The Kedarkantha trek begins at Sankri village which is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand in India. The village Sankri is the last point for the trekkers and it also provides a scenic view and acts as a distance to the beautiful Ladakh region. This trek is about twenty kilometers long, taking through forests and mountains covered with snow.
The Kedarkantha Trek, renowned for its breathtaking views and moderate difficulty, begins in the charming village of Sankri, located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. This village serves as the primary gateway to one of the most popular trekking routes in the Garhwal Himalayas, offering trekkers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of adventure.
Sankri is a small, picturesque village situated at an elevation of approximately 6,890 feet (2,100 meters) above sea level. Nestled in the Lower Himalayas, the village is a cluster of traditional stone and wooden houses that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. As you approach Sankri, the majestic peaks of Swargarohini, Black Peak, and Bandarpoonch dominate the horizon, setting the stage for the adventure that lies ahead.
The most common and practical way to reach Sankri is by road. The journey typically begins from Dehradun, the capital city of Uttarakhand, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air to major cities in India.
From Dehradun: From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Sankri. The journey covers a distance of roughly 200 kilometers and takes about 7-8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The route offers scenic views of the Garhwal Himalayas, passing through lush green valleys, dense forests, and along the rivers Tons and Yamuna. Key stops include Purola, Chinyalisaur, and Chopta, each offering glimpses of rural life and natural beauty.
From Delhi: For those coming from Delhi, the drive to Sankri is around 430 kilometers and takes approximately 10-12 hours. You can either drive directly or take an overnight bus to Dehradun and then proceed to Sankri. The overnight bus option is particularly popular among budget travelers and allows you to save a day of travel time.
The nearest railway station to Sankri is Dehradun, which is well-connected by rail to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others. Dehradun Railway Station is about 200 kilometers from Sankri. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Sankri. The train journey to Dehradun is comfortable and offers scenic views of the plains and the foothills of the Himalayas.
The nearest airport to Sankri is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is about 220 kilometers away. Several flights operate to Dehradun from major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Sankri. The drive from the airport to Sankri takes about 5-6 hours, offering a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
Upon arrival in Sankri, it's essential to spend some time acclimatizing and preparing for the trek. The village offers a few basic lodges and tea shops where you can rest, have a meal, and gather your thoughts. It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast, as the Kedarkantha region can be unpredictable, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons.
Hiring a Guide or Porter: While the trek is well-marked and relatively straightforward, having a local guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the local culture, flora, and fauna. Porters can also be hired to carry your luggage, allowing you to hike with a lighter backpack and enjoy the trek more fully.
Packing Essentials: Ensure you have the right gear for the trek, including a good pair of hiking boots, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a backpack, a sleeping bag, and a first-aid kit. Basic supplies can be purchased in Sankri, but it's advisable to bring most of your gear from a larger town like Dehradun.
The official start of the Kedarkantha Trek is marked by a small signboard in Sankri, which points the way to Barmola, the first stop on the trail. As you leave Sankri, you'll begin a gradual ascent through pine and oak forests. The trail is well-maintained, and you'll find stone steps and wooden bridges that make the initial part of the trek relatively easy.
From Sankri to Barmola: The path from Sankri to Barmola is about 4 kilometers long and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll pass through several small hamlets, where you can interact with the locals and perhaps even stop for a quick snack or a cup of tea. The forests are dense, and the air is crisp and fresh, making it a perfect environment for a morning or late afternoon start.
Barmola: Barmola, located at an elevation of about 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), is the first campsite on the Kedarkantha Trek. The village is small and basic, offering a few tea shops and basic accommodation options. Barmola is a great place to set up camp, rest, and prepare for the next day's hike, which is more challenging.
From Barmola, the trek continues to the next significant landmark, the Kedarkantha Base Camp. The trail from Barmola to the Base Camp is more steep and demanding, with several ups and downs. The scenery, however, is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You'll pass through dense forests and open meadows, each step revealing a new facet of the Himalayan beauty.
Starting the Kedarkantha Trek from Sankri is more than just the beginning of a physical journey; it's the start of a spiritual and cultural exploration as well. The village, with its traditional charm and warm hospitality, sets the tone for the adventure that lies ahead. As you leave Sankri behind and begin your ascent, you'll be enveloped by the serenity of the Himalayas, a reminder of the natural wonders that await you on this rewarding trek.
The Kedarkantha Trek is a testament to the beauty and diversity of the Indian Himalayas, and Sankri, as the starting point, plays a crucial role in making this journey unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, the experience of starting from Sankri and embarking on this trek is one that will stay with you long after you've returned home.