Itinerary of Kedartal Trek

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Day 1: Haridwar to Gangotri (3,100 meters / 10,170 feet)

 

The first day of the Kedartal Trek begins with a journey from Haridwar to Gangotri, the starting point of the trek. After an early breakfast in Haridwar, prepare for a long drive to Gangotri, which takes approximately 8-9 hours by road. The scenic drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and winding mountain roads, offering glimpses of the mighty Himalayas.

As you ascend higher into the Garhwal region, the air becomes cooler, and the surroundings become more serene and mountainous. Arrive at Gangotri, a sacred town situated at an elevation of 3,100 meters (10,170 feet), which is not only the starting point of the Kedartal Trek but also holds great religious significance for Hindus.
 

Check into a guesthouse or hotel in Gangotri and take some time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Explore the town, visit the famous Gangotri Temple dedicated to the Goddess Ganga, and seek blessings for a safe and successful trek.

In the evening, you can witness the Ganga aarti ceremony at the temple, a mesmerizing ritual of worship involving lighted lamps and chanting of hymns.

Enjoy a delicious dinner and spend the night in Gangotri, eagerly anticipating the start of your trek the next day.

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Day 2: Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak (3,780 meters / 12,401 feet) - Trekking Distance: 8 kilometers

 

After an early morning breakfast in Gangotri, the second day of the Kedartal Trek begins with a thrilling trek toward Bhoj Kharak. The trail starts from Gangotri and gradually ascends, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, lush green forests, and the Bhagirathi River.
As you trek higher, you'll pass through dense forests of pine and birch trees, providing shade and a refreshing atmosphere.

The trail follows a well-marked path, with occasional steep sections that require careful navigation. Along the way, you might encounter small streams and waterfalls, adding to the beauty of the journey. After trekking for about 4-5 hours, you'll reach the stunning campsite of Bhoj Kharak, situated at an altitude of 3,780 meters (12,401 feet).

Bhoj Kharak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Thalay Sagar and Jogin group of mountains. Settle into your campsite, enjoy a hot meal, and take some time to rest and rejuvenate amidst the serene surroundings.
Spend the evening exploring the area, taking short walks, or simply relaxing and soaking in the beauty of the Himalayas. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, creating a magical ambiance in the mountains.

Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the trekking team and retire to your tents for a peaceful night's sleep.

 

Note: It is essential to stay hydrated throughout the trek and pace yourself according to your fitness level. Take regular breaks, especially during steep sections, and listen to the guidance of your trek leader. Keep your camera handy to capture the stunning vistas along the way. Ensure that you leave no trace behind and respect the natural environment during your stay at Bhoj Kharak.

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Day 3: Bhoj Kharak to Kedartal (4,912 meters / 16,109 feet) - Trekking Distance: 6 kilometers

 

Wake up early in the morning, energize yourself with a hearty breakfast, and get ready for an exciting day of trekking towards Kedartal. The trail from Bhoj Kharak to Kedartal is relatively short but steep and challenging, requiring a steady pace and careful footing.
As you ascend higher, the terrain transforms into rocky moraines and alpine meadows, with sparse vegetation and a stark landscape.
 

Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Thalay Sagar, Jogin, Bhrigupanth, and the Gangotri Glacier. The final stretch of the trek involves a steep climb, and you may need to negotiate some boulder sections and scree slopes.
After trekking for about 4-5 hours, you'll finally reach the majestic Kedartal, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 4,912 meters (16,109 feet).
 

Kedartal is known for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the stunning reflection of the surrounding peaks on its surface. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility of the place, and let the serenity of the lake and the surrounding mountains leave you awe-struck.
Set up camp near the lake and enjoy a well-deserved lunch amidst the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

Spend the rest of the day exploring the area around Kedartal, taking in the panoramic views, and capturing memories through photographs. If weather conditions permit, you may have the opportunity to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the peaks, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink.

As night falls, the starry sky above Kedartal creates a celestial spectacle, offering a perfect opportunity for stargazing. Enjoy a warm dinner around the campfire, sharing stories and experiences with fellow trekkers, before retiring to your tents for a restful night's sleep.

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Note: The altitude at Kedartal is significantly higher, so it is important to pay attention to any signs of altitude sickness and inform your trek leader if you experience any discomfort. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and listen to your body. Respect the environment and practice responsible trekking by adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

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Day 4: Kedartal to Bhoj Kharak - Trekking Distance: 14 kilometers

 

After experiencing the beauty of Kedartal, it's time to bid farewell and start the descent back to Bhoj Kharak. Wake up early in the morning to catch the stunning views of the sunrise over the surrounding peaks and the tranquil Kedartal.

Have a nourishing breakfast and pack your belongings before embarking on the return journey.
The trek from Kedartal to Bhoj Kharak is a long day of descent, covering a distance of approximately 14 kilometers. As you descend, you'll retrace your steps through the rocky moraines, alpine meadows, and boulder sections.
 

Take your time to admire the breathtaking vistas and savor the memories of the trek while descending at a comfortable pace. Enjoy the changing landscapes, the serene atmosphere, and the fresh mountain air. Along the way, you can spot various Himalayan flora and fauna, including wildflowers, birds, and occasionally even some wildlife.
Make sure to stay hydrated and refuel with snacks or packed lunch at suitable resting points along the trail.

Reach Bhoj Kharak, your campsite for the day, by late afternoon or evening. Settle into your tents, relax, and celebrate the completion of the challenging trek with your fellow trekkers.
You can take a refreshing wash in the nearby stream, stretch your muscles, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.

Dinner will be served at the campsite, offering a chance to relish a hot meal and share stories and experiences from the trek. After a long day of trekking, rest well and rejuvenate for the remaining days of the journey.

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Note: Descending can be demanding on the knees and muscles, so it is essential to maintain a steady pace and watch your footing. Take breaks when needed and inform your trek leader about any discomfort or issues. Continue to follow responsible trekking practices and ensure that you leave the campsite and the surrounding environment clean and undisturbed.

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Day 5: Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri - Trekking Distance: 8 kilometers

 

On the fifth day of the Kedartal Trek, wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the campsite in Bhoj Kharak. After packing up your camping gear and ensuring that the campsite is clean, begin the descent towards Gangotri.

The trail from Bhoj Kharak to Gangotri covers a distance of approximately 8 kilometers, primarily downhill, making it a relatively easier trek compared to previous days. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains, the lush green forests, and the refreshing atmosphere as you make your way back. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of the Garhwal Himalayas and immerse yourself in the serenity of the surroundings.
 

The well-marked trail guides you through the enchanting landscape, passing by small streams, cascading waterfalls, and charming meadows. Along the way, you may encounter fellow trekkers, local shepherds, or pilgrims visiting the region. As you approach Gangotri, the landscape gradually transforms into a bustling town, with its shops, guesthouses, and the sound of the Bhagirathi River flowing nearby.

Reach Gangotri by late afternoon or early evening, where you can check into a guesthouse or hotel to freshen up and rest. Explore the town, visit the revered Gangotri Temple, and take some time to reflect on the incredible journey you have undertaken.
 

In the evening, you can stroll along the banks of the river, enjoy the scenic views, and relax in the peaceful ambiance of Gangotri. Indulge in a delicious dinner, relishing the local cuisine, and share your trekking experiences with fellow trekkers or the locals.

Retire for the night, feeling accomplished and grateful for the incredible adventure you've had in the Garhwal Himalayas.

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Note: While the trekking distance is relatively shorter on this day, ensure that you continue to maintain a steady pace and watch your footing, especially during the descent. Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed. Respect the local culture and customs while exploring Gangotri and the temple premises. Reflect on your experiences and cherish the memories of the Kedartal Trek.

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Day 6: Gangotri to Haridwar

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On the final day of the Kedartal Trek, wake up early in Gangotri and enjoy a refreshing breakfast to fuel yourself for the return journey. Bid farewell to the picturesque town of Gangotri and begin your descent towards Haridwar, the endpoint of the trek.

The drive from Gangotri to Haridwar takes approximately 7-8 hours, traversing through the scenic landscapes of the Garhwal region. As you descend, cherish the memories of the trek, and admire the beauty of the mountains one last time. The journey back allows you to reflect on the experiences, challenges, and achievements of the past few days spent in the Himalayas.
Take breaks along the way to stretch your legs, have refreshments, and capture the scenic views with your camera.