Kedartal Trek

Day 1: Drive from Dehradun (Railway Station) to Gangotri Via Uttarkashi

Distance: 258 km (Drive) | Time: 10–11 Hours | Altitude: 3,415 Meters | Stay: Overnight in a Hotel/Guest House

Day 2: Rest Day Acclimatization Day

Altitude: 3,415 Meters | Stay: Overnight in a Hotel/Guest House

Day 3: Trek from Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak Camp

Distance: 8 km (Trek) | Time: 5–6 Hours | Altitude: 3,780 Meters | Stay: Overnight in Tents

Day 4: Trek from Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak

Distance: 5 km (Trek) | Time: 4–5 Hours | Altitude: 4,270 Meters | Stay: Overnight in Tents

Day 5: The Summit Day – The Emerald Lake

Route: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal & back to Camp | Distance: 8 km (Round Trip) | Time: 6–7 Hours | Altitude: 4,912 Meters | Stay: Overnight in Tents at Kedar Kharak

Day 6: Trek from Kedar Kharak to Gangotri via Bhoj Kharak

Distance: 13 km (Trek) | Time: 7–8 Hours | Altitude: 3,415 Meters | Stay: Overnight in a Hotel

Day 7: The Final Departure Drive from Gangotri to Dehradun

Distance: 258 km (Drive) | Time: 10–11 Hours

Difficulty level Kedartal Trek

The Kedartal Trek is Moderate to Difficult Trek It is not just a walk; it is a test of your physical and mental limits.

1. The Terrain: Diverse and Demanding

The trail is a mix of steep forest ascents, narrow rocky ridges, and unstable glacial moraines.

• The "Spider Wall": A famous section where the path narrows significantly over a steep drop, requiring focus and a steady foot.
• Boulders & Scree: Near the lake, you will navigate over loose rocks where there is no clear path.

2. The Altitude: Thin Air at 16,000 Feet

Reaching 4,912 meters (16,119 feet) is no small feat.

• The Risk: Oxygen levels are nearly 40% lower than at sea level. Without proper acclimatization, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real possibility.
• The Solution: We include a mandatory Rest Day in Gangotri to help your body adapt.

3. Remote & Isolated Location

Located deep within Gangotri National Park, Kedartal is far from civilization.

• Limited Facilities: There are no tea houses or permanent shelters. You are entirely dependent on your tents, supplies, and the expertise of your mountain crew.

Is it Safe for Beginners?

If you are a beginner with high physical fitness and a strong spirit, you can do it safely, provided you have:

• Professional Guidance: Never attempt Kedartal solo. An experienced guide is essential for navigating the moraines.
• Pre-Trek Training: You should start cardio and strength training at least 2 months in advance.
• The Right Gear: High-ankle trekking boots and 4-layer clothing are non-negotiable.

Best Time to Visit & Seasonal Guide Kedartal Trek

The Kedartal Trek is part of the Gangotri National Park and is accessible from the 1st week of May to the last week of October.

1. Summer (May – June): The Golden Window

This is the most favorable time for the Kedartal trek.

• Weather: Pleasant daytime temperatures. Perfect for photography and clear mountain views.
• Clothing: You need 3 layers of trekking clothes. While days are warm, nights at high-altitude camps (4,000m+) are cold.
• Essentials: Always carry a Poncho (raincoat) and a good down jacket/thermal for the night.

2. Monsoon (July – August): The High-Risk Zone

Himalayan Hikers does not recommend trekking to Kedartal in the peak monsoon.

• Risks: Uttarakhand receives heavy rainfall, leading to landslides.
• Safety Hazard: The stretch between Gangotri and Bhoj Kharak is prone to falling stones during rains, making it extremely dangerous.

3. Post-Monsoon/Autumn (September – October)

• Weather: Crystal clear skies and crisp air.
• Views: This is the best time to see the sharp reflection of Mt. Thalay Sagar in the lake. Temperatures start dropping toward late October.

How to Reach Dehradun Railway Station & Gangotri (Base Camp)

Dehradun is the primary assembly point for the Kedartal trek. Whether you are coming from Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune, or Gujarat, you must first reach Delhi or Dehradun.

Option 01: By Train (Best for Overnight Travel)

The most convenient way to reach Dehradun from Delhi is by taking an overnight train. Our team will meet you at the Dehradun Railway Station between 5:45 AM and 6:30 AM.

• Nanda Devi Express (Train No. 12206): Departs New Delhi at 11:30 PM → Arrives Dehradun at 5:45 AM.
• Dehradun Express (Train No. 12687): Departs New Delhi at 9:10 PM → Arrives Dehradun at 5:00 AM.

Pro Tip: Booking the A/C Special from Hazrat Nizamuddin is the most comfortable option for trekkers.

Option 02: By Air (Fastest Route)

Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun. Located 27 km from the city center.

Flights are available from all major Indian metros.

Transfer: Taxis are available at the airport 24/7. A one-way trip to Dehradun city costs approximately ₹800.

Option 03: By Bus

Source: ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi.

Service: Frequent Volvo and Deluxe buses run overnight to Dehradun. We recommend booking in advance to ensure a seat.

Himalayan Hikers Transport Service: Dehradun to Gangotri

At Himalayan Hikers, we believe the adventure begins the moment you reach Dehradun. We take full responsibility for arranging your mountain transportation, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and scenic journey to the base camp at Gangotri.

1. Pickup Point & Timing

Location: Dehradun Railway Station (Main Exit).

Time: Between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM.

Coordination: Our representative or transport coordinator will meet you at the station to guide you to your assigned vehicle.

2. Vehicle Types

Depending on the group size, we provide reliable mountain-tested vehicles:

• Tempo Traveller: For larger groups (10–12 trekkers), offering more space and comfort.
• Ertiga or Innova: For smaller groups (5–6 trekkers), perfect for navigating the sharp Himalayan bends.

3. The Route: A Scenic Mountain Drive

The drive from Dehradun to Gangotri is approximately 258 km and takes about 10 to 11 hours.

The Path: Dehradun → Mussoorie Bypass → Uttarkashi → Harshil Valley → Gangotri.

River Views: You will drive alongside the beautiful Bhagirathi River for most of the journey.

Breakfast & Lunch Stops: We stop at hygienic local dhabas along the way (cost of meals during transport is usually shared or as per package terms).

4. Key Stops Along the Way

• Uttarkashi: A bustling mountain town where we stop for lunch and last-minute trekking supplies.
• Harshil Valley: Known as the "Mini Switzerland of India", this valley is famous for its apple orchards and breathtaking landscapes.

Personal Trekking Gear and Medical Packing List specifically optimized for the Kedartal (4,912m)

1. Trekking Gear & Bags

• Main Backpack (50–60 Liters): Must have a high-quality internal frame to balance weight on steep ascents. Rain cover is mandatory.
• Daypack (20 Liters): Crucial for the summit push to the lake; carries your water, camera, and "Spider Wall" essentials.
• Trekking Poles: Non-negotiable. You will need these for balance on the loose moraine and to save your knees on the steep descent to Gangotri.

2. Clothing (The 4-Layer System)

The Kedar Ganga valley is a wind-tunnel. You need layers that block wind and trap heat.

• Base Layer (2-3 Pairs): High-quality moisture-wicking thermals.
• Mid Layer (2): Thick Fleece or a light "puffer" jacket for camp.
• Outer Layer (1): Heavy Down Jacket (Rated for -10°C). The temperature at Kedar Kharak drops significantly after sunset.
• Trekking Pants (2): Quick-dry and windproof. Do not bring jeans.
• T-shirts (3): Full-sleeve dry-fit to protect against high-altitude UV rays.

3. Footwear & Socks

• Trekking Boots: High-ankle, waterproof boots with a deep Vibram or multi-directional lug sole. (Decathlon MH500 or higher recommended).
• Woolen Socks (2 Pairs): Strictly for sleeping in the tent.
• Trekking Socks (4 Pairs): Synthetic/Wool blend to prevent blisters on the rocky trail.

4. Headwear & Accessories

• Sunglasses: Polarized/UV 400 protected. The sun reflects off the glacial moraine and Mt. Thalay Sagar, which can cause snow blindness.
• Sun Cap & Woolen Cap: One for the sun, one to cover ears at night.
• Waterproof Gloves: One pair of fleece liners + one pair of waterproof outers.

5. Must-Have Medicines for Kedartal

• Altitude (AMS): Diamox (Acetazolamide). Start only after consulting your doctor.
• Pain Relief: Combiflam/Dolo 650 for headaches; Volini Spray for calf muscle cramps.
• Digestive Health: Digene/ORS. Dehydration and acidity are common at 4,900m.
• Nausea: Ondem (Essential, as nausea is a common symptom of altitude gain).
• Motion Sickness: Avomine for the long, winding 10-hour drive from Dehradun to Gangotri.

6. Mandatory Documents for Gangotri National Park

To trek to Kedartal, Himalayan Hikers and the Uttarkashi Forest Department require these documents for permits:

• Government ID Proof: Original + 2 Photocopies (Aadhar, Voter ID, or Passport).
• Medical Fitness Certificate: Must be signed and stamped by an MBBS doctor within 30 days of the trek. It must certify your BP, Heart Rate, and Lung health.
• Trek Insurance: Mandatory for high-altitude rescue and medical coverage.
• Himalayan Hikers Disclaimer: Signed indemnity bond to be submitted at the Gangotri base camp.

Himalayan Hikers "Kedartal Pro-Tips"

• The "Spider Wall" Prep: Keep your hands free. Ensure nothing is dangling from your backpack that could get caught on the rock wall.
• Water Strategy: You need 4–5 liters of water daily. The climb is dry and steep; your body will use oxygen better if you are hydrated.
• Batteries: The sub-zero temperatures at Kedar Kharak will kill your phone/camera battery. Keep them inside your sleeping bag at night.
• Eco-Check: Gangotri National Park is a pristine zone. We have a Zero Plastic Policy. Pack your trash and bring it back to Gangotri.

Why choses for Himalayan Hikers Kedartal Trek:

1. Technical Safety & Glacial Protocol

Kedartal isn't just a hike; it’s a trek over a moving glacier’s debris. Safety here requires navigating the "Spider Wall" and unstable boulders.

• NIM Certified Expedition Leaders: Our leads are trained at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM). (IMF Indian mountaineering foundation) They are experts in "Moraine Navigation"—finding the safest path through shifting rocks where there is no permanent trail.
• The "Spider Wall" Spotting: On the narrow, 60-degree rock face between Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak, our guides use a "Human Anchor" system or fixed ropes if needed to ensure every trekker crosses this high-exposure zone safely.
• Oxygen & Altitude Monitoring: At 4,912 m, oxygen is scarce. We carry Medical-grade Oxygen Cylinders and perform twice-daily Pulse-Oximeter checks at Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak camps.
• Pro-Grade Gear: We provide high-quality Micro-spikes and Gaiters if the trail near the lake is frozen, ensuring you have traction on the slippery glacial ice.

2. The "Gangotri Base" Logistics

Kedartal is an "In-and-Out" trek starting from the holy town of Gangotri. We manage the high-altitude wilderness logistics with precision.

• Acclimatization Advantage: We don't rush. We utilize our deep local roots in Gangotri to provide the best guest-house stay for your Mandatory 48-hour acclimatization, ensuring your lungs are ready for the 15,000+ ft. climb.
• Weather-Shielded Campsites: The Kedar Ganga valley is a wind tunnel. We use Heavy-duty 4-season Dome Tents and high-altitude sleeping bags (rated -15°C) to protect you from the fierce winds at Kedar Kharak.
• Forest Department Liaison: As a local Himalayan agency, we handle all complex Gangotri National Park permits and entry fees, ensuring a smooth start at the forest check-post.

3. Nutrition for the "Vertical Climb"

On the Kedartal trek, the ascent is constant and steep. You need "High-Efficiency" fuel.

• Hydration Command: We enforce the "4L Daily Rule". Our team provides warm, infused water (Garlic or Ginger) to aid natural acclimatization and keep you hydrated in the dry mountain air.
• High-Calorie Mountain Menu: Our meals are designed for steep climbing. We serve carbohydrate-rich breakfasts and protein-packed dinners, including local "Pahadi" dishes that are naturally warming for the body.

Why We Are Different (Kedartal Treks)