KEDAR TAL TREK
Altitude
15,500 ft (4,725 m)
Duration
7 Days
Difficulty
Difficult
TREK OVERVIEW & QUICK FACTS
About KEDAR TAL TREK
Kedar Tal (4,750m), also known as Shiva's Lake, is a mesmerizing emerald-blue glacial lake nestled in the high-altitude wilderness above the holy town of Gangotri. Surrounded by a fortress of imposing 6000-meter peaks, this trek is a challenging and raw alpine journey designed for seasoned trekkers seeking pure mountain solitude.
The trek begins with a steep, relentless ascent right out of Gangotri, climbing high above the roaring Bhagirathi river gorge. The trail navigates through rugged birch forests and narrow cliff-side paths before opening into the high-altitude meadow of Bhoj Kharak.
As you advance towards Kedar Kharak, the terrain becomes increasingly dramatic. Trekkers walk alongside rushing glacial torrents and cross challenging rockfall sections, often spotting herds of wild Himalayan Bharal (blue sheep) grazing effortlessly on the vertical cliffs.
The final climb to Kedar Tal involves negotiating a steep, chaotic maze of glacial boulders and loose terminal moraine. Cresting the final ridge reveals the stunning glass-like waters of the lake, perfectly mirroring the sheer vertical granite north face of Mt. Thalay Sagar (6,904m).
Standing beside Kedar Tal, surrounded by Thalay Sagar, Bhrigupanth, and Jogin peaks, is a humbling encounter with the raw power of nature. It is a tough, physically demanding trek that rewards the persistent with one of the most magnificent amphitheaters in the Himalayas.
Technical Rigor & Safety
Challenging trekking rigor. Demands negotiating steep rocky trails, crossing unstable boulder moraines, and acclimatizing to high altitudes above 4,700m.
Led by certified mountaineering instructors equipped with medical oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters, high-altitude first aid kits, and emergency mountain communication gear.
SHIVA'S GLACIAL TARN
“An emerald mirror reflecting the fierce verticality of Mt. Thalaysagar.”
TREK ITINERARY
Drive Dehradun to Gangotri Base Camp
Acclimatization Day at Gangotri
Trek Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak Campsite
Trek Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak Base Camp
Trek Kedar Kharak to Kedartal Glacial Lake & Return to Kedar Kharak
Descent Trek Kedar Kharak to Gangotri
Drive Gangotri to Dehradun
May to Jun, Sep to Oct (Glacial Lake Windows)
FREE CANCELLATION UP TO 30 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE
May to Jun, Sep to Oct (Glacial Lake Windows)
FREE CANCELLATION UP TO 30 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS & ESSENTIAL GEAR
Climate & Alpine Zone
Physical Preparation
Terrain Profile
THINGS TO CARRY (ESSENTIAL GEAR)
Technical Mountaineering Hardware Required
This trek requires specialized hardware: Helmets.
Stiff Trekking Boots
Mandatory standard item listed specifically for KEDAR TAL TREK based on authentic mountain conditions.
Helmets
Mandatory standard item listed specifically for KEDAR TAL TREK based on authentic mountain conditions.
Down Parka
Mandatory standard item listed specifically for KEDAR TAL TREK based on authentic mountain conditions.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ADVENTURE?
Physical Endurance & Cardio Benchmark
Elite fitness required. Must be able to run 5 km in under 25 minutes consistently. Core conditioning and lower body strength training (squats, lunges, weighted step-ups) for 8 weeks prior is mandatory.
Prior Himalayan Trekking Experience
Mandatory prior completion of at least two high-altitude Himalayan treks above 4,500m (14,800 ft) or basic mountaineering course (BMC) certification. Must be comfortable on scree and snow.
Age Limits & Medical Clearances
Minimum age 18 years up to 50 years. Trekkers must submit a signed medical fitness clearance from a certified physician confirming healthy cardiac, respiratory, and blood pressure profile.
Alpine Acclimatization & Adaptability
Preparedness for extreme sub-zero temperatures (-15°C to -25°C), low oxygen saturation (50-60% of sea level), technical glacier navigation, and multi-day expedition tent camping.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Accommodation
High-grade 4-season alpine expedition tents (twin/triple sharing) and guesthouses/homestays at base camp.
Nutritious Mountain Meals
All hot, hygienic vegetarian and egg meals from base camp to base camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner).
Professional Expedition Team
IFMGA/NIM certified lead mountain guides, experienced local co-guides, camp cooks, and support staff.
Safety & Emergency Hardware
Medical oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters, blood pressure monitor, and specialized altitude first aid kit.
Permits & Camping Charges
All mandatory forest department permits, national park entry fees, and camping ground tolls.
Group Camping Gear
Dining tents, sleeping bags rated to -15°C/-25°C, thick foam camping mattresses, and toilet tents.
TEAM SAFETY EQUIPMENT PROVIDED
Available at all high altitude camps for immediate emergency oxygen administration.
Twice-daily blood oxygen saturation and resting pulse rate diagnostics by leads.
Equipped with Diamox, Dexamethasone, HAPE/HACE emergency medicines, and splints.
Direct communication line between forward scout guides, sweep leads, and base camp.
Aerodynamic geodesic storm tents tested to withstand blizzard winds and severe frost.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (KEDAR TAL TREK)
The approach from Kedar Kharak to Kedar Tal involves crossing unstable, steep lateral moraine where boulders shift underfoot. Furthermore, the steep 1,700m elevation gain over just 18 km demands exceptional leg strength and balance.
Have a Specific Question about KEDAR TAL TREK?
Every expedition has unique terrain, acclimatization schedules, and weather challenges. Connect directly with our high-altitude lead desk.
Ask Expedition LeadA GLIMPSE OF THE TOP
SUMMIT VISTAS
Witness the world from the roof of the planet. A journey beyond the ordinary, through desolation, zero degrees, and spirit.
