Kedar Tal trek
- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (4912 m)
- Best Time: Throughout the year
Garhwal Himalayas are a famous trekking destination and people from different countries come here to explore them. There are many places which nobody has yet stepped on and many are explored. Kedartal is a high altitude Lake amidst the tall gigantic mountains in the Garhwal Himalayan region at an altitude of 4,912 m.
It is the source of “Kedar Ganga” and this is the contribution of Lord Shiva to Bhagirathi River so it is also known as “Shiva’s Lake”. Mt. Thalay Sagar, Mt. Meru, Mt. bhrigupanth; snowfall over them feeds Kedar Tal. The trek starts from holy city Gangotri which is famous for a pilgrimage and is one of the Char Dhams.
Trek to Kedartal varies from moderate to difficult because the trail takes you through steep ascends and landslide prone areas, trek to this thrilling lake is an adventurous one. It takes a lot of energy to reach there but it is worth your every effort because no other feeling can match the pleasure of getting here.
This place was found by shepherds and not everyone can go for this trek, it is not at all for beginners; people with prior trekking experience must go for the experience of this exhilarating trail. The close mountain views from here are entrancing and is mostly missing on many treks. Mt. Thalay Sagar, Meru, Bhrigunath, Mt. Gangotri and Manda Parvat welcomes you with their majestic close views which leaves people visiting there spellbound.
Day 1: Reaching Gangotri (base camp) (10/12 hours)
Our pick up point is Rishikesh or Dehradun Railway Station, it will take 10 to 12 hours maximum to reach there. Gangotri is a holy city, the temple is one of the Char Dhams and people from different places come here to visit this city.
You will see Tehri Lake on your journey, the drive is picturesque along the River Ganga’s bank and the views of The Great Himalayas and Harshil are fetching then drive through mesmerising green forest and reach Gangotri.
In the evening do attend “Ganga Aarti” crowd will be there as the arti there is very famous, know about the traditions of people and their religious values then go back to hotel have your dinner and overnight stay there.
Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak (08 km) (12436 feet)
Start your trek from Gangotri and today’s ascend is steep till Bhoj Kharak there are very less descends, cross a bridge over Bhagirathi river after crossing the bridge start ascending you will find loose rocks on the way and the climb is steep so you may get tired, take rest breaks and continue your trek.
Then walk through the dense forest and the trees accompany you, there you can hear the sound of Kedar Ganga which flows below, it is Lord Shiva’s contribution to river Bhagirathi. The steep path gets levelled for some time and further becomes steep again, it sometimes get difficult to walk you can take rest breaks and walk gradually. Now, you will be crossing two mountain walls you can cross them easily with the help of your guide then you will reach Bhoj Kharak campsite.
Bhoj Kharak is a campsite on side of a narrow path this valley is not very big, you have to clear up some area to place the tents but camping on mountains gives an immense feeling. Relax in your tents enjoy your meal and night stay in tents.
Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak (05km) (14050 feet)
Today is a trek to beautiful meadow “Kedar kharak”, the colorful blooming flowers add beauty to this place and the glance of Mt. Bhrigunath welcomes you when you enter this alluring meadow.
Today’s trek is a mixture of ascends and descends, ascending gets steep and further it eases, here you can spot animals in this region and hearing the chirping of birds adds pleasure to your walk, as this place is rich in Fauna so it is common to spot animals here.
When you go upwards you gain altitude and there you can see ice crystals and the weather gets cold now you are about to reach Kedar Kharak; a small meadow with beautiful blooming flowers. Don’t miss out the captivating sunset from here, the view of mt. Bhrigunath is fetching from there. Setup you tents and enjoy food and overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal (5 km) (4912 mt/16160 feet)
Today is the main day of your trek as you are going to reach your destination today so have your breakfast early in the morning and leave for Kedartal. The trail to Kedartal isn’t easy and it takes a lot of strength to reach that point there are only ascends and very less descend, the trail is not in a very good condition, there are rocks on the way so be careful while walking so that you do not get slipped.
When you go higher the land gets barren and there is no vegetation. Be ready for the changes in weather, it can change at any time rainfall and snowfall can occur and it gets cooler when you go higher. Further you will reach a ridge from where Thalay Sagar peak will welcome you with its grand views standing tall amongst all the mountains, when you cross this ridge now you are about to reach Kedartal.
Kedartal is at an altitude of 4,912m, this place is divine and is also known as “Shiva’s Lake”. When you reach there spend time relishing the beauty amidst the mountains. Then setup your camps as tomorrow you are going to explore this campsite so have your meal and relaxing stay in tents.
Day 5: Rest Day, Trek around Kedartal – (Thalay sagar base)
Today is the exploration day or rest day, wake up early and witness beautiful sunrise and the morning view of peaks close to you, these close sights are prepossessing.Have breakfast and you can go to Thalay sagar base which feeds Kedartal, capture these moments as tomorrow you are going to descend down, have a look at all the peaks glimmering there from a distance.
You can ask about the stories of Kedartal from local guide and know about this place more. Come back to your camps, have your meal and enjoy night stay in tents at this high altitude idyllic place.
Day 6: Kedartal to Bhoj Kharak (8km)
You will descend down today to Bhoj Kharak which was your campsite on Day 2, the path is rocky and confusing, the paths look alike so follow your guide and be aware while descending. The trek is 8 km long but descending takes less time, reach your campsite. Set up your camps here bid goodbye to the mountains and have relaxing stay at tents.
Day 7: Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri (8km)
Today’s trek s from Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri,this is the last day of your trek. Descend down through forest under the shade of trees and reach Gangotri. In the evening visit Ganga Aarti and then in hotel have your food and overnight stay there.
Day 8: Back to Dehradun/Rishikesh/haridwar (10/12 hours)
After having breakfast leave for Dehradun. (270km)
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Kedar Tal Trek, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Kedar Tal Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Kedar Tal Trek
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Kedar Tal Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Rupin Trek.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Kedar Tal in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Kedar Tal trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Kedar Tal trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Kedar Tal trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Kedar Tal trek difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Kedar Tal Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.
Kedar Tal trek
- Duration: 8 Days
- Highest Points: (4912 m)
- Best Time: Throughout the year
Garhwal Himalayas are a famous trekking destination and people from different countries come here to explore them. There are many places which nobody has yet stepped on and many are explored. Kedartal is a high altitude Lake amidst the tall gigantic mountains in the Garhwal Himalayan region at an altitude of 4,912 m.
It is the source of “Kedar Ganga” and this is the contribution of Lord Shiva to Bhagirathi River so it is also known as “Shiva’s Lake”. Mt. Thalay Sagar, Mt. Meru, Mt. bhrigupanth; snowfall over them feeds Kedar Tal. The trek starts from holy city Gangotri which is famous for a pilgrimage and is one of the Char Dhams.
Trek to Kedartal varies from moderate to difficult because the trail takes you through steep ascends and landslide prone areas, trek to this thrilling lake is an adventurous one. It takes a lot of energy to reach there but it is worth your every effort because no other feeling can match the pleasure of getting here.
This place was found by shepherds and not everyone can go for this trek, it is not at all for beginners; people with prior trekking experience must go for the experience of this exhilarating trail. The close mountain views from here are entrancing and is mostly missing on many treks. Mt. Thalay Sagar, Meru, Bhrigunath, Mt. Gangotri and Manda Parvat welcomes you with their majestic close views which leaves people visiting there spellbound.
Day 1: Reaching Gangotri (base camp) (10/12 hours)
Our pick up point is Rishikesh or Dehradun Railway Station, it will take 10 to 12 hours maximum to reach there. Gangotri is a holy city, the temple is one of the Char Dhams and people from different places come here to visit this city.
You will see Tehri Lake on your journey, the drive is picturesque along the River Ganga’s bank and the views of The Great Himalayas and Harshil are fetching then drive through mesmerising green forest and reach Gangotri.
In the evening do attend “Ganga Aarti” crowd will be there as the arti there is very famous, know about the traditions of people and their religious values then go back to hotel have your dinner and overnight stay there.
Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak (08 km) (12436 feet)
Start your trek from Gangotri and today’s ascend is steep till Bhoj Kharak there are very less descends, cross a bridge over Bhagirathi river after crossing the bridge start ascending you will find loose rocks on the way and the climb is steep so you may get tired, take rest breaks and continue your trek.
Then walk through the dense forest and the trees accompany you, there you can hear the sound of Kedar Ganga which flows below, it is Lord Shiva’s contribution to river Bhagirathi. The steep path gets levelled for some time and further becomes steep again, it sometimes get difficult to walk you can take rest breaks and walk gradually. Now, you will be crossing two mountain walls you can cross them easily with the help of your guide then you will reach Bhoj Kharak campsite.
Bhoj Kharak is a campsite on side of a narrow path this valley is not very big, you have to clear up some area to place the tents but camping on mountains gives an immense feeling. Relax in your tents enjoy your meal and night stay in tents.
Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak (05km) (14050 feet)
Today is a trek to beautiful meadow “Kedar kharak”, the colorful blooming flowers add beauty to this place and the glance of Mt. Bhrigunath welcomes you when you enter this alluring meadow.
Today’s trek is a mixture of ascends and descends, ascending gets steep and further it eases, here you can spot animals in this region and hearing the chirping of birds adds pleasure to your walk, as this place is rich in Fauna so it is common to spot animals here.
When you go upwards you gain altitude and there you can see ice crystals and the weather gets cold now you are about to reach Kedar Kharak; a small meadow with beautiful blooming flowers. Don’t miss out the captivating sunset from here, the view of mt. Bhrigunath is fetching from there. Setup you tents and enjoy food and overnight stay in tents.
Day 4: Kedar Kharak to Kedartal (5 km) (4912 mt/16160 feet)
Today is the main day of your trek as you are going to reach your destination today so have your breakfast early in the morning and leave for Kedartal. The trail to Kedartal isn’t easy and it takes a lot of strength to reach that point there are only ascends and very less descend, the trail is not in a very good condition, there are rocks on the way so be careful while walking so that you do not get slipped.
When you go higher the land gets barren and there is no vegetation. Be ready for the changes in weather, it can change at any time rainfall and snowfall can occur and it gets cooler when you go higher. Further you will reach a ridge from where Thalay Sagar peak will welcome you with its grand views standing tall amongst all the mountains, when you cross this ridge now you are about to reach Kedartal.
Kedartal is at an altitude of 4,912m, this place is divine and is also known as “Shiva’s Lake”. When you reach there spend time relishing the beauty amidst the mountains. Then setup your camps as tomorrow you are going to explore this campsite so have your meal and relaxing stay in tents.
Day 5: Rest Day, Trek around Kedartal – (Thalay sagar base)
Today is the exploration day or rest day, wake up early and witness beautiful sunrise and the morning view of peaks close to you, these close sights are prepossessing.Have breakfast and you can go to Thalay sagar base which feeds Kedartal, capture these moments as tomorrow you are going to descend down, have a look at all the peaks glimmering there from a distance.
You can ask about the stories of Kedartal from local guide and know about this place more. Come back to your camps, have your meal and enjoy night stay in tents at this high altitude idyllic place.
Day 6: Kedartal to Bhoj Kharak (8km)
You will descend down today to Bhoj Kharak which was your campsite on Day 2, the path is rocky and confusing, the paths look alike so follow your guide and be aware while descending. The trek is 8 km long but descending takes less time, reach your campsite. Set up your camps here bid goodbye to the mountains and have relaxing stay at tents.
Day 7: Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri (8km)
Today’s trek s from Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri,this is the last day of your trek. Descend down through forest under the shade of trees and reach Gangotri. In the evening visit Ganga Aarti and then in hotel have your food and overnight stay there.
Day 8: Back to Dehradun/Rishikesh/haridwar (10/12 hours)
After having breakfast leave for Dehradun. (270km)
Type: Depending on terrain & the difficulty of the Kedar Tal Trek, you will need to choose the right kind of grip and sole for the shoe. We recommend that you check for water-resistance and a deep yet flexible sole for the all factors that you will face.
Importance: Your legs need to be well taken care of by the shoes over the course of the Kedar Tal Trek. Different terrains pose different threats and the right kind of shoe will make all the difference in the world.
Backpack for the Kedar Tal Trek
Type: This purely depends on the kind of trek you are undertaking
- For Short Trek of 1 to 3 Days duration you need 15 litres to 20 litres of backpack
- For Long Trek of 3 to 10 Days duration you need 40 litres to 60 litres of backpack
Importance: Your backpack is as important as your shoe. Your entire journey will be with the Backpack with all the essentials you need. We recommend that you test the backpack and choose it according to the trek, your height & the comfort it provides.
Daypack
Type: This is 10 litres to 15 litres Daypack Backpack is what you need to have with you for the Summit day.
Importance: Your Daypack will be for those Summit days and shorter days when you just need your basic essentials with you.
Clothing
Padded Jacket – You will need 1 pair of the Jacket for Summer & Winter. Ensure that the jacket is wind-resistant & capable of keeping your warm up to -10 degrees.
Fleece Jacket – You will need 2 pairs of the Fleece Jacket. Make sure it’s Cotton or contains more Cotton.
Thermals – For the Kedar Tal Winter trek, you will require 1 pair of thermals because of the cold winter. During the summer, this is optional. Thermals should also be made primarily of Cotton. This will keep you warm during the nights when the temperature usually tends to drop.
Trek Pants – Exclusively meant for Trekking, you will need a minimum of 2 pairs of Trekking Pants. Ensure it is made of Cotton & provides maximum comfort and is durable for the Rupin Trek.
Collared T-shirts – Carry 2 – 3 sets of these for the trek. The collar will help keeping the neck from being exposed to the sun and getting sun burnt during the Kedar Tal in summer, when it is normally sunny.
Sun Caps – At high altitudes, the Sun might be harsh and direct exposure of your head to the sun is not something we would recommend. Carry Sun Caps in case these situations arise to keep your head cool on the Kedar Tal trek, when it is normally sunny.
Woolen Caps – The Kedar Tal trek in December and other winter months will have very cold nights in the mountains and you must protect your ears and head from the cold winds. Woolen caps are essentials during the nights to keep your ears and head warm.
Waterproof Gloves:You will need waterproof gloves as you move towards colder and wet parts of the Kedar Tal trek to keep your hands clean & warm without getting them wet and most importantly, to give you the grip and firmness you need for the climb.
Trek Accessories
Trekking Pole: The Kedar Tal trek difficulty can be eased out by carrying one of our Trekking/Hiking Poles as it saves almost 60% of your energy when you are climbing a steep slope at high altitude regions. We make it a mandate to carry a Trekking Pole with you for our treks.
Head-lamp or Torch: : A Head-Lamp is something we make a mandate too, for our Treks. Carrying this will help you see better in dark places on the Kedar Tal Trek. In case you are unable to procure a Head-lamp, then we suggest carrying a Torch.
Daily essentials
Toiletries: We recommend that you carry all your toiletries and all other cosmetic essentials by yourself to avoid borrowing (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Lip-balm, Moisturizer, Face-wash, Other creams & essentials, Toilet roll, Sanitary Pads, etc.). Do not leave used napkins in the mountains these are against Himalayan laws.
Bottles & Boxes: Carry your Water Bottles we suggest you have two 1 litre bottles. We suggest you carry your own tiffin boxes to eat the food we provide for both convenience, and hygienic purposes.
Risks and challenges are part of everyone’s lives; without taking risks and facing challenges one cannot aim to achieve what he wants to be. These challenges help inculcate in us life skills needed to survive through tough situations. We consider this the motto of our company- to prepare an individual to face the risks of life, the challenges that come their way, and to equip them with the knowledge to overcome them.
Trekking, directly or indirectly, helps develop these qualities and also garners quick decision making techniques as per the circumstances. It allows you to learn how nature works and the strong impact of the environment on one’s life.
The company has made all possible arrangements and taken all the necessary precautions to avoid any mishaps. However, it is still essential to enlighten our trekkers about the possible risks and challenges that they may meet with on the trekking route and how these can be avoided or overcome. Remember to be proactive at all times and with this is mind, let’s discuss some common risks and challenges along the Black Peak trek map and ways to avoid them.