Day 1: Arrival at Sankri
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Sankri, covering approximately 220 km in around 10 hours. As you journey through charming hill stations like Mussoorie and picturesque towns such as Purola and Mori, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and valleys. Sankri, a serene village situated at an altitude of 6,400 ft, serves as the base camp for the trek. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable guesthouse, enjoy a warm meal, and attend a briefing session to prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda-ka-Talab
The trek begins as you leave Sankri behind, ascending through dense forests of pine and oak. The sound of chirping birds and the crunch of snow beneath your boots create a magical atmosphere. After trekking approximately 4-5 km over five hours, you reach Juda-ka-Talab, a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by towering trees. During winter, the campsite is blanketed in snow, providing an enchanting setting for the night. Enjoy the warmth of a campfire, savor hot meals, and retire under a sky full of stars.
Day 3: Juda-ka-Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Today’s trek takes you through beautiful clearings and offers spectacular views of snow-covered peaks as you ascend to Kedarkantha Base Camp, located at 10,100 ft. The 4 km trek, completed in about three hours, treats you to stunning Himalayan vistas with every step. Upon reaching the base camp, you’re greeted by views of towering peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch. Spend the evening soaking in the tranquility, preparing for the summit climb, and enjoying a hearty meal.
Day 4: Kedarkantha Base to Summit and Descend to Hargaon Camp
The day starts early with a trek to the Kedarkantha summit at 12,500 ft. The ascent is challenging yet rewarding, as the first light of dawn reveals a majestic 360-degree view of the Himalayan ranges. After savoring the awe-inspiring scenery, begin the descent to Hargaon Camp at 8,900 ft. The trail back winds through serene meadows and dense forests, making the 6-7 km journey, completed in around seven hours, both exhilarating and fulfilling.
Day 5: Hargaon Camp to Sankri
The final trekking day involves a gentle descent back to Sankri, covering approximately 4 km in three to four hours. As you navigate peaceful trails surrounded by nature, a sense of accomplishment sets in. Upon reaching Sankri, check into your guesthouse, where you can relax and celebrate the completion of your trek with fellow adventurers.
Day 6: Departure from Sankri to Dehradun
The adventure concludes with a scenic drive back to Dehradun, retracing the same 220 km route taken on Day 1. As you bid farewell to the mountains, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, challenging trails, and the unparalleled beauty of Kedarkantha. It’s advisable to keep a buffer day in your travel plans to accommodate any weather or road delays, or use it to explore local attractions in Dehradun.