Kedarkantha is a popular trekking destination located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is known for its scenic beauty and snow-covered peaks during winter. Delhi, the capital city of India, serves as the main starting point for travelers heading to Kedarkantha due to its connectivity and transport options.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Kedarkantha. You will learn about different transport modes, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or driving yourself, this article covers everything you need for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Kedarkantha – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and economical option to reach the nearest railway stations before heading to Kedarkantha. Trains connect Delhi to Dehradun and Haridwar, which are the closest major stations to the trek base.

• Trains from New Delhi Railway Station to Dehradun take about 5 to 6 hours, covering roughly 250 km. Popular trains include the Shatabdi Express and Jan Shatabdi, offering comfortable seating and catering services.

• Haridwar Railway Station is another option, about 200 km from Delhi, reachable in 4 to 5 hours by train. It is well connected by several express and passenger trains daily.

• From Dehradun or Haridwar, you will need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri village, the base camp for Kedarkantha trek, which is about 120 km from Dehradun and 140 km from Haridwar.

• Train tickets can be booked via IRCTC or authorized agents. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak trekking seasons and holidays, to avoid last-minute unavailability.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly way to reach Uttarkashi district towns near Kedarkantha. Both government and private buses operate from Delhi to Dehradun and further to Sankri or nearby towns.

• State Transport buses from ISBT Kashmiri Gate run regularly to Dehradun, with journey times around 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• From Dehradun, you can find local buses or shared taxis to Sankri village, which is the last motorable point before the trek starts. The road to Sankri is narrow and hilly, so buses may take 5 to 6 hours from Dehradun.

• Private Volvo or deluxe buses offer more comfort on the Delhi-Dehradun route but are less frequent beyond Dehradun towards Sankri.

• During monsoon and winter, bus services can be delayed due to landslides or snow, so plan accordingly and check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Kedarkantha is a popular choice for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The journey covers approximately 350 km and takes around 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The most common route is via NH 334 and NH 307, passing through Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Roorkee, and Dehradun before reaching Sankri village, the trek base.

• Road conditions are generally good until Dehradun, but the stretch from Dehradun to Sankri is hilly with narrow roads and hairpin bends, requiring careful driving.

• There are toll plazas on the highways, so keep cash handy for toll payments. Fuel stations are available in towns along the way, but less frequent near Sankri.

• Rest stops with food options are available in major towns like Meerut and Dehradun. It is advisable to start early from Delhi to avoid city traffic and reach Sankri before dark.

• During winter, snow and ice on the mountain roads can make driving challenging. Check weather and road conditions before starting your journey.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Delhi to Sankri or nearby towns is convenient for groups or those who want a hassle-free journey without driving themselves.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked from Delhi airports or railway stations, or you can arrange cabs via Ola or Uber for the initial part of the journey to Dehradun.

• From Dehradun, local taxis or shared cabs are available to Sankri. It is best to pre-book these as availability can be limited, especially during peak trekking seasons.

• The taxi fare from Delhi to Sankri can range from INR 6000 to INR 9000 depending on vehicle type and negotiation. Sharing a cab with fellow travelers can reduce costs.

• Taxi drivers often wait at Sankri for your return trip, which is convenient but confirm the return fare beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

• Ensure the taxi is well-maintained and the driver experienced with hilly roads to ensure safety on the mountain stretch.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Kedarkantha. It covers key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets from Delhi to Dehradun or Haridwar at least a week in advance using IRCTC or MSRTC websites to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush.

• Upon arrival at Dehradun or Haridwar, arrange a taxi or shared cab to Sankri village. Pre-booking is recommended during peak seasons to avoid waiting times and ensure availability.

• Pack essential trekking gear and warm clothes before leaving Delhi, as Sankri is the last motorable point and shops there have limited options.

• Start early from Delhi to avoid city traffic and reach Sankri by evening. This allows time to rest and acclimatize before the trek.

• Confirm your accommodation in Sankri beforehand, as options are limited and fill up quickly during trekking seasons.

• On the day of the trek, hire a local guide if unfamiliar with the route. This enhances safety and enriches your trekking experience.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a copy of your ID and trekking permits, as local authorities may check them at Sankri or along the trek route for safety and regulation compliance.

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

• Book transport tickets online early, especially during winter and summer holidays, to avoid sold-out trains or buses.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in cities to avoid overcharging and ensure reliable service.

• Pack light but include rain gear and warm clothing, as weather in the mountains can change rapidly, especially during monsoon and winter.

• Be prepared for limited mobile network coverage near Sankri and on the trek, so inform family or friends about your itinerary beforehand.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kedarkantha is from December to April for snow trekking and from May to June for pleasant weather and clear views. Monsoon months bring heavy rain and landslides, making travel risky.

Winter months offer beautiful snow-covered landscapes but require warm clothing and careful planning due to cold temperatures and possible road closures.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Holi when trains and roads are crowded, causing delays and higher prices.

• Monsoon season (July to September) often causes landslides and slippery roads, increasing travel time and safety risks.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help avoid city traffic and reach Sankri before dark, especially important in winter when daylight hours are short.

• Check weather forecasts regularly during winter for snowfall updates that may affect road accessibility to Sankri.

Arrival at Kedarkantha & What to Expect

When you arrive at Sankri village, the gateway to Kedarkantha trek, you will find basic facilities like guesthouses, small eateries, and local shops. Sankri is a small, peaceful village with limited connectivity and amenities.

Local transport options from Sankri are limited to walking or hiring porters and guides. Most trekkers stay overnight in Sankri before starting the trek early next morning. Prepaid taxis or shared cabs are available to return to Dehradun or Haridwar after the trek.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Kedarkantha from Delhi is to take a train or bus to Dehradun, followed by a taxi or shared cab to Sankri village. This combination balances comfort, cost, and convenience, making it ideal for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking tickets and accommodation early, packing appropriately, and checking weather conditions will help you avoid common travel challenges. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your journey to Kedarkantha and enjoy the stunning Himalayan trek ahead.