Difficulty Level of Kedarkantha: India's Top Winter Himalayan Trek for Beginners
Publish On December 26, 2024
In the recent years the Kedarkantha trek has gained an immense amount of popularity among the trekking enthusiasts, mainly for its scenic beauty, snow covered landscapes and accessible trails compared to some other trekking trails. Situated in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, this most popular winter trek of India has become a paradise for the adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, and offers panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains with dense pine forests and serene campsites.
The Kedarkantha trek always offers all these unforgettable memories but at the time of deciding to take the Kedarkantha trek a question always arises: Is the Kedarkantha Trek easy, moderate or difficult, but no worries as in this guide we’ll try to breakdown the difficulty of this trek by discussing the various aspects of this trek like Kedarkantha trek distance, temperature during the Kedarkantha trek in winter, to ensure that you’re fully prepared on your adventure.
Here is the breakdown of the aspects that you need to consider before taking the Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand, as different times ensure different experiences and the change in the difficulty level of the trek.
Understanding the Difficulty Level
Generally the Kedarkantha trek is considered to be an easy to moderate level trek that means this trek can be ideal for the trekkers who have a little experience of trekking in Himalayas and also for the beginner trekkers with a great fitness level. This element in this Himalayan winter trek makes the difficulty of the trek somewhat dependent on the past experience, fitness level and also the weather conditions play a major role in increasing or decreasing the difficulty of the trek.
Key Factors Affecting the Kedarkantha Trek
Distance and Duration:The Kedarkantha trek distance approximately ranges between 20 km to 25 km which is to be completed by the trekkers in over the period of 4 to 5 days and sometimes it takes even more days. Due to this leisure pace, the trekkers have enough time to absorb the stunning landscapes around them and enjoy the journey. Shortening the duration can highly impact the difficulty of the trek, so to complete the trek it requires you to cover longer distances each day.
Altitude and Elevation Gain:The Kedarkantha trek height generally peaks up to 12,500 feet above the sea level and provides panoramic views of the snow covered landscapes. This trek generally starts at Sankri, which is a beautiful village in Uttarakhand; and is situated at a height of 6,455 feet. The gradual act of going up in this trek from Sankri or Kotgaon village allows the trekkers to adjust to the altitude comfortably and thus avoid medical issues caused due to AMS (acute mountain sickness).
Weather Conditions:The Kedarkantha trek temperature in winter usually drops as low as -10°C to -20°C during the nighttime, so it is always advised to carry thermal layers, insulated jackets and good quality trekking shoes on the trek. The most common Kedarkantha snowfall time is generally between the months of December to February, during these months the trek becomes more challenging because of the slippery trails but also becomes more enchanting and alluring due to mindblowing snow landscapes and great views of Himalayan peaks.
Trail Terrain:The terrain of this top winter trek in Uttarakhand is a mix of both well defined paths and gradual ascents and many steep sections near the summit. During the winter season in the Himalayas, the snow covered trails of this winter trek require caution and proper trekking gear like good gripping shoes and medical equipment.
Physical Fitness:Basic fitness level is essential for the Kedarkantha trek for beginners. Regular cardio exercises, strength training and endurance activities a few weeks before the trek, can make your experience of the trek more enjoyable. This Himalayan trek is suitable for beginners and those with little trekking experience if they prepare for the trek accordingly.
Season and Timing:While Kedarkantha trek is open year round, but the best time to visit this winter trek is usually from December to March, as during those months the snow transforms the landscapes into a winter wonderland. Summer months are much easier to take this Himalayan trek but offers a completely different experience and charm with different flora blooming and also provides clear skies.
Why Kedarkantha Trek is Beginner Friendly?
Well Marked Trails: The routes and the clearly defined paths of the Kedarkantha trek makes navigation more easy and simple, which helps the first timers to complete the trek.
Supportive Environment: The guided treks on the Kedarkantha trek packages often include experienced trekking professionals or guides to ensure safety and they also provide a sense of comradeship during the trek.
Short Duration: Kedarkantha trek usually spans upto 4 to 5 days making it less intimidating for the beginners.
Who Can Attempt the Kedarkantha Trek?
Beginners: The Kedarkantha trek for beginners is ideal because of the manageable distance of the trek, with gradual altitude gain and supportive group treks.
Solo Travellers: Kedarkantha trek is suitable for solo travellers and specifically with the Kedarkantha trek package for solo travellers that caters to the various needs of the solo travellers coming from various parts of India and also makes the trek hassle free.
Seasoned Trekkers: Seasoned trekkers can also enjoy the pristine beauty of this winter trek in Uttarakhand and can also challenge themselves by exploring the trails in more harsher winter conditions.
Planning Your Trek
Choose Right Trek Package:Many Kedarkantha trek packages from Dehradun options are available to take the trek in a more stress free and hassle free environment. These packages always ranges from budget to premium experiences. These trek packages are also available from the places where you are travelling from, opting for these packages can simplify your travel logistics, like if you’re based in Delhi then you should opt for the Kedarkantha trek packages from Delhi.
Budgeting:Kedarkantha trek package price can vary according to the inclusions and exclusions like trek guides, camping & accommodation, trekking equipments and meals. These trekking packages often start from affordable rates making them easily accessible to most adventure enthusiasts.
Prepare for Weather:While preparing for the Kedarkantha trek make sure to carry layers of clothing, waterproof trekking gear and sturdy trekking shoes. During the Kedarkantha trek temperature in winter make sure to pack thermal wear and insulated head cap & gloves to stay warm during the trek.
Safety Precautions:During Kedarkantha trek make sure to always stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and always carry basic medication for high-altitude sickness. During the trek always follow the instructions of your experienced trek guides and especially during the Kedarkantha snowfall time, as trekking trails become slippery during that time.
Through this comprehensive guide that breaked down the aspects of the Kedarkantha trek, you now know that this Himalayan trek offers a blend of both manageable trails and challenging ascents, which makes this popular winter trek of India suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers alike. While this trek of Uttarakhand is considered to be a moderate trek but the factors like weather conditions, season and fitness level can highly influence the difficulty of this trek. The Kedarkantha trek package from Dehradun offers something for everyone whether you’re looking for an adventurous winter expedition or a serene summer escape, the cost warry accordingly.
Ready to embark on this amazing trek after reading this comprehensive guide? Book your Kedarkantha trek package with Go4Explore today and let us take care of all your needs during the trek. Create some unforgettable memories during the trek and make your dream Himalayan trek a reality with us.