Kedarkantha is a popular trekking destination located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, India. It is part of the Garhwal Himalayas and is known for its scenic beauty and snow-covered peaks during winter. Many travelers visit Kedarkantha for adventure and nature, especially during the winter trekking season.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kedarkantha. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you are a first-time trekker or an experienced traveler, this guide will prepare you well for your journey.

Getting from Dehradun to Kedarkantha – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable for reaching Dehradun, the nearest major railhead to Kedarkantha. It is popular among travelers coming from Delhi and other northern cities. From Dehradun, you need to switch to road transport to reach the trek base.

• Dehradun Railway Station is well connected to Delhi, Haridwar, and other cities by regular trains, with journey times ranging from 5 to 8 hours depending on the train type and route.

• Train fares vary from INR 150 to INR 600 for sleeper and AC classes, making it an affordable option for many travelers.

• Trains to Dehradun can get crowded during peak seasons like winter and summer holidays, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable.

• Dehradun station has good facilities including waiting rooms, food stalls, and prepaid taxi counters for onward travel.

• From Dehradun, you will need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri, the base village for Kedarkantha trek, which is about 160 km away.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to reach Sankri, the gateway to Kedarkantha. State-run and private buses operate from Dehradun and nearby towns. This option suits budget travelers comfortable with longer road journeys.

• MSRTC and private buses run from Dehradun ISBT to Sankri, covering approximately 160 km in 7 to 9 hours depending on road conditions.

• Bus fares range from INR 200 to INR 400, with ordinary and semi-deluxe options available.

• Buses are frequent during the trekking season but may be limited in the off-season; booking a day in advance is recommended.

• Roads to Sankri pass through hilly terrain with narrow stretches; monsoon season can cause delays due to landslides and slippery roads.

• There are several stops along the way for refreshments and rest, including small dhabas offering local food.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Sankri or hiring a taxi is the most comfortable and flexible way to reach Kedarkantha. It allows you to travel at your own pace and stop for sightseeing or breaks.

• The route from Dehradun to Sankri is about 160 km via NH 307 and local roads, taking around 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Private taxis can be hired from Dehradun with fares ranging from INR 3500 to INR 5000 for a round trip including waiting time.

• Self-driving requires caution as roads are narrow and winding, especially after Mori town; good driving skills are essential.

• Toll plazas are present on the highway; keep cash handy as digital payments may not always be accepted.

• Fuel stations are available in towns along the route, but availability decreases closer to Sankri, so fill up early.

Flight

The nearest airport to Kedarkantha is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. Flights are suitable for travelers coming from distant cities who want to save time before starting their trek.

• Jolly Grant Airport is about 50 km from Dehradun city center with regular flights connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Dehradun is approximately 1 hour, with fares ranging from INR 2000 to INR 6000 depending on the season and airline.

• From Dehradun airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri; taxi fares start around INR 3000 for the 160 km journey.

• Airport facilities include prepaid taxi counters and car rental services, making onward travel convenient.

• During winter, fog can cause flight delays or cancellations, so plan with buffer time if you have connecting travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kedarkantha, helping you organize your journey smoothly from Dehradun to the trek base.

• Book your train or flight ticket to Dehradun well in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons, to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Upon arrival in Dehradun, arrange for a taxi or check bus schedules to Sankri; taxis offer flexibility, while buses are budget-friendly but less frequent.

• Start early from Dehradun to Sankri to reach before evening, as roads become difficult to navigate after dark in hilly areas.

• Carry sufficient warm clothing, snacks, and water for the road journey, as facilities are limited between towns.

• Once in Sankri, register at the forest department office if required, and confirm your trek guide and permits for Kedarkantha trek.

• Prepare your trekking gear and rest well before starting the trek early next morning, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and trekking permits as forest officials may check them during the journey or at the base camp.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during the trek to avoid waterborne illnesses common in remote areas.

• Book train and bus tickets online through IRCTC and MSRTC portals to avoid scams and confirm your travel schedule.

• Use local taxis or shared jeeps in Sankri for short distances; avoid unlicensed vehicles for safety reasons.

• Pack light but include essential items like rain gear, sturdy shoes, and basic medicines for altitude sickness and cold.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause landslides and roadblocks; avoid traveling during heavy rains for safety.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kedarkantha is from December to April when the trek is covered in snow and weather is clear. Summer months offer pleasant temperatures but fewer snow views.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip according to weather and local festivals is important for a smooth journey.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and buses are overcrowded and accommodation is limited.

• Winter months bring heavy snowfall, making roads slippery; ensure your vehicle is equipped with snow chains or use public transport.

• Early morning departures from Dehradun help avoid traffic jams and reach Sankri with daylight for easier navigation.

• Fog in winter mornings can delay flights and trains; keep flexible travel plans and check weather updates regularly.

Arrival at Sankri & What to Expect

When you arrive at Sankri, you will find a small village that serves as the base for the Kedarkantha trek. The village has basic facilities like guesthouses, small shops, and eateries catering to trekkers.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis that can take you to the start point of the trek. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are rare, so negotiate fares in advance. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to homestays, with warm hospitality.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kedarkantha is best done by combining train or flight to Dehradun with road transport to Sankri. This route balances convenience, cost, and comfort for most travelers. Early bookings and careful planning will help you avoid common challenges like crowded trains and difficult roads.

With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to Kedarkantha. Follow the step-by-step plan, keep practical tips in mind, and choose the travel mode that suits your needs. Your adventure in the beautiful Garhwal Himalayas awaits!