What Peaks are Visible from Kedarkantha Trek?
One of India’s most breathtaking winter Treks, the Kedarkantha trek is a must-do. It is usually done in 5 Days and 4 Nights and starts from Sankri Village which is around 196km from Dehradun. Beginning from Sankri, you’ll trek through a dense forest and a frozen lake surrounded by meadows, eventually making your way to the snow-covered mountains.
The trek’s stunning beauty and breathtaking views from the top make it a favorite among trekkers, and it’s perfect for beginners looking for an unforgettable experience. The trek’s popularity soars in winter, thanks to the snow that lasts until April. We will now be informing you what peaks are visible from Kedarkantha trek. For a complete guide to the Kedarkantha Trek, including itinerary, difficulty, and tips, check out our Kedarkantha Trek package page.
Sankri: It is a small village nestled at an altitude of around 2200m. The best part about the trek is you get to see the Himalayas from Day 01 itself.
Major Peaks that are Visible from Sankri are: Bandarpooch, Swargarohini and Kalanag.
One of the most beautiful views that you can witness from Sankri will be of Swargrohini Peak.
Story behind the Swargrohini peak
Swargrohini Peak: The name “Swargrohini” comes from a legend that claims this peak is the path to heaven. “Swarg” means heaven, and “Rohini” refers to a path or a way. Pandavas, on their way to the top, when they were headed to heaven, four of the five Pandava brothers and Draupadi lost their lives. Only Yudhishthira made it to the summit, and it’s believed he reached heaven in human form.
Swargrohini is often considered the crown of the Garhwal Himalayas. From Sankri village, you can get a clear view of Swargrohini, which you’ll see throughout the Kedarkantha trek. It has four peaks: Swargarohini I, II, III, and IV. With its unique shape, it’s one of the most striking peaks in Uttarakhand.
Juda ka Talab: Located along the way to the breathtaking Kedarkantha trek, this Alpine lake completely freezes over in the peak winter season. This offers a unique opportunity to see the lake in a completely different light. Surrounded by lush meadows, the lake boasts a high biodiversity of flora and fauna. While Juda Ka Talab is an incredible destination in its own right, it’s often visited by trekkers on their way to the Kedarkantha peak. From here, you can catch glimpses of prominent Himalayan peaks like Swargronhini, Bandar Pooch, and Kalanag. You’ll also have stunning views of Gangotri and Yamunotri, as well as the Har ki Dun valley. The area is home to a wide variety of rhododendrons and other flora and fauna.
Several myths and legends tell the story of Lord Shiva meditating at this spot. According to legend, he was thirsty and plucked a strand of hair from his bun, throwing it to the ground, which created the water body.
Kedarkantha Base Camp: You’ll find yourself at an altitude of 3000m. From here, you can take in stunning views of various mountain ranges and the towering Himalayan peaks. The base camp itself offers a breathtaking panorama that stretches even farther to the summit, with the bonus of breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
- Mount Swargarohini (I, II, III & IV): This breathtaking massif is often referred to as the “stairway to heaven” and is a standout feature of the view from base camp.
- Mount Bandarpoonch: Located in the Yamunotri range, this mountain gets its name from its resemblance to a monkey’s tail.
- Black Peak (Kalanag): As part of the Bandarpoonch range, this peak stands out with its dark, rocky summit.
- Ranglana: This notable peak is often visible from the base camp area.
- The Kedarkantha Peak: From base camp, trekkers enjoy a fantastic view of the Kedarkantha summit, which they’ll ascend early the next morning.
Last but not the least, Views from the summit: There is no doubt that you might have witnessed many Himalayan peaks till now. But what you will see from The summit is nothing short of spectacular. The early morning sunrays lighting up the Himalayas and giving you a feel that you are standing at the highest point will make you mesmerized. From the summit you will get a 360 deg panorama view of the Garhwal Himalayas.
Major peaks visible from The Kedarkantha Trek Summit are: Mount Swargrohini (I, II, III, IV), Mt. Bandarpooch, Black Peak, Ranglana, Rupin Supin range, Har ki Dun Valley peaks, Yamunotri range, Gangotri Range (Distant), Jaonli and Draupdi ka Danda, Kinner Kailash ( Himahal, on extremely clear days)
Additional notable views
- Har Ki Doon Valley: Although the valley’s full beauty is best seen from the summit, you can still catch glimpses of it from the base camp.
- Starlit sky: With its wide, open clearing far from city lights, the base camp is the perfect spot for stargazing and taking in the Milky Way on a clear night.
- Mori and Purala Views: Towns that you cross while enroute to Sankri from Dehradun
Ready for a change from the city’s nightlife and weekends? Experience the peaceful beauty of the Kearkantha trek and you’ll forget all about it. After an adrenaline rush at 3 am, gazing at the majestic mountains, you’ll find yourself craving the mountains again and again. For more info, reach out to our team at www.thesearchingsouls.com.