Trekking Spots in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest protected area in the Garhwal Himalayas and is home to dense forests, alpine meadows, glaciers and diverse Himalayan wildlife. The sanctuary also serves as the starting point for several popular trekking routes leading to temples, glacial lakes and high-altitude valleys.
Treks within and around Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary range from easy day hikes to challenging Himalayan expeditions. Whether you are visiting for pilgrimage, nature or adventure, these trekking routes offer spectacular mountain scenery and rich biodiversity.
Popular Trekking Routes in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
Kedarnath Trek
Trek Distance: 16 km (One Way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highest Altitude: 3,583 m
The Kedarnath Trek begins from Gaurikund and passes through Jungle Chatti, Bheembali and Linchauli before reaching the Kedarnath Temple. It is one of the most popular Himalayan pilgrimage treks and offers magnificent views of snow-covered peaks, waterfalls and the Mandakini valley.
Vasuki Tal Trek
Trek Distance: 8 km from Kedarnath
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Highest Altitude: 4,135 m
Vasuki Tal Trek starts from Kedarnath and gradually climbs towards the pristine glacial lake surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks. The trail passes through rocky terrain and alpine landscapes, making it one of the most scenic high-altitude treks in the sanctuary.
Trek to Gandhi Sarovar or Chorabari Tal
Trek Distance: 4 km from Kedarnath
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highest Altitude: Approx. 3,900 m
Gandhi Sarovar, also known as Chorabari Tal, is a short trek from Kedarnath leading to a glacial lake formed near the Chorabari Glacier. The route offers excellent views of surrounding peaks and moraines and is suitable for trekkers looking for a half-day excursion.
Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila trek
Trek Distance: 5 km (One Way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highest Altitude: 4,000 m
The Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila Trek passes through forests and alpine meadows before reaching Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit. It is among the most popular trekking routes located within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and offers panoramic Himalayan views throughout the trail.
Trek to Madhyamaheshwar Temple
Trek Distance: 16 km (One Way)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highest Altitude: 3,289 m
The Madhyamaheshwar Trek begins from Ransi village and follows forests, bridges and alpine valleys before reaching the ancient Panch Kedar temple. The trail is known for its scenic beauty and impressive views of Chaukhamba Peak.
Trek to Kalpeshwar Temple
Trek Distance: 11 km (Approx.)
Difficulty: Easy
Highest Altitude: 2,134 m
Kalpeshwar Trek starts near Helang and passes through the beautiful Urgam Valley before reaching the only Panch Kedar temple that remains open throughout the year. The trail is short, scenic and suitable for beginners.
Sari Village to Devariyatal Trek
Trek Distance: 2.5 km from Sari Village
Difficulty: Easy
Highest Altitude: 2,438 m
The Deoria Tal Trek is one of the easiest treks near Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. The trail begins from Sari Village and leads to a beautiful high-altitude lake known for its reflections of Chaukhamba Peak and peaceful camping surroundings.
Trek to Anusuya Devi mandir/Atri muni ashram trek
Trek Distance: 5 km from Mandal Village
Difficulty: Easy
Highest Altitude: Approx. 2,200 m
The trek to Anusuya Devi Temple passes through dense forests inside the sanctuary and is popular among pilgrims as well as nature lovers. Those wishing to visit Atri Muni Ashram can continue another 2 km beyond the temple.
Best Time for Trekking in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
The trekking season generally extends from May to June and September to November when weather conditions remain favourable. During monsoon, some trails may become slippery due to rainfall, while higher trekking routes receive heavy snowfall in winter.
- May to June: Pleasant weather with clear mountain views.
- September to November: Best post-monsoon trekking season.
- December to April: Heavy snowfall on higher trekking routes.
Trekking Tips
- Carry proper trekking shoes with good grip.
- Pack warm clothing irrespective of season.
- Start early to avoid afternoon weather changes.
- Carry sufficient drinking water and snacks.
- Avoid littering inside the wildlife sanctuary.
- Follow Forest Department guidelines on designated trekking routes.
Rudranath Temple Trek
Trek Distance: 20 km from Sagar Village
Difficulty: Difficult
Highest Altitude: 3,600 m
Rudranath is one of the toughest Panch Kedar treks and passes through forests, alpine meadows and high mountain ridges. The trek rewards visitors with magnificent views of Nanda Devi, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks before reaching the sacred temple.
