- Dhaula, Uttarakhand
Peoples's Choice
- People's Choice
- Travel Safe
- Certified Team
- Easy Cancellation
- Well Equipped Campsite
- Experienced Guide
- No Hidden Charges
Starting from
₹12,599/-PP*T&C
+5% GST
13% Off
4.7
- 6 Days
- 15,500 Ft.
- 37 Km
- Moderate-Difficult
- Uttarakhand
Best season : May to June, September to October.
Opening Dates
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
02/Sep/2023
03/Sep/2023
09/Sep/2023
10/Sep/2023
16/Sep/2023
17/Sep/2023
23/Sep/2023
24/Sep/2023
30/Sep/2023
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
Overview
The Kedartal Trek Uttarakhand is an esteemed trekking destination located in the Garhwal province of Uttarakhand, India. This moderately challenging trek route guides you through some of the most picturesque sceneries in the Gangotri Glacier, an admirable area in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
The Kedartal trek starts from Gangotri, which is also the origin of the river Ganges. The Gangotri Temple, located in the heart of the town, is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and attracts thousands of devotees every year. The journey from Gangotri involves walking through thick forests filled with different types of trees like pine, oak, and rhododendron. Then, you’ll reach open grassy areas high up in the mountains where you can see amazing views of mountains covered in snow.
The trek to Kedartal from Gangotri offers stunning views of some of the most famous peaks in the Garhwal region, including Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth, Jogin Group, and Kedarnath. These views are particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset.
The most exciting part of the hike is reaching Kedartal Lake, which is located very high up in the mountains at 4,912 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and is considered to be one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in India. In Hindu mythology, people believe that Lord Shiva lives there.
It usually takes 6-7 days to complete the journey to Kedartal, depending on how fast you go. The path is easy to follow and goes through many little villages where you can meet and talk to the local people and learn about their way of living.
One of the most difficult things about the hike is the high altitude. You need to take time to adjust to the high altitude so you don’t get sick. It’s a good idea to spend a few days in Gangotri before starting the hike so you can get used to the height.
The ideal time to go on the Kedartal Trek is between May and June, and from September to October. During these months, the weather is nice, and the sights are wonderful. But, you can do the trek anytime except during the rainy season.
If you like adventure and want to see how beautiful the Himalayas are, then hiking the Kedartal Trek is a great option for you. The trek offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural exploration. It is an ideal trek for both seasoned trekkers and beginners who are looking for a challenging yet rewarding trekking experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri and acclimatize
Day 1 of the Dehradun to Gangotri trip involves travelling from Dehradun to Gangotri, which is a town located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. The distance between Dehradun and Gangotri is approximately 230 km and it takes around 10-12 hours to cover the distance by road.
The journey from Dehradun to Gangotri is quite scenic and passes through picturesque towns and villages, dense forests, and winding mountain roads. The route also crosses the holy river Ganges at various points, adding to the charm of the journey.
On the way, travelers can take a break at some of the popular tourist destinations such as Mussoorie, which is a hill station known for its natural beauty and colonial architecture. Other places to visit on the way include Tehri Dam, which is one of the largest hydroelectric projects in India, and the ancient town of Uttarkashi, which is known for its temples and natural beauty.
Upon reaching Gangotri, travellers can explore the town, which is known for its scenic beauty and religious significance. Gangotri is located on the banks of the river Bhagirathi and is considered to be one of the four holy shrines of Hinduism. It is also the starting point for the famous Gangotri-Yamunotri trek.
Upon arrival, you will check into your accommodation and spend the day acclimatizing to the high altitude. Gangotri is a place high up in the mountains at 3,100 meters. It's important to take time to get used to the height so you don't get sick. You can look around the town, go see the Gangotri Temple, and go on a small hike to get used to the height.
Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak
On the second day of the Kedartal trek, you will start your journey from Gangotri towards Bhoj Kharak. The hike is about 8 kilometres and takes around 6-7 hours to finish. The path goes through thick forests with pine and oak trees, and you'll be walking next to the loud Bhagirathi River. The trekking path is well-defined and is mostly uphill, with a few steep ascents.
As you keep walking on the hike, you'll go through lovely fields with amazing sights of the snow-covered tops of the Himalayas. You'll also find some small streams and waterfalls as you go. The trail shows you big views of the mountains around, so it's a great place for people who like taking photos.
Upon reaching Bhoj Kharak, you will be greeted by a beautiful campsite with stunning views of the Bhagirathi River and the surrounding peaks. You can relax at the campsite, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy a warm meal before retiring to your tents for the night. Bhoj Kharak is high up in the mountains at 3,800 meters. To keep from getting sick because of the height (high Altitude), it's important to take time to get used to it. You can spend the evening exploring the campsite or simply relaxing and enjoying the tranquillity of the mountains.
Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak
On the third day of the Kedartal trek, you will start your journey from Bhoj Kharak towards Kedar Kharak. The trek is approximately 6 kilometres long and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. The trail is relatively easy and gradually ascends through high-altitude meadows, offering stunning views of Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth peaks.
As you trek further, you will come across a beautiful waterfall, which is a popular spot for trekkers to take a break and soak in the stunning views. The trail then continues through lush green meadows and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You will also come across several small streams and waterfalls along the way.
Upon reaching Kedar Kharak, you will be greeted by a beautiful campsite with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The campsite is situated at an altitude of 4,200 meters, and it is crucial to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. You can relax at the campsite, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy a warm meal before retiring to your tents for the night. Kedar Kharak is an ideal spot for stargazing, and you can witness the beautiful night sky with stars twinkling like diamonds.
Day 4: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal and back to Kedar Kharak
On the fourth day of the Kedartal trek, you will embark on a round trip from Kedar Kharak to Kedartal and back. The total distance covered will be approximately 8 kilometres, which takes around 6-7 hours to complete. The trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents and rocky terrain, and requires a good level of fitness and stamina.
The trek begins from Kedar Kharak, and you will start ascending towards Kedartal. The initial part of the trail is relatively easy, with a gradual ascent through high-altitude meadows and patches of snow. As you trek further, the trail becomes steeper, and you will need to negotiate several switchbacks and rocky terrain. At times, you may need to use your hands to climb, and the trek can be tiring and challenging.
As you ascend higher, the stunning views of the surrounding peaks will make the trek worthwhile. Upon reaching Kedartal, you will be greeted by a serene lake with crystal clear water, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. You can spend some time admiring the beautiful surroundings, taking pictures, and relaxing before starting your descent towards Kedar Kharak.
The descent is equally challenging, and you will need to be cautious while navigating through the rocky terrain. The trek back to Kedar Kharak will take around 3-4 hours, and you will pass through the same high-altitude meadows and patches of snow. Upon reaching Kedar Kharak, you can relax at the campsite, take in the beautiful surroundings, and enjoy a warm meal before retiring to your tents for the night.
Day 5: Kedar Kharak to Gangotri
On the fifth day of the Kedartal trek, you will begin your descent towards Gangotri. The total distance covered will be approximately 12 kilometres, which takes around 7-8 hours to complete. The trail is mostly downhill, but there are a few steep ascents and descents along the way.
The trek begins from Kedar Kharak, and you will follow the same trail that you took to reach Kedar Kharak. The initial part of the trail is mostly downhill, with several patches of snow and rocky terrain. You will pass through high-altitude meadows, and at times, you will need to negotiate several streams and boulders.
As you trek further, the trail becomes steeper, and you will need to be cautious while descending through the rocky terrain. You will pass through several small villages and hamlets, where you can interact with the locals and get a glimpse of their way of life. The stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the sound of the gushing river make the trek even more enjoyable.
Upon reaching Gangotri, you can relax, explore the town, and visit the famous Gangotri temple, which is one of the four pilgrimage sites in the Char Dham Yatra. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi river. You can take a dip in the holy waters of the river and seek blessings from the deity before retiring to your hotel for the night.
Day 6: Depart from Gangotri
On the sixth and final day of the Kedartal trek, you will depart from Gangotri and make your way back to your respective destinations. The day involves mostly travelling, and there is no trekking involved.
After breakfast, you can bid farewell to the beautiful town of Gangotri and make your way towards your respective destinations. If you are travelling to Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus from the Gangotri bus stand. The journey takes around 8-9 hours and offers stunning views of the mountains and the valleys.
If you are flying back, you can take a taxi from Gangotri to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 250 kilometres away. The journey takes around 9-10 hours, and it is advisable to leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach the airport on time.
If you are heading towards Rishikesh or Haridwar, you can take a bus from the Gangotri bus stand or hire a taxi. The journey takes around 6-7 hours and offers stunning views of the mountains and the rivers.
Map
Inclusion
- Accommodation: On all days of Trek (On Triple sharing Basis)
- Food: All Veg. Meal from Dinner at base camp on the day first till the last day Breakfast
- Forest Charges: Included all the necessary entry charges for the particular trek.
- Other Charges: Vehicle permit, toll and parking charges.
- Trek Leader and Guide: Qualified and Experienced trek leader and guide.
- Transportation: From Dehradun-Dehradun on a shared basis
Exclusion
- All kinds of personal expenditures
- Anything that we have not mentioned in the Inclusion section.
- The trek cost doesn't include meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day. (Food starts from dinner at base camp on the day first till the last day lunch).
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
- Fees or permits for non-Indians.
Things to Carry
Here are some essential things to carry on the Kedartal Trek:
- Backpack: A comfortable and sturdy backpack with a capacity of at least 50-60 litres to carry all your essentials.
- Trekking shoes: Comfortable and waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support to tackle the rocky and uneven terrain.
- Warm Clothes: Warm clothes like a fleece jacket, thermals, woollen cap, gloves, and a down jacket to protect you from the cold weather in the mountains.
- Rain gear: A good quality rain jacket and rain pants to protect you from the occasional rain showers.
- Sleeping bag: A warm and comfortable sleeping bag that can withstand sub-zero temperatures, as the nights in the mountains can get very cold.
- First aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential medicines, bandages, and antiseptics to treat minor injuries and illnesses.
- Water bottle: A sturdy water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trek. You can refill it from natural streams or carry water purification tablets.
- Sunglasses: Good quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the harsh glare of the sun and snow.
- Headlamp or torch: A headlamp or torch with extra batteries to help you navigate during early morning or late evening treks.
- Trekking pole: A trekking pole to provide support and balance while trekking on rocky terrain.
- Personal toiletries: Personal toiletries like sunscreen, lip balm, wet wipes, tissue paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Identification: Carry a valid government ID proof like Aadhar Card, Voter ID, or Passport for identification purposes.
It is essential to pack light and carry only the essentials on the trek.
How to Reach
Reaching Kedartal involves a trek that starts from Gangotri, a popular town in Uttarakhand, India. Here’s how you can reach Gangotri:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Gangotri is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 260 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gangotri.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Gangotri is Dehradun railway station, which is about 240 km away. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gangotri.
- By Road: Gangotri is well-connected by road, and you can reach here by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from major cities in Uttarakhand, such as Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.
Once you reach Gangotri, you will have to start the trek to Kedartal. The trek is about 17 km long and takes around 3-4 days (Gangotri to Gangotri) to complete. The trek involves a steep ascent through the Gangotri National Park, passing through forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. You will also pass through several small villages, where you can rest and interact with the locals. The trek ends at Kedartal, where you can camp and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Safety & Security
Some safety tips to keep in mind while trekking to Kedartal:
- Get a medical check-up before the trek: Kedartal trek involves trekking at a high altitude, and it is essential to get a medical check-up before the trek to ensure that you are fit enough to undertake the strenuous journey.
- Acclimatize properly: Acclimatization is the process of getting used to high-altitude environments. It is essential to acclimatize properly by taking rest breaks, staying hydrated, and not pushing yourself too hard.
- Carry sufficient food and water: It is crucial to carry sufficient food and water on the trek to stay hydrated and energized throughout the journey. You can refill your water bottles from natural streams or carry water purification tablets.
- Dress appropriately: Dress in layers and wear warm clothes to protect yourself from the cold weather. Also, wear comfortable and waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and ankle support.
- Follow the trekking trail: It is essential to follow the trekking trail and not wander off into unknown areas to avoid getting lost or encountering wildlife.
- Carry a first aid kit: Carry a basic first aid kit with essential medicines, bandages, and antiseptics to treat minor injuries and illnesses.
- Avoid trekking during the monsoon season: The monsoon season can bring heavy rainfall and landslides, making the trekking trails slippery and dangerous. It is best to avoid trekking during this season.
- Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can help you navigate the trekking trail and provide you with valuable information about the area.
- Respect the environment: It is essential to respect the environment and not litter or harm the natural surroundings.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that planning an outdoor trip brings a lot of excitement and joy. However, we also know that cancellations can be disappointing. While Hello Hikers rarely cancels treks due to our efficient ground operations, cancellations can happen due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, government regulations, or any other factors beyond our control. In such cases, the following cancellation policy will be applicable.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend making your booking at least two months in advance. If you do need to cancel your trek, please inform us in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive written advice.
Our cancellation policy is as follows:
We have designed a cancellation policy that is fair, feasible, and convenient for all our customers. The procedure is as follows:
- If you cancel your trek 21 or more days before the start date, we will deduct 10% towards GST and transaction charges and refund 90% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 15-20 days before the start date, we will deduct 30% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at base, ration, etc., and refund 70% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 7-14 days before the start date, we will deduct 50% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at the base, ration, trek leaders, permits, equipment, etc., and refund 50% as a trek voucher that is valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 1-6 days before the start date, we will deduct 100% as all arrangements have been made, and we are ready to take you on the trek.
We also have some terms and conditions for the trek voucher:
- The voucher will be valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.
- The voucher can be used for any trek with Hello Hikers.
Thank you for choosing Hello Hikers, and we hope to see you on our treks soon!
FAQS
Where is Kedartal located?
Kedartal is located in the Uttarkashi district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 4,912 meters (16,119 feet) above sea level. The trek to Kedartal starts from Gangotri, which is a popular town in Uttarakhand and is situated at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) above sea level.
Why Choose Kedartal Trek?
A few reasons which make Kedartal one of the must-visit treks in Uttarakhand are
Stunning natural beauty: The Kedaral trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes. Kedartal, also known as Shiva's Lake, is a glacial lake at the base of the Thalay Sagar peak, which adds to the charm of the trek.
Challenging terrain: The trek is moderately difficult, with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and moraines. It is a good option for experienced trekkers looking for a challenge.
Rich cultural experience: The trek takes you through several small villages, where you can interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. You can also visit the famous Kedarnath Temple, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India.
Wildlife sightings: The trek passes through the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these animals in their natural habitat.
Off-the-beaten-track: Unlike some of the more popular treks in India, Kedartal trek is still relatively undiscovered. This means you can enjoy the pristine natural beauty without the crowds that you might encounter on other treks.
What is the history of Kedartal?
Kedartal has a significant mythological and historical significance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva meditated for several years. According to Hindu mythology, it is said that the Pandavas, the legendary figures in the Indian epic Mahabharata, visited this place during their exile. The lake is also believed to be the origin of the Kedar Ganga river, which is considered sacred by the Hindus.
The Kedartal trek was not known to the outside world until the 1940s when a British mountaineer named Frank S. Smythe discovered the lake while exploring the Garhwal region. Since then, the lake has become a popular destination among trekkers and mountaineers from all over the world.
In recent years, the Kedartal region has seen some environmental damage due to the increasing number of tourists and trekkers. To preserve the natural beauty and ecological balance of the region, the government of Uttarakhand has taken steps to regulate tourism and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Which month is best for the Kedartal trek?
The best time to do the Kedartal trek is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for trekking. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to August, should be avoided as the region experiences heavy rainfall and landslides, making the trekking trails slippery and dangerous. Similarly, during the winter months from November to April, the region experiences heavy snowfall, making it difficult to trek.
What is the difficulty level of Kedartal Trek?
The Kedartal trek is considered a moderately difficult trek, suitable for experienced trekkers who have prior experience trekking in high-altitude regions. The trek involves a steep ascent through rocky terrain, moraines, and boulder fields. The trek also involves crossing streams and navigating through dense forests. Trekkers must have good physical fitness, stamina, and endurance to complete the trek.
The maximum altitude of the trek is 4,912 meters (16,119 feet) above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness for those who are not acclimatized to high altitudes. It is essential to acclimatize properly and follow the necessary safety precautions to avoid any health risks.
Kedartal Trek Distance
The distance of the Kedartal trek varies depending on the route taken by trekkers. The most common route followed by trekkers is from Gangotri, which is approximately 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) from Kedartal Lake.
The trek is usually completed in 6-7 days, with trekkers covering an average of 4-5 kilometres (2.5-3.1 miles) per day. The distance covered each day also depends on the trekker's fitness level and the altitude gained during the day.
Best Time to Visit Kedartal
The best time to visit the Kedartal trek is during the summer months of May to June and the autumn months of September to October.
During the summer months, the weather is pleasant with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for trekking. The snow begins to melt during this time, and the alpine flowers start blooming, adding to the beauty of the trek.
In the autumn months, the weather is dry and clear, offering stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes. The days are still warm, and the nights are cool, making it a comfortable time for trekking. The autumn months are also ideal for wildlife sightings, as the animals come out to feed before the onset of winter.
It is not recommended to visit during the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall, or during the winter months (November to April) due to heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions.
Opening Dates
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
02/Sep/2023
03/Sep/2023
09/Sep/2023
10/Sep/2023
16/Sep/2023
17/Sep/2023
23/Sep/2023
24/Sep/2023
30/Sep/2023
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
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