Essential Planning Guide
Kedartal Trek — Complete Guide (2026)
Introduction
Kedartal, or 'The Shiva Lake', is a high-altitude glacial lake situated at 15,500 ft in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is arguably the most stunning emerald-water lake in India, guarded by the vertical granite walls of Mt. Thalay Sagar (22,651 ft) and Mt. Bhrigupanth. Unlike other commercial treks, Kedartal is a test of pure mountain spirit. The trail is relentless, featuring steep granite traverses like the legendary 'Spider Wall' and a 4-hour navigation of unstable glacial moraines. It is a place of absolute silence and raw power, where the only movement is the shifting of the Kedar glacier and the occasional sighting of the elusive Bharal (Blue Sheep). For the elite trekker, Kedartal is the ultimate trophy—a journey that demands everything but gives back a view that feels like the edge of the world.
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Iconic Spots
Emerald Lake (15,500 ft)
Spider Wall crossing
Quick Facts
Duration
Max Altitude
Difficulty
Best Time
Trek Distance
Trail Atmosphere
Stargazing
Class 1 Dark Sky
Scent Profile
Silence Level
~15 dB
Vertigo Factor
4 / 10
Getting There
Route to Base
10-hour drive from Dehradun
Shared jeeps available from Dehradun Rly Station and Uttarkashi town
Base Village
Gangotri
10,200 ft
Nearest Railhead
Rishikesh
Nearest Airport
Jollygrant Airport
Last ATM
Uttarkashi (95km before Gangotri). NO ATMs in Gangotri. Carry at least ₹10,000 in cash.
Nearest Medical Facility
Uttarkashi District Hospital or Gangotri PHC.
Mobile Signal
Zero signal at the lake and the approach camps. Final reliability is at Gangotri base.
Water Sources
Kedar Ganga stream. Reliable at Bhoj Kharak and Kedar Kharak camps. The lake water is direct glacial melt (chilled).
Charging
None available beyond Gangotri roadhead. High-altitude pure wilderness trek.
For Drivers
Road Condition
Good road from Uttarkashi; prone to frequent landslide checks.
Uttarkashi
Explore In Detail
Day by Day Itinerary
7-day route reaching 15,500ft. Covers 36km of varied terrain.
→ See full itinerary with altitude profileDifficulty & Fitness
Rated moderate. Terrain and fitness requirements vary by season.
→ See difficulty breakdown and fitness guideCost & Pricing
Package prices vary by operator, group size and inclusions. Compare transparently on MountRoutes.
→ See full cost breakdownPermits and Regulations
Please ensure you have all mandatory biometric registrations and permits before starting your journey.
Learn more about how we vet operators and ensure transparency on our why MountRoutes page.
Packing List
Winter Clothing
- Heavy down jacket rated to -15°C
- 3 thermal base layers (full sleeve)
- 2 fleece mid layers
- Hardshell waterproof outer layer
- Stretchable trekking pants
- Woolen socks (4 pairs) + Liner socks
- Waterproof gloves + fleece gloves
- Balaclava and beanie
Footwear Snow Gear
- Sturdy high-ankle trekking boots (Vibram sole mandatory)
- Micro-spikes (useful for June/Oct)
- High-altitude gaiters
- Slippers for camp
Gear Safety
- Trekking poles (Mandatory for descents)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sleeping bag rated -10°C to -15°C
- UV400 Sunglasses (Cat 3 or 4)
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Personal medical kit
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kedartal called the "Emerald Lake"?
The lake has a deep emerald-green color due to the specific glacier minerals and its high-altitude crystalline purity.
How difficult is the trek from Gangotri?
It is significantly more difficult than Gaumukh. The trail is narrower, involves steep climbs on loose scree, and reaches a much higher altitude.
Can we see Mt. Thalaysagar?
Yes, Kedartal is situated directly at the foot of Mount Thalaysagar (6,904m) and Brigupanth peak.
Is there any forest on this route?
Only for the first 2km. Beyond that, the trail is completely in the high-altitude rocky-moraine zone.
Is the water drinkable?
The lake water is glacial and clean, but most trekkers prefer using the small side-streams for drinking.
Does the trek have any tea-houses?
None. This is an unsupported camping trek. You must carry all your supplies.
What is the best month to visit?
Late May-June and September-October. Avoid monsoons at all costs due to the fragile and steep trail.
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This encyclopedia entry for Kedartal Trek is curated from a mix of public survey records, first-hand climber accounts, and official permit logs. However, mountains are dynamic. If you have been on this route recently and noticed a change in terrain, water availability, or local regulations, we want to hear from you.
Community Vetted
Last Verified: May 2026
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