Kedartal Trek

Kedartal is an emerald lake manifesting the immaculate reflection of the gigantic and the majestic Thalaysagar Mountain range. Undertaking the Kedartal trek would be an experience of a lifetime for individuals who love the thrill of watching mountains in the reflection of beautiful lakes.

 The Thalaysagar range is considered the second most beautiful mountain in Uttarakhand after the Shivling peak. One of the most amazing facts about both these mountain peaks is they lie in the Gangotri range. After Gaumukh Tapovan, Kedartal trek is the second trek moving towards Gangotri. Hence, it would not disappoint the trekkers when it comes to getting some enticing views.

Kedartal trek is best suited for nature lovers. Nevertheless, the trek works for seasoned trekkers who have experience in trekking the Himalayas and are looking to push their limits. Though the trek is a difficult one, it offers a magical experience in return for the pain that the trekkers need to go through.

It offers enthralling sights of some of the gorgeous mountain peaks in India namely, Mount Bhrigupanth, Mount Thalaysagar, Mount Gangotri, Mount Jogin and Mount Parvat. Kedartal trek is one of the few treks that bring people up close with such gigantic peaks. And there are fewer allowing trekkers to spend much time in the proximity of these peaks.  It is specifically meant for experienced trekkers. The altitude, presence of snow and different tricky sections make this trek a challenging one.

Historical Reference to Kedartal Trek

Kedartal is also called Shiva’s Lake, and it lies at an altitude of 15, 600 feet. The snowfall over Mount Thalaysagar feeds the lake. Some amount of snow also comes from the Mount Bhrigupanth, and Meru ranges along with the other surrounding mountains. The origin of this lake is considered to be Kedar Ganga. According to Hindu mythology, Kedar Ganga is Lord Shiva’s contribution to the Ganges. 

About the Journey

Located at an altitude of 15, 600 feet, the Kedartal trek would be your ideal option if you want to witness the grandness and magnificence of gigantic peaks. It offers you close sights of peaks like Bhagirathi, Meru and Gangotri along with the barren grounds of the Himalayas. Scree, boulders and dust are part of this trekking trail that has lots of rocky paths.

Right from the first day of your trek, you will be going through thin ledges on rock faces. The complexities of the trek keep increasing as you cover more distance. The trekking trail even boasts of lush meadows and vibrant blossoms. There are even a few streams located across the trail. Experienced trekkers looking to have exceptional adventure and experience can always go for this trek.

Another point worth noting about the Kedartal trek is that it is extremely remote. Human habitat is not present at an altitude of 15, 600 feet. So, remain prepared to find very few trekking groups while you trek. The solitude offered is a blessing which is not available at treks that seem to be overly crowded.

The trek is jam-packed with challenges like navigating steep and tricky terrains and climbing boulders. The hard trekking and perfect physical and mental preparation are duly rewarded with sights of high altitude pastures, indescribable serenity and lovely forests. Completing the trek will thus offer you a feeling of achievement.   

Travel To and From the Kedartal Trek

There are several options of reaching Gangotri, the base camp of the Kedartal trek. These options include:

• The nearest airport to Gangotri is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is located at a distance of 25 kilometres from the city.
• If you want to reach by train, then Dehradun railway station would be the ideal stop-point for you.