Sankri Village in Uttarakhand: A Hidden Gem of the Himalayas

Hidden in the lap of the Himalayas, away from the noise of the cities, is a quiet small village which has become a dream destination for trekkers across India - Sankri village in Uttarakhand. This small but beautiful hill village is not just a beautiful place. This is the initial point - Base Camp - of the famous Kedarkanha trek.

Whether you are the first time trekker or someone who has conquered many mountains, if Kedarakantha is on your list, you will have to go through a curse first. And trust me, once you reach here, you will be happy that you did it.

Where is Sankri Village?

About 200 km from Dehradun, there is a narrow village of Uttarakhand, located in Uttarkashi district. It is located inside the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park. This village is surrounded by thick forests and huge mountains. The height here is about 1,950 meters, which makes it an ideal acclimatization point before going to high altitude.

The roads and green valleys twist Sankri through green valleys, rivers and forests. By the time you reach the village, you feel that you have entered a different world - calm, calm, and close to nature.

Kedarkantha's entrance

People today know Sankri village in Uttarakhand that this is the biggest reason because it is the official base camp of Kedarkantha Trek. Thousands of trekkers from across the country visit this village every year, especially in the winter season when Kedarkantha is covered in snow and looks directly out of a fairy tale.

When you reach narrow, you will find the village echoing with enthusiasm. Local guides, passengers, porters and trek leaders - everyone is busy preparing for the next batch of trekkers. Nevertheless, with all this activity, the village maintains its peaceful attraction.

Why Kedarkantha Trek Starts From Sankri

There are many reasons why Sankri Village in Uttarakhand is the best base for Kedarkantha:

Last motorable point: The road ends at Sankri. After this, it’s all trekking trails.

Perfect altitude: At 1,950 meters, it helps you adjust to the height before going higher.

Local support: Guides, porters, gear rentals, and permits — everything is arranged from here.

Homestays and food: Trekkers can rest, eat, and prepare here before the 4-day journey to Kedarkantha summit.

From Sankri, the Kedarkantha trail takes you through forests of pine and oak, frozen lakes like Juda Ka Talab, and finally to the summit, which stands tall at around 3,800 meters.

More Than Just a Trekking Base

While Kedarkantha is the star attraction, Sankri Village in Uttarakhand is much more than just a starting point. It’s a complete mountain experience in itself.

Natural Beauty

Surrounded by mountains and dark green forests, Sankri provides postcard-perfect view. When the sun rises behind the peaks suffering from snow, the entire village becomes golden. The air is fresh, birds are chirping, and life slowly moves forward - the way it should be in the mountains.

Peaceful Life

People of Sankri live a simple life. They increase their food, keep animals, and now support trekking activities. Most houses are made of wood, which are accompanied by a sloping roof to handle ice. When you live in a homestay, you just don't get a bed - you get to live with a family, eat what they eat, and listen to the stories of the mountains.

Local Food in Sankri

The food here is simple, healthy, and cooked with love. You can try:

Mandua roti (made from millet)

Kafuli (leafy green curry)

Gahat ki daal (lentils)

Aloo ke gutke (spicy potatoes)

Hot chai by the fire and a plate of warm food after a cold day in the hills — few things feel better.

When to Visit Sankri Village

You can visit Shakuni village in Uttarakhand almost throughout the year in Uttarakhand, but the experience changes with seasons.

March to June: Best Time for Spring and Summer Trek. The forests are alive with flowers.

July to August: It rains, and although green, trekking is risky.

September to November: clear sky and correct weather. Great for beginners.

December to February: Winter wonderland. The Kedarkantha trek is at its best during snow season.

How to Reach Sankri

To go to Sankri village in Uttarakhand, follow this route:

Reach Dehradun (by flight, train, or bus)

From Dehradun, take a shared taxi or bus to a curse (8-10 hours drive)

The road is beautiful but narrow and curved, so keep motion sickness pills when needed

There are no direct trains or flights to Sankri — road travel is the only way in.

Where to Stay in Sankri

Sankri offers a range of basic but comfortable stay options:

Homestays: Best for cultural experience

Guesthouses: Clean and simple, run by locals

Trek camps: If you’re with a group, tents may be provided

There are no luxury hotels here, but the warmth of the people makes up for it.

Travel Tips

Carry cash: No ATMs in Sankri.

Mobile signal: Only BSNL works, and even that is weak.

Pack warm clothes: Even in summer, evenings are cold.

Eco-friendly travel: Don’t litter. Avoid plastic. Respect the local culture.

Final Thoughts

Sankri village in Uttarakhand may look like a small mountain village, but it plays a big role in one of the dear Trek - Kedarkantha trek in India. This is the place where your journey begins where your heart finds peace, and where nature shows its raw beauty.

Whether you are coming for a trek or just to breathe in the mountain air, Sankri is welcome with open hands. Spend one day, probably two, and you will feel that you have found another house.

Therefore, if Kedarkantha is in your bucket list - just do not just do it on the summit. Take your time in Sankri Village in Uttarakhand. It’s not just the beginning of a trek — it’s the beginning of a memory you’ll carry forever.