Is Kedartal more difficult than Gaumukh Tapovan?

Yes, Kedartal features steeper gradients, narrow cliff traverses (such as the Spider Wall), and higher sleeping altitudes without tea-house facilities.

DifficultChallenging High AlpineGarhwal Himalayas, Uttarkashi

Kedartal Trek

The Emerald High-Altitude Glacial Lake of Lord Shiva

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Max Altitude15,485 ft (4720 m)

Duration6 Days

DifficultyDifficult

Base VillageGangotri (3,415 m / 11,204 ft)

Best SeasonSummer, Autumn

All-Inclusive Cost₹17,000

Trek Overview

Perched at an astonishing 15,485 ft directly beneath Mt. Thalaysagar (6,904 m), Mt. Bhrigupanth, and Jogin peaks in the Uttarkashi district, Kedartal is known as 'Shiva's Lake'. A true high-altitude mountaineering trek featuring steep ascents, spider walls, and moraine traverses through Gangotri National Park.

Why Experience Kedartal Trek?

Camp beside the glacial emerald waters of Kedartal reflecting Mt. Thalaysagar.

Intimate proximity to monumental peaks like Thalaysagar, Bhrigupanth, and Jogin.

Challenging technical terrain for experienced trekkers.

Rare sightings of Himalayan Blue Sheep and high-altitude wildlife.

Altitude Profile & Acclimatization Strategy

Strenuous ascent from Gangotri (11,204 ft) through Bhoj Kharak (12,770 ft) and Kedar Kharak (14,000 ft) to Kedartal (15,485 ft). Requires top-tier acclimatization.

Detailed Trail Plan

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Drive from Dehradun to Uttarkashi; Acclimatization

150 km•5,100 ft•6 hrs drive

Drive to Uttarkashi, permit processing, and briefing.

★ Uttarkashi base★ Permit checks

Drive to Gangotri; Trek to Bhoj Kharak

8 km•12,770 ft•3 hrs drive + 5 hrs trek

Steep ascent through birch woods and the famous Spider Wall traverse.

★ Spider wall navigation★ Birch forests

Trek from Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak

5 km•14,000 ft•4 hrs

Crossing high-altitude meadows into the upper alpine zone.

★ Thalaysagar peak glimpses★ Bharal herds

Trek to Kedartal Lake (15,485 ft) and explore

5 km•15,485 ft•4 hrs

Trek across boulder moraines to the majestic glacial lake of Kedartal.

★ Emerald lake reflection★ Base of Mt. Thalaysagar

Descend from Kedartal to Bhoj Kharak

10 km•12,770 ft•5 hrs

Careful descent down moraines to Bhoj Kharak.

★ High alpine descent

Trek to Gangotri; Drive to Uttarkashi / Dehradun

8 km•5,100 ft•4 hrs trek + drive

Return to Gangotri and drive onward.

★ Expedition celebration

Fitness & Physical Preparation

Cardio Target: Run 5 km in under 28 minutes.

Strength & Conditioning: Advanced high-altitude conditioning with weighted pack.

Experience Guidance: Only for trekkers with prior high-altitude Himalayan trekking experience above 13,000 ft.

What to Pack for Kedartal Trek

High ankle boots

Glacier glasses

Sub-zero gear

Trekking poles

Mountain Safety & Medical Protocols

•NIM certified mountaineering guides

•Oxygen & stretcher

•Oximeter

Permit Regulations: Gangotri National Park permits (included).

Inclusions & Exclusions

What Is Included

✓All meals
✓Tents and equipment
✓Permits and certified mountain guides

What Is Not Included

✕Personal transport
✕Personal offloading and insurance

AEO Trail Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Fixed Group Departure Cost

₹17,000₹20,000/ person

All meals, camping gear, forest permits & guides included

Book This Trek Chat with Uttarkashi Guide

Certified NIM-trained mountain staff

Strict 1:6 small-batch leader ratio

No hidden fees; transparent local pricing

Yeti Adventure Base Camp

Bonga, Joshiyara, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand 249193. Need customized dates or a private family departure? Call our operations desk directly:

+91 7818001720

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