Nestled in the enchanting Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, the Kedarkantha trek is one of India’s most sought-after trekking destinations. Known for its scenic beauty, snowy landscapes, and breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, the trek offers an unforgettable adventure for both novice and experienced trekkers. The peak stands tall at an altitude of 12,500 feet and is located in the Uttarkashi district, within the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary. The journey to the trek's base, Sankri, is an experience in itself, as it takes you through some of Uttarakhand's most beautiful terrains.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to reach the Kedarkantha trek starting point, covering all modes of transport: by road, rail, and air. Whether you're traveling from Delhi, Dehradun, or other cities, this guide will provide detailed, unique insights to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

1. Understanding the Location: Kedarkantha and Sankri Village

Kedarkantha is located in the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary in the Uttarkashi district, a pristine and untouched part of the Garhwal region. To embark on the Kedarkantha trek, you must first reach Sankri, a small but picturesque village situated at an altitude of 6,400 feet. Sankri serves as the base camp for several treks, including Kedarkantha and the Har Ki Dun trek.

Sankri is approximately 200 km from Dehradun, which is the primary access point for most travelers. The route from Dehradun to Sankri takes you through lush green valleys, small villages, and stunning mountain views. Although relatively remote, Sankri is accessible by road and is well-connected to Dehradun, a major hub in Uttarakhand.

2. Reaching Dehradun: The Gateway to Kedarkantha

Before making your way to Sankri, the first step is reaching Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand. Dehradun is well-connected to several major cities in India, especially from Delhi, which is about 250 km away. You can reach Dehradun by road, rail, or air.

By Road:

Dehradun is easily accessible by road from Delhi and other northern cities like Chandigarh, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Mussoorie. Several state-run and private buses operate daily services between these cities and Dehradun. For those traveling from Delhi, the most convenient option is to take a bus from the Kashmere Gate ISBT (Inter-State Bus Terminal).

• Delhi to Dehradun by Bus: Numerous buses, including semi-deluxe, deluxe, and AC Volvo options, operate regularly. The journey takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. State-run buses by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) are reliable, while private operators provide more comfortable travel with air-conditioned services.

For those driving themselves, the road from Delhi to Dehradun is scenic and well-maintained. The NH 334 route via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Roorkee is the most direct. Alternatively, a slightly longer but more picturesque route goes via Haridwar.

By Rail:

Dehradun's railway station is one of the busiest in Uttarakhand, well-connected with major Indian cities such as Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. Several trains operate daily, making rail travel a convenient option.

• From Delhi to Dehradun by Train:
  • Nandadevi Express (Train No: 12205): This is a popular overnight train, departing Delhi at 11:50 PM and arriving in Dehradun at 5:40 AM.
  • Dehradun Express (Train No: 12687): Another excellent overnight option, departing at 9:10 PM and reaching Dehradun by 5:00 AM.

Both trains provide a comfortable overnight journey, allowing you to start your trek early the next morning.

By Air:

For those who prefer air travel, Jolly Grant Airport, located about 25 km from Dehradun city center, is the nearest airport. The airport is well-connected with daily flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Several airlines, including IndiGo, Vistara, and Air India, operate regular flights to Dehradun.

Once you land at Jolly Grant Airport, you can either take a taxi to Dehradun city (a 30-40 minute drive) or directly hire a vehicle to Sankri.

3. Journey from Dehradun to Sankri: Road Travel and Options

After arriving in Dehradun, the next step is to reach Sankri, the base village for the Kedarkantha trek. The distance between Dehradun and Sankri is around 200 km, and the journey usually takes 8-10 hours, depending on the road conditions and weather. There are several options for traveling from Dehradun to Sankri:

By Bus:

The most budget-friendly option is to take a direct bus from Dehradun to Sankri. These buses are operated by Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and depart from the Dehradun bus station, located near the railway station. The buses usually leave between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM and take approximately 10 hours to reach Sankri.

• The journey is long but offers scenic views of the Garhwal region, passing through towns like Mussoorie, Purola, and Mori.
• The bus fare is quite affordable, making it a preferred choice for budget travelers and solo trekkers.

By Private Vehicle:

For those seeking more comfort and flexibility, hiring a private taxi or vehicle is a great option. Private cabs, SUVs, and tempo travelers are available for hire from Dehradun to Sankri. You can book a Dzire, Innova, or Tempo Traveller depending on the size of your group and budget.

• Approximate charges:
  • Dzire/Indigo: ₹6,500
  • Innova Crysta: ₹9,000
  • Tempo Traveller: ₹11,000

This option is more expensive but allows for greater comfort and flexibility, as you can make stops along the way to enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Shared Taxis:

If you're traveling on a budget but missed the morning bus, you can take a shared taxi from Dehradun to Sankri. These shared taxis can be found near the Dehradun Railway Station or the bus station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to Purola or Mori and switch to another vehicle for the final stretch to Sankri.

• Shared taxis are slightly more expensive than buses but are quicker and more convenient for those who prefer not to wait for scheduled bus services.

Alternative Route via Hanol:

If you're unable to catch the direct bus to Sankri, an alternative route is to take a bus to Hanol, which passes through Mussoorie. From Hanol, you can take a shared or private taxi to Sankri. This route offers more scenic vistas and takes you through less crowded roads.

4. Exploring the Sankri Village: The Base of the Trek

Sankri, located at an altitude of 6,400 feet, is a charming village surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks. It serves as the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek and offers basic amenities for trekkers, including guesthouses, homestays, and a few local eateries. Most trekkers stay here overnight before embarking on their trek the next morning.

• Accommodation in Sankri: There are several guesthouses and homestays available in Sankri, catering to the needs of trekkers. The accommodations are basic but comfortable, with essential facilities like clean rooms, hot water, and meals.
• Gear and Supplies: If you need any trekking gear or supplies, you can find rental shops in Sankri that provide items like trekking poles, jackets, and boots. However, it’s recommended to carry your own equipment to ensure quality.

5. Trekking from Sankri to Kedarkantha

After a night’s rest in Sankri, the actual Kedarkantha trek begins. The trek usually takes about 4 to 6 days, depending on your pace and the itinerary. The route from Sankri passes through beautiful oak and pine forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered paths, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

• Trek Difficulty: The Kedarkantha trek is classified as a moderate trek, suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The ascent to the peak is gradual, with some steep sections, especially on the final day of the summit climb.
• Best Time to Trek: The trek is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months (December to April), when the trail is covered in snow. Spring (April-May) is also a popular time, with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies.

Conclusion

Reaching the Kedarkantha trek involves a scenic journey through the heart of Uttarakhand, with several options available for travelers depending on their budget and preferences. Whether you choose to travel by bus, train, or flight, the destination is well worth the effort. Once in Sankri, the magical journey through snow-clad mountains and forests begins, making the Kedarkantha trek one of the most memorable trekking experiences in India. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the trek’s accessibility and beauty make it a perfect getaway for anyone looking to explore the Himalayas