Kedartal is a Glacial lake situated at an altitude of 4,912 m (16,116 feet) in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. Also known as the “Shiva’s lake”, undoubtedly, it is one of the most stunning lakes in Uttrakhand! The Kedartal, guarded by the mighty Himalayan snow-clad peaks and enriched greenery from all around, and the glacier feeding the lake can be seen up close. The Kedartal lake is fed by the snowfall over Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Meru (6,672 m), Bhrigupanth (6,772 m) and other surrounding peaks, and is the source of Kedar Ganga, which in Hindu mythology is considered to be Shiva’s contribution to Bhagirathi Or Gangotri (a source-stream of the Ganges). This would be the starting point of The mighty Kedartal Trek. The trail follows Kedar Ganga, through Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak and then towards Kedartal. This journey towards the lake is itself an adventure. ‘Serenity with Variety’ is how one could best describe this trek to Kedartal Lake. The reflection of various mountains in the clear waters adds very surreal and three-dimensional beauties. It’s like there is another world below the surface. The steepness of the trail, along with the large altitude gain, makes it important to distribute the ascent over 3 days to acclimatize the high altitude and climate.
Best time to visit: May-June and September-October. Expect hiking on the snow at the beginning of May. September and October is a pleasant time to trek here. Post-October, it is generally not advisable to trek alone because of the extreme cold. After November, expect heavy snow in the area.
Arrive in Gangotri, one of the four pilgrimages in the Chota Char Dham circuit of Garhwal Himalayas and the source of river Ganga (the actual source being Gaumukh) which is known as Bhagirathi here, 9-11 hours’ drive from Dehradun. Transport will be arranged at an additional cost from Dehradun Railway Station at 06:30 AM. Cost of Cab – Rs. 8,000/- per vehicle. The drive from Dehradun to Gangotri passes through the Mussoorie, Uttarkashi and the popular villages of Gorsali, Bhatwari, Harshil, and Dharali. Gangotri, the base camp for the Kedartal trek. The shrine of Gangotri is surrounded by deodars and pines forest. After relaxing, we shall visit the Holy Gangotri Devi temple for prayers, roaming the local market, striking a conversation with a Sadhu, exploring the secret cave and learn a few words of the local language; it is appreciated and often resulted in getting more than the experience. Before having the delicious dinner we will have a team introduction session and briefing about tomorrows trek after dinner.
The beginning of the Kedartal Trek starts from Gangotri. It takes about 5-6 hours to reach Bhoj Kharak from Gangotri. Breakfast is trailed by a persistent climb to Bhoj Kharak, named after the Bhoja Patra trees that grow in abundance here. The trek to Bhoj Kharak along the Kedar Ganga River covers 8 Km distance, through the Fir (Cedus) and Bhoj (Birch) trees. The trek, however, hard for the untrained legs, offers some reprieve as one gets the opportunity to see wonderful waterfalls as we experience the Bhoja Patra forests. Once we reach at Bhoj Kharak, we will set up camp. Get your camera ready. Enjoy the photography and relish the beautiful sights of the narrow gorge and the gushing Kedar Ganga thought to be Shiva’s gift to Bhagirathi. After a splendid day, spend the night in tents.
Start early as this trail to Kedar Kharak is quite steep into the Bhoj Forests in the first hour. Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak is relatively simple compared to the previous day’s climb which takes about 5-6 hours to reach there. Post breakfast we gain altitude and eventually cross the tree line to discover beautiful meadows and a grandstand view of the Bhrigupanth peak. The camping area is similarly fascinating and is located near a bubbling stream with crystal clear water surrounded by the meadow. In spite of the fact that strenuous; the total distance covered in the day has been a mere 4 Km to reach a suitable campsite. During the trek, you may get an opportunity to experience high elevation fauna like Blue Sheep, Goral, Himalayan Black Bear and a variety of birds. This will be a treat for the adventurous and experience for individuals who are new to such expeditions. Overnight stays at Kedar Kharak.
Today you make the final push towards the fascinating Kedartal Lake. The trek to the final destination of Kedartal takes about 8 hours. Start early as this trail is the most strenuous of the entire stretch. The Kedartal is situated at an altitude of 16,116 ft. and the distance of the trek is 4 Km from Kedar Kharak through the Rocky Mountains with no greenery around. This would be the most exciting day and the excitement level among the trekkers is usually very high. Cross the meadows and go on to a trail through scree, rocks & loose boulders. After continuing carefully, a strenuous uphill walk, we will be able to see the famed Kedar Tal Lake. We might be able to enjoy a sunset above Thalay Sagar peak, with its reflection in the lake. Spend some time and descend back to Kedar Kharak on the same route for night stay.
Today is the final day of the Kedartal Trek. After breakfast, start the descent to Gangotri. Retrace the previous route back. It takes about 8 hours to reach Gangotri. The trail is descending most of the time. There are few water sources on the way where you can refill your water bottles. Start early for Gangotri in time to witness the famous Ganga Aarti at the Holy Gangotri Devi Temple. This should not be missed. The original temple was constructed by the Nepalese General Amar Singh Thapa. Every year thousands of people visit this shrine from all around the world. A number of Dharamshalas and Ashrams are located on the other side of the river. It is believed that Raja Bhagirath used to worship Shiva on a slab of rock “Bhagirath Shila”, situated near the temple for salvation or Moksha of the souls of his 60,000 sons. Submerged in the river, there is a natural Shivling where, according to mythology, Goddess Ganga descended when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair. Spend the entire day exploring this fascinating town and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the gushing river. We would stay overnight.
Depart from Gangotri to Dehradun Railway Station early in the morning, preferably before 06:30 AM since the journey takes 9-11 hours. Expected to reach Dehradun by 07:00 PM. Transport will be arranged at an additional cost from Gangotri at 06:30 AM. Cost of the cab – Rs. 8,000 per vehicle.
