Weather and Climate Info:

• Summer (April – June)
  As you traverse the Kedarkantha trek during the summer months, you’ll be greeted by a landscape that’s both cool and pleasant. April marks the end of winter, with the melting snow giving way to spellbinding greenery. The Month of May unveils the trek’s true summer charm, with a kaleidoscope of freshly bloomed flowers filling the air with their sweet fragrance. June brings the mountains and valleys to life, dressing them in a vibrant array of flora.

  During these months, the temperature ranges between 6°C to 20°C, offering a comfortable climate for trekkers. The charm of trekking amidst the lofty pine and oak trees is unparalleled during this period, making summer an ideal time for sightseeing and exploration​​.

• Monsoon (July – September)
  The monsoon season in Kedarkantha presents a different kind of allure. With moderate to heavy rainfall, the valley transforms into a lush green heaven. While trekking can be challenging due to occasional landslides, the breathtaking monsoon vistas are worth the effort for many adventure seekers. July marks the onset of the monsoons, and August brings generous rains, painting the landscape with an array of colorful flowers, each petal adorned with raindrops.

  Despite the wet conditions, the temperature remains stable at around 12°C. The weather is predominantly cloudy and wet, offering a unique trekking experience with verdant greenery at every turn​​.

• Autumn (October – November)
  Autumn in Kedarkantha is a period of transformation. October and November see temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C, with the weather remaining mostly clear. The green leaves slowly turn dry, and the lush meadows gradually change to brown, offering a stark contrast to the previous seasons. This period is ideal for beginners, as the weather is pleasant and the landscape offers majestic sights of the Himalayas​​​​.
  
  
• Winter (December – February)
  Winter is when Kedarkantha truly comes into its own. The temperature drops to a range of -2°C to 12°C, and the landscape is enveloped in a thick blanket of snow. This season transforms the region into a surreal, dreamy world, attracting trekkers from across the globe. December sees the beginning of fresh snowfall, and January intensifies the experience with frequent snowfalls. February offers the most thrilling trekking experiences with high chances of snowfall, creating perfect conditions for skiing enthusiasts​​.
  
  
• Temperature Overview

  Summer (May – June): Day: 20°C, Night: 6°C
  Monsoon (July – August): Day: 17°C, Night: 4°C
  Autumn (September – November): Day: 15°C, Night: 2°C
  Winter (December – February): Day: 10°C, Night: -12°C
  Spring (March – April): Day: 12°C, Night: -5°C 

Mountain Ranges, River Valley & Lake:

The Kedarkantha trek, nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India, is renowned for its mesmerizing natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This trek is a popular destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and scenic splendor. Here are some details about the mountain range, river valley, waterfalls, and lake in the Kedarkantha region:

• Mountain Range and Scenery: Kedarkantha, situated at an elevation of 3810 meters, is part of a stunning mountain range that offers spectacular views of several peaks, including Ranglana, Banderpooch, Black Peak, and Swargarohini. During winters, the area is covered in snow, adding to its allure. The trek itself is relatively easy and rewarding, suitable for those seeking mild adventure amidst natural beauty​​.
  
  
• River Valley and Water Availability: The trek is located in the lap of the river Valley, offering a serene environment. Water is available at camp houses along the trek, and trekkers also have access to clean water from the river Supin, which lies on the route. However, it is advisable to stock up on water as it may not be easily available between trekking points​​.
  
  
• Frozen Lake – Juda Ka Talab: A significant attraction along the Kedarkantha trek is Juda Ka Talab, a serene and picturesque lake. This lake was originally two separate lakes but has since conjoined into one. The trail to Juda Ka Talab passes through green meadows and dense forests of pine and oak, leading to this tranquil spot which is ideal for camping​​​​.
  
  
• Overall Landscape and Environment: The Kedarkantha trek is characterized by its thick oak and pine forests, wide-open green meadows, serene lakes, and panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks. This diverse landscape makes the trek not only a journey through different terrains but also a visually captivating experience​​.

In summary, the Kedarkantha trek offers a rich tapestry of natural elements, from towering mountain peaks and lush valleys to tranquil lakes and dense forests. It’s a journey that combines physical challenge with the reward of unparalleled natural beauty. 

Flora and Fauna:

• Flora: The Kedarkantha Trek in India is renowned for its diverse and enchanting flora and fauna. As you trek through the region, you’ll encounter dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron trees, creating a verdant canopy above. In spring, these forests are transformed with colorful rhododendron blossoms in shades of red, pink, and white, infusing the air with their sweet fragrance. The area also boasts a variety of Himalayan wildflowers, including the sacred Brahma Kamal, and is a haven for botanists and photographers.
  
  
• Fauna: The wildlife in Kedarkantha is equally impressive, with a variety of animals and birds. Birdwatchers might spot Himalayan Monal pheasants, known for their iridescent plumage, as well as eagles, vultures, and various species of finches and owls.
  
  

  The region hosts a rich avian population, including species such as:

  Black Francolin, Koklass Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Brown-fronted Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, Great Barbet, White-throated Kingfisher, Crested Kingfisher, Slaty-headed Parakeet, Himalayan Swiftlet, Snow Pigeon, Oriental turtle Dove, Black Kite, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon, Common Buzzard, Black-headed Jay, Eurasian Jay, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Red-billed Chough, Large-billed Crow, Common Raven, Spotted Nutcracker, Yellow-browed Fantail, Bronze Drongo, Brown Cipper, Blue Whistling Thrush, Blue-capped Redstart, White-capped Water Redstart, Plumbeous Water Redstart, White-cheeked Nuthatch, White-tailed Nuthatch, Eurasian Treecreeper, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Rufous-Vented Tit, Spot-winged Tit, Grey-crested Tit, Green-backed Tit, Black-throated Tit, Black-lored Tit, Great Tit, Yellow-browed Tit, Winter Wren, Himalayan Bulbul, Red-vented Bulbul, Black Bulbul, Striated Prinia, Lemon rumped Warbler, Tickells’s Leaf Warbler, Mountain Chiffchaff, Oriental White-eye, White-throated Laughingthrush, Streaked Laughingthrush, Black-chinned Babbler, White-throated Shrike Babbler, White-browed Fulvetta, Whiskered Yuhina, Rufous Sibia, Russet Sparrow, Citrine Wagtail, Alpine Accentor, Plain Mountain finch, Red-mantled Rosefinch, Rock Bunting, Chestnut-eared Bunting.

  The forested areas provide a home to Himalayan langurs, wild foxes, Indian Crested Porcupines, Yellow-throated martens, Wild boars, Black bears, Ibexes, Blue sheep, and the elusive leopards.  

Photography Tips:

• Understand the Light: The Himalayas offer dramatic lighting conditions. For the best photographs, capture early morning and late afternoon scenes when the light is soft and golden. Midday light can be harsh, but it can also highlight the stark contrasts of the landscape.
  
  
• Capture the Flora and Fauna: Kedarkantha is home to a rich array of flora and fauna. Capture the vibrant rhododendrons in spring, the lush greenery in the monsoon, or the snow-blanketed trees in winter. For wildlife, carry a zoom lens to capture distant birds or animals without disturbing them.
  
  
• Landscape Photography: The panoramic views of the Himalayas are breathtaking. Keep your wide-angle lens handy to capture a wide range of the landscape. Try incorporating elements like a trekker or a tent in the foreground to give a sense of scale.
  
  
• Experiment with Perspectives: Try to observe the scenic moments from different angles and perspectives. For instance, a low-angle shot of a trail leading into the mountains can add depth and intrigue to your photos.
  
  
• Utilize the Rule of Thirds: This basic principle of photography helps in composing balanced and interesting shots. Divide your frame into nine equal segments and place the important elements along these lines or their intersections.
  
  
• Capture the Local Culture: Kedarkantha trek passes through quaint villages. Capture the local architecture, people, and their daily lives. Always take permission before capturing people.
  
  
• Night Sky Photography: The clear skies at high altitudes are perfect for astrophotography. Use a tripod and long exposure settings to capture the stars and perhaps the Milky Way.
  
  
• Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in the Himalayas can change rapidly. Protect your camera equipment from rain and snow. Keep batteries warm in cold weather as they can drain quickly.
  
  
• Travel Light: While it’s tempting to carry all your gear, remember you will be trekking at high altitudes. Prioritize and take only what you need.
  
  
• Respect the Environment: While photographing, be mindful of your surroundings. Don’t damage the natural environment or disturb wildlife.

Bonus Tip: Practice Patience Sometimes, waiting for the right moment, light, or movement can make all the difference in a photograph. 

Things to Carry:

Hiking Shoes

• Type: We recommend that you look for water-resistant shoes with a deep yet flexible sole to sustain on Himalayan terrains.

Note: Dynamic rough terrains hold uncertain threats. The pair of shoes that has the advantage of overcoming those threats will help you to maintain your confidence in balancing.

Backpack

• Type: It purely depends on the kind of Trek you plan.
  • (15-20) litres will be ideal for short treks of (1-3) days.
  • (40-60) litres will be ideal for long treks of (3 – 10) days.

Note: A backpack comes under very essential for the activity like trekking. You will have a requirement of your Backpack throughout the journey for your belongings and all the essentials you need. We recommend you test the bag and choose it according to your height, the Trek where you are taking it & comfort it provides.

Daypack

• Type: A (10 – 15) litres waterproof daypack is all you need to have with you for the Summit.

Note: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your essentials (wallet, small water bottle, sunglass, power bank, etc.) with you.

Clothing

• Collared T-shirts – Carrying 2 – 3 units of collared T-shirts will be ideal. The collar will help you to keep your neck away from direct sunlight and not too exposed to the Sun and getting sunburnt.
  
  
• Padded Jacket – Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping you warm at -10 °C to -12 °C temperature.
  
  
• Fleece Jacket – Fleece jackets are made of very soft and cozy material. It helps you to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Keep 2 Fleece Jackets with you.
  
  
• Thermals – You will have a requirement of only 1 pair of this in the Winter, For Summer it could be under consideration. It is made of pure cotton and designed in such a way that body heat is blocked between its layers. It will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature falls.
  
  
• Trek Pants – You will have a requirement of 2 units of Trekking Pants with you always. Between them, one must be convertible. Ensure it is made of Cotton or windproof light material & provides maximum durable comfort.
  
  
• Sun Caps –The Sunlight might be harsh at higher Altitudes and the direct exposure of sunlight to your head is harmful to your skin. Carry Sun Caps to keep your head cool.
  
  
• Woolen Caps – You will need woolen caps during the nights to keep your ears and head warm from the very cold breeze.
  
  
• Waterproof Gloves – You will require waterproof gloves for cold and wet sections of the Trek. Always keep your hands clean & warm, and avoid letting your hands wet to get the supporting grip and balance.

Trek Accessories

• Trekking Pole: The Trekking/Hiking Pole saves 60% of your energy for conquering a steep slope at a higher altitude. It is advisable to carry a trekking pole with you for the treks.
  
  
• Head-lamp or Torch: A head-lamp is another important thing that also comes under mandatory items for our Treks. It will help you to deal with the dark. Headlamps become more effective to walk in dark cold weather without approaching through your hand. Featured Torch is also ok for uphill.

Daily essentials

• Toiletries: We recommend you carry all your Toiletries essentials and all other personal belongings by yourself to avoid borrowing. Here are some items you could take- tooth-cleaning paste, dental brush, lip moisturizer, skin hydrating cream, facial cleanser, a range of vital creams and items, bathroom tissue/toilet paper, menstrual pads, along with other important personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and shaving supplies.
  
  
• Containers & Vessels: It’s advisable to bring your water containers; we recommend two bottles each with a capacity of 1 litre. Additionally, for both ease and hygiene reasons, please carry your food containers to use for the meals we supply. The metal bottle comes in handy for hot water served in the camps.
  
  
• Recommended Medicines: Gauze 1 small roll, Dexamethasone one strip, Nifedipine 5 tablets, Band aid 10 strips, Avomine 4 tablets (motion sickness), Avil 25mg 4 tablets (allergies), Combiflam 4 tablets (Pain killer), Crepe bandage 3 to 5 meters, Disprin 6 tablets (headache), Crocin 6 tablets (fever), Digene 10 tablets (acidity), Omez/ Rantadine 10 tablets (antacids), Norflox TZ & Lomofen 6 tablets each (diarrhea), Diamox 10 tablets (to prevent AMS), Cotton 1 small roll

Essential Documents Required:

For the Kedarkantha trek, you must bring specific documents and submit those to the trek leader at the base camp. These include a copy of the Disclaimer, along with one photocopy and the original of a government-issued photo ID. Additionally, a doctor’s medical certificate confirming your fitness for high-altitude scenarios is required.

Risks and Precautions:

Here are the risks or challenges you might face on the Kedarkantha Trek.

• Risk of slip/skid: Kedarkantha is a moderate trek that tests the patience and challenges the skills of trekkers. It helps in developing confidence, patience, and strategic planning abilities. While trekking in the winter season there is a possibility of slip/ skidding as the trail is scattered with black ice, especially in December, and January, and in addition, weather is very much unpredictable in the Himalayas.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: To address these challenges, there will be a briefing session at the base camp about the risks of slipping or skidding. A trained trek leader will guide trekkers in maintaining body balance and show them how to use the trekking poles properly.

The Discovery Hike will provide crampons to the trekker for the snow-filled trails. These crampons are specially designed to hold a better grip on snow trails and minimize the risk of skidding up to 95%. The Trek leader shall accompany the team and shall aware the team members about the situation.

While choosing your shoe, remember that the shoe must have a good grip.

• High Altitude Risks: During the Kedarkantha trek, which ascends from 6,400 feet to 12,500 feet over 4-5 days, there’s a      small risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), and High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), especially at higher camps like the Kedarkantha campsite.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: To prevent these conditions, trekkers can start taking DIAMOX from the first day, as it significantly reduces AMS risk. Trekkers trained to recognize AMS symptoms should promptly report them to the trek leader. The leaders are prepared with a high-altitude medical kit and oxygen cylinders for safety. If conditions worsen, trekkers may need to move from higher to lower campsites.
  
  
• Dealing with Blisters and Cramps: Blisters cuts and cramps occur very often while we are walking or trekking on uneven trails.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: If a trekker experiences a blister or cramp, they need to quickly inform the trek leader, who carries a treatment kit. To prevent blisters, it’s recommended to use well-fitting trekking shoes that are breathable and have a good grip. For leg cramps, apply cramp spray, which both trekkers and the trek leader should have.
  
  
• Weather Risks at High Altitude: The weather at high altitudes, particularly in the Himalayas, is known for being unpredictable and can sometimes worsen quickly.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: The trek leader will make the call to either continue or wait for better weather. If the weather stays harsh and could worsen, the team might need to descend for safety. We provide all-weather tents to cope with different weather challenges.
  
  
• Communication Risks: As you go higher on the Kedarkantha trek, from 6,400 ft to 12,500 ft, communication signals weaken and eventually we might lose connection completely, isolating us from the outside world. But there’s no need to worry about this disconnection.
  
  
•  Safety Precautions: To stay connected, we use walkie-talkies as an alternative way to communicate with people at different campsites.
  
  
• Emergency/ Immediate rescue: In case of severe health issues or other emergencies, immediate rescue might be necessary.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: If a serious situation arises due to AMS, cramps, illness, or breathing problems, the trek leader and staff will quickly use resources like porters and mules for rescue. A standby team at different campsites will assist, and airlifts are arranged in acute cases.
  
  
• Risk of low oxygen at higher altitudes: Oxygen levels decrease as altitude increases, which can cause breathing difficulties. Although low oxygen levels are rare on the Kedarkantha trek, it’s still possible.
  
  
• Safety Precautions: If anyone experiences problems related to low oxygen levels, we have plenty of oxygen cylinders with the trek leader and staff. Affected trekkers should inform the leader or descend to a lower campsite for immediate help.

Overall Safety and Cooperation:

Our main goal is your safety and enjoyment during the trek. We ask for your full cooperation and advice against using any objectionable substances while trekking. 

Pre/Post Trek Services:

River rafting in Rishikesh

• Non-AC Cottages with Attached washroom
  • Package Cost Rs. 2200/- per person per night on Double Sharing
  • Package Cost Rs. 1800/- per person per night on Triple Sharing
  • Package Cost Rs. 1500/- per person per night on Quad Sharing
    
    
• AC Cottages with Attached washroom
  • Package Cost Rs. 2300/- per person per night on Double Sharing
  • Package Cost Rs. 1900/- per person per night on Triple Sharing
  • Package Cost Rs. 1700/- per person per night on Quad Sharing

Package Inclusions:

• Stay in Cottages
• Food Plan- APAI Plan
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Evening Snacks
• Dinner (Veg-Non veg)
• Common Bonfire
• Bedding (double/triple/quad)
• Cottages
• Music
• Evening Snacks
• River Trekking
• Nature walk
• River rafting 09 km

In-house Activities:

• Free use of the swimming pool
• Chess/Carom/fly
• Volleyball
• Cricket
• Badminton etc. 

Sightseeing in Dehradun

Itinerary of the Trip

Pickup at Dehradun around 8:00 AM

Drop back at your desired location in Dehradun by 5:30 PM.

Seasonal and Occasional Activities:

Seasonal –

The Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand, India, offers distinct experiences across different seasons, each with its unique charm and set of activities:

• Winter (December to February): This season is ideal for experiencing the beauty of snow-capped mountains. The trek becomes a winter wonderland, with temperatures dropping as low as -5 degrees Celsius. It’s a popular time for those who wish to experience snowfall and enjoy the pristine white landscape​​.
  
  
• Spring (March to April): Spring brings the melting of snow and the blooming of flowers, transforming the landscape into lush green meadows and vibrant flower carpets. This season is perfect for those who appreciate the rejuvenation of nature and the fresh greenery of the forests​​.
  
  
• Summer (May to June): The daytime temperatures during summer are comfortable, ranging between 18-24 degrees Celsius. However, the blazing sun at noon can make trekking a bit uncomfortable. This season is less recommended for trekking due to the heat, but it’s still possible for those who can tolerate the warmer conditions.
  
  
• Monsoon (July to mid-September): The monsoon season brings risks of heavy rainfall and lightning, making the trek more dangerous. It’s advised to avoid trekking in Kedarkantha during this period. Trekkers might prefer to explore other trails that are safer in the monsoon​​.
  
  
• Autumn (mid-September to November): Autumn is another ideal time for the trek, offering views of crisp mountain tops and small waterfalls. The weather is more stable, making it a favorable time for trekking​​.

Each season in Kedarkantha presents a unique experience, from snow-covered trails in winter to blooming meadows in spring, offering trekkers a range of options based on their preferences and the type of adventure they seek.

Occasional:

• New Year celebration at Kedarkantha Peak: Welcoming a new year by summiting the peak at the mountains has now become a trend for mountain lovers and trekker communities. There is a religious belief too related to Lord Mahadev. They wish to worship the lord by going close to him on the very first day of the new year. The rush to the moderate level peaks on the year-end days remains high every year. That’s how an entire trail route becomes heaven-stairs and the witnessing of sunrise on the very first day of the year becomes Heaven-view. 

Local Language Phrases:

Hello – “नमस्कार” (Namaskar)

How are you? – “तुम कसै छौ?” (Tum kase chau?)

My name is – “मेरु नाम …” (Meru naam …)

I am fine. How are you? – “मी ठीक छौं. तुम कसै छौ?” (Mi theek chaun. Tum kase chau?)

Please help me. – “कृपया, मेरी मदद करें.” (kripya, Meri madad karen.)

Tell me the route. – “मुझे रास्ता बता.” (Mujhe rasta bata.)

Where am I right now? – “मी अभी कख छौं?” (Mi abhi kakh chaun?)

Please rescue me. – “कृपया मुझे बचाओ.” (Kripya mujhe bachao.)

Do you have medical kits? – “क्या तुमरे पास मेडिकल किट छै?” (Kya tumre paas medical kit chhai?)

Will you join me? – “तुम मेरु साथ द्याओलु?” (Tum meru sath dyaolu?)

How long will it take to reach the summit? – “शिखर तक पहुंचण मा कती समय लगोलु?” (Shikhar tak pahunchan ma kati samay lagolu?)

Where is the next Maggi point? – “अगला मैगी प्वाइंट कख छ?” (Agla Maggi point kakh ch?)

Will there be too much cold? – “क्या ज्यादा ठंड ह्वालि?” (Kya jyada thand hwaali?)

What is the name of the nearest village? – “नजीकी गांव का नाम क्या छ?” (Naziki gaon ka naam kya ch?)

Is there any update of heavy snowfall? – “क्या भारी हिमपात कु अपडेट छ?” (Kya bhari himpaat ku update ch?)