India is home to many Himalayan treks like Har Ki Dun, Brahmatal, Rupin Pass, Sandakphu, and Valley of Flowers. Each trek has its own beauty. But in 2025, one trek that is leading the list of the best treks in India is the Kedarkantha trek in Uttarakhand.

Often called the “Queen of Winter Treks,” Kedarkantha is loved by beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The mix of snow trails, forest walks, wide meadows, and a 360-degree summit view has made it the most popular choice among Indian treks in 2025.

Location of Kedarkantha

• State: Uttarakhand

• District: Uttarkashi

• Altitude: 12,500 ft (3,800 m)

• Base Camp: Sankri village

• National Park: Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary

Sankri is also the starting point for other well-known treks like Har Ki Dun, Bali Pass, and Ruinsara Tal, which makes it an important trekking hub in Uttarakhand.

Why Kedarkantha is the Most Popular Trek in 2025

From late December to February, Kedarkantha turns into a snow paradise.

• Pine forests are covered with fresh snow.

• The famous Juda Ka Talab lake freezes in winter.

• Trekkers walk through landscapes that look like fairy tales.

2. Beautiful Summit Experience

The Kedarkantha summit stands at 12,500 ft and offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayas.

• Peaks visible include Swargarohini, Black Peak (Kalanag), Bandarpunch, and Ranglana.

• The sunrise from the summit is breathtaking, with golden light falling on snow peaks.

This summit climb is considered one of the best in the Himalayas, especially for a trek that is beginner-friendly.

Kedarkantha has become popular in 2025 because it is simple yet rewarding.

• Trek distance: about 20 km total.

• Daily trekking distance: 3–6 km.

• Camps are placed in the right order for gradual climbing.

This makes Kedarkantha ideal for students, families, and first-time trekkers. Even people who have never trekked before can complete it with proper guidance.

Compared to other Himalayan treks, Kedarkantha is affordable.

• Average cost: ₹6,000–₹10,000 per person.

• Packages usually include transport from Dehradun, camping, meals, permits, and guides.

The low cost with a high reward experience is another reason for its growing popularity in 2025.

In recent years, many trekkers are choosing Kedarkantha to celebrate New Year in the mountains.

• Campsites host bonfires under starry skies.

• The first sunrise of the year is seen from the summit.

This trend has made Kedarkantha even more popular during December and January.

The trek is also famous for its beautiful camping spots:

• Juda Ka Talab: A frozen lake surrounded by pine forests.

• Kedarkantha Base Camp: A wide meadow with a direct view of snow peaks.

• Hargaon: A peaceful forest clearing used on the return route.

These campsites give trekkers different landscapes to enjoy each day.

Best Time to Do Kedarkantha Trek

• Winter (December – February): Best for snow and New Year celebrations.

• Spring (March – April): Melting snow, blooming flowers, and clear trails.

• Summer (May – June): Pleasant weather with green meadows.

• Autumn (September – November): Sharp views and colorful forests.

• Monsoon (July – August): Not suitable due to rain and landslides.

Most trekkers prefer December and January for the classic snow trek experience.

Standard Kedarkantha Itinerary (5–6 Days)

1. Day 1: Drive from Dehradun to Sankri (200 km, 8–9 hours).

2. Day 2: Trek from Sankri to Juda Ka Talab (4 km).

3. Day 3: Trek from Juda Ka Talab to Kedarkantha Base Camp (4 km).

4. Day 4: Summit Kedarkantha Peak (12,500 ft) and return to Base Camp (~6 km).

5. Day 5: Return to Sankri via Hargaon (6 km).

6. Day 6 (optional): Drive back to Dehradun.

What to Pack for Kedarkantha Trek

• Good trekking shoes (waterproof if possible)

• Warm jackets and thermal layers

• Woolen cap, gloves, and socks

• Trekking pole for support on snow

• Rain cover for backpack

• Water bottle and personal medicines

Travel Tips

1. Prepare with light jogging or walking for 3–4 weeks before the trek.

2. Carry some cash, as ATMs are not available in Sankri.

3. Keep your phone charged, but remember that network is weak after Sankri.

4. Follow eco-friendly rules—do not litter and carry your waste back.

Final Thoughts

When we talk about the best treks in India 2025, the Kedarkantha trek clearly stands out. It offers snow, forest trails, wide meadows, and a rewarding summit—all in one trek.

The mix of beginner-friendly routes, low-cost packages, and growing trends like New Year celebration in the Himalayas has made Kedarkantha the most popular choice for trekkers in 2025.

If you are planning a Himalayan adventure, Kedarkantha should be at the top of your list.