Trek to a lakeside hill near South Bangalore

TREK DIFFICULTY

TREK DURATION

PICK-UP POINT

AGE LIMIT

Bananthimari Betta is a part of the lush Bananthimari Reserve Forest, 60 kilometres off Bangalore, near Kanakpura. In Kannada, Bananthi means ‘she, who is just borne with a child’ and Mari means ‘goddess.’ Women and families who are unable to bear children, come to the Bananthimari Temple which is located at the base of the hillock. To the locals, these twin hillocks are better known as Karadi Betta (Karadi - Bear, Betta - Hill).

The hillocks, mainly known to the locals, are relatively lesser known to the trekking world. The trek to the summit is a picturesque landscape through ancient lakes, lush forests and boulders, dating back to more than 50 million years. 

The path leading to the base of the hill crosses through villages and small settlements with farms growing vegetables and grains. You may even be greeted by the friendly village folk and their cattle on the way to the temple!

The Bananthimari Betta trek offers diverse landscapes, an experience catered to beginners as well as seasoned trekkers. Throughout the trail, you will witness a variety of bird, insect and plant species, making it one of the most gorgeous trails around Bangalore. 

Bananthimari Betta - Complete Trek Information 

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Bananthimari Betta trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Don’t miss the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section at the end. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

- You will be staying in tents overnight.

- Carry own cutlery : 1 tiffin box, tumbler (or just plate and cup if not planning to pack food for the trek)

1. This trek could either be very warm or cool and rainy, depending on the weather. Plan your gear according to the weather forecast. On sunny days, ensure you have a sun cap and wear full-sleeved t-shirts. In the event of rain, don't forget your rainwear. 

2. Start your drive well in advance so that you reach the campus on time. Factor in any traffic jams you may face in and around Bangalore. 

The Bananthimari Betta Trek can be divided into three sections.

Walk from Bananthimari Temple to First view point

A gentle ascent from the first view point to the second view point.

Trek from the second-view point to the peak.

Section I: Bananthimari Temple to First view Point.

The Bananthimari Amma Temple, located at the base of the hill, serves as the starting point for the trek. This temple is dedicated to Bananthimari Amma, a local goddess believed to bestow fertility. You might come across some locals performing pooja, or aarthi, at the temple.

Upon arriving at the temple, you can park your vehicle and commence your trek. The trail is well laid out with mostly eucaliptus and bamboo trees.

Another alternate start of the trek would be from Bananthimari Lake, which is located 300 meters before the temple, just beside the road. The lake, surrounded by rocky outcrops and eucalyptus trees, is itself a sight to behold. Once you start the trek, continue along the road to the temple. Watch out for various species of birds that flock to the lake for their feed.

After walking approximately 200 meters from the temple, you'll come across a pond on your right. Watch out for the reflection of the surrounding hillocks on the water.

Continue for another 70 meters, and you'll notice a path to your left. Opt for the left path. The path will lead you to a bunch of huge rocks and boulders. A few of these boulders look like caves. The whole section is filled with bamboo trees. We dont get such sections on other treks around Bangalore. Trekking on this path does not feel like a regular trek around Bangalore. The path is well laid out, with a few arrow marks to guide you.

After a steep ascent through the forest filled with boulders for about 10 minutes, you'll arrive at the first viewpoint. The place is a small clearing with views of the surrounding lakes. Watch out for various patterns on the rocks formed by millions of years of erosion and weathering.

Section 2: First View Point to Second View Point

Take a brief pause and then proceed along the trail until you arrive at the boulder section from the forest section. You'll need to maneuver your way through the boulders for about 10 minutes, which will lead you to the second viewpoint. The view point is filled with fallen rocks and cairns This vantage point provides a stunning perspective where you can view the nearby lakes and the rocky formations in the surroundings. The climb on the boulder can get tricky during the rainy season.

An ascent of 150 meters will lead you to flat land. It's worth noting that the clearing isn't a small, typical viewpoint; instead, it's a relatively spacious area. Take the time to explore the place, and in the far corner, you'll come across a rocky outcrop that marks the highest point.

Continue your walk along the clearing to the highest point. After walking for 5 minutes and a short descent of 10 meters, you will reach a small bamboo trail where you can take a break. Observe the silence, except for the occasional crawling of lizards or insects on the dry leaves scattered on the forest floor. Cross the section to reach a second boulder section with a short but steep ascent.

During the climb, you will feel like you have reached the summit. But once you reach the top, you will realize that the actual summit is another 50 meters away. Once you reach the peak, you will see a structure made of rocks.

From this elevated position, you'll have a panoramic view of tiny villages to your right, while to your left, you can admire the Bananthimari Reserve Forest. The surrounding peaks of Kabbala Durga and Bheemana Kindi are also visible. 

Even during the coldest months of December, January, and February this region is fairly hot, hitting temperatures of around 25 - 28° C during the day. 

The nights are pleasant at around 15 – 22° C. 

You would only need one jacket and a poncho for early mornings or in case of rain. 

➤ Best Time to do the Bananthimari Betta Trek

The best time to do the Bananthimari Betta Trek would be between the months of September to February. The months of post-monsoon are the best time to do the trek since you have a lot of greenery even surrounding Bananthimari Betta. The trek also comes out alive with small sections having water trickling down the rocky terrain.

The winter months are also very pleasant and a good time to experience the trek. 

The peak of the monsoon season is not recommended due to the rocks being extremely slippery. During this season, you need to keep an eye on the weather and then take the call.

This trek can be done even during the summer season. However an early morning trek is recommended. So that you will be able to return to the base by around 10.30 AM. Afternoon heat during summers, may be intense and may hamper the trek experience. Please use a cap or a hat (preferably with flaps), if you will be trekking here in the summer season. 

Given that this is just a one-night weekend outdoor program, with very comfortable weather, we advise you to travel light.

Here’s a list of things you must bring along with you: 

A 20L backpack – A small comfortable backpack will suffice.

2 t-shirts – Expect to get sweaty, you will need a change of clothes after your trek

An extra pair of trekking pants – Avoid shorts at all costs, there are thorns along all the trails.

Shoes with good grip – Even sports shoes will work, as long as they have a good grip

2 light single sheets to lie on and cover yourself with in the tent.

After the forest section, the trail is exposed, with very little tree cover, make sure you cover yourself well while trekking. Carry a full-sleeve t-shirt/shirt and full trekking pants for this trek.  

Keep a pair of sandals to walk around the campsite. 

Our Indiahikes Kanakpura campus is a zero-waste campus. This means, it is a dustbin-free zone, so you will not be able to dispose of any of your waste on the campus. 

Eligibility Criteria For The Indiahikes Kanakpura Campus Trek

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However, trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with a few commitments from your end. Here are our eligibility criteria.

Bananthimari Betta Bananthi Bananthi Mari Betta Mari Betta Kanakapura trek bananti mari karadi betta BNM BBT

We have an expert team of Trek Advisors to help you choose the right trek. So if you have questions like, "Can I do this trek?" or "Who else is trekking?", please get in touch.

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

SUITABLE FOR

The Kedartal trek is for lovers of adventure. It is for those trekkers who have done a considerable amount of Himalayan treks and now want to push themselves. It is a difficult trek, with a truly magical experience to give in return for all the effort. 

The trek climbs to the glacial Kedartal lake, sitting amid a cauldron of big mountains.  Famous mountains of our country rise in front of you in this cauldron – Mt Thalaysagar, Mt Bhrigupanth, Manda Parvat, Mt Jogin, and Mt Gangotri.  You camp in the shadow of the mighty Mt Thalaysagar and Mt Bhrigupanth. 

Very few treks bring you so close to such big mountains. And fewer still allow you to spend so much time in their proximity. The closest we can think of is Goechala, and that is a big statement to make.

The trail is also extremely remote. There is no human habitation at this altitude. And you find very few trekking groups on this trail. This solitude, when seen in comparison to a lot of other unfortunately crowded trails, is a blessing.

The trail, however, has a lot of challenges.  You start the trek at around 11,000 ft and climb to over 16,000 ft. This altitude gain happens in 3-4 days. Climbing boulders, and navigating steep ascents and descents on tricky terrain becomes infinitely more challenging when you are also trying to catch your breath. This needs sufficient physical and mental preparation.

This preparation and hard trekking are rewarded amply on this trek – there are lovely bhoj forests, vast high altitude meadows and then there is the indescribable serenity of the Kedartal lake.  You complete the trek having a very high feeling of accomplishment.

Before we begin, here are some quick facts about the Kedartal trek:

The Kedartal Trek lies in the state of Uttarakhand. It begins and ends at the pilgrim town of Gangotri. It is approx. 30 km trek hiked over 4 days (7 days including a drive to and from the trek, and an acclimatization day) in the Himalayas. It is a difficult trek (more on this ahead on this page) that should be attempted only by experienced trekkers.

It lies in the Greater Himalayas and is known for its brilliant big mountain views of peaks like Mt Thalay Sagar, Mt Bhrigupanth, Manda Parvat, Mt Jogin and Mt Gangotri.

Includes everything from base camp to base camp.

Please note: The insurance has to be claimed within 7 days from the specific incident for it to be deemed valid.

Get to know what is included in your trek fee here

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Kedartal trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Watch these videos to prepare for your Kedartal trek

Study this map to get a visual cue of the Kedartal trek.

You will be staying in tents on all days of the trek.

Trekkers must carry a copy of their photo ID for entry at forest check posts on the trek. 

While getting to Gangotri, we recommend you arrive a day earlier and stay at Dehradun (Day zero). Our vehicles can pick you up at Hotel Grand Legacy Dehradun (on Day 1). Staying at Dehradun gives you a well-deserved rest for the night. Plus some bonus sightseeing.

Indiahikes organises transport from Dehradun to Gangotri. The pick-up is at 6.00 am from Hotel Grand Legacy Dehradun. The cab fare is Rs 9,000 for an SUV and Rs 14,000 for a Tempo Traveller (seats 10-12). This is not included in the trek fee. It is to be shared amongst trekkers and paid directly to the driver. 

You will reach Gangotri at around 5.00 pm. The trek begins at Gangotri the next morning.

On your return from the trek, you can get off at Mussoorie. If you do not want to get off at Mussoorie, the final stop of the vehicle is at the Hotel Grand Legacy Dehradun. You reach Dehradun between 6.00 and 7.00 pm. 

Indiahikes organises transport from Gangotri to Dehradun. The cab fare is Rs 8,000 for an SUV and Rs 14,000 for a Tempo Traveller (seats 10-12). This is to be shared by trekkers and paid to the driver directly. You will reach Dehradun by 6.00 pm. 

If you are travelling further from Dehradun, keep a couple of hours as buffer time in case of delay. Book your further travel from Dehradun post 8.00 pm. If you are travelling to Delhi, you can choose to go back by Mussoorie Express or Nanda Devi Express.

Arjun Majumdar, the Founder of Indiahikes, went on this exploratory trek almost a decade ago. He is a veteran of the trekking community in India. He’s an expert when it comes to the trek. Here’s Arjun talking about one of The Best Trek For Summit Views countries.

What I Like and Don't Like About the Kedartal Trek

We rate the Kedartal trek as “difficult”. There are three reasons why the Kedartal is considered difficult.

At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider several factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.

When it comes to Kedartal, here are the factors why we rate it as a difficult trek.

| Note:  In the Indiahikes Kedartal itinerary, we have an added acclimatization day at Gangotri to avoid this risk.

Knowing what difficulty you will face each day will be helpful in your preparation- 

On your way from Gangotri to Bhoj Kharak, the trail tests your body, as the whole trail is a steep ascent. You gain over 3,500 ft of altitude this day alone. 

On top of this ascent, you cross landslide zones, crawl under a boulder with bagpack on and finally climbing near vertical spider wall 6-7 metres tall. Rain anytime on the trek makes the rocks slippery, adding a level of difficulty here. 
From Bhojkharak to Kedar kharak, there's only one challenging section, which is 700 to 800 meters long. This section includes both a landslide zone and a rockfall zone. Initially, you have to descend to the river, which will be tough due to loose soil and rocks. Then, you'll walk alongside the river, where the path is narrow, and the river flows heavily. After that, you have to ascend through loose rocks, sometimes on a narrow path suitable for only one foot. Throughout this 800-meter section, there's a risk of rockfall, so you can't stop for a break.

And on the way from Kedar Kharak to Kedartal, you walk through multiple boulder sections, which are more challenging in the early morning when there's frost on the boulders, making them slippery and difficult to cross.

While on one side you have a big boulder, on the other side you have a steep drop, with the river flowing at the bottom. Navigating these sections requires sure-footedness and measured footsteps. This comes in only with prior experience. (Read more here – Safety on Kedartal Trek – Terrain).

Since Kedartal is a difficult trek, at Indiahikes, we have set up different processes to register for the trek. This is to ensure your safety as well as the rest of the team.

Prior approval from Indiahikes’ Trek Coordinators is a must for this trek. Once you register for Kedartal, the Trek Coordinator will get in touch with a questionnaire to be filled and guide you through the process.

The mandatory requirements for the trek are prior trek experience in the Himalayas (preferably above 14,000 ft) and good physical fitness (you must be able to cover 5 km in 35 minutes. To know how to get fit for Kedartal, click here).

Yes, it is safe to trek to Kedartal, but with adequate experience and technical know-how.  This is important because the Kedartal trek is rated as difficult, with challenging steep sections set at very high altitudes. So, it is not a trek to be taken lightly.

You need to be physically fit. Prior experience of trekking in the Himalayas helps in being mentally prepared for a difficult high altitude trek like Kedartal.

Also, it is not a trek that you can do by yourself. You need a guide, who is technically skilled and is prepared with equipment like ropes, helmets, and harnesses, for this trek. You might need these for the spider wall section on Day 2 of the trek. There is also a rockfall section from Bhoj Kharak to Kedar Kharak where technical skills help.

These sections must be done only with the help of technical safety equipment and a competent technical safety team. Do not attempt this without the necessary technical assistance.

At Indiahikes, while rating a trek difficulty we consider several factors. These include altitude gained every day, length of a trek every day, highest altitude, nature of the terrain, weather etc. Based on this we rate a trek as easy or difficult or somewhere in between.

Summer is the most popular time to do the Kedartal trek as a big attraction in early summers is to find the Kedartal lake completely frozen. This is a rare sight. You don’t get to see a frozen lake right in the middle of huge mountains.

In contrast, the view of Mt Thalaysagar and Mt Bhrigunath with the blue sky and snow-capped mountains is exceptional!

Another big attraction at this time is the presence of snow on the trail. In May, you’ll find a good amount of snow after Kedar Kharak on the way to the summit. You will also find patches of snow before you reach Kedar Kharak, especially in the shadows of the mountains, patches where direct sunlight cannot reach.

While the presence of snow makes the trek challenging, it also adds an extra dose of adventure to the trek.

But here’s something you must keep in mind while trekking to Kedartal in summer – the months of May-June are susceptible to bad weather. Remember that the trek lies in the lap of the Greater Himalayas, and at such altitude, you can expect it to snow even in summer.

When it snows the campsites turn completely white. The white powdery snow glistens in the summer sun. It is something to watch out for.

Look how the Kedar Kharak campsite looks when it snows in the summer.

By the end of June, the arrival of monsoons is imminent. This makes the trail prone to landslides and rockfalls. The trek becomes a risky proposition to undertake.

Therefore, at Indiahikes, we wind up the summer season by June.

Rain/Snow in summer: The weather is quite unpredictable and volatile during the summers. The weather changes unannounced and it could abruptly start raining or even snowing.

Day Temperature: The day temperatures are pleasant at an average of 15 – 20 °C | Night Temperature: Nights can get cold, with the mercury dropping close to zero degrees. When it rains or snows, expect the daytime temperature to drop below 10 °C.

Number of warm layers recommended in Summer: 3-4 warm layers

The setting shifts radically if you happen to trek to Kedartal in autumn. In September-October, the summer haze and clouds clear up to reveal brilliant mountain views.

After the monsoon, when the sky shakes off all the clouds and becomes squeaky clean, you see the best views of the mountains around. And there are many mountains to look at.

Being in the Gangotri region, this trail is surrounded by big mountains in all directions. Getting to see these mountains from such close quarters against the backdrop of a clear sky brings tears to many trekkers’ eyes.

Even the views can’t get any better than at the summit. The lake now completely still looks a shade of blue or emerald green depending on the weather. When the water is still you’ll see a complete reflection of mighty Mt. Thalaysagar reflecting in its blue-green waters.

Another thing to watch out for during autumn is the snow plumes. When heavy winds blow at the top of the mountain, the snow is dispersed in the air to form a shape resembling a plume on a hat. Hence the name snow plumes.

Although the trek is quite desolate, the little bit of vegetation does add colour to the trail. The silver birch trees turn a golden shade of yellow, while the trunk shines in the bright autumn sun.

Kedar Kharak campsite is one such campsite. Pause here to experience this riot of colours. The shrubs on the sides of the mountains also turn into autumn colours of yellow, brown and maroon.

It’s also the time you’ll see the mountain goats – the Bharal. Though this is their natural habitat, it is rare to see them. The probability of sighting them is higher in autumn. Keep an eye out along the sides of the mountains feeding on the shrubs. Keep your fingers crossed too.

An important thing to note during the autumn season is the lack of reliable water sources on the trail. Water sources en route tend to dry up. Therefore always leave camp with 2-3 litres of water.

From October, any precipitation comes down as snowfall in the higher camps. When it snows, expect 3-4 inches of snow. The initial bouts of snow tend to melt away in the sun. By the end of October, the cold increases manifold, water sources freeze and trekking becomes untenable.

Day Temperature: Days can be quite warm with temperatures going as high as 20 °C | Night Temperature: The evenings at the campsite can get cold. Don’t be surprised if the temperatures fall below zero at night. Expect the overall temperatures to fall by 3-5 °C every couple of weeks as the season progresses.

Kedartal in Autumn (mid-September to mid-October)

Number of warm layers recommended in Summer: 4-5 warm layers

Carry these medicines with you, easily accessible at all times. Do not take any medicine unless you have consulted your trek leader. 

Diamox (1 Strip): Be on a course of a half tablet of Diamox starting from Delhi every 12 hours (125 mg). Carry on the medication until you descend on the last day. Being on a preventive course of Diamox greatly reduces the chances of Acute Mountain Sickness on the Kedartal trek.   

Dolo 650 (5 tablets): This is a paracetamol. It helps to tackle fever, mild pain

Avomine (4 tablets): Carry this especially if you are prone to motion sickness. Pop one-half hour before the start of your road journey.

Combiflam (5 tablets): Take a combiflam if you get a sudden twist of the leg or a muscle strain. It is a pain reliever. It also contains paracetamol. 

Digene (4 tablets): Take it if you feel the food that you’ve taken is undigested. Alert your trek leader immediately. It could be a sign of AMS. 

ORS (6 packs): Consume a pack of ORS water at least once a day, usually mid-day when you are in the middle of your trek. It replenishes essential salts lost while trekking.  Tip: It also makes cold water easier to drink.

Knee Brace (optional): Carry this if you are prone to knee injury or have known issues of knee pain.

Our trek leaders carry a high altitude medical kit with them which also consist of Life Saving Drugs. If there is an emergency our trek leaders know how to tackle it. Meanwhile, contact your trek leader before consuming any of these medicines listed here.
| Pro tip: We find that these medicines by trekkers are rarely used. But you cannot do away with them. At the end of the trek please donate unused medicines to your trek leader. Some of these medicines get distributed to villages on the trek and some are added to the Indiahikes medical kit.   

Given below is a list of all the gear you need for the Kedartal trek:

If you don’t have certain items, you can rent high-quality gear like trekking shoes, backpacks, and jackets from the Crosstrek Rental Store by Indiahikes. It costs less than Rs 2000 for the entire trek. We highly recommend renting gear since it is both more affordable and environmentally friendly. 

Additionally, you’ll notice a small medical kit in the list. While our trek leaders carry medical kits with 17 medicines including life-saving drugs, you must bring your personal medical kit as well. We are already equipped with BP machines, oximeters and canned oxygen, but your medical kit is for quick access to you, especially while travelling.

Most importantly, you must digitally upload and carry mandatory documents to get government permits for the trek - your ID card, medical certificate, and disclaimer certificate. Keep them in a plastic bag to keep them safe in your backpack. There are no printing or photocopy facilities at the basecamp.

Here is a list of everything you need for your trek.

Trekking shoes with ankle support (Available on rent)

Backpack with rain cover (Available on rent)

Warm layers (Padded jackets available on rent)
- 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
- 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)

3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)

2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Sun cap, preferably with flaps (Available for purchase)

Waterproof gloves (Available for purchase)

Woollen socks (2 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)

Rain jacket + pants / poncho (Poncho is available on rent)

Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)

Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)

Steel lunch box, spoon and a coffee mug (Lunch box is available on rent)

Two water bottles or Hydration Pack (Water bottles are available on rent)

Once you run through this list, don't miss this ultimate guide on what gear to take on a trek. It contains tips on what gear to choose, where to get it from and how much to spend on it.

Our only tip: Keep your backpack light. Indiahikes practices low impact sustainable trekking in every aspect of the trek. Carrying your own personal backpack reduces your impact on the mountains by 20%. We expect all our trekkers to carry their own backpacks unless they have a justifiable reason not to.

Keep important documents in a clear plastic cover and slide them into the inner pocket at the back of your backpack. This keeps them from getting wet.  

These are documents required for legal purposes by Indiahikes and the forest department. Without any of these, you will not be allowed to trek.

Original and photocopy of identity card. Anything such as a driver’s license, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required by the forest department for your identification.

1 passport-size photograph. This is required to obtain the trekking permits

Disclaimer certificate: There are two sections in this. The first part is a personal medical record.  The second part is a legal requirement. Download the PDF, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your Trek Leader during registration at the base camp. – Download disclaimer certificate

Medical certificate: The medical certificate needs to be filled out by an MBBS doctor, without which the forest department will not issue permissions for your trek. It is also a requirement by Indiahikes – Download medical certificate

Note: Indiahikes has a panel of doctors who can help you with a medical certificate. They are available for online consultation. To get in touch with them, please write to trekmedicalcertificates@gmail.com. They will respond to you within 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kedartal Trek

Over 20,000 people trek with Indiahikes each year and vouch for our

Click Here For Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.

To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 10 km in under 60 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.

If you cannot run 10 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 4-5 weeks.

Once you’re able to run 2 km, increase your pace day by day. 

Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 10 km in less than 60 mins.

You must be able to run 10 km in 60 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek. 

This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing. 

Here's a complete guide to get you trek fit.

How to get Fitness Approval from the Indiahikes team:

Every trekker needs fitness approval from the Indiahikes team 20 days before the trek date. Without this, you will not be allowed on the trek. 

A minimum of 3 screenshots of your runs/jogs/walks/cycling 

Every high-altitude trek comes with a set of challenges. Steep ascents and descents, uneven terrain, snow walks, stream crossings, pass crossings, and summit climb. Even the easiest of treks have some of these challenges if not all of them. Without fitness, trekkers struggle, get injured easily, lag behind, or simply fail to complete the trek. 

At Indiahikes, we take pride in the fact that our trekkers are among the fittest in the country. Those who do not meet the fitness requirements are often sent back. Our philosophy is that trekking and fitness go hand in hand. Without fitness, there’s no trekking. 

Green Trails is our promise to leave the mountains better. We have removed over 1 lakh kilos of the waste left behind by others on trekking trails. Yet this is a small percentage of what we do. Green Trails dives into reducing the use of resources, reducing our carbon footprint and bringing about a change in the daily practices of our trekkers too. 

Over 20,000 people trek with Indiahikes each year and vouch for our unmatched

safety standards. See what they have to say below. Click to read more.

We go to great lengths to keep you safe on your trek. However,  trekking with the safest organisation in India comes with certain commitments from your end. Here are our eligibility criteria:

Complete information on the Kedartal trek. Trek details, experiences, maps, photos, videos, when to go, what to take, how difficult is the trek etc. 

Kedartal Trek 2024 - A Rare Adventure Among Big Mountains -  Treks In Uttarakhand - Indiahikes

kedratal kedar tal kedaartal kedaartaal ked kedartal tal gangotri kedar kedarta

A legendary and thrilling trek that takes you close to the 3rd highest mountain in the world!

TREK DIFICULTY

There aren’t many treks that let one experience the raw grandeur of a Himalayan pass crossing. Connecting Har Ki Dun valley with Yamunotri, the Bali Pass is an exhilarating trail. Almost an exploration on its own. It traverses the confluence of Tons and Ruinsara rivers, the undisturbed serenity of the Ruinsara Valley and the lush meadows of Devsu Thach. 

Soon, greenery paves way for an alpine zone. At 16,207 ft, the Bali Pass offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Bandarpoonch, Kalanag and Swargarohini peaks. This reward doesn’t come easy, as this trek is difficult and only suitable for experienced trekkers.

This fee includes everything from base camp to base camp.

Please note: The insurance is valid for only 7 days from the day of an incidence. 

Watch these videos to get a glimpse of the trek

Watch these videos to plan and prepare for your trek.

Use this section to learn about the Bali Pass - Ruinsara Tal trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

Study this chart to know how much altitude you would gain/lose every day on the Bali Pass trek.

- It is mandatory for trekkers to carry a copy of their photo ID along with the mandatory documents of the Medical Certificate and Disclaimer form. This is required for trek permissions.

- There are no facilities at Kotgaon. Do not leave this or any other gears till the end.

- The stay at Kotgaon will be on our campus where we have a lodge.

- On the trek, you will be staying 2 in a tent

- We won't have a Cloak Room facility at the base camp for excess luggage. This is because you will be descending to Janakichatti from the Bali pass.

The drive to Kotgaon takes you along the narrow mountain roads along the River Yamuna. Within an hour of driving from Dehradun, you reach Mussoorie. Further ahead, the journey takes you past Mori and Purola. You see beautiful valleys and forest cover throughout the journey. Cross the villages of Nainbagh, Naugaon, Purola, Jarmola, Mori Naitwar, and finally Kotgaon. The 18 km stretch of the dense pine forest after Purola and the drive through the Mori valley alongside River Tons will stay with you for a long time. Do not miss to watch out for them.

The village offers a beautiful view of the sun setting behind the greater Himalayas. The peaks of Swargarohini shimmer in the evening sun, standing tall over the ridges beyond Kotgaon.

The drive back to Dehradun follows the route from Janakachatti. The road goes along River Yamuna. 
You are expected to reach back at Dehradun at around 8 pm. Plan your return journey only after 9 pm on the 9th day to factor in your buffer day.

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