Dreaming of snowy peaks and mountain magic, I, Madhumita, embarked on a thrilling solo adventure – a 3-day Kedarkantha trek to welcome the New Year amidst the majestic Himalayas. Join me as I recount the challenges, camaraderie, and breathtaking beauty of this unforgettable journey!
Dehradun Delights
My adventure began in Dehradun, a scenic valley town. After a smooth journey from Bangalore (flights + train – ₹10,633), I settled into GoStop, a cozy hostel with stunning mountain views. A bonfire under the chilly night sky and a delicious meal set the perfect tone for the trek ahead.
Gearing Up and City Exploring
Day two was dedicated to trekking essentials. A visit to Decathlon and a medical certificate ensured I was well-equipped. Exploring Dehradun by private cab (₹1,500 – due to hostel location) was a delightful prelude to the wilderness. The evening, however, brought a slight disappointment – GoStop’s dinner fell short of expectations.
Meeting the “Jadugars”
An early checkout led me to Dehradun’s pickup point, where my trekking team of 14 fellow adventurers from across India awaited. As we embarked on our journey towards Sankri, scenic vistas unfolded before us. A picturesque riverside stop for dinner and trekking instructions marked the official start of our adventure. Introductions complete, we christened ourselves the “Jadugars” (Hindi for magicians) – ready to conquer the mountains!
Juda Ka Talab’s Enchantment
Day four saw our first steps on the Kedarkantha trail. As newbies, we embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. A tea break with refreshing Maggi was a welcome respite during the initial rain showers. The rain soon transformed into magical snowfall, filling our hearts with excitement. Reaching Juda Ka Talab, a frozen lake shimmering like a precious stone, by 5:30 pm, we set up camp. That evening, amidst shared meals, songs, and a crackling bonfire, memories were made.
Summiting Kedarkantha & New Year’s Eve Revelry
An early wake-up call revealed a mesmerizing sight – Juda Ka Talab, frozen solid. After breakfast, we embarked on the climb to Kedarkantha base camp, reaching by 2 pm. A well-deserved rest was followed by a breathtaking sunset and a celebratory New Year’s Eve feast – complete with fried momos, a bonfire, and lively music.
Conquering the Peak & Farewell to the Jadugars
Determined to reach the summit, we woke up at 1:30 am for the final push. The sunrise from the peak of Kedarkantha was a sight beyond words – a panorama of snow-capped mountains bathed in golden hues. Our descent led us back to Sankri for lunch, followed by a bittersweet farewell to the “Jadugars” as we started our return journey to Dehradun. Back in the city, promises of future adventures filled the air.
Dehradun and Back to Bangalore
A relaxing hot shower at a Dehradun hotel marked the end of the trek. The next day, I caught a train to Delhi and then a flight back to Bangalore, concluding my incredible 7-day Himalayan adventure.
Expense Breakdown (approx., excluding personal expenses):
- Travel (Bangalore – Delhi – Dehradun): ₹3,875
- Dehradun Accommodation & Food: ₹4,900
- Trekking Package (Trekkerofindia): ₹6,500
- Trekking Essentials: ₹2,000
- Dehradun Local Transport: ₹1,500
- Sankri Food & Miscellaneous: ₹1,500
- Travel (Dehradun – Delhi – Bangalore): ₹3,000
- Total: ₹23,275
The Kedarkantha trek was an experience that pushed my limits, fostered camaraderie, and left me breathless with its beauty. The challenges were outweighed by the thrill of conquering the peak and the joy of connecting with nature and fellow adventurers.
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