Kedartal Trek
5N/6D Dehradun/Uttarkashi → Gangotri → Bhojkharak → Kedarkharak → Kedartal Uttarakhand-Trek, Trek, Summer Trek, Adventure Trip, Difficult Trek
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Overview
The Kedartal Trek is one of the most breathtaking and challenging high-altitude treks in the Indian Himalayas, located in the Gangotri region of Uttarakhand. It takes trekkers to the stunning Kedartal (also known as Shiva’s Lake), a glacial lake situated at an elevation of approximately 4,750 meters (15,580 ft), right at the base of majestic peaks like Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Brigupanth (6,772 m), and Jogin group of mountains.
Starting from the holy town of Gangotri, the trek quickly enters a rugged and remote alpine terrain filled with rocky moraines, icy streams, and steep climbs. The trail runs alongside the Kedar Ganga, a river considered sacred and believed to be Lord Shiva’s contribution to Bhagirathi. With its spiritual backdrop and raw Himalayan wilderness, the trek combines mythology and adventure in equal measure.
This trek is best suited for experienced and physically fit trekkers due to its steep ascents, high altitude, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Despite the challenges, the rewards are unparalleled — mirror-like reflections of towering peaks on the glacial lake, sightings of Himalayan blue sheep (bharal), and some of the most isolated and majestic views in the Garhwal Himalayas.
Short Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Gangotri (3,100 m)
- Day 2: Acclimatization Day at Gangotri
- Day 3: Trek from Gangotri to Bhojkharak (3,780 m)
- Day 4: Trek from Bhojkharak to Kedarkharak (4,300 m)
- Day 5: Trek to Kedartal (4,750 m) and back to Kedarkharak
- Day 6: Trek down to Gangotri and Drive to Uttarkashi (or stay at Gangotri)
Tour Inclusions
- Tented accommodation during the trek on twin/triple sharing basis
- Sleeping bags (suitable for sub-zero temperatures), foam mats, and complete camping setup
- All vegetarian meals during the trek – breakfast, packed lunch, evening snacks, and dinner
- Hot beverages (tea/coffee/soup) served as per itinerary
- Trained and experienced trek leader certified in wilderness first aid
- Local mountain guide familiar with the trail and terrain
- Support team including cook, helper, and porters/mules for group equipment
- Forest entry permits and Gangotri National Park trekking fees
- Camping charges and environment fees at designated locations
- Basic mountaineering equipment like microspikes, ropes, gaiters (if required)
- First aid kit, oxygen cylinder, and pulse oximeter for emergencies
- Transportation from Uttarkashi to Gangotri and back (shared vehicle – if part of the package)
- Pre-trek briefing and safety orientation in Uttarkashi or Gangotri
- Trek completion certificate (on request)
- Eco-conscious waste management practices followed throughout the trek
Tour Exclusions
- Travel expenses to and from Dehradun or Uttarkashi (trek start/end points)
- Accommodation and meals in Dehradun, Uttarkashi, or Gangotri beyond the included nights
- Personal trekking gear such as boots, jackets, backpacks, walking sticks, etc.
- Porters or mules for personal luggage (can be arranged at an extra cost)
- Personal travel, medical, or evacuation insurance
- Emergency evacuation or helicopter rescue costs in case of altitude sickness or injury
- Phone charging, camera fees, or any other personal expenses
- Tips for guides, cooks, porters, and drivers (optional but appreciated)
- Bottled water, snacks, and beverages outside of the provided meals
- Costs due to unforeseen delays like weather, landslides, or roadblocks
Tour Policy
- 1. Booking confirmation on advance payment
- 2. Cancellation policy with applicable charges
- 3. No refund for last-minute cancellations
- 4. Itinerary subject to change due to weather or unforeseen events
- 5. Travel insurance is recommended
- 6. Client responsibility for personal belongings
- 7. Respect local customs and traditions
- 8. Follow guide instructions
- 9. Package validity for specified dates only
- 10. Disputes subject to jurisdiction of company location
Tour Cancellation Policy
- 1. Free cancellation up to 7 days before departure
- 2. 50% refund for cancellations made 3 to 6 days before departure
- 3. No refund for cancellations less than 3 days before departure
- 4. Cancellation request must be made in writing
- 5. Cancellation charges may apply for partial services
- 6. Non-refundable booking amount in some cases
- 7. Rescheduling allowed subject to availability and charges
- 8. Refunds processed within 15-20 business days
- 9. No-show considered as cancellation with no refund
- 10. Emergency cancellations handled on case-by-case basis
Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Dehradun to Gangotri, a distance of about 240 km that takes 9–10 hours. The route follows the Bhagirathi River, passing through Uttarkashi and picturesque mountain villages. On arrival at Gangotri — one of the Char Dhams — you can visit the Gangotri Temple and spend the evening acclimatizing in the peaceful high-altitude town.
Overnight: Guesthouse/hotel in Gangotri
Distance: ~240 km drive
This day is crucial for acclimatization due to the significant altitude gain in the days ahead. You’ll go for a light acclimatization hike around Gangotri, possibly visiting Pandava Gufa or exploring the Gomukh trail for a short stretch. This helps prepare your body for the demanding trek that follows. You’ll also attend a trek briefing in the evening.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Gangotri,
Activity: Acclimatization walk, rest, trek briefing
The trek starts today with a steep ascent through dense cedar and pine forests, climbing up a rocky trail to reach Bhojkharak, your first campsite. The path offers beautiful views of the Bhagirathi valley, and the thick forest slowly gives way to more open terrain as you gain altitude.
Trek Distance: ~8 km, Time: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Tent stay at Bhojkharak
Today’s trail involves crossing rocky ridges, scree sections, and open high-altitude terrain as you move toward Kedarkharak, a scenic grazing meadow surrounded by giant snow-covered peaks. This is one of the most beautiful campsites on the trek, with clear views of Thalay Sagar and Brigupanth in the distance.
Trek Distance: ~4 km, Time: 4–5 hours
Overnight: Tent stay at Kedarkharak
This is the most exciting and demanding day of the trek. You’ll start early to reach Kedartal, a glacial lake nestled at the foot of Thalay Sagar. The route is strenuous, with boulder crossings, moraines, and steep sections, but the reward is immense — crystal clear waters reflecting the towering peaks around you. After spending some peaceful time at the lake, you’ll return to Kedarkharak for the night.
Trek Distance: ~10 km round trip, Time: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Tent stay at Kedarkharak
On the final day, you’ll retrace your steps from Kedarkharak to Gangotri, descending carefully through the rocky paths and pine forests. If time permits, you can drive down to Uttarkashi the same day or stay overnight in Gangotri to rest.
Trek Distance: ~12 km, Drive (optional): Gangotri to Uttarkashi (~100 km), Overnight: Guesthouse in Gangotri or Uttarkashi
Clothing & Footwear:
- 1. Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in) with good ankle support
- 2. 3–4 pairs of wool or synthetic trekking socks
- 3. Thermal base layers (top and bottom) for cold weather
- 4. Fleece or insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- 5. Waterproof and windproof outer jacket with hood
- 6. Quick-dry trekking pants (2 pairs recommended)
- 7. Full-sleeve moisture-wicking T-shirts/shirts (2–3 pieces)
- 8. Warm hat/beanie for cold nights
- 9. Sun hat or cap for daytime protection
- 10. Gloves – lightweight for daytime, insulated/woolen for nights
- 11. Neck gaiter or buff for wind and dust protection
- 12. Rain poncho or raincoat with rain cover for backpack
- 13. Comfortable camp shoes or sandals for evenings
- 14. Lightweight trekking gaiters (optional but helpful on rocky terrain)
Personal Essentials:
- 1. Valid government ID proof (original + photocopy)
- 2. Small day backpack (20–30L) for carrying water, snacks, rain gear during trek
- 3. Large backpack/duffle bag for main luggage (carried by mule/porter, if opted)
- 4. Water bottles (2 liters total capacity) or a hydration bladder
- 5. Personal medical kit with prescribed medicines
- 6. Basic toiletries – biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel
- 7. Sunscreen (SPF 40+), lip balm with SPF, and moisturizer
- 8. Quick-dry towel and personal hygiene items
- 9. Sunglasses with UV protection
- 10. Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- 11. Power bank or solar charger for devices
- 12. Toilet paper, tissues, and wet wipes
- 13. Lightweight trek towel or microfiber cloth
- 14. Personal snacks – energy bars, dry fruits, ORS packets
- 15. Notebook and pen (optional, for journaling or notes)
- 16. Small trash bag to carry personal waste (eco-responsible trekking)
Medical & First Aid Kit:
- 1. Basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic cream, cotton, gauze, medical tape)
- 2. Pain relievers (Paracetamol, Combiflam, or Ibuprofen)
- 3. Antiseptic liquid (like Betadine or Dettol)
- 4. Antacid tablets (like Digene, Gelusil)
- 5. Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide or Norflox-TZ)
- 6. Antihistamines for allergies (Cetirizine, Avil)
- 7. Motion sickness tablets (Avomine or Domperidone)
- 8. Cold and flu tablets (like D-Cold, Sinarest)
- 9. Cough syrup or lozenges
- 10. Personal prescription medicines (if any – must carry enough for the full trek)
- 11. Muscle relaxant cream or spray (Volini, Moov)
- 12. Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS sachets)
- 13. Electrolyte powder (Enerzal, Glucon-D)
- 14. Insect repellent cream or spray
- 15. Lip balm with SPF and skin rash cream (like Soframycin)
- 16. Thermometer and small scissors (optional)
₹75,000
₹7,800 per person*
*Excluding applicable taxes
