The Kedarkantha Trek from Mumbai is easy to plan if you first reach Dehradun and then travel by road to Sankri, the base village of the trek. Once you know this route, the rest of your journey becomes simple. Planning a Himalayan trek from Mumbai may feel confusing at first. Should you take a train or a flight? How many days should you keep? What is the easiest route? These are the questions almost every first-time trekker asks.
We have guided many trekkers through this journey. One thing we always tell them is simple. Plan your travel as carefully as your trek. A smooth journey helps you reach the mountains fresh and ready to enjoy the experience.
Why the Kedarkantha Trek from Mumbai Needs Good Planning
The total journey from Mumbai to Sankri is about 1,900 km, depending on the route you choose. It is a long trip, but thousands of trekkers from Mumbai make it every winter. The journey has two parts. First, you travel from Mumbai to Dehradun by train or flight. Then you drive about 190 to 200 km to Sankri, the base village of the trek. Once you reach Sankri, the real adventure begins.
The road from Dehradun to Sankri is one of the best parts of the trip. You pass rivers, pine forests, small mountain villages, and beautiful valleys. As you leave the city behind, the air feels cooler and the mountains slowly come into view.
Read our guide on: road trip to Kedarkantha
Mumbai to Kedarkantha Trek Travel Route
Your journey usually follows this route:
- Mumbai to Dehradun by train or flight
- Dehradun to Sankri by shared taxi, private cab, or trek vehicle
- Sankri to Kedarkantha on foot
Most trekking companies ask trekkers to report in Dehradun before travelling together to Sankri. This makes the journey easier, especially if it is your first Himalayan trek.
Best Way to Reach Kedarkantha from Mumbai
You have two easy travel options.
Option 1: Flight from Mumbai
Flying is the fastest way to begin your journey. Depending on the airline and season, you may get a direct flight or a connecting flight to Dehradun. Flight schedules change, so it is always best to check the latest availability before booking.
After landing at Jolly Grant Airport, you still need to travel about 210 to 220 km by road to Sankri. The drive usually takes 8 to 10 hours.
If your flight reaches Dehradun late in the evening, stay one night in the city. Start your drive to Sankri early the next morning. It is safer and much more comfortable. This option is best if you have limited leave from work or college.
Option 2: Train from Mumbai
Many trekkers choose the train because it is budget-friendly and comfortable. One popular option is the Dehradun Express (19019). Depending on your travel date, you may also find trains that connect through Delhi. Train schedules can change, so always check the latest timetable before booking.
The journey usually takes 28 to 35 hours, depending on your train and route. If you enjoy long train journeys and want to save money, this is a good choice.
Popular Train Options
Many trekkers use one of these routes:
- Dehradun Express (19019) from Mumbai (check the latest schedule before booking)
- Mumbai to New Delhi, then another train to Dehradun
- Mumbai to Hazrat Nizamuddin, then onward to Dehradun
Booking your tickets early gives you more choices, especially during the busy winter trekking season.
Road Journey from Dehradun to Sankri
After reaching Dehradun, you still have one more journey before the trek begins. The drive to Sankri is around 190 to 200 km and usually takes 8 to 10 hours. The road passes through Mussoorie, Purola, Mori, rivers, pine forests, and several small Himalayan villages.
The roads become narrow as you get closer to Sankri. That is normal in the mountains, so keep enough time in your travel plan.
Many trekkers say this drive is one of the most beautiful parts of the whole journey. If you are joining an organised group, go Dehradun pickup point for Kedarkantha Trek before your travel day.
Do You Need a Permit?
Yes. Every trekker needs to pay a forest entry fee because the Kedarkantha Trek passes through Govind Pashu Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary. If you book your trek with a trekking company, they usually arrange the permit for you. If you are trekking on your own, you can get the permit in Sankri before entering the forest. Carry a valid government ID because it may be needed during registration.
How Many Days Should You Keep?
Many people only count the trekking days. That often leads to rushed travel and unnecessary stress.
A comfortable plan looks like this:
- Day 1: Mumbai to Dehradun
- Day 2: Dehradun to Sankri
- Day 3: Trek to Juda Ka Talab
- Day 4: Trek to Kedarkantha Base Camp
- Day 5: Summit climb and return
- Day 6: Trek back to Sankri
- Day 7: Return to Dehradun
- Day 8: Travel back to Mumbai
Approximate Travel Cost from Mumbai
Your total cost depends on how you travel.
Travel Item | Approximate Cost |
Flight (one way) | ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 |
Train (one way) | ₹800 to ₹3,500 |
Dehradun to Sankri shared taxi | ₹700 to ₹1,000 |
Private taxi | ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 |
Kedarkantha trek package | ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 |
Booking your tickets early often helps you save money. For a complete budget breakdown, read our guide on Kedarkantha Trek cost.
