About the trek
As dawn breaks, the first light kisses the snow-laden peaks, casting a surreal glow on the frozen expanse of Kedartal. The air is crisp, carrying the whispers of the wind through the pine forests. You stand at the edge of the glacial lake, its surface a mirror reflecting the majestic Thalaysagar and Jogin peaks. The Kedartal Trek is not just a journey; it's an immersion into a winter wonderland, where every step crunches under the snow, and every breath forms a cloud in the frigid air. This trek is for those who seek the thrill of high-altitude adventure, the serenity of snow-clad landscapes, and the challenge of navigating through a pristine, untouched environment. As you ascend, the world around you transforms, offering panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The trek demands both physical endurance and mental fortitude, rewarding you with moments of unparalleled beauty and solitude. It's a test of your limits, a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, where the only sounds are your heartbeat and the crunch of snow underfoot.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Trek to a high-altitude glacial lake at 4750m, offering breathtaking views of Thalaysagar and Jogin peaks.
- 02Experience the serenity of a frozen lake, with the possibility of snow camping under a canopy of stars.
- 03Navigate through snow-laden trails, providing a unique winter trekking experience in the Gangotri region.
- 04Encounter the raw, untamed beauty of the Himalayas, with minimal human interference.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Gangotri
🚩 Starting Point
Bhoj Kharak
Waypoint 1
Kedar Kharak
Waypoint 2
Kedartal
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Gangotri
3,415m
Bhoj Kharak
3,900m
Kedar Kharak
4,500m
Kedartal
4,750m
Start
3,415m
Peak
4,750m
Total Gain
+1,335m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: May, Jun, Sep, Oct. Avoid Jul, Aug — heavy rainfall makes trails risky.
May
BESTBest Season
12–25°C
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Sep
BESTPost-Monsoon
10–20°C
Oct
BESTBest Season
5–18°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, 210 km
Nearest Railway
Haridwar Railway Station, 220 km
Flight to Dehradun, then 5-hour road journey, ₹3,000–₹5,000
Train to Haridwar, then 6-hour road journey, ₹1,000–₹2,000
Direct bus or car to Uttarkashi, 10-hour journey, ₹1,000–₹3,000
Flight to Dehradun, then road, ₹8,000–₹12,000
Train to Haridwar, then road, ₹2,000–₹4,000
Bus or car via NH44, 30-hour journey
Flight to Dehradun, then road, ₹10,000–₹15,000
Train to Haridwar, then road, ₹3,000–₹6,000
Bus or car via NH44 and NH34, 40-hour journey
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or local bus from Uttarkashi to Harsil, then trek-in
Pro tip: Check weather conditions before starting the trek from Harsil.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
Trek costs ₹15,000–₹30,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹3,500 – ₹4,000 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- High-ankle boots
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag -15°C
- Gaiters
clothing
- Down jacket
- Thermal layers x2
- Fleece
- Waterproof hardshell
essentials
- Altitude meds
- Water purifier
- Emergency rations
Safety Tips
- 1The boulder-hopping approach involves technical sections — use a guide
- 2Rapid altitude gain — acclimatize at Gangotri for at least 1 day
Permit & Entry Info
Forest entry fee at Gangotri. Gangotri National Park entry permit required: ₹150 for Indian nationals.
Emergency Contacts
Uttarkashi District Hospital
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The Kedartal Trek is classified as difficult due to its high altitude, steep ascents, and challenging terrain. Expect daily treks of 6-8 km with significant altitude gain.
The best months for the Kedartal Trek are May, June, September, and October, offering clear skies and stable weather conditions for trekking.
The cost of the Kedartal Trek ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, depending on your choice of transport, accommodation, and whether you hire a guide.
Yes, a permit is required for the Kedartal Trek. It can be obtained online or from the forest department office in Uttarkashi.
The Kedartal Trek is not recommended for beginners due to its difficulty level, high altitude, and challenging terrain.
The maximum altitude of the Kedartal Trek is 4750m. Altitude sickness is a risk; acclimatization is crucial.
Essentials include warm clothing, trekking boots, a sleeping bag rated for low temperatures, a hydration system, and high-energy snacks.
The nearest city is Uttarkashi. From there, take a shared cab or bus to Harsil, followed by a trek-in to the base camp.
The total distance of the Kedartal Trek is approximately 35 km, with daily treks ranging from 6-8 km.
While it's possible, it's not recommended due to the trek's difficulty and the need for local knowledge and safety.
During the best trekking months, daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, dropping significantly at night.
Mobile network is limited, and there are no ATMs at the base camp. Carry sufficient cash for expenses.
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