Kedartal Trek, Mount. Thalaysagar Base Camp

Gangotri – Bhoj Kharak: Trek 8 Kms
Visit the sacred shrine of Gangotri in the morning, also buy all the necessary items from the market. Cross the bridge over Bhagirathi River and start the climb on the right. First few kilometres of the trek are very steep so try to walk with a slow yet constant speed. The trail initially passes through pine trees then enters a mix vegetation zone of fir and bhoj trees. While trekking you’ll see Kedar Ganga flowing on your left, deep down in the gorge. The cascading sound of the furious river and the whispering sound of trees are a treat to ears.

Soon you’ll witness the first glimpse of Thalaysagar and every step will take you closer to this mystical mountain. Just before reaching Bhoj Kharak there is a steep and slant rock amidst the trail with space of just a few steps, it is also known as Spider Wall amongst trekkers. But while it may seem daunting in the pictures, it is not that difficult to traverse this section in the absence of snow. During early June or late October if the rocky face is covered with snow then it will require some skills to cross this section because one slip can drag you to few hundred feets below. Cross this section and you’ll reach Bhoj Kharak.

Situated at the elevation of 3,780mts above sea level Bhoj Kharak is a small and an average looking campsite. If you are fit and managed to reach Bhoj Kharak at around noon then try to push and reach Lower Kedar Kharak on the same day.

Bhoj Kharak – Kedar Kharak: Trek 5 Kms
This 5kms stretch passes through some patches of complicated rugged terrains. After every half an hour into the trek you’ll see a pleasant change in the scenery. Initially it starts with a flora rich trail with numerous Bhojpatra trees and colourful wild bushes around. Soon the view changes with Manda peaks revealing itself.

Stunning views of Bhrigupanth peak will also catch up as you trek nearer to Kedar Kharak. Concentrate on every step while you cross the land sliding zone of Gila Pahar. If this section of Gila Pahar is in very bad shape then try and trek down all the way to Kedar Ganga, cross the river and hike against the river flow until you cross the Gila Pahar intersection then cross the river again and hike back to the original trail that leads to Kedar Kharak.

A wide valley opens up as you proceed towards Lower Kedar Kharak (4100mts) and the trek ends up at the beautiful meadow of Kedar Kharak situated at an elevation of 4,280mts above sea level. Even though this trekking stretch is just 5kms long, it demands good physical strength and endurance from trekkers. But in the end it is a well paid off effort because Kedar Kharak is one of the most beautiful campsites in the Gangotri National Park region. Also, Bharal (Blue Sheep) often visit here for grazing, making it a picture perfect location for photographers. The sight of Bhrigupanth and Thalaysagar peaks standing high together is like a surreal dream.

Kedar Kharak – Kedar Tal – Jogin ABC – Kedar Tal: Trek 10 Km
It takes another 5kms to reach Kedar Tal from Kedar Kharak and most of the route is on moraines and glacier covered with moraines. If trekking in June you might have to trek on snow for last couple of kilometres before Kedartal. Cross the brook carrying icy cold water and climb the steep rocky terrain. Keep following the cairn markings to ensure that you are on the right trail.

After climbing the final ridge, Kedar Bamak Glacier comes in the view along with its glacial lakes. The foot of Mt. Bhrigupanth and Mt. Thalaysagar merges with the Kedar Bamak Glacier. An hour further into the trek reveals a beautiful high altitude lake, the immaculate Kedar Tal. The view of Thalaysagar peak reflecting on the still water of Kedartal is mesmerizing.

Kedar Tal is situated at an altitude of 4780mts above sea level. AMS is quite common at such altitude so it is better to go for an acclimatization hike. Exploring Jogin Advance Base Camp is the best possible option. Leave from Kedartal at around noon and trek towards Jogin ABC (4900mts). This hiking stretch will not only get you well acclimatized but it will also showcase the best views of Thalaysagar peak, its West Ridge will open up and you’ll see the Thalaysagar Icefall from near. Also Jogin group of peaks will reveal itself. Trek back to Kedar Tal. Overnight in tents.