Kedartal Trek- Visit The Highest Lake In Uttarakhand
Kedartal Trek is a thrilling and remote trek located in the Garhwal Himalayan range of Uttarakhand. It is renowned for its stunningly crystal clear lake, the magnificent views of the snow-clad peaks, and of course, the thrill of trekking in the wilderness. It is an ideal trail for seasoned trekkers and beginners alike. It involves a gradual ascent through dense forests and grassy meadows, with fantastic views of Mt. Shivling, Mt. Meru.
The high point of the trek is the lake, Kedartal, which is located at a height of 4,800 metres. This holy lake is said to have been formed by Lord Shiva himself, and is considered to be one of the most sacred lakes in the entire region. It is also the high altitude lake of Shiva. The trek is full of many unpredictable paths.
Kedartal Trek Highlights
- The trek begins from the village of Gangotri, and passes through the villages of Harsil, Bhojbasa, and Kedartal. On the way, you’ll get to witness the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, lush green forests, and an array of alpine meadows.
- The mighty peak of Mt. Kedarnath stands tall at an altitude of 4,800 metres and is one of the most sacred peaks of the Garhwal region. On a clear day, trekkers can witness the majestic beauty of the snow-clad peak from afar.
- The Kedartal Trek also offers a great opportunity for wildlife photography. You can spot several endemic species of birds, animals, and plants as you trek through the region. The trek also offers a great chance to explore the local culture and customs of the region.
- The trek culminates at the holy lake of Kedartal, which is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking views. The route of the trek passes through Himalayan birch forests and rocky paths.
Best Time for Kedartal Trek
The best time to do the Kedartal Trek is in the months of May, June, September, and October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with sunny days and chilly nights. The days are warm enough for trekking and the nights are cool enough to camp in the beautiful meadows. The views of the snow-clad peaks and the pristine forests are unparalleled during these months.
How to Reach Kedartal Trek
- By Road: If you are travelling by road, you can take the bus from Rishikesh to Gangotri and then take a shared jeep to Harsil. From Harsil, you can trek to Kedartal. The trek is a moderate one and usually takes 4 days.
- By Air: If you are travelling by air, you can fly to Dehradun and land at Jolly Grant Airport, then take a taxi or a shared jeep to Harsil. From Harsil, you can then start your trek to Kedartal.
Route Map for Kedartal Trek
The main routes you can take to reach Kedartal Trek –
Dehradun>> Uttarkashi>>Gangotri >> Bhoj Kharak >> Kedar Kharak >> Kedartal >> Kedar Kharak >>Bhoj Kharak>> Gangotri>> Dehradun
Quick Info about the Kedartal Trek:
| Trek Duration | 5 days |
|---|---|
| Trekking Distance | 41 KM |
| Maximum Altitude | 4800 m |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate-Difficult |
| Start/ End Point of the Trek | Gangotri |
| Kedartal Trek Temperature | Day 5°C to 10°C Night -3° C to 6° C |
| Nearest Railway Station | Dehradun railway station |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun |
Travel Tips for KedartalTrek
If you are planning to trek to Kedartal, then here are some important travel tips that can help you make your trek a memorable one!
- Pack Light: As you will be trekking through rough terrain, it is important to pack light. This will help you move faster and with more ease. Make sure to pack only necessary items like clothes, food, and water.
- Check the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains and you need to be prepared for it. Before you start your trek, make sure to check the weather conditions and plan your journey accordingly.
- Prepare for the Altitude: Kedartal is at a height of 4,800 m and you need to be prepared for the altitude. Make sure to acclimate yourself properly before you start the trek. Slow and steady is the key while trekking at high altitudes.
- Carry Food and Water: Make sure to carry enough food and water for your trek as you may not find shops along the way. Carry dry foods like energy bars and nuts which are light and will help provide you with the energy you need while trekking.
- Respect Nature: Trekking to Kedartal is a humbling experience and you should make sure to respect the nature around you. Avoid littering or leaving any trash behind and make sure to follow the guidelines set by the locals.
Documents to Carry for Kedartal trek
The Kedartal trek requires a few documents to be carried along with you. These are important for you to have a safe and enjoyable trek. Here’s a list of documents you should carry for your Kedartal trek.
- A valid Identity Proof: A valid identity proof is a must for trekking anywhere in India. It can be either your Aadhar Card, PAN or even your Voter ID. It’s important to carry your ID proof to avoid any unnecessary hassles.
- Medical Certificates: Medical certificates should be obtained from a registered medical practitioner. These certificates should mention that you are fit for the trek, and should be carried along with you.
- Insurance documents: Accidents can happen during any trek and it’s important to carry valid insurance documents. This will come in handy if you need any medical attention or require any emergency evacuation.
What to pack for the Kedartal Trek
- Clothing: When it comes to clothing for trekking, you should always be prepared for cold weather and snow. Layer up with thermal and fleece jackets, trousers, gloves, a beanie, and a windproof or waterproof jacket. Make sure you pack some light and quick-drying fabrics for warmer weather.
- Footwear: A good pair of trekking shoes is essential to provide your feet with the necessary traction, support, and comfort during your trek. Make sure you break in your shoes before you start your trek.
- Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for temperatures below freezing is ideal for the Kedartal Trek. Consider a down-filled sleeping bag that isn’t too bulky and is easy to carry.
- Backpack: Choose a waterproof and lightweight backpack that is comfortable to carry. It should also have enough space to carry your camping gear, food, and clothing.
- Headlamp: A headlamp or flashlight is essential for night hikes and to help you find your way in the dark.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is very important during a trek, so make sure you have a good water bottle with you.
- First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is essential, and it should include basic items such as bandages, antiseptic ointment, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Emergency Shelter: Carry a lightweight and waterproof tent or tarp to help protect you from the elements.
- Food: Pack some high-energy snacks to keep you energised during your trek.
- Trekking poles: Trekking poles provide stability and help you to climb steep hills.
Other Popular Treks To Explore In Uttarakhand
An incredibly beautiful and challenging trek in the Garhwal Himalayas is the Pangarchulla trek. It’s an ideal route for experienced trekkers who want to experience stunning mountain views, stunning alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. This trek is perfect for those who want to test their mountain skills and endurance.
One of the most breathtaking glaciers in the Indian Himalayas is the Pindari Glacier trek which is perfect for those who want to explore the beauty of the Himalayas and get in touch with nature. This trek is also great for those who want to experience the thrill of glacier crossing. Among many treks, this one definitely stands out.
Have you ever seen an incredible pilgrimage in the Garhwal Himalayas? This Hemkund Sahib trek takes you to the sacred Sikh pilgrimage site of Hemkund Sahib, which is located at an elevation of 4,633 m. This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty and serenity of the Garhwal Himalayas.
One of the most challenging treks in the Indian Himalayas is this Rudranath trek which offers trekkers the opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Himalayas and explore the remoteness of the region. This trek is perfect for those who want to explore the wilderness and push themselves to the limits.
One such stunning trek in the Indian Himalayas is this Rupin Pass trek that takes you through some of the most spectacular mountains passes in the Himalayas, offering stunning views of the majestic landscape. This trek is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of crossing a high-altitude pass.
Why Choose Travanya?
Travanya is your one-stop shop for all the information you need to make your Kedartal Trek an enjoyable and safe experience. We provide end-to-end Kedartal Trek information, from trekking itineraries to weather forecasts and best practices for trekking. We also have a team of travel experts who are available 24*7 to help you with your queries. We also provide tips and advice on camping and safety, so you’ll never be left to fend for yourself in the wild. You can rest assured that you’ll always have someone to turn to if you need help or advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Kedartal Trek?
A: Kedartal Trek is a picturesque trek located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. It is a moderate to difficult level trek with stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains, lush greenery, and pristine lakes.
Q: What can I expect on the Kedartal Trek?
A: The Kedartal Trek is a great trek for experienced trekkers as well as beginners. The trek offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, tranquil lakes, and fascinating local culture.
Q: Who can take part in the Kedartal Trek?
A: The Kedartal Trek is suitable for anyone who is physically fit and has a sense of adventure. It does not require any special technical climbing experience, but participants should be in good health and have experience in trekking.
Q: How long does the Kedartal Trek take?
A: The Kedartal Trek typically takes 5 days, depending on the route and the pace of the trekkers.
