Kedarkantha is one of the most iconic summit treks in India. It provides the perfect opportunity for beginners to feel the thrill of climbing a mountain peak.

We can hardly think of any other peak trek that can be attempted by beginners. Maybe Deoriatal Chandrashila comes close. But it is more about the views from the summit and the forests leading to it. The final push, being on a pilgrim trail, doesn’t feel as wild and raw as it is at Kedarkantha.

Did you know Indiahikes was the first to explore and document Kedarkantha? Read the untold story here.

You catch your first glimpse of the Kedarkantha peak right at the start of the trek. Soon after, the trail leads you into a beautiful forest that briefly hides the summit from view. As you emerge from the forest, the peak looms over you again. It is from the Bhoja Dadi campsite that the steep climb to the summit begins. It’s a tough ascent, especially in winter snow. But it feels more thrilling than daunting—a challenge that draws you in rather than holds you back. Reaching the summit is a deeply rewarding experience. The views are spectacular with Mt. Swargarohini, the Bandarpoonch massif, Mount Kalanag and the Gangotri massif lining the horizon.

But Kedarkantha isn’t just about the summit. You walk through pristine forests of pines, oaks, and maples. You camp in stunning clearings with wide-open views and unforgettable sunsets. You get a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the villagers in Kotgaon. 

In winter, when most Himalayan summits are shut down by heavy snow, Kedarkantha remains open. It’s a one-of-a-kind chance to summit a Himalayan peak in peak winter. That’s what makes it special. That’s what makes Kedarkantha India’s most popular winter trek.

But we often forget that Kedarkantha is an equally beautiful trek in the other seasons.

In spring, the forests above Kotgaon burst to life with blooming rhododendrons and birdsong. By summer, the clearings at Khujai and Bhoja Dhadi, along with the surrounding forests, turn lush and green. As the season moves on, wildflowers start to show up along the trail. In autumn, the whole landscape changes. The forests turn golden with shades of yellow, brown, and red. Instead of snow, you trek through grassy meadows and rocky patches on your way to the top. The Kedarkantha peak still stands tall, calling you to take on the climb. And when you reach the summit, the views are crystal clear.

At Indiahikes, we have witnessed the Kedarkantha trek across seasons over many years. No matter when you choose to trek, Kedarkantha always seems to be the perfect mix of beauty and challenge. 

It’s not without reason that we call it the finest summit climb for beginners.

5 Things We Love About the Kedarkantha Trek

1) The Quaint Village of Kotgaon
The first thing you notice when you reach Kotgaon is the Someshwar Temple, right in the middle of the village. With its beautiful wooden carvings and the Swargarohini peaks rising behind it, surrounded by layers of Himalayan mountains, it’s a sight that stays with you. From our campus, you also get a lovely view of the terraced fields — it’s peaceful and picture-perfect. Staying here on the first and last nights of the trek gives you a chance to meet the villagers and get a feel for their way of life. Their unique Koti Banal homes, traditional clothing, and simple lifestyle offer a glimpse into a culture that’s quietly thriving in the mountains.

2) Pristine Forests
The forests on the Kedarkantha trek, especially on the stretch from Kotgaon to Khujai, are among the most beautiful you will find. These forests feel untouched and wild, with their dense canopy, sprawling roots, and diverse flora. The play of sunlight filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere. In winter, the forests turn into a quiet wonderland. Tree branches and hanging moss are draped in a soft, magical layer of snow. Most birds and animals move to lower elevations during this time, leaving the forest still and silent, especially during or just after a snowfall. Walking through this hushed, snow-covered world is an experience that lingers long after the trek is over.

3) Stunning Clearings and Campsites
The Kedarkantha Trek is full of clearings. These wide, open spaces suddenly appear in the middle of dense forests — perfect for taking a break or setting up camp. You do see clearings on other Himalayan treks, but none quite like the ones on Kedarkantha. They’re bigger, beautifully laid out, and each one has its charm. You camp in a few of them during the trek. And the sunsets from these spots — especially from Bhoja Dhadi — are some of the most stunning you’ll ever witness.

4) Multiple Routes
As a standalone mountain, Kedarkantha offers multiple routes to the summit, each with its beauty. This gives trekkers the flexibility to choose quieter trails or adapt their plans based on weather conditions. These multiple options, each with its unique highlights, add to the allure of the trek.

5) The Summit Climb
The Kedarkantha summit climb is what makes this trek truly special. From the base camp, the summit is always visible, building excitement for the final ascent. The steep, challenging climb keeps you engaged, and the views of the upper Himalayas along the way make every step worth it. Reaching the summit gives you an immense sense of accomplishment that few other treks offer.

Without a doubt, Kedarkantha has rightfully emerged as one of India's most famous Himalayan treks.