Sahastra Tal to Kedarnath Trek

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Delhi to Rishikesh, the spiritual gateway to the Himalayas. As the road follows the Ganga River, the scenery shifts from city bustle to serene forested hills. On arrival, check into your hotel and explore the iconic Laxman Jhula, ancient temples, and vibrant riverside markets. This softer first day helps you ease into the rhythm of the expedition ahead. Overnight stay in Rishikesh.

After breakfast, continue your ascent into the mountains, following the Bhagirathi River toward Uttarkashi. The route passes terraced farms and peaceful Himalayan villages. On arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Spend the evening by the riverside or visit a local temple. Overnight stay in Uttarkashi, an important base for many challenging Uttarakhand treks.

After an early breakfast, drive along the right bank of the Bhagirathi to reach Lata, a quiet settlement marking the trek's starting point. Cross the river via a sturdy bridge and begin a steady ascent through terraced fields and small villages like Saura and Sara.

The trail soon enters dense oak and pine forests, offering cool shade and rich birdlife. The final climb to Upper Chuna is gradual but sustained. Early monsoon trekkers may encounter leeches on damp sections; by mid-September, they disappear. Upper Chuna is a peaceful forest campsite, an excellent warm-up for the demanding days ahead. Overnight in tents.

Begin a steady climb toward the charming hamlet of Belak (2,900 m). In summer, herders and cattle bring activity to the area, and a small tea shop offers a welcome break. Beyond Belak, the trail opens into wider ridgelines with increasing altitude. After two hours of gradual climbing, you reach Jowari Thach, a beautiful alpine meadow now above the treeline. Snow peaks rise in all directions, rewarding the effort with wide Himalayan panoramas. Overnight in tents at Jowari Thach.

Start early to climb the gentle ridges leading to Kush Kalyan, one of Garhwal's most stunning alpine meadows. The trail undulates across open slopes, offering panoramic views of the valleys and distant snow ranges.

Clouds often roll in by afternoon at this altitude, so early movement is key. Reaching Kush Kalyan feels like arriving in a high-altitude oasis: expansive meadows, wildflowers, crisp winds, and sweeping summit views. Overnight camping at Kush Kalyan.

Descend briefly to a small temple, then climb steadily for about 45 minutes to join a spectacular ridgeline. From here, the trail involves two steep ascents that test stamina but reward you with dramatic views of the Garhwal Himalayas and the distant village of Malla.

The final push leads to Kyarki Khal (3,900 m), a high mountain pass surrounded by untouched alpine beauty. A gentle 45-minute descent brings you to the campsite. Overnight stay in tents.

Begin with a demanding 45-minute climb followed by an airy ridge walk across open highlands. A final short ascent brings you to an ancient stone-paved trail once used by pilgrims traveling between Buda Kedar and Sahastra Tal.

Continue for another hour and a half to reach Pari Tal, a clear alpine lake set at 4,210 m. Its quiet setting, surrounded by meadows and snow peaks, offers a peaceful yet dramatic Himalayan ambience. Descend gently to the lakeside campsite. Overnight stay in tents.

Rejoin the main trail and begin a steady ascent toward a high ridge. After 90 minutes, panoramic views of Gangotri III and Jaonli Peak dominate the horizon. Descend briefly toward Lamba Tal, a tranquil lake reached in about 45 minutes. The final stretch to Sahastra Tal is a steep, two-hour climb over rugged high-altitude terrain. At last, you arrive at the mystical lake cluster with crystal waters shimmering beneath towering ridges. Camping here under starlit skies is a defining moment of the trek. Overnight at Sahastra Tal.

Climb over a nearby high pass to begin a long descent through rocky slopes and forested ridges. You will cross between twin lakes, then navigate several rolling ridgelines that demand endurance and careful footing.

The final steep descent through dense forests lasts nearly two hours before meeting the main trail to Kalyani. This is a long and physically demanding day, but the wilderness beauty makes every step worthwhile. Overnight stay at Kalyani.

Follow a gentle trail through oak and rhododendron forests along the right bank of the Bhilangana River. The sound of flowing water and chirping birds accompanies the trek, adding quiet joy to the day. Occasional clearings offer glimpses of waterfalls and far - off ridges. Cross a small stream near Kharsoli and reach the forest - fringed campsite, complete with a small temple and traditional Dharamshala. Overnight stay in Kharsoli.

Continue up the valley along the river's right bank, crossing a few easy streams on the way. Tambakund appears as a serene resting point, with the sound of water echoing through the valley. Ahead lies a makeshift bridge requiring caution, especially after rainfall. A steady 45 - minute climb brings you to Chowki, perched high above the valley with striking north - facing snow - peak views. Overnight stay in tents.

Choose to rest at camp or trek to the impressive Khatling Glacier, the massive amphitheater of ice feeding the Bhilangana River. With a packed lunch, the trail offers close views of towering Himalayan peaks like the Jogin Group, Kirti Stambh, and Meru. The glacier's sheer scale and quiet beauty make this detour one of the trek's most extraordinary experiences. Return to Chowki for an overnight stay.

Follow the left bank of a rushing stream before climbing steeply toward high meadows and moraine fields. The shepherd's trail is rugged and narrow, demanding careful attention. As altitude increases, the landscape becomes stark and dramatic. Your campsite near Masar Tal sits beside a shimmering glacial lake framed by snow-covered ridges. Overnight in tents.

Start with a climb to Masar Tal (4,670 m), then continue up to the first pass at 4,789 m. Navigate rocky slopes as you approach the glacier edge before the final push to Mayali Pass.

At 4,980 m, the pass opens into breathtaking Himalayan panoramas, one of the trek's most powerful moments. Descend through rocky terrain into a peaceful valley leading to Vasuki Tal. Settle at a campsite about 2 km before the lake. Overnight stay.

Descend along a well - marked trail that briefly climbs before dropping steadily toward Kedarnath. Views of Kedardome and the surrounding ridges accompany the approach into the sacred valley. Arrive by afternoon and check into your guesthouse. This final stretch blends adventure and spirituality, marking a fitting finale to the expedition. Overnight in Kedarnath.

Begin early, descending the paved trail to Gauri Kund. Some sections have mule traffic; cover your mouth briefly as you pass. At the taxi stand, drive 5 km to Sonprayag and check into your hotel. Rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive through Srinagar and Devprayag, witnessing the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers. Reach Rishikesh by evening and check in. Explore the nearby markets or relax by the river. Overnight stay.

Enjoy a relaxed day at your resort, or choose optional rafting if conditions permit. A light day helps your body fully wind down after the demanding expedition.

Drive back to Delhi. Depending on your time, explore local attractions or unwind after your long Himalayan adventure.

Transfer to IGI Airport/New Delhi Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying back unforgettable memories of one of Uttarakhand's most challenging and rewarding Himalayan treks.