Every year hundreds of trekkers from across the country throng the summit of Kedarkantha and immerse themselves in the breath-taking view of the snow-capped mountains. Kedarkantha is one of the most popular and loved treks in our country. Kedarkantha Trek is located inside the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand. The trek has established itself as the most perfect winter trek in India. Courtesy, the comfortable trail, grand summit views, and an attractive amount of snow right from the base camp.
Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand is loved by both beginners and experienced trekkers. The abundant snow throughout the trail is a primary reason why Kedarkantha is popular winter trek.
Here are the top reasons why Kedarkantha in winter is one of the most visited Himalayan Trek
1. Short distance and Moderate Trail
Kedarkantha Trek is completed in six days, including travel days from Dehradun to back. One of the reasons why beginners wish Kedarkantha to be their first winter trek is because of its comfortable trek distance. The trek spreads over 18 km and daily average walking hours is between 3-4 hours.
Since the trek offers a winter wonderland and big mountain views, beginners are fond of Kedarkantha. Kedarkantha trail is a mix of gradual walks on undulated forest land. There are some steep ascents and descents. Summit climb is steep and physical fitness is put to the test when you hike from Kedarkantha base camp to the summit.
2. 360-Degree Summit Views
A lot of trekkers climb to the summit of Kedarkantha and come back to the base with a different perspective on life. The summit offers a 360 view of the Himalayan mountains. Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, Kala Nag, and Ranglana offer their best views. Imagine standing atop a peak while there are mountains covered in white snow all around as far as your eye can see.
3. Ultimate Snow Experience
Trekkers who come on the trek expecting snow at the summit are often surprised to witness snow right at the base camp. As you head to higher campsites, the amount of snow intensifies.
You will tread your path on a snowy trail while the coniferous forests along the trail make it a perfect Christmassy setting.
Upper reaches of the trek start receiving snowfall as early as December’s first week. The trek is attempted by both beginners and experienced trekkers. Come January, the snowfall becomes frequent and it further adds to the beauty of the campsite and the whole of the trail. Walking in the snow-covered forest just feels like a perfect blend of adventure and fun.
4. The Frozen Juda ka Talab
Kedarkantha has some of the best campsites complemented by enthralling views. Juda ka Talab is the first campsite and you will reach here on day 2 of your trek to discover a frozen lake.
When you wake up in the morning and open your tent, you will witness the sunrays falling on the frozen talab. A mystical coniferous forest surrounds the lake and the ray of sun peeps through it. The campsite at the Talab also creates a perfect landscape for indulging in trekking photography. There are tents of different colours in the clearings, the frozen lake, and the mountains behind the forest covered in snow. Walking on the frozen lake early in the morning is an experience you do not want to miss.