About Bangalore:
Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It is renowned as the “Silicon Valley of India” due to its thriving IT industry and numerous tech companies. The city boasts a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, combining modernity with tradition. Bangalore is home to numerous educational institutions, research centers, and startups.
Planning Your Bangalore to Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha trek is a mesmerizing journey that takes you from the bustling city of Bangalore to the serene and pristine mountains of the Himalayas. Before embarking on this adventure, it’s essential to plan meticulously to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Bangalore to Kedarkantha trek By Road:
The Kedarkantha trek is a popular winter trekking destination in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. While you can’t go directly from Bangalore to Kedarkantha by road due to the vast distance and the presence of the Himalayan mountain range, you can take a combination of road and train or flight to reach the nearest major town, Dehradun, and then continue your journey to Sankri, the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek. Here are the key points to follow:
- Bangalore to Dehradun:Start your journey by taking a flight or train from Bangalore to Dehradun. The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and Dehradun also has a railway station.
- Dehradun to Sankri: From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Sankri, which is approximately 200 kilometers away. The journey can take around 8-10 hours by road, depending on road conditions.
- Sankri to Taluka: From Sankri, you can further drive to Taluka. It’s a relatively short drive of about 12 kilometers and should take around 45 minutes to an hour.
- Taluka to Kedarkantha Base Camp: The actual trek to Kedarkantha starts from Taluka. You will need to trek to the Kedarkantha base camp, which is a distance of approximately 6-7 kilometers, and it takes around 4-6 hours to reach, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.
Bangalore to Kedarkantha Trek By Air:
- Bangalore to Delhi: Several airlines, such as IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, offer regular flights from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi. Flight times vary, but they typically take around 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Delhi to Dehradun: From Delhi, you can take a domestic flight to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport (DED). Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet operate daily flights to Dehradun. The flight duration from Delhi to Dehradun is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Layover: The total journey time, including waiting at the connecting airport and the flight between Delhi and Dehradun, is typically between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the specific flights and layover duration.
Bangalore to Kedarkantha trek By train:
Traveling from Bangalore to Kedarkantha Trek by train involves several steps and a significant distance. Here’s a brief overview in points:
- Bangalore to Delhi by Train:
- Start your journey by boarding a train from Bangalore to New Delhi, a distance of approximately 2,000 kilometers.
- Opt for a direct train or a connecting route, depending on your preferences and availability.
- Delhi to Dehradun by Train:
- Upon reaching Delhi, take a train to Dehradun, which is the closest major railway station to Kedarkantha.
- The train journey from Delhi to Dehradun takes around 5-7 hours.
- Dehradun to Sankri by Road:
- From Dehradun, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Sankri, the base village for Kedarkantha Trek.
- The road journey is approximately 200-220 kilometers and may take around 7-9 hours, depending on road conditions.
- Sankri to Kedarkantha Trek:
- Begin your trek from Sankri towards Kedarkantha base camp.
- The trek is typically 6-10 kilometers, and it takes around 3-5 days to reach the summit and return to the base camp.
- Trek Highlights:
- The Kedarkantha Trek offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains, including snow-capped peaks.
- You’ll pass through dense forests, remote villages, and experience diverse terrain on your way to the summit.
- Preparation:
- Make sure to plan your trek, including permits, gear, and guides, well in advance.
- Be prepared for cold weather and high-altitude conditions.
Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Kedarkantha Trek from Bangalore:
Q1: How can I reach Kedarkantha from Bangalore?
To reach Kedarkantha from Bangalore, you can take a flight to Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport or a train to Dehradun Railway Station. From Dehradun, you’ll need to drive to Sankri, the base camp for the Kedarkantha trek.
Q2: What is the best time to do the Kedarkantha Trek?
The best time to undertake the Kedarkantha Trek is during the winter months, typically from December to April. This is when the region is covered in snow, creating a beautiful winter wonderland.
Q3: How long is the Kedarkantha Trek?
The Kedarkantha Trek is approximately a 6-7 days trek, covering around 20 kilometers. The exact duration may vary based on the itinerary chosen by your trekking organizer.
Q4: Is the Kedarkantha Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Kedarkantha Trek is considered suitable for beginners. It offers a moderate level of difficulty, and with proper preparation and guidance, even those with little trekking experience can enjoy it.
Q5: What is the cost of the Kedarkantha Trek from Bangalore?
The cost of the Kedarkantha Trek can vary depending on the trekking company you choose, the package inclusions, and the time of year. It’s best to contact trekking operators for the most current pricing information.
Q6: Do I need to hire a guide for the Kedarkantha Trek?
It is highly recommended to hire a local guide or go with an organized trekking group. They are familiar with the terrain, can ensure your safety, and provide valuable insights about the region.