Kedarkantha,Uttarakhand

• Kedarkantha Peak (summit and panoramic viewpoints)
• Sankri village (trailhead and last motorable settlement)
• Juda Ka Talab (a scenic high-altitude pond used as a campsite)
• Dense oak, rhododendron and pine forests
• Views of major Himalayan ranges (Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Gangotri group on clear days)

• Snow-covered slopes and clear alpine meadows in winter
• Beginner-friendly graded trek with well-defined campsites
• Excellent sunrise and sunset views from the summit
• Rich biodiversity inside Govind Wildlife Sanctuary (flora and occasional sightings of Himalayan fauna)
• Photogenic landscapes and starry night skies

• Multi-day trekking (typical 3–4 nights / 4–6 days itineraries)
• Winter snow trekking, snowshoeing and basic ice-slope hiking
• Camping and overnight stays in tents or basic guesthouses/homestays in Sankri
• Photography, nature walks, bird watching and stargazing
• Cultural interaction with local Garhwali villagers and homestays

Winter snow season: December–March for snow-clad scenery; Spring/early summer: April–June for mild weather, rhododendron blooms and clearer trails.

Cold winters with heavy snowfall (temperatures often well below freezing on the summit); cool and pleasant summers; sudden weather changes possible in the mountains—carry layered clothing.

Nearest airport: Dehradun (Jolly Grant Airport) (approx. 200–230 km by road, 8–10 hours to Sankri depending on road conditions). Nearest major railheads: Dehradun or Haridwar. Last motorable village/trailhead: Sankri (base for most Kedarkantha treks). From Sankri the trek starts on foot—daily trekking routes are well marked. Road conditions in the Himalayan foothills can be slow; many visitors hire a driver or join a tour operator from Dehradun/Rishikesh/Delhi.

A typical trek itinerary is 4–6 days (including arrival to Sankri, trek to camps, summit day and return). Shorter 2–3 day summit-focused itineraries exist but are more strenuous.

Warm layered clothing, insulated down jacket, thermal base layers, waterproof outer shell, sturdy waterproof trekking boots, gaiters, trekking poles, microspikes/crampons for icy sections (winter), good quality sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures, sunglasses, sunscreen and personal first-aid kit.

Simple Garhwali mountain food at homestays: dal-roti, rice, sabzi, local tea and soups. Try regional dishes available in Sankri guesthouses. Souvenirs include local woolen caps, shawls, handloom items and small handicrafts made by local artisans.