KEDARTAL TREK
Nestled within the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in India, Kedar Tal, fondly known as Shiva's Lake, is a glacier-fed gem. Perched at an altitude of 4,750 meters (15,600 feet), this ethereal water body draws sustenance from the snowfall cascading down Mount Thalay Sagar (6,904 meters), Meru (6,672 meters), Mt Bhrigupanth (6,772 meters), and neighboring peaks.
These majestic summits not only nurture the lake but also birth Kedar Ganga, a revered stream often deemed as Lord Shiva's benevolent offering to Bhagirathi, a significant tributary of the Ganges. Embarking on this journey evokes a sense of enchantment, as the trail unveils the spellbinding beauty of these magnificent peaks in close proximity, coupled with awe-inspiring vistas.
The lake itself radiates a brilliant sapphire hue, a refreshing elixir for travelers and a cherished jewel adorning the heart of Uttarakhand, India. The sacred hamlet of Gangotri, believed to mark the emergence of the Ganges River from the earth's embrace, serves as the inception point for this expedition, enhancing the allure of the venture.
During the yatra season, the landscape bursts to life with bustling marketplaces, ornate temples, serene nocturnal aartis (rituals), and tranquil woods graced by wandering sadhus offering their spiritual guidance. Dedicate a few days towards the culmination of your sojourn to immerse yourself in this sacred realm. Optimal trekking conditions bless the months of May, June, September, and October, making them the perfect choice for embarking on the Kedartal trail.
Day 01: From Dehradun to Gangotri drive
Day 02: From Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak
Day 03: Trek from Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak
Day 04: From Kedar Kharak to Kedar Tal and back
Day 05: Trek from Kedar Kharak to Gangotri
Day 06: From Gangotri to Dehradun
Commencing from Dehradun and culminating in Gangotri, Uttarakhand, your journey encompasses the starting point of the renowned Kedartal trek. Your presence is expected in Gangotri by three o'clock in the afternoon for a comprehensive briefing and a round of team introductions. Prior to that, you have the opportunity to engage in a variety of enriching experiences.
Embark on a visit to the revered Holy Temple, followed by a leisurely stroll through the serene pine forests. Indulge in some local retail therapy at the bustling market, allowing you to take in the flavors of the region. Strike up a conversation with a wandering Sadhu, absorbing their wisdom and insights. Discover the mysteries of the subterranean cave, adding a touch of intrigue to your exploration. Delight in delectable culinary offerings that the locale has to offer.
As the day concludes, you'll find comfort and rest in a nearby guest home, ensuring a rejuvenating overnight stay.
Following a hearty breakfast, adventurers set out from Gangotri to embark on their expedition. The day's journey entails a considerable amount of ascent, with the faithful companion of Kedar Ganga accompanying them on the left throughout. As the ascent progresses, the landscape undergoes a transformation, transitioning from youthful pine trees to a dense thicket of birch trees.
Amid this natural tapestry, the path leads to Bhoj Kharak, the initial campsite on the itinerary. Amidst the sheltering birch trees, one can catch glimpses of distant, swaying rhododendrons adorned in deep shades of purple. The alluring and rugged countenance of Thalaysagar's peaks in the distance ignites curiosity for what Day 3 holds in store.
The day's final challenge presents itself as the Spider Wall, a slanting rock slab pitched at a sixty-degree angle, offering just enough footholds to traverse its expanse. As the day draws to a close, Bhoj Kharak welcomes the weary with its tented campsite, providing a restful haven for the night's reprieve.
Today marks an unforgettable juncture in our expedition. A landslide, occurring a few years back, wiped away a considerable 100-meter segment of the traditional route. Our task is to pioneer a fresh trail across the incline, ingeniously charting a new course that ensures our onward journey. Subsequently, a secure pathway will unveil itself, guiding us gently to the riverbed of the Kedar Gunga. Here, we'll navigate a partial crossing of the river before regaining steady ground on the opposite bank. This new trail leads us to our next destination, the Kedar Kharak campsite.
Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Drigubanth, Thalaysagar, and Jogin 3 peaks nestled harmoniously nearby, the Kedar Kharak campsite is an absolute marvel. The region frequently plays host to herds of elusive blue sheep, adding to the captivating allure of the surroundings.
The final stretch of the journey leading to the exquisite Kedar Tal involves ascending three hills entirely composed of strewn boulders, intermingled with sporadic gravel paths connecting them. Guiding the way, clusters of rock cairns stand sentinel across the landscape, marking the path's trajectory. Upon scaling the summits of the first two ridges, a tantalizing glimpse of the ultimate peak unfolds, sparking curiosity about the marvels that lie beyond.
Having conquered the apex of the third mountain, the panoramic sight of Kedar Tal Lake emerges like a frozen emerald below your vantage point. The breathtaking panoramas, including the majestic Thalaysagar and other towering peaks, put the challenges you've faced into a perspective that renders them inconsequential.
Our return journey to safety is now underway, marking the successful completion of the challenging leg of our adventure. In contrast to the distance we've traversed, the path leading back to Gangotri primarily descends in gradient. Upon reaching Gangotri, a cozy and inviting bed awaits you, providing a much-needed respite. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to witness the renowned aarti ceremony, a truly captivating experience.
As the next day dawns, seize the early hours to make your way back to your lodging, reenergized and ready to embrace the day ahead.
Feel free to explore until tea time. For those who have made reservations with us, a car will be dispatched to pick you up from Gangotri and return you to Dehradun in the evening.
From Day 1 through Day 6 of your walk, you will be sleeping in various hotels and tents.
All meals are provided, beginning with the first night’s dinner and ending with breakfast on day six. On all days of the walk, we provide simple, healthy vegetarian meals.
We will provide for round-trip transportation from Dehradun to Dehradun
Trekking permits and camping expenses in the woods are all accounted for.
Tents and sleeping bags of the highest quality will be provided at each camp. Fortunately, we have high-altitude sleeping bags that are good down to ten degrees Celsius.
Gaiters, microspikes, and ropes are available.
Costs associated with carrying personal items, such as luggage, on the hike.
The term “emergency costs” refers to any and all costs that crop up as a direct consequence of a crisis.
There will be no access to bottled water at any point throughout the walk.
Cost of transportation from Dehradun to Gangotri (between 1000 and 1500 INR)
Embark on unforgettable adventures with our curated trek packages, designed to immerse you in nature's beauty and cultural richness.
taxi stand, Gangotri highway, near Canara bank Atm, uttarjashi, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 249193
+91-9458130985 (Baldev Rana)
+91-9411396078 (Rajbeer Rana)
info@summithimalayatrekandtours.com
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