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional hospitality. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trekker, Hillway Travels ensures that your journey to the Kedarkantha Summit is a safe, thrilling, and unforgettable adventure.

Overview of Kedarkantha Trek

• Duration: 5-6 Days
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Max Altitude: 12,500 feet
• Best Time to Trek: December to April
• Total Trek Distance: 20-22 km (round trip)
• Start and End Point: Sankri Village

The Kedarkantha Trek by Hillway Travels offers a well-organized itinerary that ensures an optimal trekking experience, with everything from transport to guides and meals taken care of, allowing trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the adventure.

Hillway Travels' Kedarkantha Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Sankri The trek begins with a drive from Dehradun (or your chosen starting point) to the picturesque village of Sankri. This 6-7 hour drive passes through scenic mountain roads, offering glimpses of the surrounding valleys and forests. Upon arrival at Sankri, trekkers are welcomed by the Hillway Travels team and given a briefing about the trek. The night is spent at a comfortable guesthouse or campsite to rest and acclimatize to the altitude.

Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4-5 km, 3-4 hours) After a warm breakfast, the trek begins with a gentle ascent through dense pine and oak forests. The trail takes trekkers through pristine nature, and after a few hours of trekking, you arrive at Juda Ka Talab, a serene frozen lake surrounded by tall trees. This campsite is ideal for an overnight stay, offering stunning views of snow-covered landscapes, especially during the winter months.

Day 3: Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4-5 km, 3-4 hours) On the second day of trekking, you will move towards the Kedarkantha Base Camp. This section of the trek offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, including Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Gangotri Range. The terrain gradually ascends through snow-covered trails and dense forests, making the journey magical. After reaching the base camp, trekkers can rest, take in the views, and prepare for the summit the next day.

Day 4: Kedarkantha Base Camp to Summit and Return (6-7 km, 5-6 hours) The highlight of the trek is the early morning ascent to the Kedarkantha Summit (12,500 feet). Starting before dawn, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular sunrise views from the top. The summit offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, including Kalanag, Swargarohini, and Har Ki Dun. After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, trekkers descend back to the base camp for a rest and lunch before heading back to Juda Ka Talab for the night.

Day 5: Return to Sankri (9-10 km, 5-6 hours) The final day of the trek is a descent back to Sankri. The downhill trail, though easier than the ascent, is still picturesque and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Trekkers reach Sankri by afternoon or evening, where the Hillway Travels team will arrange for your return transport to Dehradun.

Why Choose Hillway Travels for Kedarkantha Trek?

1. Expert Guides and Support Team Hillway Travels provides expert local guides who are well-versed in the terrain, culture, and weather conditions. Their knowledge ensures a safe and enriching trekking experience. The support team is always ready to assist trekkers in navigating difficult sections of the trail and offering encouragement.

2. Comprehensive Trekking Package Hillway Travels offers an all-inclusive package, covering transport, meals, permits, equipment, and accommodation. The package includes everything you need for a hassle-free experience, allowing trekkers to focus solely on the adventure. The meals provided during the trek are nutritious, local, and cater to different dietary preferences.

3. Personalized Attention With a focus on quality and safety, Hillway Travels ensures personalized attention for each trekker. From small group sizes to customized arrangements, trekkers can be sure they’ll receive the care and attention they need to enjoy their trek fully.

4. Safety and Comfort The safety of trekkers is a top priority for Hillway Travels. They provide necessary safety equipment, first-aid kits, and emergency evacuation arrangements if needed. The company also ensures comfortable camping setups with quality tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses to ensure a peaceful rest after a long day of trekking.

5. Eco-Friendly Practices Hillway Travels is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of trekking. They promote eco-friendly practices like waste management, the use of sustainable equipment, and encouraging trekkers to respect local communities and nature.

6. Experienced Team Hillway Travels is known for its professionalism and experienced team, which includes certified and experienced trek leaders, support staff, and chefs. The guides are trained in first aid and rescue operations, ensuring trekkers' safety throughout the journey.

Kedarkantha Trek: What to Expect

• Breathtaking Scenic Beauty: The trek offers mesmerizing views of the snow-covered peaks and valleys of the Himalayas. You’ll witness magnificent sunrises, frozen lakes, and dense forests of oak and pine.

• Snow-Capped Trails: During the winter months (December to April), the entire region is blanketed in snow, making it a paradise for snow lovers and photographers. The trek provides the perfect opportunity to experience winter trekking in its purest form.

• Wildlife and Flora: The trek takes you through the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, home to diverse wildlife like the Himalayan Monal, Bharal, and other bird species. The forests are also rich in flora, including pine, deodar, and rhododendron.

• Spiritual Vibes: Kedarkantha is a sacred peak for locals, and during the trek, you may have the chance to experience the spiritual aura that surrounds this majestic mountain. The small villages you pass through also have an old-world charm, with their traditional homes and welcoming locals.

Packing List for the Kedarkantha Trek

Hillway Travels provides trekkers with a detailed packing list to ensure that they are fully prepared for the adventure. Some essentials include:

• Clothing: Thermals, waterproof trekking shoes, warm layers, gloves, woolen socks, and a good quality windproof jacket.
• Trekking Gear: Trekking poles, rucksack, rain cover, headlamps with extra batteries, water bottle, and personal medications.
• Camping Essentials: Sleeping bag, lightweight tents (provided by Hillway Travels), and insulated mats.
• Extras: Camera, sunscreen, toiletries, and a first aid kit.

Conclusion

The Kedarkantha Trek by Hillway Travels is not just about reaching the summit; it’s about immersing yourself in nature, embracing adventure, and creating lasting memories in the majestic Himalayas. With expert guidance, seamless planning, and a focus on safety, Hillway Travels ensures that your trek to Kedarkantha is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're chasing snow, seeking solitude, or simply wanting to connect with the mountains, this trek promises an experience you'll never forget.

So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on a winter adventure like no other with Hillway Travels.