The Kedarkantha trek, situated near the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand, offers an exciting journey tailored for beginners. Set at an elevation of 3810 meters, the summit provides stunning panoramic views of renowned Himalayan peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Black Peak, and Ranglana in the Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges.

Ascending to the summit is a highlight of this trek. Beginning early in the morning amidst chilly temperatures, with headlamps guiding the way as dawn breaks, the trails of Kedarkantha encapsulate the essence and challenges of a summit experience, albeit on a smaller scale.

Spanning over 20 kilometers across 5 days, this trek is well-suited for newcomers due to the manageable daily distances. The journey commences from Sankri village, a common starting point for various treks in Uttarakhand. The trail winds through dense Maple and Oak forests, crossing wooden bridges and streams before reaching the initial campsite, Juda-ka-Taal.

The following day, the trek becomes more challenging as you progress towards the Kedarkantha Base Camp, situated 4 kilometers away. Passing through dense Oak forests, the trail opens up to clearings along the way.

Be sure to admire the diverse flora and fauna, including Rhododendron trees, Chir Pine, Black Eagles, Golden Eagles, and more. The Kedarkantha Base Camp offers breathtaking 180-degree views of snow-capped peaks like Bandarpoonch, Swargarohini, and Kalanag. The snow-clad Kedarkantha Peak appears closer, shining brightly under the moonlight on most nights.

The ascent to the summit the following day is exhilarating. The steep climb, accompanied by strong winds and freezing temperatures during winter, constitutes the most challenging section of the Kedarkantha trek.

What sets this trek apart as an adventure haven is the complete experience it offers to trekkers. From majestic snow-covered landscapes and towering Oak and Pine trees to camping beside a serene high-altitude lake, the Kedarkantha trek provides a plethora of attractions to enjoy

ADI KAILASH