Kedartal which is also known as the lake of Lord Shiva is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarkhand. Kedartal is also one of the highest lakes in Uttarakhand. This beautiful glacial lake is located at an altitude of 4912 m above sea level. It is said that this lake is made from Kedar glacier and from this lake a mighty river Kedarganga comes out.
If you are an adventure lover then the Kedartal Trek is for you. If you are an experienced hiker and want to test your limits then don't miss the chance to visit Kedartal. Although Kedartal Trek is not easy, this trek will surely reward all your efforts.
During your visit to Kedartal, you will be mesmerised by the view of mighty mountain peaks of the Himalayas like Mt Bhrigupanth, Mt Thalaysagar, Manda Parvat, Mt Jogin and Mt Gangotri. Kedartal lake is located at the base of Thalyasagar Peak (6904m) and has crystal clear water and on the other side, you can see Brigupanth Peak (6772 m). You will be amazed by the view of the Thal Sagar peak reflecting on Kedaratal.
Itinerary of Kedartal Trek
Day 1: Dehradun to Gangotri (Drive 258 km, 10 hours 3,064 )
You will start early in the morning from Dehradun to arrive in Gangotri by late evening. It takes around 10 hours to reach Gangotri from Dehradun. After driving continuously for 5-6 hours you will pass by Mussoorie that will give you the most spectacular views. On the way, you will also see the views of Tehri Dam Lake as well and proceed to Chilyanisaur.
You can take a short break in Uttarkashi before heading towards Gangotri via Harshil. After reaching Gangotri, you can visit the temple to perform evening aarti and then you can take the permit from Gangotri National Park. If you have time then you can also visit Surya Kund.
Overnight Stay in the hotel.
Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak (trekking approx 8 km, 3,064 m to 3,893 m, 5 to 6 hours)
Today early in the morning, you can visit the sacred temple of Gangotri and you can also shop for essentials from the local market. Start your trek by crossing the bridge over Ganga / Bhagirathi River and on the right your climbing starts.
Today you will pass by pine trees and you will enter into a mixed vegetation zone Bhoj trees. Deep down you can see the Kedar Ganga river flowing silently into the valley. On the way, you will witness the first glimpse of Thalaysagar. The peak will come closer and closer as you will walk toward it.
You will go through the steep and sloping rock before reaching Bhoj Kharak this is also known as the Spider Wall. Bhoj Khhharak is a small campsite at an elevation of 3,780 m above sea level.
Overnight stay in camps.
Water Source: 3 sources of water on the way. It is required to carry enough water during the trek.
Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak (3,893 m to 4,340 m, 5 Kms trekking, 4 Hours)
Today you will trek for 5 km that will pass by rugged terrains before you reach Kedar Kharak.
You will it relatively simple trek as compared to the trek of the previous day's ascent. But still, you will find some severe patches, and you will pass by ascending and descending terrain. It will take you around 4 hours to reach Kedar Kharak located at an altitude of 4,340m.
Overnight stay in camps.
Water Source: There are few water sources on the way from where you can fill your water bottle.
Day 4: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal to Kedar Kharak ( 4,340m to 4,720m to 4,340m 6 Kms trekking, 6 Hours)
Today you will trek for 6 km approx to reach Kedar Tal from Kedar Khark which is mostly filled with dirt and rocks and glaciers covered with dust. In the month of June, you will walk on snow to reach Kedartal.
You need to be very careful while walking on loose rocks. the temperature at Kedartal can change anytime.
Water Source: There is no water source on the water. Carry at least 2L of water with you on the trek.
Day 5: Kedar Kharak to Gangotri (4,340m to 3,415m 8 Hours of Trekking 9 Kms approx)
Today you can enjoy the breathtaking sunrise early in the morning and then trek back to Gangotri that will take around 7-8 hours.
Water Source: You will find water sources on the way.
Day 6: Gangotri - Uttarkashi - Dehradun (243 km)
Wake up early in the morning to enjoy the view. After breakfast, get the taxi and head toward Dehradun which will take around 10 hours.
FAQs on Kedartal Trek
1. How do I visit Kedartal?
If you want to visit Kedrtal then first you need to visit Gangotri. Gangotri is a town and you can reach here easily by bus or by hiring a taxi to Gangotri from Dehradun, Haridwar and Rishikesh. Your trek will start from Gangotri, it is an 18 km trek and it is advised to hire professionals from Adventure Companies like Walking The Himalayas.
2. What is the height/altitude of Kedartal?
Altitude of Kedartal is 5000m
3. What are the important things you must carry while on Kedartak Trek?
Valid ID proof for each member
Warm and comfortable clothes
Jackets and sweaters, woollen caps, gloves, etc.
Personal toiletries and medication (if any)
Trekking shoes
Mosquito & insect repellent
Water bottles, backpacks, energy bars/snacks, etc.
Sunscreen lotion
Binoculars
Sunglasses
Camera
Cap or hat
Flashlight (with spare batteries)
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