Kedartal Trek

The journey from Dehradun to Gangotri will be long and in the hills. The Himalayan region’s changing panoramic views from the vast plains to the high hills.

We would be woken up by the sound of the gushing river Ganga and the fresh and clean air of the mountains. Today will be the first day of our trek, beginning from Gangotri, and we will camp at Bhoj Kharak. As we started our trek, we would cross the Bhagirathi River via the Bhairav Ghati Bridge.You will see a GMVN lodge to the right. You will also pass the ashrams of a few sages. The trail here has already begun to ascend. After 200 meters, take a trail that climbs up sharply to the right, along the side of another ashram. This brings you to the forest trail to Bhoj Kharak. This frequently trekked route is the only path available to reach Bhoj Kharak. Here, the trail ascends steeply almost to Bhoj Kharak.

The trek from Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak is relatively simple compared to the previous day’s climb. Though there are a few grim patches, the terrain has uniform ascents and descents. The trek to Kedar Kharak, situated at 14,000 ft, is 4 km and takes about five hours. The ascent is quite steep as soon as you set out of the campsite at Bhoj Kharak. After a 1 km trek through the Bhoj forests, the trail leaves the tree line and enters meadows which are multi colours in autumn – an astounding setting for photography with the snow-covered peak Bhrigupanth in the backdrop. The next 2 km feel like a relaxing stroll as there are fewer steep ascents. It is in this stretch that you may get a chance to encounter high altitude fauna like Bharal (blue sheep), Goral, Himalayan black bear and a variety of birds. The climate gets chillier as you gain altitude. Do not be surprised if you notice a thin layer of frost over the stones in the streams. After passing about two more water points you reach Kedar Kharak.

On this day the excitement level among the trekkers is usually at its peak, with the eagerness to make it to the emerald lake taking over any exhaustion from the previous day’s treks. Start early as this stretch is the most laborious of all. At a height of 15,500 ft, the ‘Tal’ is a 5 km slog from Kedar Kharak through rocky mountains with absolutely no greenery around.

Start the descent to Gangotri right after breakfast. Trace the same path back and cherish the surroundings one last time. Since most of the trail is descending, it should take you lesser time to reach. Be mindful of loose rocks on the trail.

Ans: 1 The best time to plan the Kedartal Trek is in the months of May to mid-June and then September to October are considered to be the best months to go for this Kedartal trek.

Ans: 2 No, Kids are not allowed to go for the Kedartal trek. Anyone below the age of 18 cannot avail this trek as it is considered to be moderately difficult.

Ans: 3 Kedartal Trek is located in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas at 15,580 feet. The trek is a moderate-level trek, meaning that trekkers who have trekked before should do this as it will be a little tricky. This trek is a must-do as you would be hiking to the glacial emerald lake, which is astounding

Ans: 4 Yes, the Kedartal Trek is safe. The level of difficulty for the Kedartal Trek is moderate, so the route is not very dangerous