Basecamp
Ransi
Duration
5 Days
Max. Altitude
11,473 ft.
Distance
20 Kms
Grade
Moderate
Pickup/Drop
Haridwar
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Overview
The Madhyamaheshwar Trek is one of the most sacred and scenic treks in Uttarakhand, leading to Shri Madhyamaheshwar Temple, the fourth Panch Kedar shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located at an altitude of 3,497 meters (11,473 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas, this trek offers a perfect blend of spiritual pilgrimage, Himalayan adventure, and raw natural beauty.
Starting from Ransi village near Ukhimath, the trek passes through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and remote Himalayan villages. The trail gradually opens up to breathtaking views of Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Kedarnath, and Trishul peaks, making it one of the most visually rewarding treks in the Panch Kedar circuit.
Madhyamaheshwar is believed to be the place where the navel (madhya bhag) of Lord Shiva appeared after he disappeared into the ground to evade the Pandavas. The ancient stone temple, surrounded by snow-clad peaks and peaceful silence, creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere that attracts pilgrims, trekkers, and nature lovers alike.
The trek is of moderate difficulty, suitable for beginners with basic fitness, and is best done between May to June and September to October. Unlike crowded pilgrimages such as Kedarnath, the Madhyamaheshwar trek remains less commercialized, offering solitude, authenticity, and a true Himalayan experience.
Whether you are planning a Panch Kedar Yatra, seeking a spiritual Himalayan trek, or looking for an offbeat trekking destination in Uttarakhand, the Madhyamaheshwar Trek promises an unforgettable journey of faith, endurance, and natural beauty.
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Short Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun To Sankri (Base Village)
Distance: ~200 km
Time: 8–9 hours
Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun – 640 m) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri
Day 2: Sankri To Juda Ka Talab
Distance: ~4 km
Time: 4–5 hours
Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → 2,700 m
Route: Sankri → Dense pine & oak forest trail → Juda Ka Talab campsite
Day 3: Juda Ka Talab To Kedarkantha Base Camp
Distance: ~3.5 km
Time: 3–4 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,700 m → 3,430 m
Route: Juda Ka Talab → Gradual ascent through forest & clearings → Kedarkantha Base
Day 4: Base Camp To Kedarkantha Summit → Descend To Juda Ka Talab
Distance: ~6 km (3 km ascent + 3 km descent)
Time: 6–7 hours
Altitude: 3,430 m → 3,800 m (Summit) → 2,700 m (Juda Ka Talab)
Route: Base Camp → Kedarkantha Summit → Return via summit ridge → Juda Ka Talab campsite
Day 5: Juda Ka Talab To Sankri → Drive To Dehradun
Distance (Trek): ~4 km | Drive: ~200 km
Time: 2–3 hours (trek) + 8–9 hours (drive)
Altitude Loss: 2,700 m → 1,950 m (Sankri) → 640 m (Dehradun)
Route: Juda Ka Talab → Sankri → Netwar → Purola → Mussoorie → Dehradun
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Detailed Itinerary
- Distance: 210 km
- Time: 8–10 hours
- Altitude Gain: 640 m (Dehradun) → 1,950 m (Sankri)
- Route: Dehradun → Mussoorie → Nainbagh → Damta → Purola → Mori → Netwar → Sankri
The journey kicks off from Dehradun Railway Station early morning. As you exit the city, you ascend towards Mussoorie via Rajpur Road and enjoy glimpses of the Doon Valley. Past Mussoorie, the route passes through Nainbagh, a key junction connecting Yamunotri and Purola.
From Damta to Purola, the air gets cooler and the hills steeper. Here you enter the Jaunsar-Bawar tribal belt, famous for its traditional wood-carved houses. Post Purola, mobile networks vanish, offering an offline escape.
You then descend to the Tons River, crossing Mori, a popular rafting destination. Just ahead lies Netwar, home to the ancient Pokhu Devta temple, and the entry point to the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. The final climb through pine-clad ridges brings you to Sankri, a picturesque village that serves as the base camp for Kedarkantha trek. Wooden houses, local dhabas, and views of snow-peaked mountains set the mood for the trek.
- Distance: 4 km
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Altitude Gain: 1,950 m → 2,700 m
- Route: Sankri → Sor → Kedarkantha Trail Gate → Dense Oak Forest → Juda Ka Talab
You begin your trek from Sankri village after breakfast. The initial walk passes through Sor village, a small hamlet with traditional Himachali homes. After 15 minutes, you reach the trail gate of Kedarkantha Trek, marked with a forest checkpoint and a wooden arch.
The trek then climbs steadily through dense pine, maple, and oak forests. The sound of birds, whistling air, and occasional sightings of langurs or barking deer enrich the experience. Depending on the season, you’ll cross small wooden bridges over snow-fed streams.
Midway, there’s a small clearing near a shepherd’s hut—an ideal spot for rest and water refill. As you gain height, the forest thickens, and the temperature drops.
Suddenly, the trees open up to reveal the ethereal Juda Ka Talab — a glacial lake that freezes in winter. Surrounded by centuries-old pine trees, the lake has a deep legend: it’s believed that Lord Shiva once opened his hair locks (Juda) here, creating the twin lakes — one visible and one underground. The area also has a clearing for camping, ideal for star-gazing and night photography.
- Distance: 3.5 km
- Time: 3–4 hours
- Altitude Gain: 2,700 m → 3,430 m
- Route: Juda Ka Talab → Switchback Trail through Oak Trees → Open Meadow Ridge → Kedarkantha Base Camp
This day’s trek is a gradual ascent through varying forest zones. Leaving Juda Ka Talab, the trail narrows and rises into a thicket of old oak trees, where sunlight barely touches the floor.
As you move higher, the tree line thins out, and suddenly you find yourself walking on a snow-covered ridge flanked by open meadows. This area offers the first clear views of Swargarohini, Kalanag (Black Peak), Bandarpoonch, and Ranglana.
One notable point is a flat snow meadow near Hargaon, which is sometimes used as an emergency campsite. Eventually, you reach the Kedarkantha Base Camp, located in a wide snow-covered meadow with a clear view of the Kedarkantha Summit.
Evening light bathes the area in gold, and the sunset here is unforgettable. Expect cold winds, deep snow (in winter), and millions of stars lighting up the sky.
- Distance: 6 km (3 km ascent + 3 km descent)
- Time: 6–7 hours
- Altitude Gain: 3,430 m → 3,810 m (summit) → 2,700 m
- Route: Base Camp → Western Ridge Trail → Kedarkantha Peak → Eastern Descent → Juda Ka Talab
You begin your summit attempt around 3:00–4:00 AM, equipped with headlamps and gaiters. The early climb follows a zigzag trail up a snow ridge, climbing slowly but steadily. The terrain alternates between forest patches and open snow fields.
As the sun begins to rise behind you, the summit comes into view—a pyramid-shaped snow mound marked by a Trishul, cairns, and a stone temple of Lord Shiva.
At 3,810 meters, Kedarkantha Summit offers a 360° panoramic view of peaks such as:
—- Swargarohini I, II, III
—- Bandarpoonc
—- Kalanag (Black Peak)
—- Rupin and Supin Valleys
—- Yamunotri and Gangotri ranges
After celebrating with photos and high-fives, you begin the descent. Instead of retracing the same route, some trekkers prefer glissading (sliding down snow patches) for a thrilling return. You reach Juda Ka Talab by early afternoon for your final night in the mountains.
- Distance: 4 km trek + 210 km drive
- Time: 2–3 hours trek + 8–10 hours drive
- Route: Juda Ka Talab → Forest Descent via Sor → Sankri → Netwar → Purola → Dehradun
The final day of your trek starts with a gradual descent through the same oak and pine forests that greeted you earlier. Morning light cuts through the misty forest, creating a magical descent toward Sankri.
After reaching Sankri and collecting your gear, a shared or private vehicle awaits to take you back to Dehradun. The route remains the same — Purola, Nainbagh, and Mussoorie — but now your heart is full of memories.
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Package Cost Includes
Transportation
Dehradun to Sankri and return in shared private vehicle (Tempo Traveller/Bolero)
Pick-up and drop points: Dehradun Railway Station/ISBT
Accommodation
Day 1 (Sankri): Stay in homestay/guesthouse (twin/triple sharing)
Day 2 to 4 (Juda Ka Talab & Base Camp): Alpine tents (2/3 person sharing)
High-quality sleeping bags, foam mattresses, and snowproof tents provided
Meals (Veg & Nutritious)
All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 5 breakfast
Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner + Hot Soup
Tea/Coffee served twice daily
Simple, hygienic, and energy-rich food (dal, rice, roti, vegetables, khichdi, pasta, upma, poha)
Trekking Equipment
Waterproof alpine tents
-10°C sleeping bags
Thick foam sleeping mats
Gaiters and crampons (during snow season)
Trekking poles and headlamps (limited on request)
Experienced Trek Team
Certified Trek Leader (Wilderness First Aid trained)
Experienced local guides with terrain knowledge
Trained support staff and porter for common gear
Safety & First Aid
Oximeter, basic first-aid kit, and altitude sickness protocols
Oxygen cylinder available (emergency only)
Backup plan for emergency evacuation (extra cost if needed)
Permit & Forest Fees
Entry fee for Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
All applicable local forest permits, camping charges, and taxes
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Package Cost Excludes
Travel from your home city to Dehradun and back
Meals during transit between Dehradun and Sankri (Day 1 & Day 5)
Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, gloves, headlamps, ponchos, etc.)
Backpack offloading/mule charges (₹300–₹500 per day)
Tips and gratuities for trek leaders, guides, and staff
Bottled water, snacks, energy bars, and personal medicines
Hot water buckets and mobile charging at Sankri (if available)
Any extra stay or hotel in Dehradun before or after the trek
Travel or trek insurance (not included in package)
Emergency evacuation, medical costs, or ambulance service
Any expenses due to natural calamities, roadblocks, or bad weather
Anything not mentioned under the “Inclusions” section
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Package Cost
Sankri To Sankri
₹ 6,500/- PP
₹ 4,500/- PP
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Dehradun To Dehradun
₹ 8,500/- PP
₹ 6,500/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Dehradun
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Delhi To Delhi
₹ 11,500/- PP
₹ 9,500/- PP
- Pickup/Drop Ex- Delhi
- 4 Nights Stay
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Forest Fees & Permit
- Trek Guide
- Safety & First Aid
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Fix Departures
November
10 Nov - 14 Nov
15 Nov - 19 Nov
22 Nov - 27 Nov
25 Nov - 29 Nov
Available
Available
Available
Available
December
1Dec - 5 Dec
5 Dec - 9 Dec
8 Dec - 12 Dec
10 Dec - 14 Dec
15 Dec - 19 Dec
18 Dec - 22 Dec
22 Dec - 26 Dec
25 Dec - 29 Dec
26 Dec - 30 Dec
27 Dec - 31 Dec
28 Dec - 1 Jan
29 Dec - 2 Jan
30 Dec - 3 Jan
31Dec - 4 Jan
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
January
2 Jan - 7 Jan
5 Jan - 12 Jan
8 Jan - 13 Jan
10 Jan - 15 Jan
13 Jan - 18 Jan
15 Jan - 20 Jan
18 Jan - 23 Jan
20 Jan - 25 Jan
22 Jan - 27 Jan
24 Jan - 29 Jan
25 Jan - 30 Jan
28 Jan - 1 Feb
30 Jan - 4 Feb
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
February
2 Feb - 7 Feb
5 Feb - 9 Feb
9 Feb - 14 Feb
11 Feb - 18 Feb
15 Feb - 19 Feb
19 Feb - 24 Feb
21 Feb - 26 Feb
25 Feb - 1 Mar
28 Feb - 4 Mar
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
March
3 Mar - 8 Mar
5 Mar - 10 Mar
9 Mar - 14 Mar
11 Mar - 16 Mar
15 Mar - 20 Mar
18 Mar - 23 Mar
22 Mar - 27 Mar
26 Mar - 1 Apr
30 Mar - 3 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
April
1 Apr - 6 Apr
10 Apr - 15 Apr
12 Apr - 17 Apr
18 Apr - 23 Apr
25 Apr - 30 Apr
Available
Available
Available
Available
Available
How To Reach Madhyamaheshwar Trek
Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Kedarkantha Trek
1. Reach Dehradun (Uttarakhand) – The Nearest Major City
By Air:
Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun is the nearest airport.
Well-connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Jaipur
From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Sankri or reach ISBT Dehradun for a shared vehicle.
By Train:
Dehradun Railway Station is connected to major Indian cities.
Popular trains: Nanda Devi Express, Mussoorie Express, Dehradun Shatabdi
Direct trains available from Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Haridwar
By Bus/Car:
Overnight Volvo and government buses run from Delhi (Kashmere Gate ISBT) to Dehradun.
Travel time: 6–8 hours from Delhi
2. Dehradun to Sankri (Base Village)
Distance: 210 km
Travel Time: 8–10 hours
Options:
Private cabs (₹5,000–6,000 per vehicle)
Shared taxis from Dehradun Railway Station or Parade Ground (₹700–800/person)
Bus service from Mussoorie Bus Stand (early morning, limited seats)
3. Final Stretch: Sankri to Trek Starting Point
The trek starts right from Sankri village.
No further travel is needed once you reach here.
Accommodation and gear rental available in Sankri.
Summary – How to Reach Kedarkantha Trek
| Route | Mode | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi to Dehradun | Train / Flight / Bus | ~250 km – 6 to 8 hours |
| Dehradun to Sankri | Road (cab / bus) | 210 km – 8 to 10 hours |
| Sankri to Trek Start | On foot | 0 km – Trek begins from Sankri |
Recommended Route from Major Cities
From Delhi to Kedarkantha:
Delhi → Dehradun (overnight train/bus) → Sankri (shared cab)From Mumbai to Kedarkantha:
Mumbai → Dehradun (flight/train via Delhi) → SankriFrom Bangalore to Kedarkantha:
Bangalore → Dehradun (flight via Delhi) → Sankri
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Booking Policy
- Booking is confirmed only after receiving a minimum 30% advance payment
Balance amount to be paid at pickup time.
Payment Options
Online payment via UPI / Bank Transfer / Net Banking / Debit & Credit Cards
Payment receipt will be shared via email or WhatsApp for confirmation
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Cancellation Policy
- 90% refund if cancelled 30+ days before trek date
- 70% refund if cancelled 15–29 days before trek
- 50% refund if cancelled 7–14 days before trek
- No refund if cancelled less than 7 days before trek or no-show
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Essentials
The Kedarkantha Trek in Uttarakhand is a popular winter snow trek reaching an altitude of 12,500 ft. To stay warm, safe, and comfortable in sub-zero temperatures, it’s essential to carry the right trekking gear, proper winter clothing, and personal essentials. This packing list includes all the must-have items for Kedarkantha Trek, including layers, trekking shoes, backpacks, and first aid—ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Base Layer (thermal innerwear – top and bottom)
2–3 Full sleeve quick-dry T-shirts (avoid cotton)
2 Insulating Layers (fleece/wool sweaters or light down jacket)
1 Heavy Feather Jacket / Padded Jacket (for summit day)
2 Trek Pants (quick-dry; avoid jeans)
1 Windproof & Waterproof Jacket/Poncho
Thermal Track Pants (for nights)
Warm Innerwear & Undergarments (at least 2–3 pairs)
1 pair of high-ankle trekking shoes (snow/water-resistant)
1 pair of slippers / sandals for campsite use
Optional: Gaiters (for heavy snow)
Trekking backpack (40–50L) with rain cover
Daypack (10–15L) for summit day
Trekking pole (highly recommended)
Headlamp / torch with spare batteries
Water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
Sunglasses (UV-protected)
Power bank
Ziplock / dry bags for organizing
Optional: Camera or GoPro
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Biodegradable soap / face wash
Lip balm (essential for cold cracks)
Cold cream / moisturizer
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Quick-dry towel
Toilet paper / tissues
Hand sanitizer
Menstrual hygiene products (as required)
Wet wipes (optional but useful)
Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
Diamox (only after doctor’s advice)
Band-aids / blister patches
Antiseptic cream
Crepe bandage
Personal medication
ORS / Glucose / Electrolyte powder
Original Government ID proof (Aadhar, Passport, Voter ID)
Medical fitness certificate (if required by trek operator)
Trek disclaimer form (provided by operator)
Trek booking confirmation / permit copy (if applicable)
Madhyamaheshwar Trek Fitness
Fitness for Kedarkantha Trek – Are You Trek-Ready?
The Kedarkantha Trek is classified as an easy to moderate trek, making it ideal for beginners, but it still demands a reasonable level of physical fitness due to cold temperatures, snow-covered trails, and high-altitude conditions (up to 12,500 ft).
Basic Fitness Requirements
Age Group: 10–60 years (physically active individuals)
Ability to walk 6–7 km/day on moderate incline
Comfort with 6–8 hours of walking in cold weather
No major breathing or cardiac issues (doctor’s clearance if unsure)
Mental endurance for cold, altitude, and camping
Why Fitness Matters on Kedarkantha Trek
Altitude: The trek reaches 12,500 ft, where oxygen levels are lower
Weather: Temperatures can drop to -5°C to -10°C in winter
Terrain: Snow, mud, steep sections, and forest climbs require stamina
Summit Day: Involves 1,200+ ft ascent and descent in snow (~6 km)
Pre-Trek Fitness Preparation Plan (Start 3–4 Weeks Before)
1. Cardiovascular Endurance (4–5 days/week)
Brisk walking or jogging – 3–5 km
Stair climbing – 3–4 floors, 3 sets
Cycling or swimming (optional)
2. Strength Training (3–4 days/week)
Squats – 3 sets of 15
Lunges – 3 sets of 10 per leg
Planks – Hold for 30–60 seconds
Core exercises (leg raises, crunches)
3. Flexibility & Recovery
Daily stretching for legs, hips, back
10–15 mins yoga or foam rolling
Rest properly between sessions
Quick Tips for Trek Fitness
Practice walking with a loaded backpack (5–7 kg)
Try a day hike near your city before the trek
Hydrate well before and during the trek
Avoid alcohol/smoking 2 weeks before the trek
Consult a doctor if you have asthma, blood pressure, or altitude-related history
Who Should Avoid Kedarkantha Trek
People with severe heart/lung conditions
Those recovering from major surgery or recent injury
Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
Madhyamaheshwar Trek FAQ's
Is Kedarkantha Trek good for beginners?
Yes, Kedarkantha is one of the best Himalayan treks for beginners due to its easy-to-moderate difficulty, well-marked trails, and short duration.
What is the best time to do Kedarkantha Trek?
The best time is from December to April for snow treks and September to November for clear weather and fall views.
Will I see snow during Kedarkantha Trek?
Yes, heavy snow is guaranteed from late December to March, especially around Juda Ka Talab and the summit.
What should I pack for Kedarkantha Trek?
Pack thermal layers, waterproof jackets, trekking shoes, gloves, and a good backpack. Don’t forget essentials like headlamp, lip balm, and energy snacks.
How do I reach Kedarkantha Trek base camp (Sankri)?
You can reach Sankri by road from Dehradun (210 km). Dehradun is accessible via flight, train, or bus from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
Where will we stay during Kedarkantha Trek?
Accommodation includes a guesthouse in Sankri and tented camps at Juda Ka Talab and Base Camp. All stays are arranged by trek operators.
How high is the Kedarkantha Summit?
Kedarkantha summit is 12,500 ft (3,800 meters) above sea level.
Is Kedarkantha trek safe for solo travelers and females?
Yes, it is a popular, well-frequented trail. Many solo and female travelers complete the trek safely with reputed trek operators.
Do I need a permit for Kedarkantha Trek?
Yes, a forest entry permit and local village fee are mandatory. Trek operators usually include this in the package.
Do I need to be fit for Kedarkantha Trek?
Moderate fitness is needed. You should be able to walk 6–7 km a day and handle cold weather conditions.
What is the average cost of Kedarkantha Trek?
The trek costs between ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 from Sankri, depending on the trek operator and inclusions.
Is Kedarkantha open in January or February?
Yes, Kedarkantha is one of the few Himalayan treks open and accessible in deep winter.
Is there mobile network and electricity during the trek?
Mobile network is only available in Sankri (Jio, BSNL). There is no network or electricity once you start trekking.
Are toilets available on the trek?
Yes, dry toilet tents are set up at campsites. Western toilets are available in Sankri guesthouses.
How long is Kedarkantha Trek in total?
The total trekking distance is 20 km (round trip) spread over 4 trekking days.
Which is best travel company for Kedarkantha trek?
Solo Hike is Sankri, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand based travel company, providing Kedarkantha trek services since 10 years. Solo Hike help you to get the package from Sankri, Dehradun and even from Delhi too, with best and affordable prices.
MADHYAMAHESHWAR TREK PHOTOS
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