Kedarkantha Trek Christmas and New Year

The Queen of Winter Treks, Kedarkantha Trek is undoubtedly the top choice when you think of winter trekking, especially this Christmas and New Year season. Known as "Kedar Khand," which means "Section of Lord Shiva," Kedarkantha—meaning "Throat of Lord Shiva"—is steeped in legend, said to be where Lord Shiva meditated before moving to Kedarnath. Elevated at 12,500 ft, Kedarkantha is a breathtaking peak in the majestic Himalayas, attracting thousands of hikers and trekkers from across the country. This 4-night, 5-day trek is tailored for those who seek tranquility in nature’s unpredictable paths and mysterious valleys, making it perfect for both novice and expert trekkers.

Kedarkantha is renowned for its awe-inspiring views of snow-covered mountains. From the summit, you can catch fleeting glimpses of several ranges, including Black Peak, Swargarohini, Gangotri, and Yamunotri. JustWravel’s Kedarkantha Trek kicks off in Dehradun, then leads us through the charming village of Sankri, our base camp for this 20 km trek. After settling into our designated homestay or hotel, we’ll share stories and experiences before resting for the night.

On the second day, we’ll have a briefing from our trek leader before heading to our first checkpoint, Juda Ka Taal. We’ll spend the day at the campsite, enjoying festive meals while taking in the views of the Swargarohini ridges. The following day, we trek to the Kedarkantha base camp, situated at 11,200 ft. After a hot lunch and some fun activities like snowball fights, we’ll prepare for an overnight stay at the base camp.

One of the most memorable moments of this trek is the ascent to the Kedarkantha summit before dawn. Watching the sunrise from the top is a magical experience that will fill you with tranquility and make you forget your weariness. This trek is classified as moderately difficult, making it beginner-friendly while offering a stunning 360-degree view of the majestic Himalayan ranges. The coldest spot along the route is Juda Ka Taal, where the lake freezes in winter, shimmering like diamonds under the sun. As we continue, enchanting landscapes unfold, and if luck is on our side, we may experience a snowfall. The Kedarkantha trek attracts many who return not just for the summit but also for the rich local culture and delicious cuisine. Be sure to try the region’s famous red rice, known for its warming properties during winter. Please note that carrying electronic devices reliant on network connections is discouraged, as the signal fades before reaching Sankri Village, the trek's starting point. While Kedarkantha is accessible year-round, winter—especially December and January—is the preferred season to witness its pristine snow. This Christmas and New Year, join us for a magical experience in the heart of the Himalayas! The Kedarkantha Trek deserves a spot on your 2024 travel bucket list, so pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure!