Kedarkantha is a famous and beginner-friendly trek in India, perfect for those new to mountain climbing. While Deoriatal Chandrashila is another option for beginners, it focuses more on scenic views and forests, with its final stretch being a pilgrim trail that lacks the wild, raw feel of Kedarkantha. No other peak trek offers such an exciting yet accessible experience for first-timers.
From the very start of the trek, the majestic Kedarkantha peak is visible, drawing trekkers into its adventure. The trail winds through enchanting pine, oak, and maple forests, occasionally hiding the summit before revealing it again. The real challenge begins at the Bhoja Dadi campsite, where a steep climb leads to the summit. Though tough—especially in winter snow—the ascent feels thrilling rather than intimidating, making it ideal for beginners. Reaching the top rewards you with breathtaking views of Mt. Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag, and the Gangotri range.
Kedarkantha isn’t just about the summit—it’s a complete Himalayan experience. You walk through pristine forests, camp in scenic clearings with unforgettable sunsets, and get a glimpse of village life in Kotgaon. In winter, when most Himalayan treks close due to heavy snow, Kedarkantha remains open, offering a rare chance to summit a peak in snow-covered glory. This makes it India’s most popular winter trek.
While famous for winter, Kedarkantha is equally stunning year-round. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and birdsong, while summer turns the meadows lush green with wildflowers. Autumn transforms the forests into golden shades of yellow and red, and the summit views become crystal clear. Whether trekking through snow or grassy slopes, Kedarkantha’s beauty never fades.
At Trip to Trek, we’ve explored Kedarkantha in every season, and it never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of adventure, accessibility, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise we call it the best beginner-friendly summit trek in India. Whether it’s your first trek or your fiftieth, Kedarkantha promises an experience you’ll cherish forever.
Drive Distance: 198 km | Duration: 10-11 hours | Route Highlights: Scenic drive through pine/oak forests, meadows, and snow-capped mountains. Views of Tons River.
Transport Options: Direct buses at 5 AM/7 AM from Dehradun. Alternate routes via Hanol/Purola. Taxis take ~8 hours.
Trek Distance: 5 km | Duration: 5 hours | Altitude Gain: 6,400 ft to 9,000 ft
Highlights: Frozen lake (winter) surrounded by pine trees. Campsite near the lake.
Trek Distance: 2 km | Duration: 3-4 hours | Altitude Gain: 9,000 ft to 11,250 ft
Challenges: Deep snow (3-4 ft in winter) makes this section strenuous.
Trek Distance: 4-5 km (round trip) | Duration: 7-8 hours | Summit Altitude: 12,500 ft
Key Notes: Start early for sunrise. Steep climb with increased snow depth in winter.
Trek Distance: 3 km | Duration: 3-4 hours | Drive Distance: 198 km | Duration: 10-11 hours
Option: Stay overnight in Sankri before returning.
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack (with rain cover) | 50–60L with padded straps |
| Daypack (with rain cover) | 20–30L (if off-loading backpack) |
| Trekking Poles / Walking Stick | 1 |
| Water Bottle | 2 thermos flasks (1L each) |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte |
| Item | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry collared T-shirt | 2–3 | 2–3 (Full sleeves) |
| Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves) | 2 | 2–3 |
| Fleece Jacket | 2 | 2 |
| Down Jacket | 1 (available on rent) | 1 (available on rent) |
| Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom) | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Quick-dry Trek Pants | 2–3 pairs | 2–3 pairs |
| Waterproof Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Woollen Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants | 1 | 1 |
| Lightweight Quick-dry Towel | 1 | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Head Torch | 1 |
| Sun Cap | 1 |
| Woollen Cap | 1 |
| Balaclava | 1 |
| Buff / Neck Gaiter | 1 |
| Sunglasses | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Shoes (High ankle) | 1 pair |
| Flip-flops | 1 pair |
| Cotton Socks | 2-3 pairs |
| Woollen Socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 pair |
| Microspikes | 1 pair |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | 1 |
| Toilet Paper | 1 roll |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 |
| Lip Balm | 1 |
| Light Towel | 1 |
| Moisturizer | 1 |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30-40) | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pain Reliever | 1 strip |
| Motion Sickness Medicine | 1 strip |
| Fever/Headache Medicine | 1 strip |
| Allergy Medicine | 1 strip |
| Diarrhoea Medicine | 1 strip |
| Cream/Spray for Sprains | 1 |
| Antiseptic Cream | 1 |
| ORS | 1-2 packets |
| Band-aids | 5-6 |
| Cotton | 1 small roll |
| Gauze | 2 pieces |
| Scissors | 1 |
| Tweezers | 1 |
| Elastic Bandage | 1 |
| Diamox 125/250 mg | 1 strip |
| Diamox 500 mg | 4-5 pills |
| Nifedipine 20 mg | 1 strip |
| Dexamethasone (4 mg) | 1 strip |
With years of experience in Himalayan adventures, Trip To Trek offers:
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