Kedartal, also known as Shiva’s Lake, is a glacial lake in Uttarakhand, India, situated at an altitude of 4,750 meters. It holds religious significance in Hindu mythology and is a challenging trekking destination, starting from Gangotri. The trek offers stunning landscapes and is best visited from May to October.
Kedartal 4N/5D
Trek Details
Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Max Altitude
4750 m
Trek Length
40 KM
Difficulty
ModerateBest Season
May to Oct
Start Point
Gangotri
End Point
Gangotri
Nearest Railway
Rishikesh
Nearest Airport
Jolly Grant
Overview
Your Adventure at a Glance
About the Trek
Mythology, Best Time & More More
Significance
Mythology and Cultural
Kedartal, or Shiva's Lake, is revered in Hindu mythology as the site where Lord Shiva meditated. It's part of the Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage circuit and attracts pilgrims seeking blessings. Trekkers encounter local culture along the route.
Month
Best Time
The best time to visit Kedartal is from May to October, with the summer months offering the most favorable weather conditions for trekking and exploration.
Day-by-Day Plan
Trek Itinerary
Day 1
Dehradun to Gangotri
Start your adventure with a drive from Dehradun to Gangotri, one of Uttarakhand's revered Char Dhams. Arriving in Gangotri, take time to adjust to the altitude and prepare for the upcoming trekking endeavors.
Day 2
Gangotri to bhojkharak to Kedar Bamak
Trail Commences: The trek begins at Gangotri, winding through dense forests and along the rugged terrain of the Garhwal Himalayas. The path to Bhoj Kharak is marked by steep ascents and the serene beauty of the wilderness.
Embark on a trek from Gangotri to Kedar Bamak, a region characterized by high-altitude meadows or bugyal . Traverse through the rugged terrain, marveling at the majestic landscapes of the Garhwal Himalayas. Settle in at Kedar Bamak, surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks and glaciers.
Camp at Bhoj Kharak: Reaching Kedar Bamak , trekkers are greeted with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Kedar bamak Camp is 2km behind kedarkharak
Day 3
Kedar Bamak to Kedartal and Back to Kedar Bamak
Undertake an excursion to Kedartal from Kedar Bamak, reaching the glacial lake situated at an elevation of 4,750 meters. Experience the pristine beauty of Kedartal, with its clear waters mirroring the Himalayan peaks. After relishing the tranquility, return to Kedar Bamak for the night.
Day 4
Kedar Bamak to Gangotri
Trace your steps back from Kedar Bamak to Gangotri, allowing for a reappreciation of the breathtaking landscapes. Upon reaching Gangotri, take time to rest and reflect on the memorable trekking experiences.
Day 5
Gangotri to Dehradun
Bid farewell to Gangotri as you return to Dehradun on the final day, marking the conclusion of your trekking expedition. Cherish the memories of Kedartal, the rugged allure of the Himalayas, and the spiritual ambiance of Gangotri as you journey back to where it all began.
What's Covered
Inclusions & Exclusions
INCLUSION
- Accommodation: Stay in tents/guesthouses on twin/triple sharing; base in guesthouse.
- Meals: Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals provided.
- Day-wise Meals: Meal plan varies by day.
- Day 1: Dinner + breakfast next morning.
- Trek Days: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
- Final Day: Dinner + breakfast before departure.
- Non-veg meals are not served.
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bags, tents, kitchen setup, mattresses, crampons (if needed).
- Transportation: Included if opted during booking.
- First Aid: Basic medical kits available.
- Permits: Forest entry fees and permits included.
- Guides: Led by trained and experienced trek leaders.
EXCLUSION
- All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
- Anything that we have not mentioned above.
- The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day.
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
Getting There
How To Reach
Location
Trek Route Map
Booking Policy
Cancellation Policy
| Policy | Upto 30 days | 29–21 days | 21–15 days | 14–0 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Batch Shifting | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ |
| Refund | 100% | 50% | 0% | 0% |
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. No-shows and last-minute cancellations are non-refundable. In case of bad weather or force majeure, the company reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary.
Preparation
What To Pack
Clothing & Footwear
- High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Thermal base layer — top & bottom (2 sets)
- Down jacket (600+ fill power)
- Windproof & waterproof shell jacket
- Trekking pants (quick-dry, 2–3 pairs)
- Woolen gloves + waterproof outer gloves
- Warm balaclava & beanie hat
- Woolen socks (4+ pairs)
- Gaiters for snow and scree
Gear & Essentials
- 35–45L daypack with rain cover
- Trekking poles (collapsible, 2 poles)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ & lip balm with SPF
- UV-protection polarised sunglasses
- Personal first aid & altitude medication (Diamox)
- Water bottles (2L) or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets
- Valid government photo ID (mandatory for permits)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kedartal trek difficult ?
, The trek to Kedartal is Moderate due to its high altitude, rugged terrain, and challenging weather conditions. Trekkers need to be physically fit, experienced, and prepared for the journey.
How many days in Kedartal Trek ?
It is a 5 Days and 4 Nights Trek starting from Gangotri to Gangotri.
How long is Kedartal Trek ?
The trek to Kedartal usually takes around 5 to 6 days to complete, including the ascent and return journey.
Why is Kedartal famous ?
Kedartal is famous for its stunning beauty, high-altitude glacial lake, and its association with Hindu mythology, particularly its connection to Lord Shiva. It is also renowned as a challenging trekking destination, attracting adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims a like.
What if we want to leave extra luggage at the base village?
You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak roo charges applicable. Its free of cost.
Is there mobile signals available on treks?
If you are going on a trek don’t expect mobile signals. There are few spots on the trails of few treks where you might find a single tower or something but it always depends if that is enough to make a call or not.
How do you manage toilets?
We use portable toilet tents for sanitation needs, as permanent structures may not available. These are dry toilets, so please bring wet wipes or tissue paper for personal hygiene.
Do I need to carry trek equipment?
For this trek you just need a day bag to carry during the trek, extra luggage can be left behind at the camp site. Proper bedded swiss tents are available on this trek.
Can we consume Alcohol during the trek?
It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption H2H has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.
How do I prepare for the trek?
Start running/walking at least 3-4 Kms everyday.
What kind of shoes will I need? Does a sport shoe work?
If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do.