6 NIGHTS/7 DAYS
4724 KM
Difficult
31 KM
May | June | September | October
20
The Kedartal Trek, also known as Shiva’s Lake, is one of the most stunning and challenging treks in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. This trek leads to Kedartal, a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 15,485 feet (4,720 meters), nestled in the shadow of the majestic Thalay Sagar and Bhrigupanth peaks. The journey starts from the sacred town of Gangotri, renowned for the Gangotri Temple and the origin of the river Ganga.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Gangotri, a holy town that serves as the starting point for the trek. This drive is a visual treat, offering views of the Bhagirathi river and lush greenery that sets the tone for the trek ahead. The trek traverses through diverse landscapes, including dense deodar forests, rocky terrains, and alpine meadows. Trekkers will pass through Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak, each location offering unique natural beauty and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Known for its steep ascents and rugged terrain, the trek to Kedartal is suitable for experienced trekkers. The path involves traversing moraines and navigating through challenging rock formations, especially as you approach the lake. At Kedartal, trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of the towering Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth, and Meru peaks. The emerald-green glacial lake reflects these majestic peaks, creating a picturesque and serene environment.
Besides its natural beauty, the trek holds significant cultural and spiritual value. According to Hindu mythology, Kedartal is considered sacred as it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva meditated. The best times to undertake the Kedartal Trek are during the pre-monsoon (May to June) and post-monsoon (September to October) periods, when the weather is relatively stable, and the views are clear.
This trek is an exhilarating experience that combines physical challenges with the serene beauty of the Himalayas, providing trekkers with an unforgettable adventure amidst some of the most dramatic landscapes in India.
Gangotri
Dehradun Railway station
Dehradun
Jolly Grant Airport
(Summers-25° Max/ 10° Min) (Winters-18° Max/ -5° Min)
Gangotri: Jio/VI/Airtel Networks are available. During trek no networks are available.
Gangotri is the last point that has electricity. Note: Most of the electricity is extremely intermittent and can be absent for most part of the day during winter/late summer (when monsoon starts to set in)
Uttarkashi, on the way to Gangotri has last ATM Note: Most of time ATM in hilly regions are not functioning.
Meet us at the Dehradun railway station at 6:00 AM to begin your journey to Gangotri. This scenic drive covers approximately 250 kilometers and takes about 10-12 hours. The route offers stunning views of picturesque mountain villages, dense forests, and the Bhagirathi river. As you ascend into the Himalayas, you’ll pass through notable towns like Uttarkashi, where you can take brief rest stops and refreshments. Arrive in Gangotri by late afternoon or early evening, ready to start your trekking adventure the next day.
Begin your trek from Gangotri, starting from the Bhairav Ghati bridge and crossing the Bhagirathi river. The trail begins with a steep ascent past a GMVN lodge and several ashrams, transitioning into a dense forest path. This rocky and strenuous route is the only way to reach Bhoj Kharak. Along the way, enjoy the sights and sounds of the Kedar Ganga river and towering fir trees. The trail narrows and offers occasional flat stretches for rest. About an hour and a half into the trek, you’ll encounter birch trees, historically used for writing and insulation. Staying hydrated is crucial, and there are three water points along the trail. After approximately four hours, navigate the “spider wall,” a narrow path on a near-vertical rock face. Continue the climb to reach the Bhoj Kharak campsite, nestled in a narrow valley with limited views but a peaceful environment.
Today’s trek begins with a steep ascent from Bhoj Kharak. As you climb higher, the dense forest gives way to expansive meadows filled with colorful blooms, especially vibrant in the autumn. The hike involves a mix of gentle slopes and a few steep inclines. Keep an eye out for wildlife like Bharal (Blue Sheep), Goral, and various bird species. The meadows stretch over 2 kilometers, offering stunning views and a relatively easier walk compared to the previous day. Kedar Kharak, situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet, is a spectacular campsite surrounded by the peaks of Brighupanth, Thalaysagar, and Jogin 3. The area is frequented by herds of blue sheep, adding to its charm. The final part of the trek involves crossing the Kedar Ganga river. Upon reaching the campsite, enjoy the stunning views, especially at sunset when the entire meadow glows with an orange hue.
Start early for the trek from Kedar Kharak to Kedartal. This part of the journey involves navigating steep, rocky terrain. As you ascend, the landscape transforms into a rugged alpine zone with sparse vegetation. The route requires careful footwork, especially when crossing moraines and rocky sections. Upon reaching Kedartal, soak in the serene beauty of the emerald-green lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The reflections of the surrounding mountains in the clear waters of the lake add to its magical ambiance. After spending some time at Kedartal, begin your descent back to Kedar Kharak, appreciating the stunning landscape from a different perspective. End the day by returning to the Kedar Kharak campsite, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.
On the final day of your trek, retrace your steps from Kedar Kharak back to Gangotri. Begin your descent early, leaving the high-altitude meadows and rocky terrain behind. The journey down offers different perspectives on the landscapes you traversed during your ascent. Navigate the familiar “spider wall” sections with care. Maintain a steady pace and take breaks as needed to manage the long descent. Upon reaching Bhoj Kharak, take a short rest before continuing towards Gangotri. The lush forests and the sound of the Kedar Ganga river accompany you as you make your way back. Arrive in Gangotri by late afternoon or early evening, ready to rest and reflect on your trekking adventure.
Start early for the scenic drive from Gangotri to Dehradun, covering 250 km in approximately 10-12 hours. This route retraces your journey through picturesque mountain villages, dense forests, and alongside the Bhagirathi river. Enjoy the changing landscape as you descend from the Himalayas to the plains, passing through notable towns like Uttarkashi for rest and refreshments. Arrive in Dehradun by late afternoon or evening, concluding your Kedartal trek with reflections on the breathtaking vistas and the adventures of the past days.
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Refund Policy
The following refund shall be payable to the user in case of valid cancellation as per the guidelines
Note: The above-mentioned refunds are subjected to deductions for any expenses that may have been incurred for hotel booking or
transport etc. Refunds are applicable on the total cost and not on the advance amount.
What is special about the Kedartal trek?
The Kedartal trek is known for its pristine beauty and challenging trails. The trek leads to the stunning Kedartal Lake, situated at an altitude of 15,485 feet (4,720 meters), with panoramic views of towering Himalayan peaks like Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth, Jogin, and Meru.
What is the best time to do the Kedartal trek?
The best time for the Kedartal trek is from May to June and September to October. These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and stunning views of the surrounding snow-clad peaks. The trek is not advisable during the monsoon and winter due to heavy rainfall and snow.
How difficult is the Kedartal trek?
The Kedartal trek is classified as a difficult trek. It involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, and requires good physical fitness and prior trekking experience, especially due to the high altitude and challenging conditions.
Is Kedartal trek suitable for beginners?
No, the Kedartal trek is not recommended for beginners. It is a challenging trek meant for experienced trekkers with good physical endurance, as it involves difficult terrain and high altitude trekking.
Is it possible to complete the Kedartal trek in a shorter duration?
No, proper acclimatization is essential for the Kedartal trek due to the high altitude. The trek typically includes rest days at Gangotri or Bhojkharak to help the body adjust to the altitude and prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Do I need a permit for the Kedartal trek?
Yes, you need a trekking permit from the Gangotri National Park authorities to enter the region. The permits are usually arranged by Mountainiax as part of the package.
Is a medical certificate required for the Kedartal trek?
Yes, a medical certificate is required for the Kedartal trek as per Wildlife regulations. The certificate ensures that you are physically fit to undertake the challenging high-altitude trek and helps assess your health condition to prevent any complications during the journey. It is an essential document that needs to be submitted before the trek begins.
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