Through the magical medows of Uttarakhand
6 Nights/7 Days
3,749 Mts
Moderate
31 KM
March - June / Oct - Nov
20
We, At Mountainiax love to organize offbeat treks, and the Surya Top Trek is one of our most breathtaking and lesser-explored trails in the Garhwal Himalayas. An extension of the Dayara Bugyal Trek, this journey takes you through vast meadows, dense forests, and stunning ridge walks, all leading up to the magnificent Surya Top, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Himalayas. Unlike crowded trekking routes, Surya Top retains its untouched charm, making it a perfect escape into the wilderness.
The adventure begins in Barsu village, a scenic hamlet that marks the starting point of this mesmerizing trek. As you step onto the trail, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush forests of oak, rhododendron, maple, and cedar, with occasional openings revealing glimpses of the mighty peaks in the distance. Gradually, the dense woods give way to expansive meadows, where Himalayan blue poppies, daisies, and primroses paint the landscape with vibrant colors in the summer. The famous Dayara Bugyal unfolds before you, a rolling carpet of green in summer and golden hues in autumn, making every step feel like walking through a dream.
One of the most unforgettable experiences of this trek is the grand ridge walk from Surya Top to Devkund. There are very few treks in India that offer such an extensive and breathtaking ridge walk. As you ascend, the Gangotri and Yamunotri ranges emerge on the horizon, standing tall in their full glory. Bhagirathi I & II, Mt. Meru, Thalay Sagar, Kedardome, Bandarpoonch I & II, and Kalanag make their presence felt, forming a spectacular backdrop against the open sky. The feeling of walking along this ridge, with clouds drifting below and the vast Himalayan landscape unfolding in every direction, is nothing short of magical.
Camping at Devkund is another highlight that makes this trek truly special. Imagine waking up to the colossal Bandarpoonch massif right in front of you, its snowy peaks glowing in the soft light of dawn. The peaceful stillness of the campsite, the crisp mountain air, and the sheer grandeur of the landscape create an experience that stays with you long after the trek ends. The Siyari Bugyal adds to the beauty of the journey, offering a serene and picturesque campsite amidst nature’s best.
The final ascent to Surya Top is a thrilling challenge, but the reward at the summit is beyond words. From the highest point of the trek, you are treated to an uninterrupted 360-degree view of towering Himalayan peaks. Srikanth, Jaonli, Draupadi Ka Danda II, and the entire Gangotri Range stand before you, creating a picture-perfect moment that few get to witness. The summit is not just a viewpoint; it is a place of reflection, where the vastness of nature humbles you and fills you with a deep sense of awe and gratitude.
What makes Surya Top Trek truly special is how it transforms with the seasons. In spring, rhododendrons bloom, adding bright reds and pinks to the forests. In summer, the meadows are a lush green paradise. Autumn turns the landscapes into golden hues, while winter covers everything in a pristine layer of snow, making it a trekker’s winter wonderland. No matter when you embark on this journey, the Surya Top trek is an experience of a lifetime—an opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
With Mountainiax, you don’t just trek—you immerse yourself in an adventure where nature tells a new story at every step. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to experience the untouched beauty of Surya Top, where the mountains, meadows, and skies come together to create memories that last forever.
Sankri
Near Dehradun Railway Station
Dehradun
Jolly Grant Airport
(Summers-25° Max/ 10° Min) (Winters-18° Max/ -5° Min)
Sketchy Jio Networks are available in Sankri
Sankri 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)
Purola, on the way to sankri has last Day Note: Most of time ATM in hilly regions are not functioning. So you are requested to carry cash from Dehradun
Day 1: Travel from Dehradun to Sankri
Begin your morning in Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, and set off on a drive that transitions from the urban setting into the heart of the mountains. The journey offers scenic vistas as you pass through the bustling markets of hilly towns such as Mussoorie, Nainbagh, Damta, Naugaon, Purola, and Mori. Travel alongside the serene rivers Yamuna, Tons, and Kamal Ganga. In Netwar, witness the confluence of the Supin and Tons rivers. The route features meandering paths lined with pine trees and sharp curves that enhance the drive’s excitement. Upon arrival in Sankri, the distant peaks of Swargarohini glisten in the horizon. Spend the night in a local homestay near Sankri Road’s main market, ready for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Sankri to Juda Ka Talab
After breakfast in Sankri, the trek to Juda Ka Talab begins, passing through the quaint village of Saud situated along the ridge of the Tons River valley. The trail soon diverges into a forested path where thick pine and maple trees shield trekkers from the sun. This enchanting route leads up to Juda Ka Talab, where tents are pitched beside a stunningly frozen lake, surrounded by snow and dense pine forests. Enjoy dinner under a starlit sky at this breathtaking high-altitude location.
Day 3: Trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp
Today’s trek is more challenging, with a steeper ascent. Departing Juda Ka Talab, the path splits; take the left fork which climbs through dense pine forests. Along the way, encounter shelters transformed into makeshift shops by locals. Reaching the Base Camp unveils stunning views of the Kedarkantha summit. Prepare for an early night, as the ascent to the summit begins at 3 A.M.
Day 4: Ascent to Kedarkantha Summit and return to Base Camp
An early start leads to a challenging two-hour hike to a tea point where the tree line ends, opening up to spectacular Himalayan vistas. The summit of Kedarkantha is a haven for snow enthusiasts and photographers alike, featuring small temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. Spend time absorbing the panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the prominent peaks of Swargarohini, Black Peak, Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, and Yamunotri ranges. Return to Base Camp for a well-deserved rest under the cold night sky.
Day 5: Return to Sankri and journey back to Dehradun
The final leg of the trek leads back to Sankri via a different route, passing through the campsite at Hargaon. The return drive to Dehradun travels through picturesque settings, transitioning from serene mountain landscapes back into the lively urban environment. Reflect on a memorable adventure as you approach Dehradun, bringing the journey to a close.
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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.
Why is Kedarkantha so popularly known as the “Queen of Winter Treks”?
Kedarkantha is known as the “Queen of Winter Treks” for its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and stunning summit sunrise. The trail passes through dense pine forests, vast meadows, and charming villages, offering panoramic Himalayan views. Despite its high-altitude beauty, it remains a moderately easy trek, perfect for beginners and adventure seekers alike.
What is the trek difficulty level of Kedarkantha?
The Kedarkantha trek is rated easy to moderate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The well-marked trail, gradual ascents, and steady altitude gain ensure a comfortable yet rewarding summit climb.
Is “kedarnath and “Kedarkantha” same ?
Many people confuse Kedarnath and Kedarkantha, but they are different. Kedarnath is a famous hindu pilgrimage site and Shiva temple located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. In contrast, Kedarkantha is a popular winter trek situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
Is it mandatory to have a guide for this trek?
For the Kedarkantha Trek, Govind Vihar National Park mandates trekking with a registered local guide. This ensures both safety for trekkers and support for local livelihoods.
How long does the trek take?
The average number of days taken to complete the Kedarkantha trek ranges from five to six days and is about 20 KM long. This provides enough time for acclimatization and enjoyment for the trekkers without rushing.
When can we see snow on the Kedarkantha Trek?
Snow is usually present from November to March, making it a perfect time for snow trekking. Temperatures range from -5°C to 10°C. However, the last week of December is very crowded, so it’s best to avoid that period. Snow availability may vary depending on weather conditions
Can we find electricity during the trek?
Electricity is available only in Sankri, the base village. During the trek, there is no electricity, as you will be camping in the wilderness of Govind Pashu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Is there a cloakroom to keep extra luggage while going on the trek?
Yes, Mountainiax Homestay in Sankri provides a facility to store extra luggage before starting the trek.
What kind of food is available during the trek?
Team Mountainiax provides vegetarian meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals are simple yet nutritious, consisting of dal, rice, roti, vegetables, and snacks like soup and noodles.
What is the best time to do the Kedarkantha Trek?
The best time for the Kedarkantha Trek is during winter (December to March) for snow-covered trails and summer (April to June) for pleasant weather. Autumn (September to November) also offers clear skies and stunning views.
Where is the Kedarkantha Trek located?
The Kedarkantha Trek is nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarakhand, India. It starts from Sankri Village, which serves as the base camp for many other treks also.
What is the highest altitude reached during the Kedarkantha Trek?
The highest point of the Kedarkantha Trek is the Kedarkantha Summit, which stands at 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) above sea level.
Is the Kedarkantha Trek safe for beginners?
Yes, the Kedarkantha Trek is safe for beginners. However, proper acclimatization, physical fitness, and guidance from experienced trek leaders are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What is the temperature range during the winters in Kedarkantha Trek?
In winter, temperatures can drop to -10°C to -20°C at night, while daytime temperatures range between 0°C to 10°C. In summer, temperatures are milder, ranging from 10°C to 20°C during the day.
What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?
The Accommodation during the Kedarkantha Trek is primarily in tents at different campsites. On first day guesthouses are available in Sankri Village.
Are permits required for the Kedarkantha Trek?
Yes, trekkers need to obtain a forest permit to enter the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. These permits are usually arranged by trekking agencies.
Our goal is to encourage sustainable tourism in offbeat destinations of the Himalayas. We want more people to get out of the main trekking hubs & experience themselves and the planet on a new more meaningful level.
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