The Kedartal Trek promises a blend of spiritual awakening, unparalleled natural beauty, and a sense of accomplishment. However, planning your visit to Kedartal requires careful consideration of the season, as it can dramatically affect your experience. Kedartal is a high altitude trek that goes up to 4,800M, and is not accessible throughout the year.
The best time to do the Kedartal trek are the pre-monsoon months of May and June & the post- monsoon months of September and October.
Kedartal in Summers
Summer stands as the most favored time for embarking on the Kedartal trek, and for compelling reasons. One of the early summer (Mid-May to End-June) highlights is the opportunity to witness the Kedartal lake frozen solid—a rare and captivating sight. The proximity of this frozen lake amidst towering mountains is a visual spectacle like no other. Moreover, the panoramic view of Mt. Thalaysagar and Mt. Bhrigunath against the backdrop of clear blue skies and snow-capped peaks is nothing short of exceptional.
Another allure of trekking during this period is the presence of snow on the trail. In May, you'll encounter substantial snow after Kedar Kharak en route the summit. While the snow adds an element of challenge to the trek, it simultaneously injects an extra dose of adventure into the experience.
However, it's crucial to bear in mind that trekking to Kedartal during May and June can be susceptible to adverse weather conditions. Nestled in the embrace of the Greater Himalayas, this region can experience unexpected snowfall even in summer months.
Kedartal in Monsoons
Towards the end of June, the arrival of monsoons becomes imminent, rendering the trail vulnerable to landslides and rockfalls, turning the trek into a risky proposition. There are a few technical sections on the trail, such as the spider wall, that need utmost attention while crossing; rainfall makes these sections even more precarious.
Therefore, it is advisable for trekkers to not attempt this trek in monsoons, between late June to the start of September.
Kedartal in Autumn
The setting shifts radically if you happen to trek to Kedartal in autumn. In September-October, the summer haze and clouds clear up to reveal brilliant mountain views.
Post-monsoon, when the skies shed their cloud cover and turn brilliantly clear, trekkers are treated to unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. Nestled within the Gangotri region, this trail is encircled by majestic mountains in every direction, providing trekkers with an up-close and personal encounter with these towering peaks against a backdrop of azure skies—a sight that often evokes deep emotions in trekkers.
The summit offers the most breathtaking views, with the tranquil Kedartal lake shimmering in blue or emerald green hues, depending on the weather. Autumn also offers a higher probability of spotting mountain goats, known as Bharal, in their natural habitat. Although a rare sight, the chances of encountering these creatures are greater during this season. Keep an eye along the mountain slopes where they graze on shrubs, and keep your fingers crossed for a sighting.
An important consideration during the autumn season is the scarcity of reliable water sources along the trail, as many of these sources tend to dry up.
Kedartal in Winters
The winter season in the Himalayas is characterized by its unforgiving and harsh conditions. During winter months, the entire Kedartal region is shrouded in a thick blanket of snow. the trekking routes leading to Kedartal, including the Gangotri trailhead, are typically closed after Diwali in October-November.
There are many suitable and safer trekking alternatives to Kedartal during the months of November and December such as Roopkund Trek, Dodital Darwa Pass Trek, and more.
This is all you need to know to plan your trek to Kedartal. You can read more on who this trek meant for and Highlights of the Kedartal Trek before you embark on this adventure.
