Top Places to Visit Near Kedarkantha Trek: Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss

The Kedarkantha trek is known for its snow-clad paths, scenic mountain summits, and beginner-friendly routes. Each year, hundreds of tourists come from across India to undertake this trek in Uttarakhand. However, there is something else that tourists should know about the area.

The areas surrounding the Kedarkantha trek are blessed with charming villages, temples, crystal clear rivers, alpine lakes, and valleys. If you decide to spend more time at the location or are looking for attractions before and after your trekking experience, there are several places you must visit.

Let’s take a look at some of the best destinations near the Kedarkantha trek to visit during your travels.

1. Sankri – The Gateway to Kedarkantha

The journey for everyone heading out to Kedarkantha begins in Sankri, a quiet little village in the Uttarkashi District of the Himalayas.

Surrounded by tall mountains and lush forests filled with pine trees, Sankri is an excellent place to escape the hectic pace of city life. The village features many old-style wooden houses, friendly people, and beautiful mountain views that will excite you even before you start your adventure!

You could spend a day wandering the quaint, narrow streets of the village, interacting with the people of Sankri, and enjoying authentic Garhwali food. If you have some extra time before you start your trek, exploring Sankri would be much more fun and rewarding than just passing through on the way.

Distance from Trek Base: 0 km

Best For:

• Local culture
• Mountain photography
• Relaxation before the trek

2. Juda Ka Talab

Despite being a campsite on the Kedarkantha trek, Juda Ka Talab has unique qualities that qualify it as a place of interest in its own right.

The lake is a high-altitude body of water that is encircled by oak and pine trees. In winter, the lake freezes over, creating an enchanting view.

According to folklore, the lake came into existence when a drop of water fell from the head of Lord Shiva. The serene ambiance of the site makes it one of the most interesting campsites along the way.

Highlights include:

• Frozen lake in winter
• Scenic camping
• Amazing sunrise views

3. Har Ki Dun Valley

Har Ki Dun is one of the most beautiful valleys in Uttarakhand, located just three hours away from Sankri. Also known as the valley of gods (har ki dun god temple), it has many sights to see, including lush green meadows, beautiful villages, historic glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.

Compared to the Kedarkantha trek, the Har Ki Dun trek’s immersive cultural aspect allows visitors to experience hundreds of years of Himalayan heritage.

If you have an additional 3-4 days after the hike/trekking, I highly recommend including this as part of your itinerary.

The distance from Sankri is 25 km via the trekking route.

Best For:

• Nature lovers
• Birdwatching
• Long-distance trekking

4. Osla Village

One of the oldest villages in the area, Osla is known for its distinctive wood architecture and cultural heritage.

The village is said to be connected to the epic Mahabharata and boasts an ancient Duryodhana temple, making it quite different from other Indian religious sites.

Visiting Osla is truly traveling back in time.

With its traditional architecture, terraces, and friendly locals, Oslo is truly amazing to visit.

5. Mori Village

Mori is a place of adventure near Tons River.

At the end of the Kedarkantha trek, many visitors want to relax and camp by the river.

Activities include:

• Camping by the river
• Fishing
• Nature walks
• Taking pictures

The tranquillity of Mori makes it an ideal place to visit after an exhausting trek.

Distance from Sankri: Around 40 km

6. Govind National Park

A nature lover must not miss Govind National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in Uttarakhand.

The Kedarkantha trek covers portions of this sanctuary, but extra time spent here is well worth it for the natural splendor.

Animals that one can see include:

• Himalayan Monal
• Musk Deer
• Himalayan Black Bear
• Snow Leopard (rarely)
• Many birds

This place is a heaven for wildlife photography because of its dense forest and alpine meadows.

photographers.

7. Purola

Purola is situated along the Dehradun-Sankri road.

People traveling this route frequently miss seeing the town of Purola.

Despite its size, it is a lovely mountain town with wonderful mountain views, local shopping options, and local food.

It’s a great spot to take a break and grab some food before you continue on to the Kedarkantha trek.

And the town and its people provide a peaceful place to get to know what life is like in one of Uttarakhand’s mountain towns.

8. Netwar

Netwar is a picturesque little village located just minutes from the town of Sankri.

It is surrounded by both woods and water, making it one of the best starting points for many unknown trekking routes.

If you’re trying to escape too many people, this is definitely one place you will find peace and quiet away from all the noise.

Netwar is also one of the prettiest villages to visit in the springtime, as blossoms will be blooming all over the surrounding hills.

9. Tons River

The Tons River, which flows through the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the most beautiful rivers in North India.

Those looking for adventure can enjoy:

• Riverside picnics
• Nature Photography
• Camping
• White-water rafting (seasonal)

The combination of the pristine river and breathtaking backdrop of mountains creates stunning sights.

After finishing the Kedarkantha trek, many visitors choose to spend a day unwinding at the Tons.

10. Deoban

If you’re a birdwatcher, Deoban should definitely be on your itinerary.

This hidden gem is famous for its beautiful deodar forests and incredible mountain scenery, attracting many photographers and wildlife enthusiasts year-round.

The tranquil beauty of Deoban makes it an ideal location for meditation, short hikes, and nature walks.

Deoban has not yet been developed into a mainstream tourist destination like other nearby locations, which gives Deoban its untouched appeal.

Should You Book a Kedarkantha Trek Package?

And if you plan to visit these attractions during the trek as well, opting for a Kedarkantha trek package can make your trip easier.

Most companies providing such trekking services provide custom-made itineraries that cover:

• Sightseeing in Sankri
• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Permits
• Guides

Some top-end packages even include visits to nearby attractions after the trek itself.

Final Thoughts

The Kedarkantha trek is not only an adventure of conquering the peak but also offers you a chance to explore the most beautiful and culturally rich regions of Uttarakhand. Starting from the peaceful village of Sankri, passing by the frozen lake of Juda Ka Talab, and ending in the charming village of Osla and the stunning valley of Har Ki Dun. Each nearby location offers yet another level of exploration in the Himalayas.

To make the most of the Kedarkantha trek, do not leave immediately upon its completion. Spend an extra couple of days to get more out of your experience of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Whether you have never trekked before, are looking for photos, or just wish to find peace in nature, the surrounding destinations of the Kedarkantha trek are definitely worth visiting.

FAQs About Kedarkantha Trek

How many days are enough for the Kedarkantha Trek?

The Kedarkantha Trek is an 18-kilometer route, usually covered in 4 or 6 days, including travel time from Dehradun. On the first day, the trek will cover approximately 5 kilometers in about 4 hours; on the second day, approximately 2 kilometers in about 2 hours.

What is the hidden place in Kedarnath?

Vasuki Tal is a hidden spot situated near Kedarnath. It is a spot at a height of 4,135 meters, surrounded by cliffs and rocky mountains, with a wonderful view of the various snowcapped peaks. Though not all can make the trek, the trek to Vasuki Tal is really worth it.

Which is the best secluded place in Uttarakhand?

Chakrata is a hidden and beautiful spot in Uttarakhand. Situated in Garhwal, it has lovely deodar forests, ancient caves, and many waterfalls (Tiger Falls being one of them), yet it attracts fewer tourists than places like Mussoorie.