Introduction

Kedar Tal is a clandestine glacial lake tucked in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas. Located at a height of 4,750 meters, the pristine lake puts you in the company of Mt Thalay Sagar (6,904 m), Meru (6,672 m), and Mt Bhrigupanth (6,772 m). On a clear day, one can look at the flawless reflection of the mountains in the emerald-blue lake. 

The snow melting from these mountains feeds the lake waters. It will be the coolest and purest water you will ever taste. Only a handful of treks offer solitude and proximity to high mountain peaks. Kedar Tal is one of them.

Kedar Tal trek begins in Gangotri, the source of the holy river Ganges. A visit to the holy town is an exhilarating experience itself. The religious town is flocked with devotees during the festive season. Watch the evening aarti and have a soul-fulfilling rendezvous with the saffron-clad sadhus in the forests of Tapovan. 

Best Time to Trek

There are two best seasons to venture out to Kedar Tal; May-June and September-October. The trails remain closed during the rest of the year due to bad weather and unfavorable conditions.

May-June is the time when the trails are laden heavily with snow. You may even experience snowfall at the campsite of Kedar Kharak if the weather gets extreme. The frozen emerald-blue lake is a rare sight to witness. The revered peaks of Mt. Thalay Sagar and Mt. Bhrigunath look splendid against the backdrop of the cloudy sky.

The white scenery completely transforms into shades of blue, green, and red in the autumn months of September-October. Instead of snowy trails, you will see vegetation adorning the landscape. The frozen lake thaws completely to reveal the pristine blue waters. The mountains emerge out of hazy clouds, dominating the clear skyline. Witness the unimpeded views of Mt. Thalay Sagar and Mt. Bhrigunath in full glory. 

Difficulty Level

Kedar Tal is a moderately difficult trek because of many reasons. From day one, you will be met with scree, boulders, and rocks on the steep trails. You gain a high altitude of 15,500 ft in a short period, increasing the risk of AMS. If you attempt this trek in May-June, the tricky snowy trails will only add to the challenges.

The infamous spider walls and big boulders are another set of hurdles that makes this trek challenging and strenuous. Only experienced trekkers with four-five Himalayan treks in their kitty should consider doing this trek.