roopkund trek images

• AI Generator

4 Roopkund Trek Stock Photos & High-Res Pictures

Browse 4 roopkund trek photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images..

Roopkund Trek Guide – All that you wanted to know

Treks & hikes , Uttarakhand

Last Updated on: Mar 14, 2023  

We had done Roopkund trek in Uttarakhand in 2013. At that time, the mountains and meadows were pristine. Presently, as per Uttarakhand High court Order (Petition No. : 123 / 2014) on August 2018, overnight camping is banned on all the alpine meadows or Bugyals of Uttarakhand. So the current fate of Roopkund trek is uncertain.

Roopkund Trek in the Garhwal Himalayas will always remain special for us. It was the time for many firsts in this trek. Roopkund was our first week-long Himalayan Trek. It was the first time we were totally out of our comfort zone. And it was the first time that we travelled, rather trekked with a group of people.

Trekking was not really our forte even 7 years back. Before Roopkund, we had done Buxa Fort Trek , an easy day trek in West Bengal. And yes, we had done the Amarnath Yatra earlier that year in July. It was after completing the Amarnath Yatra, we actually understood how close we can go to nature while trekking. The yatra was one of our turning points. After coming back from Amarnath, we decided to go for a Himalayan trek, and Roopkund it was!

Roopkund Trek : The Skeletal Lake

Why is it called Skeletal Lake or Mystery Lake ? This question haunted me for some moment before I checked on the internet. Actually, hundreds of skeletons and skulls are found around this glacial lake at an altitude of 16499 ft . From where did this skeleton come? What fateful day had seen the death of so many people? The answers were definitely not clear. Roopkund Lake lying on the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas is shrouded in mystery and myths.

Mystery behind the Roopkund Lake: Folklore of Roopkund

It was in 1942 when a British forest guard stumbled upon thousands of skeletons near the Roopkund Lake. Since then, these skeletons in the snowy realms of Himalayas have been the topic of research for anthropologists, historians and scientists. There are around 300 – 600 skeletons lying in the area. How did so many people lose their lives? A sudden hailstorm in the mountains might be the reason. It is said that cracks are found on the skulls – this might as well prove the theory of hailstorms.

There are many theories about these bodies. Some scholars attribute the skeletons to General Zorawar Singh of Kashmir and his men returning after a failed attempt to conquer Tibet in 1841. They had lost their ways in and were never found. Some also believed that the skeletons belonged to the Japanese soldiers who died while crossing the region during the second World War. Of late, scientists have discovered that the skeletons belong to people from the 9 th century who might have died from hailstorms. But here we would like to say, that the mystery still remains. And it enhances the enigma of the place.

While researchers are looking into scientific facts and proofs, the locals and layman have their own interesting folklore about the Roopkund Lake. Like most of the trek routes, Roopkund too has its share of stories.

Roopkund: The Lake of Reflections

• It is said that Goddess Parvati had killed the demon Mahisasur near the Bedni Kund in her Kali avatar.
• Meanwhile, as Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva were on their way to Kailash, Goddess Parvati felt unclean after killing the demons and wanted to have a bath. After all, she had cleaned up the dirt on the earth! To please her consort, Lord Shiva created the Lake for the Goddess. The Goddess dipped herself in the blue waters of the lake and could see her beautiful reflection in the waters. This is why the Lake is named Roopkund (“roop” means beauty).
• And while the Goddess was having a bath, her son Lord Ganesh stood guard at the place, which is now known as Kalu Vinayak . It is from here you can see the Roopkund Lake for the first time.
• Bhaguabasa actually translates into “abode of tiger”. Goddess Parvati had left her tiger at this point before heading towards Roopkund to take a bath.

Roopkund: The Skeletal Lake

There is another local legend which goes on saying the king of Kanauj with his pregnant wife, servants, dance troupes and others went on a pilgrimage to Goddess Nanda Devi. The king was quite arrogant and was careless in holding the sanctity of the place. He faced repeated bad omens on the way, but he continued his journey in all his pride. He even forgot to offer his prayers to the Goddess, as he was too engrossed watching the three royal dancers. The Goddess was infuriated and burned three holes at the feet of the three dancers. The craters are said to be seen at Pathar Nachauni.

Even then the king did not come to his senses. His wife gave birth near one of the caves near Goddess Nanda Devi’s abode. The pregnancy ended in a miscarriage ending the lives of both the baby and the queen. Even after all these, the arrogant king continued his trek towards Roopkund with his army. As they reached the lake, they faced hailstorms that perished the entire army. The skeletal remains of the army could still be seen around the lake. It is said that only the king survived the storm. The goddess appeared before him and cursed him that the people in his race would have to visit the lake once in every 12 years barefoot and with bare necessities. Since then Nanda Jat Yatra once every 12 years has become a tradition.

Every 12 years, the Nanda Jat Yatra takes place and thousands of pilgrims head towards Hemkund Lake to pay homage to Goddess Nanda Devi. The lake is further ahead from Roopkund Lake and the pilgrims undertake a journey for 22 days under much inhospitable conditions. The locals of Garhwal and Kumaon believe that a mysterious four-horned ram can be seen in the area. The sight of the ram is said to be very auspicious. Faith makes people do wonders!

Each day of the trek is like the unraveling of a new story. There are folklores and myths that we learnt every day. And then there is the majestic beauty of the Himalayas – the vast expanse of the green meadows, the magnificent view of the mighty Trishul and the jungle trails. All these simply made us fall in love with trekking and after the Roopkund Trek, there was no looking back!

Journey to Kathgodam

Our journey to Kathgodam, Uttarakhand was no less an adventure. The train we boarded from Delhi station was 4 hours late. The train was totally packed and we hardly managed to get our seats. The concept of reserved seats was thrown out of the window in this case. The train started late and as usual, got delayed on way too. We reached Kathgodam railway station at around 12:30 at night!

The next day, we started towards Lohajung, our basecamp for the trek. After 11 hours of long and arduous journey, we reached Lohajung at around 7:30 in the evening. Later we were briefed about the next 6 days of the ordeal that was waiting for us. Physical strength will just not be enough, we were told. Tremendous will power and mental strength were required to complete the trek. This was probably meant towards me because Agni was quite fit.

I was raring to go. But I was obviously totally ignorant about what a 6-day long Himalayan trek was about! Not only did it require will power, but also my mental strength had to be stretched to the fullest to complete the trek. But once it was done, I was never the same person again. On retrospection, I think it was here where the traveller in me was born and I was never a tourist again. Another life-changing moment was when I completed the Rupin Pass Trek even after a knee injury. That trek also needed all my will power!

Detailed Itinerary of Roopkund Trek

Day 1: the teaser : lohajung – didina.

We started early in the morning after breakfast. The trek started with a mild walk along a rocky path and then gradually followed a jungle trail that descended downwards. We crossed an iron bridge called the Raun Bagad and soon heard the gurgling sound of water flowing. We finally caught sight of the clear waters of the Neel Ganga. It is the river in its purest form before it entered into civilization. We filled up our water bottles from here, crossed the stream and started our trek further.

In my excitement, I opened my shoes, dipped my feet into the water and had lots of fun. And this is where I made the mistake. The body cooled down and trekking the next ascent became quite difficult.

Our ascent towards Didina began. Within 15 minutes I was totally out of breath, my legs were giving away and I simply felt that I could not walk any further. Indeed, will power was required to complete the ascent towards Didina. It was great that Agni continuously supported me and so did our trek lead.

We reached Didina village in the afternoon. The villagers welcomed us with a glass of fresh rhododendron juice! It was the most refreshing drink we had after such a tiring walk. The Pepsis and colas were nothing compared to the rhodo juice or the buransh juice as it is known in the local language.

Did you ever have a glass of fresh rhododendron juice? If yes, you will understand what I mean!

Day 2: Cricket at 11000 ft : Didina – Ali Bugyal – Bedni Bugyal

This is said to be the toughest day of the trek. We started our uphill trek from the village leading gradually to a hillside. From here, the uphill trek was mostly through the forest. We were mostly out of breath because of gradual ascent. After what seemed like ages, we reached Ali Bugyal. Once we were there, all our fatigue vanished. Because we had not seen such beauty before.

We were totally mesmerized seeing the Bugyal. It is Asia’s largest meadows and we could see endless green around. At a height of 11360 ft, it provided a 360-degree view of all the mountain ranges. We could see the Trishul and the Nanda Ghunti peak clearly. Who can remain tired after seeing the beauty of nature in this way? Our tiredness vanished in a moment. We literally ran around the green stretches soaking in as much as we can. We stopped at Ali Bugyal for a quick lunch.

Mountains seem to have a mood of their own. Suddenly the sunny weather changed and clouds seemed to descend from nowhere. We then started our journey towards through the green meadows enjoying nature and seeing the cattle grazing.

Trek to Bedni from Ali Bugyal was about 5 km following both uphill and downhill paths. As we descended towards the Bedni Bugyal, we saw the tents that looked like colourful specks on green stretches. Once the campsite was visible, we ran towards there. We were tired and wanted to dump our backpacks at the earliest.

After we settle down, all the team members had a cricket match at the Bedni Bugyal. Just imagine playing cricket at a height close to 13000 ft! The match was stopped by sudden rains and we all ran into our tents for shelter. In mountains, you can never predict the weather.

Day 3: Closer towards goal : Bedni Bugyal – Bhaguabasa

Early in the morning, we were lucky to see the first rays of sun over the Trishul and gradually the golden rays of sun spreading towards the Chaukhamba ranges. It was such an amazing sight – something that cannot be explained by words. The sheer joy of seeing the golden rays of sun on Trishul could not be explained by words.

The trek started as usual and our first stop for the day was the Bedni Kund. The water in the lake is crystal clear and the reflection of the mountain ranges could be clearly seen in it.

Remember, the legend behind the Bedni Kund?

A steep ascent followed after that and we could see some traces of ice on the way. We reached Ghora Lotani after a walk of about an hour or so. This place is called such because horses do not go beyond this point. The grassy terrain abruptly changes here to rocky patches.

Our next halt was Pathar Nachauni where we had our lunch. It is the point where Goddess Nanda Devi had created the holes at the feet of the dancers. The three craters were quite symmetrically placed. It seemed that the story might be quite possible!

Our uphill trek started again. I kept slogging behind as my legs just wouldn’t cooperate. It then became a test of my will power and determination. The stretch was narrow and rocky. It was a steep zigzag path towards our next destination Kalu Vinayak . The path seemed never-ending, but our guides were telling us “just a little more and you will see the temple”. We kept on walking but the temple was nowhere in sight. And when the Flag of Kalu Vinayak temple was seen, it seemed like an oasis to us. It had already become chilly and we hurried towards Bhaguabasa, which was the camp for the day. The camps at Bhaguabasa were the most difficult ones as they stood on bare rocks.

At Bhaguabasa , we met a very interesting person, Dinesh. He joined our team as a special instructor for the summit. He had already done Roopkund Trek 84 times before! That was way back in 2013. I think he must have completed 200 times by now! The Trishul could be seen very clearly from our campsite. The Trishul was playing hide and seek with us through the clouds, and together with the starry moonlit skies, had us spell bound.

Day 4: The Climax : Summit day to Roopkund and Junargali and back to Pathar Nachauni

It was the summit day! We were all excited. The team was ready and we started quite early at 4:00 am. It was dark and extremely cold and we were wearing several layers of clothing. The temperature perhaps was way below zero degrees.

The entire team started moving in a single line. The ascending path was narrow and rocky with patches of snow. After some time, we could see the first rays of light. As usual, it was an exhilarating moment to see the first rays of the sun kissing the majestic mountain tops. The snow-capped mountains radiated gold and the skies played with orange, red and yellow colours. You have to see it to feel it.

After an hour of walk, we could see a board saying “Roopkund – 500 metres”. The excitement in all was palpable and everyone forgot their fatigue and moved with renewed zeal. After a few more narrow and difficult crossings, we were finally in front of the mysterious lake – Roopkund at 14500 ft.

We were happy, excited and no words could describe what we were feeling. Agni and I have completed our first Himalayan trek! It was a moment of celebration. Our trek guide then announced that we would climb to the Junargali Pass .

Junargali was another 300 feet above Roopkund and it was completely covered with snow. Trekking in snow was never easy, and I was doing it for the first time! After about 30 minutes of scaling the snow. We reached the top of Junargali. It gave us a 360-degree view of all the ranges – Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba ranges. The view was anything to die for. I felt that all the pains taken for this trek were worthwhile. Unfortunately, our camera played spoilsport and simply refused to work at -7 degrees. I could not capture the memories on my lens, but definitely captured them in a more prominent place!

Did you know? Trishul is a group of three mountain peaks with Trishul I at 7120 m being the highest point. The three peaks resemble a trident (or trishul). T. G. Longstaff made the first climbing survey of Trishul in September 1905. He returned to climb in 1907 with two other Britons, three Alpine guides, and a few of Gorkhas. They ascended through the Rishiganga valley, to the north of the peak and then onto the Trishul glacier. From there they climbed the north ridge finally reaching the summit on 12 June in 1907. At that time Trishul was probably the highest mountain to have been climbed. The climb was noted also for the first use of supplementary oxygen in a major climb.

As the sun was rising, we were told to descend quickly as the snow would start melting and then trekking would be difficult. We started our descent towards Roopkund Lake and I understood trekking down in snow could be so difficult. I fell down a couple of times. Then our guide decided an ingenious way to send me down. I sat down on the snow and he pushed me and I glided gleefully on the snow towards the base. Soon others were seen gliding through the snow. See, I started a trend!

We spent some time at Roopkund Lake. We were intrigued to see the number of skeletons. All these while I was apprehensive whether I would see a skeleton! But my fears were baseless! There were so many lying all around. Bones, cracked skulls, rib cages, all were there. Indeed something catastrophic might have happened here aeons back.

We started our journey back towards Bhaguabasa. Once we reached there, we had our lunch. The plan was to move towards Pathar Nachauni after lunch. But suddenly the weather began changing dramatically. It started with rain and then there was a hailstorm in full force. We were all huddled inside a tent waiting for the storm to subside. When the hailstorm subsided (it did not end though), we wore our raincoats and ponchos and started towards Pathar Nachauni campsite. It was now a downhill trek with clouds all over us. We descended down at brisk pace but the path never seems to end. After about 2 hours of downhill trek, we reached the campsite. It was cold and chilly and we were all lucky to get inside the warmth of our sleeping bags and tents!!!

Day 5: The most beautiful campsite : Pathar Nachauni – Gehroli Patal

We left Pathar Nachauni at about 8.30 in the morning and took the same route back to Bedni Bugyal. We stopped there for lunch and then started our journey towards Gehroli Patal. The way to Gehroli Patal is through beautiful rhododendron forests. The forest had an incredibly dreamy atmosphere and I felt as if I was in some gothic movie. As we descended down for about an hour and a half, we reached our campsite.

It was a campsite in the midst of the forest, and by far, the most romantic one. Just imagine the feeling of staying in tents under the canopy of large trees in the middle of a dense forest!

The trek has almost come to an end. While some rested in their tents, some others roamed around the forests. In the evening we had a campfire where we exchanged our stories. It was quite a fun-filled evening!

Day 6: Back again: Gehroli Patal – Wan – Lohajung

We started off a little late this day. It was an easy downhill trek. We descended down and reached the Neel Ganga again. We crossed the stream and went towards Wan. Till now the weather was sunny, suddenly clouds began to form and in no time it started raining heavily. It is true that you can never trust the mood of the mountains!

We put on our raincoats and started walking at a fast pace, but the rain proved mightier. We were totally drenched when we reached Wan. We had hot tea and Maggi at Wan and after that left for Lohajung in a jeep.

The next morning greeted us with a new surprise. We viewed twin rainbows from the base camp. I had never seen such clear and beautiful rainbow, leave alone two together. It was as if spreading colours and happiness to everyone.

And that is about the Roopkund Trek. Don’t you think this trek in Uttarakhand has all the beauty and folklore to be a great trek? Roopkund Trek will always remain close to our hearts. SO much we were happy and enthused after completing this trek, we decided to go for the Chadar Trek next year January. And we completed that trek successfully too!

Roopkund trek map

Is Roopkund Trek banned? 

Recent Updates: As per Uttarakhand High court Order (Petition No. : 123 / 2014) on August 2018, overnight camping is banned on all the alpine meadows or Bugyals of Uttarakhand. So the current fate of Roopkund trek is uncertain.

We had done this trek in 2013, way before trekking in the Himalayas had been over-commercialized. In the last few years, we have seen the pictures of Bedni Bugyal on the net and social media. The place looked no more than a picnic site. To top it all, commercial trekking companies were bringing more number of people to these trekking trails than the ecosystem could handle.

The treks are glamorized and we had tourist trekkers instead of genuine trekkers who love the mountains and are ready to face the hardships of trekking and camping. These tourist trekkers wanted the best of facilities, good food and even table and chair facilities while trekking. They can probably see the mountains sitting at the comfort of hotels in the hill stations. Why bother coming to a trek? The insane number of trekkers and tourists create havoc on the ecosystem of the place disturbing both the flora and fauna of the place. Know why over trekking is harmful to the Himalayas in our post.

It is perhaps unfeasible to completely ban treks. Trekking does bring money into the local economy. Perhaps the government can cap a limit on the number of trekkers. There might be an introduction of a permit fee for the area. What do you think?

A few more pictures from the Roopkund Trek

After completing the trek

Did you like the post? Please share it and pin it! Subscribe to our newsletters for more travel and trekking updates!

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Phugtal Monastery Trek – Guide to the Cave Monastery of Zanskar

DUMAIL TREK KASHMIR – An easy hike from Naranag

Trip to Mana Village – the Last Village of India

Kedarnath Trek and Yatra – Where, What & How? All the information you need

Mawryngkhang Trek (Bamboo Trail) Meghalaya – Guide to The Scariest Trek

Trekking in Nepal: 15 Best Treks and all that you want to know

This article provides a full itinerary for Roopkund Trek. Beautiful pictures and full experience shared.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Pin It on Pinterest

Trek to mysterious Skeleton Lake

Roopkund lake 2024.

June - October

₹ 14999+ 5% GST

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

Roopkund trek, via ali bugyal (4,800 m), ₹14999+ 5% gst, haldwani to haldwani, + rs. 1989 backpack offloading + rs. 2200 haldwani - haldwani + rs. 688 mandatory insurance, difficulty level - 4, lohajung-  7 days , up to 15% off in may-jun batches for a limited period ✨, batches: may, june, september & october  2023.

Roopkund Lake Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes you through beautiful valleys, meadows, and forests and culminates at the stunning Roopkund Lake. The lake is also known as the 'Mystery Lake' due to the presence of hundreds of human skeletons at the bottom, which are believed to be the remains of travelers who died here in a hailstorm centuries ago.

The trek starts from the small village of Lohajung and passes through several villages and dense forests before reaching the alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal. From there, the trail leads to Roopkund Lake, which is located at an altitude of 16,499 feet. The trek takes around 6-8 days to complete, depending on the route and itinerary chosen. 

Roopkund Lake, also known as the "Mystery Lake" or "Skeleton Lake," is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Uttarakhand region of India. The lake is known for containing the remains of hundreds of human skeletons, which were discovered in the 1940s.

The discovery of the skeletons has led to various theories about their origins, including that they were the remains of a group of pilgrims who died due to a sudden hailstorm or an epidemic, or that they were the remains of an army that perished in battle.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Roopkund Lake is also a popular trekking destination due to its beautiful natural surroundings, including snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and forests. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks, and takes trekkers through remote villages, dense forests, and high-altitude meadows.

Itinerary of Roopkund Trek

Here's a detailed itinerary for the Roopkund Lake Trek:

Day 1: Drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung (213 km/ 9-10 hours)

The Roopkund Lake trek starts with a drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung, which is a small village situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The distance between Kathgodam and Lohajung is around 213 kilometers and it takes around 9-10 hours to cover this distance by road. The route passes through the beautiful towns of Almora, Kausani, and Baijnath, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the surrounding valleys. Lohajung is the starting point of the Roopkund Lake trek and serves as the base camp for the trek.

Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (10 km/ 5-6 hours)

On Day 2, the trek starts from Lohajung towards Didna Village. It is a 10 km trek that takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The trail passes through the forests of oak, rhododendron, and maple. You will also pass through a few small villages and cross a few streams along the way.

The trek is a gradual ascent and you will gain an altitude of around 700 meters during the trek. The path is well-defined and easy to follow. Didna Village is a small village located at an altitude of 7,800 feet above sea level. It is the last village on the trek and offers a scenic view of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay will be in tents or homestays in the village.

Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal (12 km/ 6-7 hours)

The trek from Didna Village to Ali Bugyal is a beautiful stretch that takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and scenic mountain views.  The trek begins with a gradual ascent through the forests of oak and rhododendron trees. The trail  is well-defined and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  After trekking for around 2-3 hours, you will reach the open meadows of Tolpani. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains ar ound you.

From Tolpani, the trail continues to climb steadily towards Ali Bugyal. This stretch is quite steep, and you may need to take a few breaks along the way.  As you approach Ali Bugyal, the trail opens up to a stunning meadow with lush green grass and panoramic views of the mountains. This is a great place to camp for the night and enjoy the scenic beauty around you.  

Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (11 km/ 5-6 hours)

The trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani is an interesting and challenging one, with some steep climbs and descents through a beautiful forested landscape

After breakfast, begin the trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani, which is about 11 km away and should  take 5-6 hours to complete.  The trail descends from Ali Bugyal through a dense forest of oak and rhododendron, with occasional clearings that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  

After about 2 hours of descent, you will reach the village of Bedni Bugyal, which is a popular camping spot for trekkers. Take a short break here to rest and admire the stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. From Bedni Bugyal, the trail descends further to the Bedni River, which you will have to cross over a small bridge. The river is a tributary of the Neel Ganga, which you will encounter later on in the trek.

After crossing the river, the trail climbs steeply up to the other side of the valley, passing through more forested areas and crossing several small streams. After another couple of hours of trekking, you will reach the campsite at Ghora Lotani, which is located in a small meadow surrounded by towering peaks. Settle into your tents and enjoy a well-deserved rest after a long day of trekking.

Day 5: Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa (14 km/ 7-8 hours)

The trek from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa is a challenging day of the Roopkund Lake trek.The trek starts with a steep climb of around 4 km through a dense forest of rhododendron and oak trees. After the initial climb, the trail becomes relatively easy and gradually ascends towards the open meadows of Bedni Bugyal.  

Bedni Bugyal is a vast meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is known for its high-altitude grasslands. Bedni Bugyal is a vast meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is known for its high-altitude grasslands.  

Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake (5 km/ 3-4 hours)

On Day 6, the trek will continue from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake. The distance covered on this day will be around 5 km, which will take approximately 3-4 hours to complete. The trek starts early in the morning as it is a steep climb to Roopkund Lake. The trail passes through a moraine field, and you will get to see the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. The path is rocky and challenging, and you will need to be careful with your footing.- The lake is located at an altitude of 5,029 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

As you climb higher, you will see the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the glacial lake of Roopkund. The lake is located at an altitude of 5,029 meters and is known for its skeletal remains. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and the view is breathtaking.

After spending some time at the lake, you will head back to Bhagwabasa for the night.

Day 7: Roopkund Lake to Bedni Bugyal (12 km/ 6-7 hours)

After spending some time at the mesmerizing Roopkund Lake, the trek continues towards Bedni Bugyal on Day 7. The trail mostly descends through a steep and rocky terrain before reaching the Bedni Bugyal meadow. The trek also offers panoramic views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks along the way.

Start the day early in the morning and leave from Roopkund Lake towards Bedni Bugyal. The trail descends through steep and rocky terrain, so trek carefully. Pass through Junargali, a high-altitude mountain pass offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Continue trekking through the scenic meadows of Bedni Bugyal, filled with a variety of alpine flowers. Reach Bedni Bugyal in the evening and set up camp for the night. Relax and enjoy the beauty of the meadow, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding mountains.

Day 8: Bedni Bugyal to Lohajung (10 km/ 4-5 hours)

After breakfast, start trekking down towards the Neel Ganga river. Cross the river and continue on the well-defined trail. The trail passes through forests of rhododendron and oak trees, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

After a while, you will reach the village of Wan, where you can take a short break and have some tea or snacks. From Wan, it's a short drive to Lohajung, where you will spend the night in a guesthouse.

Overnight stay in Lohajung.

Day 9: Drive from Lohajung to Kathgodam (213 km/ 9-10 hours)

On Day 9, you will drive back to Kathgodam which is the nearest railway station.- Overnight stay in Kathgodam (optional).

Included 

Food as per menu on the trek (starting with dinner on Day 1 till Breakfast on Day 8)

Forest Permits/Camping Charges (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)

Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats

Micro-spikes, Helmets, and Gaiters, as required

Experienced Trek guide, cook, and helpers

Porters or mules for carrying common luggage

Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification

2 Nights Dormitory/Guest House Stay in Lohajung

Not Included 

Meals during road journeys, if any

Meals during guest house stay (except the meals mentioned in the Inclusions section)

Cost of any kind of travel insurance

Any expense of personal nature

Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.

Roopkund Trek

Uttarakhand • 8 days.

MAX ALTITUDE

₹ 12650 + 5% GST

Lohajung to Lohajung

Available Batches

Brief description.

Roopkund Trek is hands down the most popular trek in India. Roopkund, locally known as Mystery Lake, is a high altitude glacial lake in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Roopkund lies in the lap of Trishul massif and is famous because of the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. The Roopkund (lake) is located at an altitude of about 15,700 feet. It is surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow clad mountains, making it a good trekking destination. The route leading to Roopkund passes through the twin Bugyals of Ali & Bedni. All along the Roopkund trail, you get amazing views of peaks like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul & Nanda Ghunti. The beautiful campsites of Roopkund trek are a sight to behold. Roopkund is recommended for experienced trekkers because of it's moderate plus difficulty level. Roopkund trek best time is May - June, and September - October. Everything that you need to know like - Roopkund trek route map, itinerary, temperature, weather, height, photos, and videos is here on this page. Scroll to the end and read some amazing Roopkund trek blogs.

On the trail

The Bridge on Neel Ganga

Tolpani Campsite

Skeletons at Roopkund Lake

View of Trishuli Peak

Bedni Bugyal

Ali Bugyal in October

A turn before Patar Nachauni

Panoramic View from Kalua Vinayak

Heading towards Roopkund Lake

Starting the trek early morning from Bhagwabhasa

Pushing Limits before Roopkund Lake

Roopkund Lake

Haldwani to Lohajung - 220 km Drive

Arrive in Haldwani by early morning, and board your vehicles for the drive to Lohajung - the base of Roopkund trek. The road winds through beautiful Kumaon region. We pass though Almora & Kausani. On the way, you will get some spectacular views of peaks like Kamet & Panchachuli. We will arrive in Lohajung by the evening & check into a guesthouse for the night. The town of Lohajung ( The starting point of Roopkund Trek ), located at 2300 M is also a small mountain pass connecting Gwaldam side to Wan side of the mountain. Spend some evening time in the small market of Lohajung which by the way closes very early or enjoy a beautiful sunset from the balcony of your guest house. Dine early & break into bed for a good long nights sleep.

Lohajung to Tolpani | 8300 FT | 11 Kms

Our trail for the day is easier as compared to the entire trek and soon we get lost in the beauty of it. We trek through the forest following the Neel Ganga. The trail is initially easy which then starts to climb up steadily. As the trek continues, we get set into it and start negotiating the climb to Ali Bugiyal. After a good climb, we reach Didina. From Didina, Tolpani is a gradual 1 km ascent.

Tolpani to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal | 12700 FT | 12 Kms

We start early today not just to enjoy the best views but also because it is a long day. We will walk through the twin meadows of Ali & Bedni. The trek is steep till we reach Ali Bugyal. From here, the trail comprises of long sections of a gradual ascent. You will realize on the trek that these meadows are one of the best in the country. As you are walking through the Ali Bugyal, Nanga Ghunti & Trishuli are prominently visible in the East. We trek on the marked trail. You will spot a small structure made from stones. It is a temple. Slightly to your right you can see a cluster of fiber huts green in color. Find a suitable spot here for the packed lunch. Starting from the stone structure, a section of the trail ahead is uphill & in the zigzag shape. After the lunch, we commence our trek and reach Bedni Bugyal Campsite by afternoon. From here, the trek is short. Walk slowly and steadily as next campsite is not very far. There is only one steep climb as you leave the campsite of Bedni Bugyal. After that, there are sections of mild ascent till we reach Patar Nachauni, situated at the foothill of the mountain at the top of which lies the temple of Kalua Vinayak. Stay in camps.

Rest & Acclimatization

The day is reserved for rest and acclimatization after a very long Day 4.

Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa | 14200 FT | 4 Kms

Distance wise today's trek is not very long but it is one of the steepest section of the entire trek. Taking an early start always helps. You have to climb the mountain right in front of you to the top. The trek starts with a flat walk, followed by a steep ascent to kalua Vinayak which is a Temple. The view in Patar Nachauni is restricted by mountains. But once you reach Kalua Vinayak you get a panoramic view. Some of the prominent peaks visible from this point are Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul & Nanda Ghunti. From Kalua Vinayak, the trail is downhill up to Bhgwabasa camps. We reach Bhagwabasa camps by early afternoon. It is the highest campsite of Roopkund trek. The night is extremely cold here. Bhagwabasa is used as a base camp for trek to Roopkund lake.

Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15750 FT) & return to Patar Nachauni {16 Kms (6 Kms Uphill, 10 Kms Downhill}

Starting early is the key today. As we get late snow starts melting and makes the climb difficult. Morning snow is fresh and easy to walk upon. Today's trek is a 4 km long gradual ascent with sections of steep ascent in between. In the last leg, you will have to climb down 250 feet to reach the Roopkund (lake). Roopkund is at the height of 15750 ft. If weather permits we will trek to Junargali which is just 250 ft up from Roopkund. After spending some time around we will head back to Patar Nachauni. Expect to reach by late afternoon.

Patar Nachauni to Lohajung | 7700 FT | 15 Kms

Break camps early & head towards Wan. Today's trek is about 6-6.5 Hours. We descend to a village. We will take a brief halt at Ghairoli Patal, which is also a good camping site. We have to descend to the bottom of the valley where the river Neel Ganga welcomes us. It's not a bad idea to wash in the river after a strenuous downhill trek. From the river, it’s a half an hour uphill trek up to Wan. From Wan village its further one & half hour downhill up to Kasar Bagad which is the road ahead. We board a vehicle from here. Drive up to Lohajung. Check into the Guest House in Lohajung. The Roopkund trek ends here. You may plan your return the next day on your own. If you wish to book your return journey with us, select the suitable option while making your booking.

Lohajung to Haldwani - 220 km Drive

In the morning board vehicle for the return journey to Haldwani. Reach Haldwani by evening. You are advised to book your return from Kathgodam/Haldwani after 9 PM to have sufficient time at hand in case of any delays in the road journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick your question, eligibility: experience required.

• Should have at least 7-10 trek days in the Himalayas in their kitty.
• For the trek’s achieving more than 5000 meters, a person must have a prior experience of trekking at altitudes of 3700 meters.

Eligibility: Fitness benchmark

• Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same
• Hold your breath for 30-35 seconds

If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?

The trek begins from Lohajung which is about 200 km from Kathgodam/Haldwani. There are no direct buses from Kathgodam/Haldwani to Lohajung. But you can take a shared jeep which will cost you around INR 900. It takes around 12 hours to get to Lohajung from Haldwani/Kathgodam.

Kathgodam is well connected to Delhi through rail and road transport. Here is how you can reach:

Uttarakhand Roadways provides all kinds of bus services between Delhi ISBT to Haldwani. The distance between Delhi to Kathgodam is 294 km which takes about 7 hours to cover. You can book your bus tickets online through https://utconline.uk.gov.in/ or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi. These taxis come at exorbitant prices.

Kathgodam is the last railhead before Lohajung. Board Ranikhet Express from Delhi which reaches Kathgodam early in the morning. Or you can take Delhi Sampark Kranti which reaches Kathgodam in the night in case you want to stay the night.  

Pantnagar Airport is the closest to Lohajung at a distance of 256 km. There is one Air India flight running every day between Delhi and Pantnagar. It is suggested to make your bookings well in advance due to a low frequency of flights. In case you are flying to Pantnagar, take a taxi from the airport to Kathgodam and then take one of those shared jeeps to reach Lohajung.

Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?

Kathgodam is located in Nainital district of Uttrakhand. Nainital is 53 km from Kathgodam and can be reached by local buses. Nainital is a famous tourist spot in the mountains in visited by a lot of people all around the year. Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital where you can enjoy boating, yachting, and paddling. Perch on the Tiffin Top to enjoy the views of Nainital. Stroll at The Mall Road where you can buy some souvenirs from the trip.

Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?

One can expect full network till Wan Village and some points beyond this village. Garoli Patal is one point where you can expect reception. BSNL network connectivity is sparsely available through the trail till Patarnachauni.

Packing List: What to pack

Eligibility: Requisite Skills

• Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tent, toilet tent.
• Ascending & descending technique for mountain trails
• Basic mountain mannerisms
• Ascending & descending on snow
• Basics of Mountain Sickness
• Basics of Mountain Hazards
• How to cross small water streams

Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?

When you arrive in Lohajung, your stay will be made at local guest house.The rooms will be provided on twin or triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email few days prior the trek. On trekking days, all the trekkers will be accommodated in twin or triple sharing tents. Along with this, there will be also be a toilet tent and a dining tent installed at every campsite as we roll.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?

We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.

Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?

Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.

Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

During the day, the temperature will range from 13-18 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 0-7 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain during Roopkund trek, the colder it gets. Refer this chart for Roopkund Temperature details: Roopkund Temperature

Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?

You can expect snows in the first season i.e. May-June. It is difficult to expect snow post monsoons in September when the Roopkund trek opens again for its second season. October is likely to receive fresh snowfall at higher altitudes if the climate is favorable.

Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.

Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?

If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.

Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?

A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?

Yes, trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.

Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?

Lohajung is a small town with a very small market. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.

Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?

You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?

Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes,and bread butter served in breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.

Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?

We have two pick-up points: ISBT, Tikonia Chowk in Haldwani and Railway station in Kathgodam. The dropping points remain the same.

Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?

Expect to reach Haldwani/Kathgodam late in the evening, post 17:00 - 18:00 Hrs. Make sure your bus bookings from these points to your respective destinations are late in the night, post 21:00 Hrs.

Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?

Roop kund trek best time is: May-June, September-October

Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?

Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?

Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried) is the mandatory document required for the trek.

About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?

Roopkund trek - the skeleton lake.

Learning Experience

• We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
• We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
• To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
• These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.

Loyality Programs

Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.

• Currently we have three levels:
• Basic Membership
• Summiteer Membership
• Leader Membership

Personalized Attention

• Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
• Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
• On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.

Best Expedition Leaders

• Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
• Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.

Eco-friendly Practices

• Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
• Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
• We follow a rolling campsite model.
• We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.

For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.

• To ensure this:
• Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
• The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
• Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
• Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.

What's Included

Whats included.

• Food as per menu on the trek (starting with breakfast on Day 2 till Breakfast on Day 8)
• Forest Permits/Camping Charges (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
• Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats
• Micro-spikes, Helmets, and Gaiters, as required
• Experienced Trek guide, cook, helpers
• Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
• Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
• 2 Nights Dormitory/Guest House Stay in Lohajung

Whats Not Included?

• Meals during road journeys,if any
• Meals duiring guest house stay (except the meals mentioned in Inclusions section)
• Cost of any kind of travel insurance
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund.

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date 5% Deduction

Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure 50% deduction

Less than 15 days of departure No Cash Refund

Voucher Refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date No Deduction

Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure No Refund

Please note

• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
• This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

How to use a Trekking Pole : Benefits & Precautions

Dhaarna Kukreja 02 August 2017

How to use a trekking pole: 101

To use or not to.

Trailcraft Basics : Ascending and Descending on Trail and Snow

How to avoid and treat blisters on the Trek

How to maintain Personal Hygiene on the trek

Trailcraft Basics : Ascending and Descending on Snow

Experiential.

Roopkund Lake, Where The Skeletons Lay.

Days Of Solitude, A Could Have Been Bear & The Mystery Lake - Roopkund Trek !

No Fairytale Crap: Why I Don’t Want a Flawless Trek

Baraadsar Lake Trek Photo Story

Informative.

The peaks around Roopkund

The Skeletons of Roop Kund have Something to Say

The Trek that Gives Back: What Roop Kund Means to Locals

Why Do I Need A Guide For Roop Kund?

5 ALTERNATIVE TREKS TO DO IN 2019 INSTEAD OF ROOPKUND

Hey Roopkund! Have You Met Your New Alternative?

How to reach the famous base village Lohajung?

Enter your email, certifications.

Events by Month

• January July
• February August
• March September
• April October
• May November
• June December

Events by Activity

• Popular Treks
• Aspirational Expeditions

Events by Grade

Events by duration.

• 5 & more Nights

Bikat Adventures

• Environment Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Work With Us
• Address: 303, 3rd Floor, Tower B4, Spaze Itech Park, Sector 49. Gurgaon
• Pre Sale - 7838148127 , Post Sale - 8588878499, 9667639126
• Cancellation & Refunds
• Content Sharing

We are Social

Payments we process, submit enquiry.

• Jul 8, 2023
• 12 min read

WEAL AND WOE ENROUTE "ROOPKUND TREK"

“Great things are done when men and mountains meet.”

Standing on the last point till where we could reach with the Mt. Trishul on the Backdrop

Being an ardent music lover any opportunity to go on a trek now sounds like a melodious symphony to my eager ears.

Have you ever wondered how summits put one on cloud nine be it a saga of success or failure? If the answer is ‘NO’, then this story is for you. It’s a hat-trick for me, hat-trick with Himalayan Passion (HP), hat-trick in gathering experiences of ever inviting summits. It is the tale about the journey to the skeleton lake, ROOPKUND ; about every road I had taken, about every obstacle I had encountered; so, buckle up as you follow my footsteps over the enormous and overwhelming Great Himalayas.

We were still in dark that pre-ponding the trek schedule was nothing but our destiny neatly designed by the beloved Himalaya. The program was about to start from Wan village from 18th May 2023 as per itinerary of Himalayan Passion . We reached over there a day before the starting date from Haridwar, the car was arranged by them.

Starting point of the trek, Wan. From Left:- Shailesh Ji (Shailesh Bidalia), Me (Aparna Sadhu), Mani Di (Manideepa Talapatra) & Trek Leader Dhrubojyoti Chatterjee

A short introductory session on 17th May’23 followed by next day’s briefing by our trek leader(TL)

Dhrubojyoti Chatterjee , who informed us that this time 3 of us Sailesh ji, Manideepa di and me constituted the team which would be guided by Negi ji. Warm hospitality of Negi ji in his homestay let us know that we were staying at his own home. After the dinner we got inside the warm blanket one last time before we belt up for the new season of ‘Khatron k khiladi ’from the next day.

Laatu Devta Mandir, who is believed to be the Guardian and protector of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, and brother of Ma Nanda Devi

On the maiden day we started our movement having heavy breakfast to Gairoli Patal (3200m). By the time our Trek Leader Dhrubo arranged the permit we took the blessings of Laatu Devta. The trail was through dense forest with gradual ascent and the sudden descents reminded us of steep ascents simultaneously. Our energy was at low ebb. The only thing to keep us motivated was the serenity of the oak forest, its wildness and the chirping of birds. This pushed us to our campsite after 6 kms walk. A hot delicious lunch welcomed us.

Gairoli Patal Camspite

After the lunch, Manideepa Di and I started to explore the surroundings. Suddenly a snow peak peeped out driving the clouds away. Lo! It was Mt. Trishul (7,120m) with its golden crest, declaring its supremacy. It was enough to understand that it was going to rule throughout the trail. A silent rivalry prevailed between the clouds and the sun to spend time with it.

Just imagine the feeling of staying in tents, under the canopy of large trees, in the middle of dense forest, under the vigilance of the mighty Trishul. All these were enough inputs to a spooky night!

Mt. Trishul Peeping during sunset from Gairoli Patal Campsite

The wake up call of our Trek Leader catapulted us to this world on the 2nd morning of the trek. We were wrapping up to move after sumptuous breakfast. Whereas the sunlit Mt. Trishul was also ready with its fashionable ice cap gifted by the clouds last night.

A herd of sheep accompanied our team from Gairoli Patal. The trail was well decorated with beautiful red, pink and white rhododendrons. A small turn on our way put us into the world of openness. The landscape changed all on a sudden outstandingly. The winds from snow packed mountain hit us in the sun and rejuvenated from the tiredness of 5kms of walk, continuing their journey towards endless plains covered by carpet of velvety grass. Right! we were in the midst of the Asia’s largest alpine meadow ‘ THE ALI-BEDNI BUGYAL ” at 3,354m.

Such an openness drove us to do madness. It was again settled down after the next turn that unfolded the vast range of Mt. Trishul and let us know that we were still under its surveillance.

Being calm we descended towards our destined campsite Abin Kharak (3,450m). Lunch over, we headed for the most beautiful acclimatization walk of our trek. A great combination of meadows, rocky mountain coniferous trees clinging to the steep slope as well as the soaring peaks; so many elements contributing to the grandeur setting that must be looked around.

Clouds hovering over Ali Bugyal

Mountain weather usually suffers from ‘mood swings’. The sunny afternoon was immediately replaced by drizzling rainfall followed by gusty wind in the evening. Like the scalded dog dreads the cold water, it reminded me of the Kalijhar campsite in Phokteydara .

A dinner call of our Trek Leader made me notice the sky studded with hundreds of stars indicating a clear weather. But who knew that, they had come to bid us “Good night” one last time from Abin Kharak. Once we got inside our sleeping bags, after the dinner, the turbulent air shook the tent. Yelling out for Trek Leader in adversity is certainly more effective in trek than calling out God. They rushed into and fixed our tent.

Abin Kharak Campsite

Next morning (DAY 3) I woke up before the sunrise. The calmness in the dawn was somewhat indicating a long tiring night for the Himalayas. The sky was so clear like someone who clicked the refresh button. This morning was really unexpected after such a hazardous night.

Once we climbed up, to the Bedni Bugyal after the breakfast, for our next destination i.e. Patharnachauni(3950m) just 6.5 kms away, we found the glare of sparkling peaks at us. Panoramic view starting from left Jaonli, Gangotri, Bhartekunta, Kedarnath, Sumeru Parvat, Mandani Parvat, Chaukhamba, Balakun, NeelKanth ended up to our adorable Nanda Ghunti and Trishul, Maiktoli Devtoli, Mrigthuni.

Astonishing view from Bedni Bugyal (From Left :- Jaonli, Gangotri, Bhartekunta, Kedarnath, Sumeru Parvat, Mandani Parvat, Chaukhamba, Balakun, NeelKanth)

We could endure any mountain roar to get such a spectacle. Our movement continued through Bedni meadows and rocky terrain for 2-3hrs until a few forest officers restricted us. According to them, further movements would cost not only our lives but those innocent mule’s too. Moreover the path was narrowed as covered by thin ice which made it slippery. We were all at crossroad. A quick decision was taken by the expert Trek Leader. “Will you be able to wake up at 2:00 am for summit push?” Both Mani Di and I agreed instantly.

Like “ kuch v karega for Summit point!”.

Mt. Nanda Ghunti from Bedni Bugyal

In a nutshell, we will have to skip our next 2 days camping at Patharnachauni and Bhagwabasa and would attempt for the summit covering 20kms (up and down) in a single day. But prior to that Trek Leader Dhrubo and Guide Negi Ji would survey the trail condition to ensure our safety.

Bidding them bye till they made themselves invisible we got over it and founded ourselves at an elevation of 3800m. Descending seemed impossible for such novice trekkers like us. Me and Mani Di were each others only lifeline. We followed zig-zag steps to descent. On reaching safely to the campsite, we got to know that we were the part of “sweet crime” by camping on a virgin land, in the lap of Himalaya namely, Bedni Kharak .

Mt. Trishul as seen from Bedni Bugyal

No sooner had the tents were fixed than we jumped into our sleeping bags taking full advantage of the absence of “our guardian” in the campsite completely avoiding the acclimatization walk. Once we woke up in the afternoon we were all ears to know the trail condition from them, as they returned after inspecting the trail conditions and were assured that Roopkund was on.

By the time I realized my mistake, it was too late. Feeling unwell, sitting outside the tent, watching the vast Himalaya, the valley filled me with joy of being a part of the whole. Delving into the sky, I found a star spangled sky. A very tranquil atmosphere and a treasured silence made me curious. The tete-a-tete between the stars and the Himalaya were “Highly suspicious!” I could identify a few known constellations, stars and planets. A clear call for dinner reminded me of early sleep time, for next day we will have to start at 2:00 AM to 2:30AM.

(DAY-4) A wake up call at 1:45 a.m. interrupted the sleep but nothing else. Once I peeped outside the tent, some unusual fuzzy patch was beckoning me from a pitch dark sky. I stood out immediately of the tent. My eyes were glued to the sky. It was none other than our own Milky Way galaxy. Amazing! I met it last time in Nubra valley somewhat 5years ago. Mountains are not only beautiful in daylight. But night unveils the magical chemistry between mountains, stars and galaxies. The mystery of night with its language of love for the mountains fascinated me.

After a Maggie, putting our knapsack, keeping Milky Way as the eyewitness of our dedication for the summit, we started marching. Silent night and dazzling sky were my companions.

The snow trek demanded the microspikes and gaiters to be put on. The ascent was exhausting. regular breaks pumped us on the rocky path. Meanwhile we crossed Patharnachauni when the sky fainted its darkness.

On the way to Patharnachauni

Taking rest after crossing Patharnachauni

The terrain turned up to snowy ascent gradually which demanded rope up. Our Trek Leader tied rope and guided us for rope up system for the team and the guide stood at the end of the queue. We were running out of breath, slowly attaining the heights. Looking around and seeing the gorgeous snow patched Himalaya, even those meadows that we traversed the previous days was the only method to feel relaxed.

Astonishing view from the KaluVinayak Top (From Left:- Jaonli, Gangotri, Bhartekunta, Kedarnath, Sumeru Parvat, Mandani Parvat, Chaukhamba, Balakun, NeelKanth)

A few moments later before Kalu Vinayaka temple we got hypnotized by the majestic play orchestrated by the mountains, the sky and the sun. We were enthralled to see Mt. Chaukhamba and Mt. Nilkantha being the champion of the contest of getting the first sunkiss among the other peaks. The snowclad mountains radiated the gold. The sky was playing with orange, red and yellow colours. The view was anything to die for.

Astionishing view from the KaluVinayak Top (From Left :- Nanda Ghunti and Trishul, Maiktoli Devtoli, Mrigthuni)

Soon we reached KaluVinayaka temple, which was fully covered by snow. A mesmerizing view from

the height of 4400m. We could hardly see the top of the Kalu Vinayaka temple, as it was under the snow deposition, rather we caught the first glimpse of much awaited glacial lake and heaved a sigh of relief. This increased our adrenalin rush. It was only snow and nothing left in the trail. The Trishul massif was in front of my eyes. One could imagine the extreme clarity, the crisp weather and the stillness in the air which made the line of horizon clearly visible from such a distance. The mountain slopes were enormous and tremendous. It was a sight for a sore eye.

Enroute Bhagwabasa from KaluVinayak Temple

We continued our ascend towards Bhagwabasa(4300m) roping up which took around 1hr to cover 1km. The bleached mountain up ahead reflected the sunlight, dazzling our eyes as we moved closer to it. Since the inclement mountain had led to snowfall it had remained unblemished, not one soul had passed across the trail in this season yet.

The magic of indigo and white is not only created by Zuckerberg, but a parallel universe is here playing the same from a long time ago with the sky and snow.

Refueling us physically with chocolates we headed towards the mystery lake. The more we proceeded the more our footsteps were moving downward instead of forward. It symbolizes the depth of the snow which was increasing with each step we made. We had already covered 7kms and 3kms yet to be covered.

As it is said, the mountain decides whether you climb or not. We could not ignore the formidable mountain. Even if we could reach there, the remnants of the human skeleton could not be found due to snow. No matter how hard I prepare, Himalaya always set up a question paper (read as trail) out of syllabus for me. This time the mountain hazard came to me in the name of ‘heavy snow deposition’. “Getting to the top is optional, getting down is mandatory.” I don’t know for how long this phrase is going to follow me. We were at touching distance yet it was illusive like a mirage. Standing at 4358m altitude we dropped down the summit march.

The last point where we could reach at 4358 m

Wrapping up the left over energy we decided to return willy-nilly. While returning I realized my extreme fatigue. I was too drowsy to put a single step. The snow had drenched me out fully. Roping up, our eyes were eager to have a sight of Lord Ganesha (Kalu Vinayaka) with that toxic mountainous lie ever, “Only 10mins left..!”, “After this turn only..!”, “ Just few steps more..!”

Returning back

A sudden tension on my rope alarmed me that Shailesh ji was hanging on it. A rescue operation was initiated immediately by Dhrubojyoti and Negi ji with the same rope, leaving me and Mani Di bare handed, standing in a state of imbalance on the melting snow. Suddenly, I found the mountains around me were in motion straight away. I threw caution to the wind and stepped forward to withstand my dizziness without any rope. “Mind your step..!” a shrill voice of Mani Di stopped me from dicing with death. Once Shailesh Ji was rescued Trek Leader took back his position and led us to Kalu Vinayaka temple. Somehow refueling ourselves we kept on moving till our hot packaged lunch arrived.

Meanwhile we found Mt. Trishul hid itself behind the cloud to freshen up with snow. Slowly we were parting from the vista of Roopkund lake.

The snow on our descents was melting quickly due to the sun, making the way difficult. I fell down a couple of times. So, I wrapped myself in cotton wool sticking to the footsteps of our Trek Leader. This helped me to reach our campsite safe and sound after 4hrs. Campsite revitalized us with steaming tea and snacks.

The big day was over. The gloominess of unsuccessful summit enwrapped us. Sharing experiences and rejoicing the moments dispelled our sadness. Covering a distance of 20km and attaining 850m height in 13hrs caused extreme tiredness, which led us to a sound sleep that night.

We managed a buffer day, so decided to camp in Gairoli Patal one last time on DAY-5. We would descend from 3500 m to 3000 m in 5kms on a single day. Enrouting Bedni Bugyal, a very familiar scene enfolded me. Aah! that’s the Windows XP wallpaper right in front of my eyes. This catapulted me to the state of euphoria.

Live Windows XP wallpaper from Bedni Bugyal

Stone shrine of Nandadevi beside Bedni kund, 2 snowclad peaks Mt. Nandaghunti and Mt. Trishul with Mrigthuni, Maiktoli and Devtoli were the elements to put the sacred touch in that secluded place. A gradual 4kms descent lead us to Gairoli Patal at around 12:30 pm. Not repeating the mistake, we grabbed the offer of spending a long leisure time with mountain. We

spend our last spooky camping night.

The trek had almost come to an end on the 6th day. We took a final leave from Mt. Trishul feeling blue and left for Wan village at around 10:00 am. Descending constantly was not easy; it broke our knees down.

Outreach Wan at 1:00 pm we had our lunch followed by a short mountain walk for the last time. Children fluttered around greeting us with "Namaste.....!". The evening was left for the closing session by Himalayan Passion by offering us the certificate of completion. There was a special dinner with local cuisine offered that night. After dinner we couldn’t ignore the call of warm blankets.

Morning unfolded exceptionally with the Negi ji’s call & hot tea. And then that tragic moment. Getting apart! We didn’t cry though it was over but smiled as it happened. Bidding adieu was not an easy task since a wonderful bond was established among one and all. Separation started with Negi ji at Wan, followed by Shailesh ji from Haridwar and rest of us left out for Delhi.

ROOPKUND is the name of the lake only but, its more apt for the trail. Each day of the trek is like the unraveling of a new story. Himalayas presented its different “Roop” of its own accord starting from meadows to dense spooky forest, rocky mountains to snowclad peaks, deposited snow to thin ice path: the trail itself is filled with enormous beauty. Roopkund trek demands not only physical strength but challenges our will power also, at the same time rewarding too.

May be we had not touched the Roopkund Lake as we planned, may be my bucket list not got ticked but as it is said, mountain will never leave you bare hand. We just experienced it. We walked 40kms, attaining an altitude of 4358m from 2500m in 6days. Touching summit point with no views is surely not enchanting, but unsuccessful summit attempts with stunning spectacle are achievements.

Bidding Goodbye to the mountains is the toughest part

It will be ungrateful on my part to conclude without expressing my heartiest gratitude to Himalayan Passion for kindling an eagerness in me for mountain treks. They just not only take care of the trek but arrange almost everything you need throughout the JOURNEY. Some ‘GENIEs’ were set out in the name of supporting staff. They always appeared with whatever we wanted, no matter whenever and wherever we were, they could turn a hostile land inhabitable instantly, just like that, even at 12000ft, either it in the middle of woods or in the middle of snow encompassing mountains they appeared with fuming tea and hot delicious cuisines. The mythological inputs about the trail by Dhrubojyoti (TL) brought another dimension in the trek field. One can

easily assume the dedication and labor they put to make a trek grand success. Dear TL and the guide Negi ji had drenched their energy out to investigate the trail condition beforehand so that, the team could reach the summit point safely on the following day without fail. There lies the aptness of their name ‘PASSION’. Above all, its really hard to find such foundation who empathize the sorrow of unsuccessful summits rather, sympathize.

Failure is not debacle but an ongoing process of trials and tribulations which we embraced in an open mind to attain holistic experiences rising above the terms-‘SUCCESS’ & ‘FAILURE’.

Recent Posts

An unsuccessful achievement

Footsteps in the Himalayas - Abode Of God

রুপকথার চিন্তাফু

Excellency is, not only in the adventure but also in English language too. Never feel that I am in room, this write up takes me there with them. Keep writing Girl.

Best summer destinations : Chopta - Nainital - Mussoorie  - Kanatal - Dhanaulti - Chakrata  - Auli - Kausani - Mukteshwar - Chaukori - Pangot

• Roopkund Trek
• Uttarakhand
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• 3 Places to See
• 2 Tour Packages

Roopkund - Mysterious Skeleton Lake

Set amidst the benevolent mountainous peaks, the Roopkund Lake remains in the spotlight for its unsolved mystery. It has been nicknamed as the ' Mystery Lake ' as the remains of human skeletons and horses belonging to the Palaeolithic age can be seen here. 

The adrenaline pumping trek to Roopkund starts from  Lohajung , a tiny pass seated at  16,499  feet above sea level in the Garhwal Himalayas. This shallow lake has a depth of about 2 metres and is the most popular lake in the entire Uttarakhand.  The lake is nestled amidst panoramic mountain scenery, surrounded by rock-strewn glacier. 

Get Roopkund trekking guide, trek route, 2023 travel updates

• Roopkund Trek Tour Packages

• Places to See
• Tour Packages
• How to Reach

Visit high alpine meadows offering enchanting greenery and the sacred Bedni Kund holding crystal clear water. The trek goes steep to Roopkund from Bedni Bugya l . Baguabasa is situated at an elevation of 4,100 mts above sea level, situated 5 kms short of Roopkund. The weather is unpredictable at such high altitudes so do carry raincoats.

Roopkund remains frozen for almost all the time of the year. The skeletal remains around Roopkund are believed to be 500-600 years old. While traveling to Roopkund you get a chance to trek through villages rich in pahari culture.

Why Roopkund trek?

• The famed Roopkund Lake remains frozen throughout the year. 
• It is surrounded by the rock-strewn glaciers and the snow-clad mountains, giving it an enigmatic aura that invites several tourists to explore this area. 
• While traversing to Roopkund you can get a chance to have an insight of the rich Pahari culture of the villages. 
• You can walk on the alpine meadows and also visit the sacred Bedni Kund having crystal clear water. 
• Bhagwabasa situated at an elevation of 4,100 metres is 5 km before Roopkund. 
• The trek to Roopkund is steep from Bedni Bugyal therefore, one needs prior trekking experience . 

Video of Roopkund Trek by Live for Adventure Group

Roopkund and Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra

The great ' Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra' is held in every 12 years from Nauti village near Karnaprayag to Homkund near Roopkund. This yatra is dedicated to Goddess Nanda. A large number of people from Garhwal and Kumaon take part in this tough holy yatra.

Many stories were also made about the mysterious human skeletons of Roopkund. According to research it was indicated that the people were from the 12th century to the 15th century who died of hailstorm. But it is still a mystery that what were those people doing there. 

• Places to See in Roopkund Trek

Roopkund Trek Travel Tips

• Travelling in monsoons should be avoided as the hilly region in Uttarakhand has its fair share of incessant rainfall. Moreover, the region is prone to unexpected landslides and road blocks.
• The weather is unpredictable at such high altitudes so do carry a raincoat along with you.
• Inform someone in your family or friends about your trek and let them know when the trek will begin and end. Avoid hiking alone in the Himalayan wilderness.

Staying in Roopkund Trek

Being a remote location, there are no hotels, resorts or guesthouses at Roopkund. The trekkers take tents along with them and camp along the trail when they halt at night. Few budget accommodation facilities are available at Wan, which is the last habitable village on the trail. The tour operators usually provide camping equipments.

Wan is the last point where you can get accommodation facility while traveing to Roopkund. You will find GMVN Guest house in Wan . During the remaining trekking route you must carry your own camping tents for accommodation.

Roopkund Trek Food Guide

Trekkers take the food supplies with themselves that they purchased before starting the trek. A cook can prepare a delicious cooked meal. Generally, packaged food is a viable option at these remote locations.

Mythology about Roopkund Trek

According to the Hindu mythology, when Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva were heading to Kailash after annihilating the demons, the goddess wanted to clean herself. Shiva then created a ' kund ' or lake with the help of his Trishul so his consort can have a bath. While taking a dip in the lake, Parvati saw her beautiful reflection and was bewitched by it. Hence, the lake was named as Roopkund . 

While, the other legend states that, Raja Jasdhaval, the King of Kanauj angered the Goddess Nanda Devi by taking his pregnant wife along with numerous dancers, musicians, and servants on a pilgrimage to Nanda Devi shrine. Having disturbed the peace of her sacred land with their elaborate entourage, Rani Balampa, the Queen of Raja Jasdhaval then delivered a baby at a cave nearby (considered as unclean for a certain period of time). The entourage followed by other unpleasant events infuriated the Goddess and she showed her wrath in the form of a severe storm. It is believed that hailstones as big as tennis ball fell on the head of the pilgrims, which lead to their sudden death.

Suggested Roopkund Trek Itinerary 

Day 01: kathgodam-lohajung  (drive :10 kms, 10 hours).

Reach Kathgodam by Ranikhet Express. From Kathgodam, you have two options to reach Lohajung . If you are in a group then hiring a cab to Lohajung is the best option for you. If you want to save money then travel by public transport for that you have to break your journey into two parts i.e. Kathgodam to Gwaldam by bus/shared cab and then Gwaldam to Lohajung. Budget accommodations are available at Lohajung.

Day 2: Lohajung-Didna Village (Trek: 6.5 kms)

Wake up early and take the trail to Raun Bagad, just behind the bus stand in Lohajung. This fairly marked trail descends through the mixed forest and it will take around two and a half hours to reach Ruan Bagad. Alternatively, you can also reach there by taking the road towards Wan village . After a 6 km walk to Kuling village, there is a steep slope towards Ruan Bagad. Hereafter, the climb to Didina village starts after crossing the iron bridge. After a steep climb, you will reach Didina in an hour. Halt at Didina for the night.

Day 3:   Didna Village-Ali Bugyal (Trek: 10.5 kms)

Start off early; there are two alternative routes from Didina that leads to Ali Bugyal . Take the trail to Tolapani, where you can find the cluster of shepherd huts. Tolapani can be seen from the valley and it is only 3 km away from here. From Tolapani take the trail that leads to Tolkaan. This meadow trek goes through a series of switchbacks and the thick oak forests. Take the sharp left towards the south and move towards the ridge.

 Alternatively, take the climb towards Ali Bugyal without going through Tolapani. If you want to savour the spellbinding views then reach here before afternoon. Relax amidst the natural vistas and have an overnight stay in the tents.

Day 4: Ali Bugyal-Patar Nachuni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lautani (Trek: 7 kms)

 The day four is an easy trek so just follow the straight line ahead of you up to 3 km. Soon you will come across a ridge, from where the view is absolutely gorgeous. Ghora Lotani is a beautiful campsite that offers picturesque views. Pitch your tents here and spend the night by rolling under the cluster of stars. 

Day 5: Patar Nachuni- Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak (Trek: 4 kms )

Gear up to trek on the snow line, this trek will take you closer to an altitude of 14,500 feet and will give you the chills of the weather. Start the trek early as you have to reach Bhagwabasa before the weather becomes harsh. Ascend to Kalu Vinayak, a steep zig-zag way that takes you up to the mountain. It will take one and a half hours to cross this section. Bhagwabasa is only 2 km away from here. The trail towards Bhagwabasa moves through the snow patches and you can enjoy scenic views throughout the journey. 

Day 6: Bhagwabasa-Roopkund- Patar Nachuni (Trek: 10 kms)

Start traversing as early as 4 am. The sooner you’ll start the easy it will be to make your way through the snow as it will be hard and your feet will not sink in. To reach Roopkund, you have to climb 3 km uphill from Bhagwabasa which will take 3 and a half hour to reach. 

On reaching Roopkund, relish a magnificent view of the glacial lake and if the weather is fine then climb up to Junargali. In hardly 30 minutes, you will reach Junargali. You can start off early to return back to Bedni Bugyal via Bhagwabasa. Be careful while crossing this tricky stretch as the snowy slopes may become a problem. 

Day 7: Patar Nachuni-Lohajung via Bedni and Wan (Trek: 15 kms)

Get ready to make your way back to Lohajung via Wan village. This well-marked trail can be easily crossed. On a clear day, you can have a stunning view of the Trishul peak, while returning back from Bedni Bugyal to Wan village. Walkthrough the dense rhododendron forests; soon you will see a steep descent for the Neel Ganga River. 

From here, it will take an hour or so to climb the ridge over Wan village. The total trekking distance to Wan village can be completed in 6 and a half hours. After that, it is an hour’s drive back to Lohajung, where you can stay for the night.

Day 8: Lohajung to Kathgodam (Drive: 210 kms)

Bid adieu to the exhilarating trekking journey and post breakfast drive to Kathgodam from Lohajung village. 

Roopkund Trek Photo Gallery

• Roopkund Trek Travel Guide
• How to Reach Roopkund Trek
• Roopkund Trek FAQs
• Roopkund Trek Photos

What is Roopkund Trek famous for?

Roopkund Trek is famous among tourist as Mysterious Lake, Trekking, Camping, Long Trek, Summer Trek, Adventure, Pilgrimage.

Roopkund Trek is recommended destination for Foreigners, Groups.

Roopkund Trek is popular destination for following activities/ interests - Adventure , Lakes , Religious , Trekking .

Plan your Trip

Uttarakhand travel update.

Char Dham yatra will start from 10 May 2024, Bookings Now Open! Check Char Dham Tour Packages - Hotels in Badrinath - Char Dham Yatra by Helicopter - Kedarnath Helicopter Booking Guide  - Char Dham hotels

Char Dham Closing Dates:  Gangotri , Yamunotri and Kedarnath dhams are closed now. Badrinath temple will be closed 19 Nov. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Traveling to Uttarakhand?  Check out Uttarakhand Covid Stats , Uttarakhand Travel Guidelines  and Uttarakhand Travel News

Char Dham Update:  Gangotri , Yamunotri , Kedarnath and Badrinath are open for pilgrims. Check out Char Dham Yatra tours : Char Dham News . Char Dham Registration is compulsory for visiting Char Dham Temples. Check Kedarnath Helicopter Ticket booking guide .

Last Updated: 26 Apr 2024

Roopkund Trek overview

• Best time to visit Roopkund Trek May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct,
• Starts from Lohajung
• Trek Distance 38 kms
• Trek grade Tough
• Trek duration 8 days
• Altitude range 4900 mts
• Located in Chamoli, Garhwal
• Famous for Mysterious Lake, Trekking, Camping, Long Trek, Summer Trek, Adventure, Pilgrimage

Travelling to Roopkund Trek in 2024?

Contact us for planning your Roopkund Trek tour with best travel packages of as per your requirements!

• Char Dham Yatra
• Char Dham Packages
• Chopta Tourism

eUttaranchal

• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Hotels

Customer Service

• Return, Cancellation & Refund
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

Business Connect

• List your Package
• List your Hotel
• Send Feedback
• Nainital - Musoorie
• Haridwar - Rishikesh
• Chopta - Tungnath
• Badrinath - Kedarnath
• Auli - Joshimath
• Kedarkantha - Har ki Dun
• Corbett - Binsar
• Badrinath Hotels
• Kedarnath Hotels
• Nainital Hotels
• Rishikesh Hotels
• Mussoori Hotels
• Chopta Hotels
• Corbett Resorts
• Adi Kailash Packages
• Valley of Flower Tours
• Kumaon Tours
• Badrinath Packages
• Kedarnath Packages
• Chopta Packages
• Nainital Packages
• Valley of Flowers - Hemkund Sahib
• Kuari Pass Trek
• Satopanth Trekking
• Phulara Ridge Trek
• Brahmatal Trek
• Panchachuli Base Camp Trek
• Nag Tibba Trek

• Send Enquiry

Get Customized Tour Package

Roopkund Trek

Uttarakhand |

Uttarakhand | India

Max Altitude

Trekking Km

Moderate to Difficult

Help & Support

13700 /person $ /person.

• February-2025
• +5% GST (goods and services tax)
• Services Kathgodam to Kathgodam | Included Transport

Insurance 500

Transport 1000

Offload 1200

For more information. Please complete this form.

Help & Support

Trek Name: Roopkund Trek

Adventure Type: Trekking

Base Camp: Lohajung

Season: Summer | Autumn |

Month: April | May | June | September | October | November |

Country: India

Altitude: 15696 Ft.

Grade: Moderate to Difficult

Rail Head: Kathgodam

Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse

Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)

Location: Uttarakhand

Distance: 53 Km.

Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.

Roopkund is a famous glacial lake in the state of Uttarakhand in India . This lake is famous due to more than five hundred skeletons of humans that are found at the edge of the lake. It is located in the Himalayas and rests at an altitude of nearly 4,800 meters. Roopkund is located in the Chamoli district of Garhwal. It is one of the best sites for Trekking in Garhwal. It is closer to hill stations like Nainital and Kathgodam. At a distance of 217 km from Nainital and 235 km from Kathgodam, Roopkund is one of the major adventure attractions for people in the country and those traveling from abroad. Roopkund, which is located in the lap of Trishul massif is also known as the ‘mystery lake’. You can find human skeletons at the bank of the lake, which are believed to belong to the Palaeolithic age.

These are believed to be the skeletons of the heroes who had fought here in earlier times. Along with the skeletons of humans, you can also find the skeletal structure of horses and other animals. There are reports that these skeletons belong to the 12th century to the 15th century. It is believed by specialists that the death of many people in this region was a result of landslides, blizzards, or an epidemic. The human skeletons were re-discovered in 1942 by H K Madhwal, who was a Nanda Devi Game reserve ranger.

Later in 2004, a team of Indian scientists along with some Europeans visited the area to gain more information about the nature of the  skeletons . Through extensive research and findings, they found human skulls, bones, and other jewellery. The DNA of the skeletons was taken, and it appeared that the people belonged to many classes and showed different features and morphological structures. There was a group of short and tall people believed to be closely related to each other. Though the exact number of the skeletons cannot be ascertained, a total number of around 500 hundred skeletons were found. It is also believed that an equal number of skeletons perished due to the natural environment.

The Radiocarbon dating of the skeletons at the Oxford University Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit determines the age of the skeletons be somewhere around 850 AD. Later extensive research has been carried out in various parts of the country and the world. Many scientists are of the idea that the people did not die of an epidemic but due to sudden hailstorms. The hailstorms are supposed to be as big as the size of a cricket ball, and as there was no shelter in the open areas of the Himalayas, people might have come under its disastrous and direct effect. It is considered one of the strongest reasons for the extinction of the natives of this area.

The cold and icy weather conditions can be said to be the reason for the preservation of the skeletons for such a long time. The favourable weather conditions prevented the skeletons to decay and decompose into the soil. With landslides that were rampant in the area, many bodies slipped into the lakes and stayed there for a long time. The bodies that fell into the lake had a greater shelf-life as compared to the ones which remained in the open. However, it is still not determined if this group of people lived here, or if they were heading towards a destination. Historical evidence of any trade route toward Tibet has not been established. Therefore it is hard to decipher the real purpose of the group of people that were victims of this natural calamity. There are possibilities that the group may be heading towards the Nanda Devi pilgrimage where Nanda Devi Raj Jat festivities take place once every 12 years.

Lohajung is the starting trekking point for Roopkund. The Roopkund Trek can also be called Skeleton Trek due to the presence of different skeletons in and around the lake. The lake is surrounded by snow-clad mountains and rock-strewn glaciers.

Trekking in India and choosing the Roopkund Trek is an adventurous journey that passes through many exotic and beautiful locations. As you trek towards the lake, you would find lush green grassy land and conifer forest ranging towards the fall of hills. Thereafter the trek takes its way along the Pindar River. You can enjoy the natural and lush green beauty of the surroundings with the pleasant breeze that blows all around you, giving a soothing effect to your senses.

Roopkund is a picturesque, beautiful, and attractive tourist destination in the Himalayas. Located at the base of two Himalayan peaks, Trishul and Nandghungti, it attracts people who have an adventurous side to life. Religious festivals take place in autumn, held at the alpine meadow of Bedni Bugyal , where the nearby villages participate. The lake is covered with ice all the time and it adds to its beauty. It is an enjoyable travelling destination as one is surrounded by mountains from all sides. Trekking in Uttarakhand also gives you the chance to Trek The Himalayas . You can also go for the Nanda Rajjat Yatra.

There are many routes for a trek to Roopkund. One of the most common routes travelers and adventurers take is through Lohajung up to where you can travel by road. Trekking  begins after this point. There are also some plains or flat areas where you can camp during the night. If the weather is not foggy, you can easily see  Bedni Bugyal and Trishul . On your way to Roopkund, you would also find many grazing lands for horses, sheep and mules. You would come across a few temples and lakes on your journey. Many waterfalls are also visible on the slopes of the surrounding mountains. However, it should be kept in mind that the weather is generally hostile throughout the year and travellers need to be fully equipped and prepared for these conditions.

• Who can Participate
• Important Links
• How to Reach
• Trek Essential

Who Can Participate

Age; 15 years.

Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 4,000m/13,100ft.

The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without stress.

The climber should be able to carry a 12-16 kg backpack.

Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute)

Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 - 140 mm Hg)

Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute)

Should not have Liver and kidney issues

Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension etc

No pacemaker implant

People with the Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek

If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.

        Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

• Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed  for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT) 
• Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date, 
• This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
• Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.

Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.

Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.

• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form

Exercise For Moderate to Difficult

Fitness Regime For:

Calculate Your Bmi

Your BMI value is

Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!

Kathgodam to Lohajung

The journey will take not more than 10 hours, which includes one or two breaks. The serpentine road goes through the region of Kumaon and covers deep valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges. The road will take you to Gwaldam which lies under the administrative district of Garhwal. The road goes through coniferous forests and unrelenting curves. Though there is a direct road from Gwaldam to Deval, the final destination of the day, it is not preferred due to damages at various places due to the yearlong rains. Via Nandkesri the distance to be covered is less, around 11kms, but it is better to walk on a longer, but safer trail through Tharali, which is around 36kms. Around 2 hours of the ride will take you to Deval, a village with all provisions of purchasing food and kerosene required for the rest of the journey. The days last stretch of the journey is from Deval to Lohajung. The extremely curvy and winding road gains considerable height. The roads are so thrilling to drive on that sometimes even the slightest of oncoming cars and trucks send Goosebumps. It is generally rainy and foggy most of the time and temperatures remain very cold. The night is spent at a tourist rest house or nearby lodges.

Lohargunj to Didna Village

The actual trek begins today. After a good home prepared breakfast, the walk starts on the level ground with slight ascent on the jeep road; the road goes till the village of Wan. An hour and a half walk on the flat surface will take you to Kulling, which is located at a distance of around 6km form Lohajung. Kulling is a peaceful village in the district of Garhwal, with a small pool of the population; it is filled with the beauties of nature. Exotic birds can be spotted very easily; the air feels crisp and fresh. After a break at Kulling, you take a right turn and gradually descend towards the village. At the start, you will notice a narrow concrete plain which cuts through houses and fields and takes you to a small stream. This small stream is fed by Neel Ganga. You descend further till you reach the bed of Neel Ganga. Go ahead and cross the cemented bridge and then start climbing the ridge on the right side of the bridge. The road ahead is moderately steep and ends at the village of Didna, situated at an altitude of 2450mts, 8000ft. The trail encompasses evergreen alpine forests and trees which are huge in size. After a climb of around two hours, you reach the top of the ridge; the view ahead is magnificent. It is surprising to find huge open lands at such a high altitude on the lap of the mountains. There are two villages very near to each other Didna and Kuling, basically they host the same type of people and trekkers. The first village is habited during the summer and monsoon months while the second one is popular during winter. The days trek is over at around 3pm, after which a hot lunch is enjoyed. Total distance covered during the day is approximately around 10kms, and the night is spent in a traditional guest house.

Didna Village to Ali Bugyal

Today's trek involves trekking through the beautiful village of Ali Bugyal, which located at an altitude of 3400mts or 11000ft, is one of the highest inhabited locations of the country. Ali Bugyal is on top of the mountain and is clearly visible from the backdrop of Didna. The trek will take you to climb on top of this mountain, after the start the trail will take out of the village. On the right, the trail is slightly ascending with a very gentle gradient. On the way, temporary settlements of local shepherds known as Tolpani and their huge herds of sheep are a site to behold. They are very friendly and warm in welcoming people; you can even share their lunch, which they think as a friendly gesture. On the other hand, the trail on the left side is short in length but is steeper. But it doesnt really matter which trail you take, eventually both of them will take you to the same destination. Oak, Birch, and Rhododendron trees are the only trees that grow in these areas, and are magnificent and huge in size. According to locals, anyone visiting the place during the spring season can see the unbelievable view of the valley covered with thousands of Rhododendron flowers in vibrant colours. After reaching the mountain top, the tree line gradually recedes, and the plain grasslands start. The climb takes around 3 to 4 hours, after which right in front of your eyes, the Himalayas most attractive meadows, Ali Bugiyal welcomes you. The view is very similar to the default wallpaper of Windows XP and is a treat for the eyes. During summer months, wild horses and cows graze the fields which are filled with vast stretches of grass and flowers of various bright colours. On a clear weather, it is easy to spot the peaks of Trishul and Mrighthuni, the tallest mountain peaks in this part of the Himalayas. The mighty Trishul beckons to be climbed upon and feels as there is some hidden energy which attracts towards itself. After crossing the meadows, there comes a small face on the way, and another half an hour of trekking will take you to Bedni, the camping spot for day 3. After lunch, visit the nearby temple in Bedni Kund, if the weather is clear you might be able to view the Garhwal Himalayan ranges at its glory.

Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani

Today being the 4th day of the trek you can have the choice of starting a bit late and sleeping a little bit extra. Your next camping location is Gora Lutani, which is a perfect camping spot. Keep on walking and enjoy the picturesque locations in the adjoining area. Along the way, you will come across Patat Nacholi, a rather unused and vest able landmass. This day you will make steep altitude gain from around 12,500ft to 14,500ft. The high altitude and the long continuous walks will make your legs hurt, and you will also start feeling the effects of the weather changes and the thin air will make breathing difficult. But don't worry; the wonderful surroundings will give you enough motivation to reach your destination. The positive vibes flowing in the air lets you forget all your troubles. After a travel of around 10kms, the campsite for the day is reached. Ghora Lotani will give you a good night's sleep, but the next morning waking up early is very crucial as it is going to be an exciting day ahead.

Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak

Wake up early and brace yourself for the longest day of trekking. Have a filling breakfast and dont forget to do a few stretches. It should be kept in mind that today; the trekking will approximately cover 10kms and that too on a steep slope. Walk towards Bagubasa, located around 14000ft above the sea level. This road will also take you across Kalyuvinayak temple. The most thrilling part to see the temple is to travel up 2kms, also equivalent to gaining an altitude of around 200ft. The path leading to this temple is very uneven and zig-zag in shape. It is essential that proper safety gear and clothing is ensured before the days trek is even started. The walk should be done very slowly and carefully; one small slip and anyone can get hurt very badly. But since there is no gain without pain, the gifts await you at the top. It is difficult to understand how someone could create the temple at such a height. The temple is basically traditional in design and construction and has been there for centuries. As the altitude increases, the air gets thinner, and the quantity of oxygen also decreases, this might lead to headaches and acute stomach pain, but don't worry, take some rest for a while. The temple is carved out of stones with ultimate precision and perfection; it installs divine intervention in your mind. From the temple, you can view Roopkund , the final trekking destination. The view is just magnificent one with shining and sparkling Trishul on one side and bell shaped Nandagunti on the other. You further follow up the uneven trail leading to Bhaguabasa at 1km distance from there. The region has its own specialities, flowers that bloom only during the monsoon months. You currently stand at a very high altitude of 14000ft and the terrain seems to look rough and not so easy to traverse.

Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Bedni Bugyal

Start early on this day to reach the mega destination – Roopkund. At an altitude of more than 16000ft, it is surely the highest point on the trek. Though the path is not that complicated to climb, but even the 4km walk will take a breath out of you and tire you like hell. But no trekking is easy, right? During monsoon, the snow covering this area is very less and shallow, which makes the path reveal itself properly. From Bhaguabasa, your first checkpoint is Chhirianag which means ladder like snake. From this place, the next point lays Roopkund – The mystery island. The lake of skeletons is one of the most mysterious places in the world. Till date, even archaeologists, and scientists are not able to find out how there were so many skeletons on the bed of the lake. There are theories and fables which state that once a king and his fellowmen were going to Nanda Devi, and, unfortunately, a severe hailstorm led to their deaths. If you are extremely lucky, then from the edge of the lake you can clearly see somewhere around 300 human skeletons. This view in itself is breath taking and people go crazy after seeing this. From this place, the trek will be along a hard and steep terrain. After the steep climb gets over, you will find the Nanda Devi temple. This is very near to the Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve. A perfect site for taking good snaps with friends and other fellow trekkers. Depending upon the weather and the co-climbers conditions may decide to risk on the Junargali pass which stands 16700 feet from sea level. Without any meteorological interference, you would need about 45 minutes to climb. You will have to pass through Bhagwabasa on the return journey. These places are filled with sheer exhilaration and thrill. The descent along the path is twice difficult that of the ascent it is so steep that one might have the feeling of falling down from the top. Move along to discover a cave like structure called as Bhagwabasa or the abode of the tiger. You further climb down to reach PatarNachuni about 12500 above ground level. You continue backwards through Ghora Lautani back to Bedni Bughyal. Your day will end at the campsite amidst lush greenery. This trip is one of the longest, covering over a distance of 15km taking about10-15 hours for completion. The legs will push you to deep sleep as they need a lot of rest. But before going to bed, do realize the whole trek was not at all easy and requires a whole lot of determination and courage to complete it.

Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan

Day 7 is probably the last day of the trek where you will have to walk and return to the camp site at Day01. Descending and climbing up are two things that are very different, though the path remains the same. This time you travel on the right side of the trail and it seems a simple path as compared to the previous days strenuous affair. For the first time, you will see wooden huts dotted along the path. After travelling a little more, you are now able to see the road dividing itself into two lanes. You need to take the one which leads to right. It goes down and down, and as you descend further you can again see that you have entered the forest region with trees all along the lane. The bird tweeting and the cool aiwin past your ears are a treat that you will rarely get to feel. Due to the varying slope, trekkers are cautioned to take each and every step very carefully; otherwise one might end up hurting themselves. Shortcuts though may look rewarding must be avoided as much as possible as the terrain is pretty rough. After walking a few more yards you near an opening inside the dense forest called the Gahroli Patal. You continue our journey till you reach the banks of the river of Neel Ganga. Once you reach the river bed, your journey continues, till you reach the wan village called Ran ka Dhar. The village of Wan is the next stop after which you descend further. Wan feels like very much at home, a big village with hills and mountains covering the edges, a view to cherish all your lives. As you travel a few more yards at the road and you find the car waiting to pick you up. The distance covered for the day for the descent is nearly 18km and requires about 10 hours. It needs an hour from Wan to reach Lohargunj. The road taken by car is rocky. Once you reach back the tourist guest house you can rejoice all the memories of the trip and comfortably sleep on the warm bed.

Lohajung to kathgodam

Wake up early in the morning; have a nice cup of tea and an awesome hillside breakfast. Today you will leave for Lohargunj, along with all the beautiful and unforgettable memories pack your own stuffs and luggage. Your cab will drop you at the Kathgodam railway station. The car journey will take something around 10 hours, and do make sure that you are carrying mint and tablets which prevent nausea. From Kathgodam railway station, you will find trains to various locations. Board your respective train and take along a healthy experience with memories that will never fade away.

Day-1: Kathgodam to Lohajung

• Altitude 7,662 ft.
• Stay in guest house.
• Drive 210 km (10 hrs drive).
• Local market and network is available.
• Pick up time 06:00 am at the parking of Kathgodham railway station.
• Route:- Kathgodam - Bheem Tal - Almora - Kausani - Gwaldam - Dewal - Lohajung.

Day-2: Lohargunj to Didna Village

• Trek 6.5 km.
• 7,662 to 8,045 ft.
• Reach Didna before lunch.
• accommodation in village home stay.
• No local market but Network is available.
• Till ruan bagad bridge gradual descent (4.5 km).
• Refill your water bottle at ruan bagad bridge from Neel Ganga river.
• After ruan bagad bridge 2 hours of a steep ascent to Didna Village (2 km).

Day-3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal

• Trek 10.5 km.
• 8,045 to 11,320 ft.
• Accommodation in tent.
• Carry water and ors both.
• Reach Ali Bugyal by late noon.
• Keep your wind and waterproof handy.
• Tolpani is the last point for drinking water.
• First half of is through oak and rhododendron forest (Steep ascent).
• Second half of the trek is through big alpine meadows (gradual ascent).

Day-4: Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani

• 11,320 to 12,818 ft.
• Easiest day of the trek.
• Reach Patar Nachauni before lunch.
• Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (gradual ascent 2 km).
• Bedni Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (gradual ascent 4 km).
• Ghora Lotani to Patar Nachauni (gradual descent 1 km).
• Spend some time at Ghora Lotani good for acclimatization.
• Ware proper clothing (this is the place where most of the trekkers get AMS).

Day-5: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak

• 12,818 to 14,117 ft.
• Reached Camp site by lunch.
• Patar Nachauni to Kalu Vinayak Tempel .
• (first 1 km is gradual ascent and rest 1.5 km is steep ascent).
• Kalu Vinayak to Bhagwabasa (gradual descent 1.5 km, become tricky in may and June ).
• There will be snow on the trail in the month of may and jun and in sep and oct it will be a rocky trail.

Day-6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Bedni Bugyal

• Trek 10 km.
• 14,117 to 15755 ft.
• Start your trek by 4:00 am.
• Climb to Roopkund is 3 km.
• Challenging day of the trek.
• Carry energy bars, ors and water.
• Breakfast will be at Roopkund top.
• Reach Bhagwabasa back by lunch time.
• Reach Patar Nachauni camp by evening.
• In Aug, Sep, Oct can see skeleton but no snow.
• In May and Jun snow will be there but can't see the skeleton.

Day-7: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan

• Trek 15 km.
• 12,818 to 7,662 ft.
• Accommodation in guest house.
• Patar Nachauni to Ghora Lotani (1 km gradual ascent).
• Ghora Lotani to Bedni Bugyal ( 4 km gradual descent).
• Bedni Bugyal to Doliya Dhar ( 0.5 km gradual walk).
• Doliya Dhar to Ghaeroli Patal ( 3 km steep descent ).
• Ghaeroli Patal to Neel Ganga ( 4 km steep descent ).
• Neel Ganga to Ranka Dhar ( 1 km moderate ascent ).
• Ranka Dhat to Wan Village road head ( 1.5 km gradual descent).
• Wan Village to Loharjung ( 45 minutes drive, road condition is not good).
• Route :- Patar Nachauni - Ghora Lotani - Bedni Bugyal - Doliya Dhar - Ghaeroli Patal - Neel Ganga - Ranka Dhar - Wan Village - drive to Lohajung.

Day-8: Lohajung to kathgodam

• 10 hrs drive.
• Drive 210 km.
• Reach Kathgodam by 6:00 pm.
• On the way to Kathgodam at Kausani you can buy herbal tea and some souvenir.

Roopkund trek in Seasons.

Summer Treks (April, May, June) 1. Less colder. 2. More windy. 3. Weather is unpredictable. 4. Cant see human skeleton. 5. Roopkund is in frozen condition. 6. Higher camps covered with snow. 7. Natural source of drinking water are easily available. 8. Best for those who want to see snow and want to do a difficult level of trek.

Autumn Treks (September, October, November) 1. Less windy. 2. More colder. 3. Mostly clear weather. 4. Can see human skeleton. 5. No snow at any camp site. 6. Roopkund lake is properly visible. 7. Natural source of drinking water are limited. 8. Best for those who want to see greenery and want to do moderate level of trek.

• Mandatory Documents to Bring on A Trek  Click Here.

How To Reach

It is essential for everyone to arrive at Rishikesh (06:00 am)

Trek The Himalayas Head office, Tapovan Laxmanjhula, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel

Once you have reached Rishikesh, TTH will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TTH's pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.

Options to reach Rishikesh

• Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
• Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (35 min drive with normal traffic).

We always recommend going for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am.

3.  Board a flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) (21 km, 30 min). If you're arriving by air, then come one day in advance.

If you prefer to travel independently to Base camp and don't want to take TTH's pick-up service, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab from Rishikesh. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking.

Arrive in Rishikesh by 3:00 to 4:00 pm.

The designated drop-off point is Trek The Himalayas Office (Tapovan | Laxmanjhula).

Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 7:00 pm.

TTH offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.

 1. Accommodation (as per the itinerary):

• Guest house, Home Stay.
• Camping while the trek (Twin sharing basis).

2. Meals (Veg + Egg):

• Meals while on trek(Veg + Egg).

3. Support:

• 1 Versatile base camp manager: handles communication and deploys extra manpower in emergencies.
• 1 Mountaineering & First aid qualified professional trek Leader.
• 1 Experienced high altitude chef.
• Local experienced guides (Number of guides depending on the group size).
• Enough support staff.

4. Trek equipment:

• Sleeping bag, Sleeping liners (if required), Mattress, Utensils.
• 3 men all season trekker tent (twin sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent.
• Camping stool, Walkie talkie.
• Ropes, Helmet, Ice axe, Harness, Gaiters & Crampon (if required).

5. First aid:

• Medical kit, Stretcher, Oxygen cylinder, Blood pressure monitor, Oximeter, Stethoscope.

6. Transportation (as per the itinerary):

• Transport from Loharjung   to Loharjung.

7. Mules/porters to carry the central luggage. 

8. Clock room facility available at the base camp for additional luggage.

9. All necessary permits and entry fees, Upto the amount charged for Indian.

1. Insurance (Mandatory).

2. Food during the transit.

3. Any kind of personal expenses.

4. Mule or porter to carry personal luggage.

5. Emergency evacuation, hospitalization charge or etc.

6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusion.

Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things).

1- Satellite phone/set phone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.

2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) -  is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.

3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) -   are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly. 

Special Offer

Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.

If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and cannot complete it, or if you've successfully completed the trek and wish to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times at no additional cost.

Terms and conditions

• This offer is non-transferable.
• This offer is valid for Trek The Himalayas limited fixed departures.
• This offer is valid for 5 years from the date of booking.
• This offer is not valid if the participant has received a cash refund or voucher at the time of cancellation.
• Participants don’t have to pay for the trek cost but have to pay for transportation and trek permit costs.

To reserve a spot for a trek or adventure program, you can either utilize our online booking form or call us at the provided number. For your confirmation, a deposit must be wired, including the initial payment.

Cancellation terms:

Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip

Refund options

• 5% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (any trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

• 30% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, any date) to your friend

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip

• 50% deduction of trek fee
• 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch

Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek

• No cash refund
• 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
• 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year
• Transfer your trek (same trek, same date) to your friend

Note- If a booking is made using a voucher or discount code, the policies related to vouchers and discounts cannot be modified.

In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:

While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.

In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.

The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around-time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.

In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:

We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.

In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
• TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

Cash Voucher Terms:

• This is a non-transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice

Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.

Trek Essentials

PDF Of Trek Essential Download

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

How to register/create an account with tth.

To register with TTH, visit our website - www.trekthehimalayas.com and create your account. To create your account you will need to use your email address and fill in all the details, set your unique password and your account is ready to use.

How to book a trek?

• To book a trek with TTH, you first need to register with us and create an account.
• Choose the trek that you want to do and click on available dates.
• You will land at the login page, fill in the required details.
• Add Participants, choose add-on services click on the Pay now button, choose your preferred payment method, and make the payment. TTH accepts multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI.
• You will receive a confirmation email from TTH with all the necessary details about the trek, including the meeting point, transportation, accommodation, and other important instructions.

Made a payment but did not receive any confirmation.

please send an email to us at [email protected] or reach out to the numbers provided in the Help and Support section of your Trek Page. We will ensure that your issue is promptly resolved.

How to book off-load luggage and transportation?

To book services such as off-load luggage and transportation, you can find them listed as add-ons. These additional services can be booked at the time of your initial booking. If you miss booking add-ons during the initial reservation, you can log in anytime and easily book 4 days before the departure date add-ons through the platform.

If I have booked the wrong trek or date, how can I make changes?

In such a situation, please log in to your account and transfer your trek or date to the desired one within 12 hours or drop us an email at [email protected] 10 days before the departure date of the trek. After the initial 12-hour period, any changes will be processed according to the cancellation policy.

I am a beginner and confused which trek to book.

We recommend visiting our "Suggest Me a Trek" page. By filling out the form, our experts will contact you with the best possible trek options based on your preferences and experience level. Alternatively, you can reach out to us via email at [email protected] or give us a call using the numbers provided on our website for personalized assistance and recommendations.

How is family trek different from regular trek?

Family treks differ from regular treks by focusing on ease of difficulty, offering shorter durations for younger participants, Kid-friendly and easily digestible foods, child-friendly activities, maintaining a higher guide ratio for diverse age groups, and implementing additional safety measures for families.

Ideal treks for children.

Family Trek with Kids recommendation Only Dayara Bugyal and Chopta Chandrashila Trek.

Minimum age for children to trek with TTH.

Minimum age for TTH treks is typically 7 years, though this may vary depending on the specific trek.

Can we take children to high altitudes with their guardian?

Yes, you can take a kids to a high-altitude trek with a parent. Discuss with a trek expert before booking a trek.

Can we send kids without Parents/guardian?

Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download medical and disclaimer form

How to prepare a child for a high altitude trek?

Physical Fitness: Ensure your child is physically fit. Engage them in regular exercise, outdoor activities, and hikes to build stamina and endurance. Hydration: Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated at high altitudes. Encourage your child to drink water regularly, even if they don't feel thirsty. Proper Nutrition: Provide a well-balanced diet with sufficient carbohydrates for energy and foods rich in iron to prevent altitude sickness. Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep in the days leading up to the trek. Quality rest is crucial for altitude adaptation. Educate on Altitude Sickness: Teach your child about the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and dizziness. Encourage them to communicate any discomfort immediately. Appropriate Clothing and Gear: Dress your child in layers to adjust to changing temperatures. Ensure they have appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy footwear. Positive Mindset: Foster a positive mindset. Encourage your child, and let them know it's okay to take breaks when needed. Medical Check-Up: Schedule a medical check-up before the trek to ensure your child is fit for high-altitude activities. Consult with a healthcare professional about any potential health concerns.

Kind of food will be served during the trek for children.

TTH takes special care to provide wholesome and nutritious food for children on treks. Here are some of the foods that are typically served for children: Breakfast: For breakfast, TTH serves a variety of options like porridge, cornflakes, bread, butter, jam, honey, boiled eggs, omelettes, and pancakes. Children can choose from these options to fuel themselves for the day's trek. Lunch: For lunch, TTH serves lunch which includes rotis, vegetables, rice, dal, and salad. The rotis are usually made fresh on the trek and are a good source of carbohydrates. The dal and vegetables provide protein and other essential nutrients. Snacks: TTH provides healthy snacks like fresh fruits, dry fruits, energy bars, cookies, and biscuits to keep the children energized throughout the day. Dinner: For dinner, TTH serves a hot and wholesome meal which includes soup, rice, dal, vegetables, and a non-vegetarian dish (if requested in advance). Children can also choose from a variety of desserts like custard, jelly, and fruit salad. Dietary requirements: If a child has any special dietary requirements, TTH can cater to those needs as well. For example, if a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts, the kitchen staff can make arrangements to accommodate those requirements.

How to choose the right trek?

Choosing the right trek for a beginner can be a bit overwhelming as there are many factors to consider such as distance, elevation gain, terrain difficulty, weather, and time of year. Here are some tips that can help you choose the right trek for a beginner:

1. Determine fitness level:  Assess the fitness level of the beginner to understand their physical capabilities. This will help you select a trek that is challenging but not too difficult.

2. Choose a well-traveled trail:  A well-traveled trail will have more amenities such as signposts, water stations, and shelter. It is also safer as there will be other hikers on the trail.

3. Consider the length of the trek:  For beginners, it is recommended to start with a shorter trek that can be completed in a day or two. This will help them get acclimatized to trekking and build their confidence.

4. Look for gradual elevation gain:  Choose a trek with a gradual elevation gain rather than steep ascents. This will make the trek easier and more enjoyable.

5. Check the weather:  Check the weather forecast before selecting a trek. Avoid treks during the monsoon season or winter when the trails can be slippery or dangerous.

6. Research the trail:  Read about the trail to get an idea of the terrain, altitude, and difficulty level. This will help you select a trek that is suitable for the beginner.

7. Consult with an expert:  If you are unsure about which trek to choose, consult our trek expert Mr. Nitin (+91 70600 59773) between 10 AM to 6 PM (Tuesday - Friday). Mr. Nitin will provide you valuable advice and guidance.

Overall, it is important to choose a trek that is enjoyable, challenging but not too difficult, and suitable for the beginner's fitness level and experience.

Can a beginner choose a tough trek?

It is not recommended for a beginner to choose a difficult Himalayan trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally challenging, especially if you are not used to the high altitude, steep slopes, and rugged terrain. Choosing a difficult trek without the proper experience, fitness level, and preparation can be dangerous and put you at risk of altitude sickness, injury, and other hazards.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with an easier trek and gradually build up your skills and experience. This will help you understand the challenges of trekking in the Himalayas, and also prepare you physically and mentally for a more difficult trek in the future. It is also important to choose a trek that matches your fitness level, experience, and interest.

What is the age limit for a beginner trekker?

There is no specific age limit for a beginner trekker. However, it is important to consider your physical fitness, health condition, and personal interests before embarking on a trek. Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically and mentally demanding, and requires a certain level of physical fitness and endurance.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are above a certain age, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before embarking on a trek. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed during the trek to prevent exhaustion or injury.

If I am solo, can I join the trek in a group?

Yes, you can join the trek. We have fixed departure groups where you can simply book your trek and we will take care of curating a group.

How does my family get updated about my Trek?

Before you start the trek, it is recommended that you make all the necessary phone calls as during the trek you may or may not receive network coverage, once you come back to the Base Camp, you can reconnect with your family via phone once again. You can share your trek coordinator contact detail with your family members to get the latest updates about your trek batch.

What food can I expect?

At TTH, we provide wholesome and nutritious meals during the trek. The food is vegetarian and includes a variety of dishes such as rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, paratha, pasta, noodles, and soup. We also offer snacks such as biscuits, and salty, and dry fruits during the trek. Special dietary requirements such as vegan, gluten-free, or Jain food can also be arranged if informed in advance.

I am allergic to some foods.

If you are allergic to some foods, you need to let us know in advance so that we can make arrangements accordingly.

How safe is trekking with TTH?

TTH is a trekking company that prioritizes the safety of all its participants, including women trekkers. They have a comprehensive safety system in place, which includes a dedicated team of experienced and trained trek leaders and support staff who are equipped to handle emergency situations and provide first aid.

TTH also takes specific measures to ensure the safety and comfort of women trekkers. They have a separate tent accommodation for women trekkers, female trek leaders, and support staff. They also provide separate toilet facilities for women and encourage a safe and respectful environment for all trekkers.

Moreover, TTH has a strict policy against any kind of harassment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards such incidents. They have a designated Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to investigate and address any complaints related to harassment or misconduct. Overall, TTH has a good reputation for safety and responsible trekking practices, and women can feel comfortable and safe while trekking with them.

How TTH will manage if I am the only woman in the group?

In case you are the only women in the group, we provide a single sleeping arrangement. Also, during the trek, the trek leader will always remain by your side to provide optimum safety and reassurance.

How can I know that other women are in the batch?

You can reach out to the trek coordinator to inquire about the number of female trekkers and their respective states who have booked the trek. Please note that the trek coordinator cannot disclose personal details of any trekker. Once you've confirmed your booking, a WhatsApp Group will be created for all the trekkers in your batch. This allows you to connect with fellow trekkers before the trek begins.

Can I know in advance, which trek is led by a women Trek Leader?

While many of our treks are led by female trek leaders, however, it is not possible to know which trek leader is assigned to which group. But nonetheless, whether the trek leader is male or female you can be completely assured of your safety and security with us.

Can I trek with periods? If yes, then where can I dispose of the sanitary pad?

Yes, it is possible to trek with periods. However, it is important to take some extra precautions and preparations to ensure a comfortable and safe trekking experience.

Here are some tips that can help you trek during your period:

1. Use menstrual hygiene products that you are comfortable with, such as tampons, pads, or menstrual cups. It is recommended to carry enough supplies for the entire duration of the trek.

2. Pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and plastic bags to dispose of used hygiene products.

3. Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that allows for easy movement and reduces friction. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that can cause discomfort.

4. Carry pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in case of menstrual cramps.

5. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your energy levels and overall health.

6. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body. If you feel uncomfortable or experience any unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

It is also recommended to consult with a doctor before going on a trek during your period, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medication. By taking necessary precautions and being prepared, you can have a safe and comfortable trekking experience even during your period.

We provide proper disposal facilities for sanitary pad disposal during the trek.

How will the accommodation be during the trek?

We offer three person tents with twin-sharing for optimum comfort. A woman trekker will share a tent with another woman trekker and if you are the only woman in the group, you will be given a single accommodation for your comfort and privacy.

Are trek poles, Jackets and other equipment available for rent from Trek The Himalayas?

Yes, we do provide gears on rent. You can book it using you TTH account directly.

Who will be with us on the trek from Trek The Himalayas?

Mountaineering qualified Experienced and first aid certified Trek Leader, First Aid Certify local guide, Cook, helpers and supporting staff.

Who can not join the trek?

People suffering from Bronchitis, Asthma, High blood pressure, Epilepsy (got faints), TB , Heart problem or on higher BMI side are strictly not allowed to go on any Himalayan trek. Apart from this if you had any medical history, please let us know.

When it gets really cold can I consume alcohol?

No. Alcohol and smocking isn’t allowed while on trek. It is totally misconception that it will keep you warm. Your body need to acclimatize properly and for that eat properly and drink enough water; these things will keep you warm.

What type of toilet facility is TTH providing at the trek?

Toilet tents provide a convenient solution for answering nature's call in the great outdoors. Dry toilets, in particular, offer a highly sanitary approach. By digging a pit and utilizing mud and a shovel, you can easily cover up your waste. This method ensures cleanliness and hygiene while camping or exploring in the forest. 

Remember to pack essential toiletries to complete your outdoor bathroom kit and maintain proper personal hygiene during your adventures. With these practices in place, you can enjoy nature while also respecting it.

How do I manage the negative temperatures on the trek at higher camps? Do I need special jackets?

Layer Up From Head To Toe Eat Full Meals, never sleep empty stomach You can keep warmee (if you’re more susceptible to cold). Use sleeping bag in right way and don’t leave free space in sleeping bag.

For upper body – Thermal layer – T-shirt (full-sleeves) – Fleece T-shirt (for extreme colds) – Fleece layer – Thick Jacket/Down Jacket – Waterproof or Windproof layer (outermost layer, when it is snowing or raining) - For Lower Body – Thermal layer – Hiking pants (normal) or Winter hiking pants

Based on how warm you feel you can skip any of the above layers. Your outer later should be windproof since it is windy at high altitude. The idea behind layering is that the more insulation you have the less cold you feel, and instead of wearing a very thick jacket if you wear multiple layers, your body will be better insulated against the cold.

Do you provide crampon/micro spikes and gaiters?

Yes, we provide micro spikes and gaiters, if required.

What documents need to carry on trek?

Mandatory documents: 2 xerox of ID having address (addhar card/driving license), 2 Passport size photographs, hard copy Medical form signed & sealed by doctor, disclaimer form sign by trekker and high altitude insurance.

If we come prior the trek date, Do you provide accommodation?

No. We don’t but we can suggest you good hotel/Stay nearby pick up location.

Do we get enough water for drinking?

Yes, trekker must carry 2 water bottles 1 litre each so they can refill it at campsite for drinking and keep themselves hydrate.

What kind of shoes we should buy for the trek?

You should buy shoes which has these three features –Good grip, Ankle Support and additional water resistant layers. Generally, we advise Quechua Trek 100, MH 500 and MH 100.

How do we get back after the trek?

Your return transport is also included in trek fee if you're opting for service Dehradun to Dehradun ; we use Tempo Traveller/ Tata Sumo/Max/Boloero kind of vehicle.

What happens if some members of the team need to turn back before the summit?

No one is forced to go on. There is always enough staff to split the party according to need and regroup later at the camp. Most people have no trouble reaching the highest campsite. If some members decide not to climb the final distance they can wait for the climbers to come back down the same way or take a lateral path to the descent route.

What kind of help is available in case of emergency?

We always have a first aid kit close at hand. Serious injuries are rare. Porters will assist injured climbers to the base of the mountain and onward to a clinic or hospital. Kilimanjaro International Airport is very near Marangu Gate if evacuation to the US or Europe is advisable.

What is the Roopkund Trek?

The Roopkund Trek is a journey of adventure and discovery that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. The trek is named after the mysterious Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 15, 696 feet. The trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, as it takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and traditional Himalayan villages. The highlight of the trek is the Roopkund Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also known for its mysterious skeletons, which are believed to be the remains of ancient travelers who perished in a hailstorm. The Roopkund Trek is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas.

How long is the Roopkund Trek?

Roopkund Trek is a 53 km trek.

What is the duration of the Roopkund Trek?

Roopkund Trek takes 8 days to complete the trek.

What is the best time to do the Roopkund Trek?

The best time to do the Roopkund Trek is during summer (mid-Apr to Jun) and autumn (Sep to mid-Nov) .

What is the maximum altitude reached during the Roopkund Trek?

The maximum altitude reached during the Roopkund Trek is 15,696 ft .

What is the difficulty level of the Roopkund Trek?

Roopkund Trek is a moderate - difficult grade trek.

What are the highlights of the Roopkund Trek?

The highlights of the Roopkund Trek include the Roopkund Lake, grand views of Chaukhambha Range, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and Neelkanth Peak, camping in picturesque campsites.

What is the accommodation like during the Roopkund Trek?

During the Roopkund Trek , you will stay in a guest house in the base camp, and on the slopes you will be staying in tents (twin-sharing).

Is it safe to do the Roopkund Trek?

Yes, it is safe to do Roopkund Trek with an expert organization. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines issued by the Trek Leaders and guide while trekking in the mountains.

What are the essential items to carry during the Roopkund Trek?

Here's a list of essential items to pack for the Roopkund Trek:

Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes with a sturdy sole and ankle support is essential for the trek.

Backpack: A backpack with a capacity of 40-50 litres is suitable for carrying your essentials, including clothing, food, and water.

Warm clothing: The temperature at high altitudes can drop significantly, so it's important to carry warm clothing, including thermal layers, fleece jackets, and a down jacket.

Rain gear: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it's important to carry a rain jacket and pants to stay dry.

Trekking pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants that are comfortable to walk in are ideal for the trek.

Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries is necessary for navigating through dark trails and campsites.

Water bottle: A reusable water bottle with a capacity of at least 1 litre is necessary to stay hydrated during the trek.

Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun's UV rays can be strong at high altitudes, so it's important to carry sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF.

Basic first aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers can come in handy in case of injuries.

Personal hygiene kit: Toiletries like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues can help you maintain personal hygiene during the trek.

Do I need to have the prior trekking experience to go for the Roopkund Trek?

Yes, it is recommended to have prior trekking experience before attempting the Roopkund Trek as it is considered a moderately difficult trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can also be a challenge. It is important to have good physical fitness and stamina to complete the trek comfortably. Prior trekking experience can help you to be better prepared for the challenges of the trek, such as acclimatization, managing your energy levels, and dealing with the rugged terrain. However, if you are in good physical condition and have a positive attitude, with proper guidance and preparation, you can still attempt the Roopkund Trek even if you are a beginner.

Is it necessary to take a guide for the Roopkund Trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a professional expert for the Roopkund Trek , especially if you are a beginner or have limited trekking experience. A professional can provide you with valuable assistance, including knowledge of the local terrain, weather conditions, and the culture of the region. They can also help you with navigation and ensure your safety throughout the trek.

• Date and Price

Rent A Gear

Trek Articles

Quick Links

Trekking & Hiking

Mountaineering

Multi Sports

Himalayan Pilgrimage

Website Privacy

Terms & Condition

Contact Info

Get in touch with us. E-mail us Monday-Saturday (10 AM to 6 PM)

Address: Trek The Himalayas, Kaintura Plaza, Badrinath Road Tapovan, Rishikesh - 249201 Uttarakhand

Phone: 8191004846

Email: [email protected]

2010 Trek The Himalayas. All rights reserved

The big mountains on the Roopkund trek

Share this story

Category Photo Stories

By Seersha Nambiar

Roopkund is one of the most popular treks in the Himalayas. As you walk through the trail you get some magnificent mountain views.  Here we list out the must-see peaks along with details on where to look for them.  Pictures and captions by Madhujith Venkatakrishna .

The Plume from Mt.Trishul

From Bedni Bugyal, you get to see Mount Trishul at a staggering altitude of 23,359 feet. At the peak you see three protrusions that resemble a trident. The trident or Trishul is believed to be the weapon of the Hindu God “Shiva”. Hence the name Mount Trishul. 

Closer look Nanda Ghunti

On the second day of your Roopkund trek , you wake up refreshed from a good night’s sleep at Lohajung. Outside, the enticing view of Nanda Ghunti awaits you. This 20,698 feet peak becomes your constant companion through the trek. This photo was captured on the route from Lohajung to Didina village.

The Imposing Chaukhamba at 21,325 feet

Chaukhamba is an easily recognizable mountain massif. It’s name translates to four pillars. It is revitalizing to watch the first light of dawn setting it alight. For those who wish to get a better view, climb up to Bedni point which is two hours away from the campsite.  The religiously significant Gangotri glacier which is the source of river Bhagirathi lies in a depression on it’s flank.

Mt Bhartekunta, Mt. Kedarnath and Kedar Dome (left to right)

You see these mountain peaks of the Gangotri range from the grasslands of Bedni. At the ridge of Kedarnath lies the Gangotri glacier. It is the primary source of River Ganga.

Clear view of Mrigthuni

Mrigthuni peak at 22,490 feet is a demure name in the mountaineering world. The name means “deer’s navel” as it is neither the highest nor the lowest peak in the Garhwal region.

Neelkanth towering behind the meadows

Watching Neelkanth or “blue throat” bathed in a golden sheath of sunlight is mesmerizing. Neelkanth or blue necked one is a metaphor for the Hindu God Shiva. You see this 21,640 feet beauty from Bedni Bugyal.

Mountain views from Bhagwabhasa at night

At Bhagwabhasa, stepping out of your tent and into the freezing weather is not easy. But the view you get is worth the effort. The sharp contrast of snowy peaks against the starry night sky will take your breath away! Mount Trishul is the snowy peak on the left. Roopkund lies in the bowl-like depression on the right.

View of Mt.Trishul from Junargali

From Junargali you get a close up view of the glorious twenty and twenty three-thousanders – Mt. Nanda Ghunti and Mt. Trishul . You can make it to Junargali if there is no snow. At the Junargali ridge, these mountains seem so close that you extend your arms as if to touch them!

Roopkund is manna from the heavens for every trekker. When you are spell bound by the swirling oak forests and carpeted meadows, don’t miss out on the towering mountains watching your every step.

Seersha Nambiar

About the author

Having studied business management, Seersha worked as a financial analyst for a year. But having been brought up close to nature, she took to the outdoors and turned towards travel writing.

Upcoming Treks

Ali Bedni Bugyal Trek

Ranthan Top Trek

Dayara Bugyal Trek

Sign up for our much loved Weekly Mailer

We have terrific trekking tips, trek updates and trek talks to look forward to

Treks by Categories

Treks by season, treks by month, treks by duration, treks by difficulty.

• Easy - Moderate
• Moderate - Difficult

Treks by Region

• Uttarakhand
• Himachal Pradesh
• Lahaul and Spiti
• Jammu & Kashmir
• West Bengal
• Chhattisgarh

Treks by Experience

• Family Treks
• Stargazing Treks
• Senior Treks
• Adventure Therapy
• Summer Camps
• Youth Camps
• Cancellation policy
• Work with us
• Our sustainability practices
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

080 468 01269 Mon to Sat - 9.30 AM to 7.30 PM Sun - 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM

Bengaluru Office

139, Defence Colony Road, Defence Layout, Sahakar Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560092

Dehradun Office

No.85/10, Neshvilla Road, Dehradun - 248001

© 2024 Indiahikes Private Limited

All images are copyrighted by their respective authors.

Ravindra Joisa

Photographer | Traveler | Trekker | YouTuber | IT Engineer

Roopkund Trek – 7 days hike to the Himalayan Mystery Lake

Roopkund trek is one trail that’s unique, where you will gain altitude from 7750 feet to 15750 feet in hardly 4 days with few steep climbs. This is a trek where the trail goes through the forest (Didina village and Ghairoli Patal), river crossing (Neel Ganga), Asia’s largest high altitude meadows (Ali Bughyal), beautiful campsite (Bedni Bugyal and Pathar Nachauni), steep climbs, holy place (Bedni Bugyal, Kalu Vinayak and beyond Roopkund), camping on snow (Bhagwabhasa campsite), a pond full of skeletons (Roopkund), the Junargali Pass and the Mt. Trishul.

This Roopkund trek trail has a lot to offer in only a week. This hike is a must-do if you want to trek in India, and you can proudly add it to your To-Do list. I am updating this blog entry to inform you that trekking to this magnificent location is now prohibited, and you may need to obtain special permission for research purposes or if you are a resident of this area, since camping overnight in the meadows is prohibited in Uttarakhand following a high court judgment.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Short Itenary of the Roopkund Trek

Day 1 – A fearful Jeep drive from Kathgodam

Day 2 – Lohajung to Didina village

Day 3 – Didina to Bedni Bugyal

Day 4 – Bedni Bugyal to Pathar Nachauni

Day 5 – Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa via Kalu Vinayak temple

Day 6 – Bhagwabhasa to Roopkund and back to Pathar Nachauni

Day 7 – Pathar Nachauni to Ghairoli Patal

Day 8 – Ghairoli Patal to Wan

Roopkund Trek Information

Region:  Uttarakhand Duration:  8 Days Grade:  Moderate to Difficult Max Altitude:  15,696 Ft. Trekking Km:  53 Km. Trail Type:  Round trail. The trek starts at Lohajung and ends at Wan. Railhead:  Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to the base camp. Take Raniketh Express – Overnight sleeper train from Old Delhi to Kathgodam. Road:  Kathgodam is well connected to Lohajung. Take a shared taxi to Lohajung, a 10-hour drive to Lohajung from the railway station. Base Camp:  Lohajung or Wan Best Season:  May, June, Mid August to October Snow:  Mid December to Mid June (avoid snow, cannot trek after Bedni Bugyal during winter). Stay  Guesthouse at Lohajung, Tea house at Didina village, and camping on all other days.

Is the Roopkund trek difficult?

Depending on the weather, each trekker can expect to spend 5 to 6 hours on the trail. Nonetheless, for a novice with a basic fit body, this walk is safe and possible. Every Roopkund journey takes roughly 7 to 8 days. Regarding Roopkund trek difficulty level – It becomes difficult, and in some rare circumstances, causes altitude sickness and death, as a result of insufficient practice. Take the pre-exercise seriously, and you’ll be fine.

Roopkund trek in Seasons

Summer treks (april, may, june).

• Less cold and windier
• Weather is unpredictable
• Can’t see a human skeleton
• Roopkund is in frozen condition
• Higher camps covered with snow
• Cannot hike further to Junargali Pass
• Natural sources of drinking water are easily available
• Best for those who want to see snow and want to do a difficult level of trek

Autumn Treks (September, October, November)

• Less windy and colder
• Mostly clear weather
• Can see human skeletons
• No snow at any campsite
• Roopkund lake is properly visible
• Can hike further to Junargali pass, view of Mt Trishul in full, Shila Samudra and Homkund
• Natural sources of drinking water are limited
• Best for those who want to see greenery and want to do the moderate level trek

Why is Roopkund famous?

Roopkund, which has a depth of roughly 3 meters, is well-known for the hundreds of ancient human remains discovered along the lake’s edge. When the snow melts, the human skeletal remains are exposed at the bottom. Climbing uphill from Roopkund allows you to observe the iconic Mt Trishul from the base to the summit, a glacier in front, and the advanced basecamp to Homkund which is the basecamp for Mt Nanda Ghunti, which is another three days of hiking.

Every 12 years, a Hindu pilgrimage known as the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra takes place, an ancient custom that is being practiced today. Roopkund is en route to Homkund, the end goal of this exhausting foot trek.

Is Roopkund Trek banned?

The popular journey, which has seen many trekkers walk on its track after being a consistent favorite for many years, has now been outlawed owing to the damage we have made to the biodiversity of the alpine meadows that fall on the trail. You may still be permitted with special government approval. You may still trek to the meadow-like Li and Bedni Bugyal, but camping is not permitted. Roopkund is not prohibited, but because this is a week-long walk, it is nearly difficult to travel without sleeping on the meadows. This is a high court order, and the prohibition may be removed in the future; you should check the latest online.

What is the mystery of Roopkund Lake?

H K Madhwal, an Indian forest inspector, discovered hundreds of human remains stored in and around Roopkund lake in 1942, also called the Roopkund trek skeletons. He recounted the strange discovery – a hidden lake where 300 to 800 individuals died tragically – and the frozen Himalayas continued to preserve the human bones. You can find a reference to a story published on BBC Travel here .

I managed to complete the Roopkund trek which was organized by Indiahikes back in 2014 and is one of the best Himalayan trekking trails in India. You definitely need some practice before going to this trail as it’s not that easy when compared to the Tarsar trek or Kashmir Great Lakes .

Roopkund Trek YouTube Playlist

Before you go on a hike make sure to check this out – some of the Absolute mandatory Hiking Accessories to carry . Hope you enjoyed reading this blog post. Buy me a coffee to support my work or you can go to my store to buy some of my images. Also, do not forget to join my  FriendZone by signing up for my newsletter . Consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel .

RELATED POSTS:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Roopkund Trek

Description

Reviews (0), things to take, available dates, include / exclude, roopkund trek is most popular in uttarakhand himalayas.

The Roopkund Trek is the most popular trek of all if you are trekking in Garhwal Himalayas Uttarakhand India , the most trek in India. Roopkund is a lake at an altitude of 16,156 feet in Uttarakhand, it is also known as “Mystery Lake”

Roopkund Trek is a picturesque tourist destination that is one of the important places for trekking in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand Himalayas. This is one of the special treks in the world today, Located within cavernous virgin forests, unending beautiful meadows, and magnificent campsites, this trek is a must-do for every trekker. Roopkund has everything from deep dark forests to breathtaking snow-capped mountains to a frozen lake that is a divine sight to one’s eyes. If you have a quest for Adventure this trek is perfect for you, located at a height of 15,696 ft with bewitching ridges, lush forests, and beliefs of finding humans skeleton in the lake, which are said to be from the Paleolithic age and are clearly visible when the snow melts. This thrilling fact also gives the lake its famous name “The mystery lake”. All this said, the roopkund trek will surely fulfill every one of your Adventure’s thirsts.

The Roopkund Trek is a popular trekking destination in the Indian Himalayas. Here are some of the main highlights of the trek:

• Roopkund Lake: The Roopkund Lake is the main highlight of the trek. The lake is situated at an altitude of 4,800 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is also known as the Skeleton Lake because of the human skeletons that can be seen at the bottom of the lake.
• Stunning Views: The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Chaukhamba peaks. The trek also passes through beautiful meadows, forests, and waterfalls.
• High Altitude Passes: The trek involves crossing two high altitude passes – the Roopkund Pass and the Junargali Pass. These passes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Cultural Experience: The trek passes through several traditional mountain villages, where trekkers can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life.
• Flora and Fauna: The trek passes through the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Trekkers can spot Himalayan musk deer, bharal (blue sheep), and several species of birds and butterflies.
• Adventure Activities: The trek involves several adventure activities, such as river crossing, rappelling, and rock climbing, making it an exciting and challenging trekking experience.

Overall, the Roopkund Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experience, and adventure activities, making it a must-do trek for any avid trekker.

Roopkund Trek is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the trails are thrilling

This place is unique and has hidden stories behind it. Glaciers and snow covered mountains surround this precious Lake, you can see snow and ice everywhere and the trail is exhilarating. It takes you through dense forests and fascinating meadows like Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal. Get majestic views of Mt. Trishul along with this catch the

Views of Chaukhamba Range, Kedarnath , Neelkanth and many more peaks are visible from there which makes this place picture perfect.

Sights to Behold

The trail along the Roopkund trek is an enthralling expedition of walking through the splendid oak and rhododendron forests. Throughout the journey you willbe blessed with magnificent views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. One can gaze at thebreath-taking views of the two massive alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, which almost feels surreal to look at. You can also see the Neel kanth peak, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba range, Kedar Dome and many other gigantic mountains and meadows on your trail to theRoopkund trek. All this beauty makes it one of the most beautiful treks in the country, justifying its popularity.

This divine trek will fill your heart with Adventure, joy, and peace. The lush green forests, along with birds chirping around and with the cold breeze passing through the trees, will calm down your senses and will give you peace like no other. Roopkund is a picturesque, beautiful, and attractive tourist destination in the Himalayas and should be must do for you.

Snow Covered Forests in Roopkund Trek

During your Roopkund trek through undulating meadows and dense forests with abundant trees of Rhododendrons pine forest and Oaks, totally covered in snow and spot some Himalayan animals on the way. Most importantly Roopkund trek is a most popular trek and other Himalayan treks are getting crowded day by day.

However, you will find no other groups on the trail which passes through dense woods serene and unspoiled. Roopkund trek is best for people looking for treks not crowded.

Most Important point for Roopkund Trek?

Before heading towards the itinerary, it is really essential to perceive the reason behind choosing Roopkund trek.

See firstly, the trekking distance is a total of 62 km which is to be covered into 8 days. Yet, it comes under moderate level of easy to moderate because of the things that this trek has to offers. These are:

See firstly, the trekking distance is a total of by taxi 420 Km and on foot 64 km which is to be covered into 07 nights or 8 days. .

Roopkund trek is a high altitude mountain trek Altitudes is 5087 meter

Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature?

You got to see so many heavenly bodies at one place like the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, meadows, lakes, pine forests, different variety of flora and fauna surpassing through bona fide Garhwali heritage and Kumaon and valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges

During winter season, this fascinating Roopkund trek remains covered in snow and the white sheet of snow makes it look like a magical wide snow-land or lake.

And, in summers, the bedni valley turns totally different and amusing because of meadows, wildflowers and woods blooming in different colors.

Best Time to visit roopkund trek

The Roopkund trek is at its peak beauty during pre-monsoon (summer) and post-monsoon (Autumn) seasons, therefore making May, June, and September, October the best months to witness the beauty of this magnificent trek. However, the weather conditions are different during both these seasons. During the summer months, the weather conditions can be unpredictable, even so,it is less cold during these months, but the winds can be harsh. If you want to witness the lake in its most frozen form with higher camps covered in snow the summertime is best for you, however the trek during this time can be a little difficult but this mostly depends on the weather conditions. But if are one looking for some added adventure and looking forward to discovering some human skeletons, this season is probably not for you as the lake is frozen making it impossible for the skeletons to peek through.

However, the Autumn season is a better match for you with mostly clear weather conditions and the lake being clearly visible one can easily find some skeletons lying around. During the Autumn season the temperatures are on the higher side,but it is overall less windy,and the higher camps are also snow free making the trek level Moderate.Autumn season is the best for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the lush green forests and are fond of the luxuriant unending greenery.

The altitude we are going to cover in Roopkund Trek

Lohajung base – 7,663 feet

Didna Village – 8096 feet

Ali Bugyal – 11,320 feet

Patar Nachauni – 12,818 feet

Bhagwabasa camp – 14,126 feet

Roopkund trek – 15,756 feet

 The difficulty  level of  Roopkund trek  ?

Roopkund Trek is a moderate trek, roopkund Trek is a mild climb from Lohajung  to Roopkund summit Top, and when roopkund comes back from the summit, it is a completely downhill trek route

When you go on this trek, you will not even know when you have reached the camp, the beautiful view and beautiful hills all around will keep you happy.

This trek is a bit difficult, but if your fitness is good and you have it in your mind that I want to trek then you can do it absolutely. Where help is needed, our guides will support you, you just have to be strong and capable of the trek. One thing is that all you can do is to have courage and I myself am passionate.

Is it a safe Trek ?

Yes this is safe trek. Set amidst the high altitude ranges, concerns among the beginners regarding Roopkund trek safety are indeed very valid questions. We have all the possible probabilities calculated if anything goes off the schedule. All our professional strive their best to provide trekkers with the best experience possible.

Since this is beginner friendly trek we advise trekkers to wary themselves of the path and high altitude medical conditions before proceeding to this trek.

Weather conditions

Weather conditions depend on the time of the year trekkers are travelling. Months from May to October  experience moderate temperatures during the day with substantially colder nights. Monsoons in these areas are moderate in level with favorable conditions to trek.

  Key Points of Roopkund Trek

Duration: –   07 Nights 08 Days from Kathgodam to Kathgodam

Base camp: – Lohajung village

Summer Temperature: – Day 5°C to 15°C-  Night 2° C to 8° C

Roopkund – Altitude: – 16,156 feet

Best Time: – May , June, Sep, Oct

Trek Level: – Moderate

Trek distance: – On foot 64 Km – By taxi 420 km

Group Size: – Minimum 05 people maximum 20 people

Short Itinerary of Roopkund Trek –

Day-1- Pickup to you from Degradun/ Kathgodam railway station – Drive to Lohajung   – 210 Km (9/10 Hours) (7,663 feet) overnight stay hotel

Day-2: Trek from Lohajung to via Wan to Ghairoli Patal (5.5 km) (4/5 Hours) (10,100 feet)

Day-3: Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal (10 km) (5/6 hours) (11,506 feet)

Day-4: Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni (07 km) (4/5 Hours) (12,818 feet)

Day-5: Trek from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa (4.5 km) (4/5 Hours) (14,126 feet) via Kalu Vinayak (14,310 feet)

Day-6: Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further Junargali Top (16,156 feet). Return to Patar Nachauni (10 km) (8/9 Hours) (12,700 feet) via Bhagwabasa.

Day-7: Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung (15 km) (7/8 Hours) (7,663 feet) via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung

Day-8: Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam (210 km) (8/9 Hours)

How to Reach Roopkund Trek

Roopkund trek is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the trek starts from Lohajung and the nearest main railway station in the district is the Kathgodam station.

If you are traveling from big metro cities, you can reach Delhi via air, train or bus. The basic route for travel isDehliàKathgodamàLohajung

After Reaching Kathgodam, the Himalayan Hikers team would arrange for transportation from Kathgodam railway station to Lohajung .Our vehicles leave between 6 am to 7 am so make sure to reach by then.

Dehradun is the nearest major city to Roopkund trek. Here are the steps to reach Dehradun for the Roopkund trek:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Dehradun is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dehradun.
• By Train: Dehradun railway station is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train to Dehradun from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dehradun.
• By Road: Dehradun is well-connected to major cities in India by road. You can take a bus or taxi to reach Dehradun from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other nearby cities.

Once you reach Dehradun, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Lohajung, which is the base camp for the Roopkund trek. The distance between Dehradun and Lohajung is around 300 km, and it takes around 10-12 hours to reach by road.

How to reach Kathgodam

By Train: If you are travelling from Delhi, your first option would be to take the Ranikhet Express from Delhi. The train departures at 10.40 pm from Old Delhi Railway Station and reaches Kathgodam at around 5.30 am if you would prefer an overnight journey or you could take the the Uttar sampark Kranti train from Old Delhi that leaves at 4:00pm and would reach Kathgodamby 10:40pm.If you are taking the day train, Uttar sampark Kranti then you would have to stay overnight at Kathgodam.

From Dehardun catch the Doon Express that will departure from Dehradun at 10:30 pm at will arrive at Kathgodam at 7:10 pm.

By Bus: Hop on to an overnight bus from Delhi to Kathgodam, regular buses leave from Anand Bihar ISBT mostly around midnight. You could also find some Volvo buses that leave around 9 pm. Try to reach early at ISBT to get yourself a seat as there are no prior booking or online bookings for Buses to Kathgodam.

(Note: Reach Kathgodam Railway Station between 6:00 am – 7am to catch our team’s pick-up transportation from the station)

Additional Services and Connectivity Availability in Roopkund Trek

Please make sure to carry cash during the start of your Journey from Delhi as there would be no banks or ATMs available during our entire trip. The last ATM would be Kathgodam, but depending on this ATM service would not be advised.

There is no Network reception during the entire trek, so one should be prepared accordingly. You can give your family members our head office contact number in case of some Emergency.

Why to Choose  Himalayan Hikers?

• Himalayan Hikers is one of the oldest trekking organisations, which is organizing trekking and adventure expedition in Uttarakhand Himalayas from almost 32 years.
• We are the local people of Uttarakhand who can provide you the best experience here
• Good and experienced people from more than 20 villages are working with us, who will continue to serve you in your trek and will always be there with you throughout the trek.
• Himalayan Hikers provide the safety of their trekkers and a good experience throughout the trek as well as share every story related to the mountains with you.
• Himalayan hikers will feed you with good, healthy, and delicious food every day during the trek

There are several reasons why you might want to consider trekking Roopkund with Himalayan Hikers team:

• Experienced Team: Himalayan Hikers has an experienced team of trek leaders and guides who have been leading treks in the region for many years. They are well-trained and have the knowledge and expertise to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
• Safety: Safety is a top priority for Himalayan Hikers. They follow all safety guidelines and protocols to ensure that trekkers have a safe and secure trekking experience. They provide high-quality equipment and gear and take all necessary precautions to prevent accidents and mishaps.
• Well-Organized: Himalayan Hikers is well-organized and takes care of all the logistical details of the trek, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and permits. They have a well-planned itinerary that ensures that trekkers have enough time to acclimatize and enjoy the trek.
• Local Knowledge: Himalayan Hikers has a team of local guides who have an in-depth knowledge of the region and its culture. They can provide valuable insights into the local customs and traditions and help trekkers better understand the area.
• Eco-Friendly: Himalayan Hikers is committed to promoting eco-tourism and minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment. They follow a strict policy of leaving no trace and ensure that all waste is disposed of responsibly.

Will there be electricity in Roopkund trek

Let me tell you that there is no electricity in the forest area of roopkund trek . Here we use Stobe Light and or Solar Light, candal light at the nights

If you come on this trek, then you should bring your own head light and your camera with full charge, if possible, it would be good to bring extra battery backup, and also bring the phone after full charge, today people most of the phone use the same

You will get the last electricity only in our home stay at Lohajung base, where you have to charge the battery of your phone and camera at night.

What do we do for safety in Roopkund trek?

First of all, the safety of trekkers is much more for us, if you see in the trek, then there are all the risks, which I do not think about.

Himalayan Hikers worry more about you that no one should ever have any problem in the trek.

What should we and you keep more safety in the trek

• Whenever you are going for any trek, it is very important that you go completely fit and ready.
• Roopkund trek is Moderate, if you make your feet and your mind calm and strong, you will find the trek very easy.
• While trekking, keep in mind that you are walking on the right route or not always with your guide.
• Most people look somewhere and where they are walking, this can cause twitching in your legs, which can ruin your entire trek.
• It is important to ask your doctor if you have any medical problems
• I should always keep my medical kit with me, it is very important.
• Himalayan Hikers always keep a medical kit with you, such as oxygen cylinders, medicine to be given in emergency on the trek
• If any trekkers have any more problems, then they are brought back to the base camp by laying them in the stretcher.
• Our Camp in Roopkund trek is around the 6000 feet to 13,000 feet where you can not have any problem of oxygen, this is tree line area
• In case of any medical problem, the help of your guide or a well-informed trekkers should be taken
• If there is major health problems inroopkund trek , then Nearest Hospital is in Chamoli- Karanparyag which is about 98  Kms away from Roopkund trek  last option in dehradun and Rishikesh the distance is 257 kms
• Remember that when we go on any trek, we go from low altitude to high altitude, it does not cause much problem on us.
• Our camps also move forward day by day and our bodies also work with the altitudes that are safe for trekkers
• Along with the trek we keep getting acclimatization

Day 1: Pickup to you from Kathgodam railway station – Drive to Lohajung village

Total distance – 210 km – 9/10 Hours journey

Mode of journey – By taxi

Altitude – Lohajung – 7,663 feet

Night stay – Our Home stay – on twin share basis

Our vehicle picks you up from Kathgodam Railway station and en routes to Lohajung, the journey is of 9/10 hours, there will be one or two breaks, have your breakfast and lunch on the way.

We will go through the region of Kumaon and valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges.

The road takes you through picturesque places with beautiful forests and curves with mountain views in the backdrop.

There is a direct road from Gwaldam to Deval but it is damaged due to heavy rains so the other route is preferred, from there we will reach Deval.

Deval is a village from where one can purchase food and kerosene for the journey, now from Deval drive is towards Lohajung.

Road to Lohajung is windy and curvy and an experienced driver is needed to drive on those roads.

Temperature is mostly cold here as we gain height while going upwards and it is rainy and foggy most of the time.

Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or home stay

Day 2 : Trek from Lohajung to via Wan to Ghairoli Patal

Trek Distance – 5.5 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Mode of journey – On foot

Altitude – Ghairoli Patal – 10,100 feet

Night Stay – Our Camp site – on twin share basis

After having proper breakfast your trek begins, you have to walk on levelled ground, reach village Wan from here you have to walk on flat ground to reach Kulling which is 6 km away from Lohajung.

Kulling is a small village with few people living there, this place looks peaceful. You can spot variety of birds here, the climate is invigorating; you can feel the freshness in the air.

Take a break here after your break descends to the village, the trail is narrow which takes you through houses and pasturelands to a small stream, the water in this stream comes from Neel Ganga.

Continue walking and cross the bridge, now you have to climb a ridge, this is a steep climb, it ends at an altitude of 8,000feet at village Didna.

The trail is through the evergreen alpine forest. Reach the top of the ridge it will take two hours to reach there, the views from here are entrancing and magnificent, you will see open lands on the lap of the mountains.

Didna is a famous village where trekkers stay.

Reach your destination Ghairoli Patal you will reach there through dense forest, the campsite looks alluring, set up your camps in the desired area, hot lunch will be served dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 3 :Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal

Trek Distance – 10 km – 6/7 Hours journey

Altitude – Ali Bugyal – 11,506 feet

Have your breakfast in Ghairoli Patal and start your trek to Bedni Bugyal, today you will go through the village of Ali Bugyal, this village is at an altitude of 3410m.

Ali Bugyal is visible from Didna as it is on the top of the mountain.

You have to climb the mountain to reach Ali Bugyal, the trail is not steep, but it is slightly upwards, on the way there are shepherd huts, known as Tolpani.

Now the other climb is steep, but it takes you through picturesque places, there are trees of Oak, Birch, and Rhododendrons only these trees grow there, on the way you can see local people with their sheep, you can communicate with them.

During the spring season the valley gets more beautiful with exotic views blooming flowers make this valley look divine.

You will see the receding treeline and plain grasslands after some hours of the climb the Ali Bugyal unfolds in front of you, it has got fascinating views, there is inherent beauty in this place.

In the month of summer, you can see some beautiful white horses and cows grazing the fields, the fields are all covered by grass and flowers.

From here you can spot the tallest mountain peaks Mrigthuni and Mt. Trishul, the views are the main attention seeker.

Cross the soothing meadows and trek for more half an hour to reach Bedni, there is our campsite where we will set up our tents.

Have your lunch intents and then visit Bedni Kund which is a temple nearby.

Garhwal Himalayan ranges are also visible from here if the weather is clear. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 4 : Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni

Trek Distance – 07 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Altitude – Patar Nachauni – 12,818 feet

Night Stay – Our Camp – on twin share basis

The morning views of Bedni Bugyal are unmatched there are lush green trees and soothing greenery is all around.

Sunrise looks mesmerizing from there. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created Vedas here.

Have your breakfast and then depart to Patar Nachauni which is 5 km away.

The trail is an easy climb following the trail from Bedni campsite is visible till 3km further then it disappears.

Continue trekking and you will sew the other side of the ridge which is entirely different and beguiling, different scenic views in one trek.

It is a delight for trekkers, have full view of charming mountains like Nanda Ghughunti and Trishul.

You can see some waterfalls and narrow streams flowing through the meadows, they add beauty to them.

Reach your campsite Patar Nachauni, it is a meadow from where you get spectacular sight of mountains and the clouds touch the peaks, it looks wonderful, enjoys sightseeing snacks and meal there and then overnight stay in tents.

Day 5 : Trek from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa via Kalu Vinayak (14,310 feet)

Trek Distance – 4.5 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Altitude – Bhagwabhasa camp – 14,126 feet

After breakfast, start your trek to Bhagwabhasa (14,126 feet), it is a 6km long trek, and it takes 4 to 5 hours to reach there. The story behind this place is dancers were converted into stones because goddess Nanda cursed them.

Patthar- stone Nachauni- dancers.

Walk towards Bhagwabhasa and the same trail will take you to Kalu Vinayak temple, to reach the temple you have to travel 2kms by gaining 200ft altitude.

The path isn’t easy, it is uneven and zig-zag in shape so walk carefully because a single mistake can be very dangerous, this climb is worth your every effort because the top will mesmerize you.

It is very windy there because the altitude increases, oxygen decreases at this level, take breaks and drink water while ascending.

The temple has a traditional design and made of stones but it looks beautiful and unique. You can feel spiritualty in the atmosphere there.

Visiting a temple at such a high altitude is very interesting and people who love to explore can only understand this.

When you reach the temple from there you can see Roopkund the place which you are going to visit the next day and your final destination

Also, The view of glittering beautiful amongst all Mt. Trishul on one side and Nandaghunti on the other.

Now, follow the trail which not leveled, it will take you to Bhaguabasa which is 1 km away from here.

The trail is rocky and is not easy to cross, take breaks and continue walking reach Bhaguabasa, the place is a barren piece of land but during monsoon, flowers bloom in this region.

Set up your tents there and dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 6 : Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further Junargali Top (16,156 feet). Return to Patar Nachauni

Distance – 10 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Altitude – Roopkund – 15,756 feet

Night Stay – Camp site – on twin share basis

Early morning we will provide hot tea or coffee then we will leave for Roopkund with packed breakfast because in the morning you can have a clear view of the mountains and later they get covered by the clouds.

Today trek to Roopkund is difficult ascending and 400 meters to Junargali Dhar Top summit (5029 meters).

Roopkund is a glacial lake at high altitude also known as “Mystery Lake” because the human skeletons.

from ancient times are found here and can be seen inside the lake when the ice melts.

You can spot those skeleton on the edge of the lake, you will be lucky enough if you spot them.

After a steep climb, you will see Nanda Devi temple visit that temple from there you can get scenic views,

click pictures spend time there and if the weather is good you can visit Junargali Top which is (16,700 feet) when you reach top it is very windy there,

you will be amazed while standing at Junargali top, the sense of confidence you will feel would be one of the best feeling.

Now return to Patar Nachauni you have to go through Bhagwabhasa the descend is more difficult because while ascending trail was steep and it the trail becomes thrilling while coming down,

Follow the same trail go to a cave-like structure which is known as Bhagwabhasa, descend and you will reach Patthar Nachauni your campsite.

Spend your time in peace and relax your body and mind. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 7: Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung

Distance – 15 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Altitude – Lohajung – 7,663 feet

Night Stay – Home stay – on twin share basis

Today is the last day of your trek so cherish these moments relish the sunrise and move towards Lohajung.

Today from Bedni Bugyal we will go from another route which goes to Lohajung,

the trail is through the dense forest there are big and thick trees, this place is rich in flora and fauna.

At Wan village,

A famous temple of Latu Devta in which there is puja organized by the villagers.

You can visit this temple or take a break here.

The trail is simple and with the trail, you will spot wooden huts and further you will see the road diverged into two paths.

Descend and you will enter a forest region and there are trees all around.

You can hear birds chirping which is the trail is varying so walk carefully so that you don’t get slipped.

walk further cross some yards and you will reach Gahroli Patal which is opening of a forest.

Then reach the banks of river Neel Ganga continue walking and visit a wan village,

it is a big village surrounded by mountains and from there back to Lohajung by Taxi.

Dinner and overnight stay at tourist guest house.

Day 8 : Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam Railway station

Distance – 210 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Depart for Kathgodam and reach the Railway station by 6:30 pm – 7:00 pm.

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the documents given below.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc, Passport and Visa important to foreigners Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker) Declaration Certificates

Note: –   Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Backpack (50 to 60 liters) A strongly built backpack with good support is compulsory for a trek. (Rain cover is important)

Sturdy Trekking Shoes The shoes should be strong enough with good support. The people ask if sports shoes would be comfortable but it is good to bring the right trekking shoes.

The Clothes You Should Bring On a Trek Avoid keeping extra clothes because it only makes you backpack heavy.

Trek Pants – The jeans are never suitable for a trek so you need at least 2-3 trek pants for treks carry more for longer treks.

Jacket – Jackets are very important to carry on a trek it protects you against the chilly weather. So carry 2 jackets on a week long trek.

Layers of warm Clothing  Carry warm woolen layers or fleece. Carry more layers during winter season (at least 2 to 3) and less during summer.

Thermals – The Temperature decreases at night so you might be need thermals for Night.

T- Shirts – Bring those t shirts which dry fast.

Poncho –They are needed if you are trekking on a Rainy day to keep you dry.

Hiking Pole

Water Bottle 2

Cap or Balaclava

Woolen and Waterproof Gloves

Socks (Woolen and Regular)

Torch head light

Personal Toiletry Items –  (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer etc.)

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)

Diamox – (Prevents altitude sickness)

Digene – (It cures discomfort in stomach, acidity)

Crocin Advance – (Cures fever and headache)

Aspirin/Combiflam – (Pain reliever)

Disprin – (Cures headache)

Avomine – (Prevents motion sickness)

Avil – (It treat allergies)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen – (Prevents Diarrhoea)

Ranitidine – (Reduces the amount of acid in stomach)

Volini/Moov spray – (For sprains)

Betadine/Savlon – (Antiseptic cream)

Stretchable/Elastic bandage

Note:- Use medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Sorry! Here are no Available dates right now. For Any Queries you can Email us with [email protected] and Call Us +91 9756197558

What is Included In This Trek?

Forest Permit and entrance fee

Accommodation in Hotel Lohajung

Accommodation in tents on twin share basis

All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and dinner

(All camping gears)

High quality tents

Sleeping bags

Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents

Dining Tent

Dining Table

Kitchen team

Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication

Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide

Medical Kit

Oxygen Cylinders

Crampons and Gaiters

What is Not Include In This Trek?

Personal Insurance

Medical Certificate

Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit

On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included

Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included

Transport Facility

There are no reviews yet.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Tours

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

A Divine Lake in Chopta surrounded by several Mountains

Devkyara Har Ki Dun Trek

The Perfect Combination of two Treks

GWARU PASS TREK

It is hiding in Kullu valley has virgin trails and a wide terrain variety.

Price: ₹ 20,000.00

Book the tour

Send a quick enquiry.

• Overview Itinerary Dates Include/Exclude

Roopkund Trek Images: The Trail to the Mysterious Trek

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate

1. Mesmerizing view at Roopkund Trek

Inquire Now for Best Deals

2. Beautiful view from Roopkund Trek

3. The big Mountains at Roopkund Trek

4. Camping at Roopkund Trek

5. Mystery of Roopkund Lake

6. Evening view at Roopkund Trek

7. Roopkund Trek Images

8. Trail is covered in snow at Roopkund trek

9. Snowy Mountains of Roopkund

Click Here for Details

10. Witness the Snow at Roopkund Trek

11. Experience the beauty of Nature at Roopkund Trek

Click Here to Book

I have been travelling across India for a long time and I am using this blog to share my experiences with you so that you can see the tremendous beauty which India has to offer. Thrillophilia Blog

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You will receive an email containing a link allowing you to reset your password to a new preferred one.

Verification mail has been sent.

Please check your mail to verify your account.

Click Here to Login

• How To Reach

30°15'43.5"N 79°43'53.4"E

• Roopkund Trek

Inquire Now

May-June, Sept-Oct

Lohajung, Uttarakhand

Pickup Point

Railway Station, Dehradun

Minimum Age

• Experience the sputtering streams, stunning campgrounds during this astonishing Roopkund trek. Enjoy outdoors close to the falling water and the spotless night sky under the billions of stars. Likewise, appreciate a little campfire with your companions.
• Trek through probably the most snow-capped and backwoods of fir, Rhododendron, and Oak. Get an opportunity to observe the uncommon vegetation of this locale as you proceed with your trek. 
• Feast your eyes at the lofty perspective on the Mt Trishul lingers over the spot as you keep climbing. Enclosed by mountains, this is the ideal spot for taking some astonishing photos. Admire the forcing Chaukhamba go, Neelkanth top, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome.

Roopkund Trek is considered to be one of the most popular treks in India. Roopkund, also known as Mystery Lake, is a high elevation frosty lake in the Indian province of Uttarakhand. Roopkund lies in the lap of Trishul mountain chains and is popular since several human skeletons are found at the edge of the lake. The Roopkund (lake) is situated at an elevation of around 16,000 feet. It is encompassed by rock-strewn icy masses and snow-clad mountains, making it a decent trekking goal. The course prompting Roopkund goes through the twin Bugyals of Ali and Bedni. Up and down the Roopkund trail, you get astonishing perspectives on tops like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. The delightful campgrounds of Roopkund trek are an incredible sight. Roopkund is prescribed for experienced trekkers due to its moderate level of difficulty in trekking.

The cold and frosty climate conditions can be said to be the purpose behind the protection of the skeletons for so long. The ideal climate conditions forestalled the skeletons to rot off and decay into the soil. With landscapes that were wild in the region, numerous bodies slipped into the lakes and remained there for quite a while. The bodies that fell into the lake had a more prominent period of usability when compared with the ones which stayed in the open. Anyway, it is as yet not decided whether this gathering of individuals lived here, or if they were going towards a goal. Verifiable proof of any exchange course towards Tibet has not been set up. In this way, it is difficult to decode the genuine reason for the gathering of individuals that were casualties to this common disaster. There are potential outcomes that the gathering might be going towards the Nanda Devi journey where Nanda Devi Raj Jat merriments happen once like clockwork.

Roopkund Trek with Trek Munk assures you the best of experiences and knowledge during the trek. A group of accomplished, certified Trek Leader and professional guides, will guide you for the trek with a suitable itinerary for all. Don't miss the chance of experiencing this adventurous and thrilling trekking journey of Roopkund Trek.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go on a Roopkund trek is throughout the late spring months; May, June, and September, October. However, unquestionably, not during the Monsoon. There were floods and landslides during that time. Rainstorms start around July and therefore it's better to avoid that time for trekking.

Brief Itinerary

Detailed itinerary, day 1 : reaching base camp.

On the first day, trekkers will be taken to the base camp at Wan which is arranged 7,700 ft of altitude; this will take around 10-11 hrs from Dehradun. When we arrive at the base camp, the trekkers can rest and refresh themselves for the trek to start from the following day.

Day 2 : Trek to Ghaehroli Patal via Wan

We will trek to Ghaehroli Patal arranged at 10,000 ft of altitude. This is roughly a 4-5 hours trek. We will drive from 7,700 ft and start the trek from 8,000 ft to 10,000 ft. It will take 1 hour of drive to Wan and a 4-hour trek from Wan to Ghairoli Patal. Initial 30-45 minutes is required for reaching Ran Ka Dhar followed by a 20-minute plunge to the stream Neel Ganga and then a firm move of 3 hours from Neel Ganga to Ghairoli Patal.

Day 3 : Trek from Ghaehroli Patal to Bedni Bugyal

On the third day of the trek, we will go from Gharoli Petal to Bedni Bugyal which is arranged at an altitude of 11,500 ft. This trek will take around 4 hours. Bedni Bugyal is probably the greatest glade of Asia. It will take around 4 hours to Ali Bugyal followed by a delicate path to Bedni Bugyal.

Day 4 : Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni

We will trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni arranged at 12,700 ft above. It’s a 4 hrs trek. The path to Patar Nachauni moves out of the Bedni campground in a steady, simple meander. From your Bedni campground, you can tail it with your eye for 3 km before it vanishes into a seat in the mountain. The view is diversely entrancing. Just because you likewise observe remainders of the winter snow on the mountain flanks (on the opposite side).

Day 5 : Trek to Bhagwabhasa - the summit base camp

We will trek from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa which stands at a height of 14,100 ft. This trek takes around 5 hours to complete. After we reach Bhagwabasa we will complete 3 hours' lofty climb to Kalu Vinayak which is 14,300 ft high and thereafter we will return to Bhagwabasa. The move to Kalu Vinayak is a precarious crisscross up the mountainside and will take you to 14,500 ft. The distance isn't a lot, and the crisscross path makes you gain height fast. We will be climbing this area at a slow pace. There truly is no rush and regardless of whether you are the slowest in the group, you can arrive at Bhagwabasa in agreeable time. Taking brief breaks at regular intervals will be necessary.

Day 6 : Trek to Roopkund and back to Patar Nachauni

On this day, we will trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund which is 15,750 ft above, and then further up to Junargali at an altitude of 16,000 ft. We will come back to Patar Nachauni through Bhagwabasa, this trek takes around 9 hours. The path begins with the steady climb to Roopkund with 20 minutes moving through the switchbacks. 20-25 minutes for moving forward to Junargali and after a dubious drop on the curves from Roopkund, we trail back to Patar Nachauni.

Day 7 : Trek to Wan

We will be slipping on this day from Patar Nachauni to Wan through Bedni; this will take roughly 6½ hours to Wan. Plummeting trail directly we move from Gharoli Petal to Neel Ganga and then a short climbing stretch from Neel Ganga to Ranka Dhar.

Day 8 : Depart for Dehradun

The last day of the trek and you will be driven from Wan to Dehradun. This will take approximately 10-11 hours. One can book their onward journey in the night.

We can arrange a cab for you from the pickup point in Dehradun, the charges for the same are not included in the package. The cost of the cab can be shared among the trekkers joining the trek. For communications purposes, we will create a Whatsapp Group before the departure date of the trek and will share the details regarding the transportation. The drop at Dehradun after the trek will be arranged in a similar way.

How to reach Roopkund Trek Base camp (Lohajung) :

Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport to Dehradun and is easily accessible, it is just 25 km away from the city. Daily flights from New Delhi are available to this airport. You will have to take a private cab from the airport to Lohajung or you can take a bus to Lohajung from the bus stand which starts early in the morning.

Dehradun railway station. Overnight trains that hail from Delhi are Nandadevi Express and Dehradun Express. People often prefer railways over airways because with trains you get to see the landscape in its full glory, it is also cheaper and you will definitely enjoy your way till Dehradun.  You will have to take a private cab from the airport to Lohajung or you can take a bus to Lohajung from the bus stand which starts early in the morning.

Regular bus service is available from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate which plies government buses that are safe and you can rely on them more than the private buses.  You will have to take a private cab from the airport to Lohajung or you can take a bus to Lohajung from the bus stand which starts early in the morning.

Latest Stories

Why trek with us .

Get Yourself Fit

Nutrition tips, things to take, health & safety.

• Accommodations at Trek:  All accommodations on the trek will be on twin sharing basis in Tents or Homestays. Any accommodation in a hotel/guest house/hostel will be in a budget hotel.
• Trek Leader and Guides:  An experienced and certified Trek Leader , as well as a professional guide, will accompany you for the trek. The team will have years of experience and well equipped for any emergency situation.
• Services of a Professional Trekking Team:  A team of an experienced Cook, Camp Staff, Porters/Mules will accompany you for all the arrangements on the trek .
• Meals:  All Meals on the Trek are included. We will serve Vegetarian Indian food on the trek which will be cooked by our high altitude chefs. It will be a five-course meal plan.
• Camping and Safety Equipment:  All the camping equipment such as Tents, Sleeping bags, Toilet Tents, Dining Tent, Mattresses, and other things will be provided by us and we guarantee the quality. Safety Equipment including Medical kit, Oxygen Cylinder, Oximeter, Crampons & Gaiters(if required) will be provided by us. We recommend you to bring your own sleeping bags if possible.
• Trek Permits and Forest Camping Charges:  Only for Indian Clients, All the applicable trekking permits, Camping Charges, Forest Entry Fee, etc will be paid by us. Foreigners have to pay these charges if not mentioned.
• A Life-Changing Experience:  We assure you that by trekking in the Himalayas you will have a life-changing experience and we will do everything we can to provide you with the best services and make your venture in the wild an unforgettable one. 

Note: Prior to booking any adventure with Trekmunk, it will be mandatory to sign the waiver form and get a medical certificate from a doctor in due time, without these, you will not be allowed to start the trek. All this will be done online without using any paper.

• GST and Other Taxes:  The goods and services tax is not included in the price mentioned with the trek. They are subjected to change according to the government rules of India.
• Accommodation and Food in Dehradun:  Food and stay in Dehradun and during transit to Lohajung and back are not included in the package. You can book your hotels or homestays in Dehradun, we can recommend a few good options.
• Flights and Transportation to and fro base camp:  Flights or other means of transport are not included in the package. Transportation from Dehradun to Lohajung and Lohajung to Dehradun is not included in the package. We can arrange a cab for you according to your requirements but you will be liable to pay for the same. Any expenses occurred during the journey are not included in the package cost.
• Personal Equipment:  Your Rucksack, personal clothing, shoes, trek poles, and other personal trekking gear is not included in this package. You have to bring your own gear according to the weather and difficulty of the trek.
• Portage of Personal Bags(Offloading):  We highly advise you to carry your own burden (your rucksack) but due to any reason, if you wish to not carry your rucksack, we can arrange for a porter/mule to carry it. For this service, you will be charged over and above the trek cost. The charges for offloading vary with every trek.
• Travel Insurance:  Travel Insurance is not included in this package. We recommend you to have travel insurance before opting for such adventures. You can buy insurance from us while booking the trek, it is optional.
• Personal Expenses:  Any personal expenses incurred (Laundry, Bottled Water, Beverages, Snacks, Orders at tea houses or dhabas, Tips for guides, Camera fees, etc) are not included in the package.
• Emergency Expenses:  Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control are not included in the package.
• Anything not mentioned in Inclusions of the package.

Cancellation Policy And More Information

Booking Terms:

1. Confirmation Policy :

Upon Booking, An invoice will be sent to your mail & within 12 to 24 hours the booking confirmation with additional details will be sent to your mail.

2.  Cancellation Policy:

Note: Following Cancellation policy will be followed for departures booked on or before 31st May 2021-

1)  Cancellation up to 7 days before the start date of the trek:   Get a complete cash refund (minus 5% transaction fee). The money is refunded to the same bank account, credit, or debit card from where the payment was made. 

2)  Cancellation during the last 6 days before the start date of the trek, and not counting the day of the trek:  Full refund with 100% of the trek fee in the form of a Trekmunk Trek Voucher. Valid for 1 year from the date of issue. Can be used on any Trekmunk trek. 

3)  Cancellation on the start day of the trek, or no show on the start day of the trek : Unfortunately, no refund. 

For more details, go to https://www.trekmunk.com/cancellation-policy

3. Refund Policy:

Any refund applicable will be processed within 10 to 15 business days as per the company policy.

4. Postpone/Transfer of a booked trek:

1. You can postpone your booked trek for a period of two months (61 days) but we will charge a 20% processing fee. The last date for the postponement will be 15 days before the start of the trek. Failing to book the slot in 2 months (61 days) time, would be considered a cancellation with no refund of any kind. Postpone of a booked trek can only be done once. 

2. You can transfer your booked slot for the trek to any fit person till 15 days before the trek. You just have to mail us the request and rest we will handle. The new person has to get all the mandatory documents duly signed for the trek.

More Information: 

1. We Trek for a Cause : For overall development of the areas we run our operations in, we donate Rs 100/- per booking from our profits which are used for the upliftment of the local people and conserving nature. We have named this initiative as - Trek for a Cause. For more details, follow: https://www.trekmunk.com/trek-for-a-cause

2. We are paperless : We are focusing on Sustainable Tourism and to do that we are trying all measures to convert our trek operations to be Eco-Friendly. Going Paperless is one step closer to our aim. 

3. Single-Use Plastic : Trekmunk does not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We are ensuring that our team is working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We will send you instructions on how to go plastic-free on your adventures.

4. Preparing for your Holiday : Getting some additional exercise makes a lot of sense to spend time before coming on a trekking adventure. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. Hiking in the hill country is the best training but jogging, squash and swimming are also good for developing cardiovascular fitness and stamina. To read more on how to get fit, follow: https://www.trekmunk.com/get-fit-for-trek  

5. Electricity Supply & Plug : You will get electricity supply till the starting point of the trek. If not Indian, We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/

6. Currency: The unit of currency in India is the Indian Rupees.

7. Health & Vaccinations: 

Severe Allergies : If you have a severe allergy please inform the Trekmunk office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy-free environment on trekmunk trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by our leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on the arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Vaccinations : You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however, if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary. 

8. Passport & Visas/Identity Proofs : If foreigner, Validity for 6 months, should have blank pages, and should be kept with yourself all the time.

9. Water : If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled or filtered. Additionally, you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a LifeStraw, Sawyer Filter) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single-use plastic bottles.

10. Altitude : This adventure involves going to a very high altitude. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatize successfully. We will send you the information in your mailbox about Acute Mountain Sickness and trekking in high altitudes. On this trip, we carry bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.

11. Guidance on Tipping : Tipping is the accepted way of saying thank you for good service. Normally the guide and any other trek staff are given their tips at the end of the trek and this is best done as a group. The main guide will make sure that the tip is appropriately distributed among all the staff members on the trek.

12. Spending/Emergency Money : Approximately Rs. 8000-10000/- (in Indian Currency)should be carried for miscellaneous expenses including porter and trek crew tips, drinks, soft drinks, etc. We recommend that you carry your travel money in the form of cash as the availability of ATM is less in these remote areas. This can also serve as your emergency spending money.

13. Travel Insurance : It is recommended to have travel insurance for these kinds of adventures. When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary. We will ask for the Travel Insurance Details over a mail. Indians can buy insurance from us while booking the trek.

I chose (after a lot of research) Trekmunk for my first trek - The Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek. And I am so really glad I did so. The trekker needs to only focus on the trek and the beautiful landscape around him/her. The rest of everything is taken care of by Trekmunk from d ...

Traveling with these people is surely an insanely enthralling experience. This is my second backpacking trip with these people and the way I had imagined backpacking to be has been fulfilled by them and they have given me surely more. The best thing about travelling with these pe ...

Our 7 days trip to Meghalaya was a truly memorable experience. Thank you Trekmunk for arranging such an adventurous backpacking trip and a special thanks to Mohit Goswami our trip leader for giving us an experience of what true travelling is. From hitchhiking to traversing the un ...

I chose (after a lot of research) Trekmunk for my first trek - The Hampta Pass and Chandratal Trek. And I am so really glad I did so. The trekker needs to only focus on the trek and the beautiful landscape around him/her. The rest of everything is taken care of by Trekmunk from day 1 till the end of the trek. Scrupulously managed logistics; no compromise on safety and security; experienced, intelligent and knowledgeable trek leaders; scrumptious meals; contingency and backup plans; etc. make Trekmunk an ideal choice to go trekking with. My trek was lead by Ashish Pathania, Prashant Reddy and Sanjay Thakur. The three are were thorough professionals. They were jolly, very helpful, experienced, knowledgeable, organized, and needless to say polite yet strict when needed. They played the most important roles in making sure our overall trekking experience was a wonderful one. Thank you Trekmunk for one of the most beautiful experiences I have had till date. Will see you guys soon.

Traveling with these people is surely an insanely enthralling experience. This is my second backpacking trip with these people and the way I had imagined backpacking to be has been fulfilled by them and they have given me surely more. The best thing about travelling with these people is that you understand the true meaning of travelling and experience it very closely. You are given great freedom but at the same time taking care of. You participate in the process of backpacking. You have a trip leader with you but he acts more like a friend as the days pass by! We attended the hornbill festival and did a wonderful trek to Dzukuo valley in Nagaland with the leadership of this group. You break the boundaries of yourself when you travel like a true traveller and that is possible with these people.

Our 7 days trip to Meghalaya was a truly memorable experience. Thank you Trekmunk for arranging such an adventurous backpacking trip and a special thanks to Mohit Goswami our trip leader for giving us an experience of what true travelling is. From hitchhiking to traversing the unknown places to eating delicious Momo's to climbing 3000 steps, we did it all in those 7 days which came to end so quickly and none of us wanted to go back home. Such an experience where you just pick up your rucksacks and walk down the roads of a traveller could have been only possible because of Trekmunk!

I had an amazing trek with Trekmunk to Sandakphu November and December 2019. From the first moment of inquiry about the trek and all my questions were answered clearly and on time thanks to Dheeraj who managed to facilitate the trek quite well with his communication. Our guide Arpan was very experienced, calm, patient and very helpful to each trekker's needs in the group. He facilitated to find and hire a porter for me once I needed one although we were in the middle of the trail. He also arranged emergency transportation when I had to cut the trek and go back home for an urgent matter. I really enjoyed their service and I would like to repeat the same trek or try other treks with them again.

Chadar trek is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous treks, which requires a lot of skilled trek leaders, a perfect guide and a strong team of porters. I choose Trekmunk for Chadar and they proved they are a perfect team. Highly skilled trek leaders, professional skiers, gave us details on how to walk on slippery ice. Professionally trained and certified with wilderness medication programs always ready to take your care in any condition and travelers themselves. One will enjoy their company, their travel stories and their way of leading a trek. Cheers to team Trekmunk.

Related Blogs

Related Tours

Brahmatal Trek

Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek

Kuari Pass Trek

Pangarchulla Summit Trek

"Trekmunk is changing the indian trekking industry"

"10 Most Promising Adventure Sporting and Trekking Companies - 2020"

" Things you do for the Passion for Travel"

Hello there, How can we help you ?

Timing: 10 am to 6 pm IST (GMT +5:30)

Whats App Us

Roopkund Trek: Unraveling Mysteries in the Garhwal Himalayas

The Roopkund Trek is a thrilling odyssey into the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas, where mystery, mythology, and breathtaking landscapes converge. Nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, India, this trek is renowned for its high-altitude glacial lake, known as the “Skeleton Lake” due to the human remains that emerge from the frozen depths.

Commencing from the picturesque village of Lohajung, the trail unfolds through dense forests, charming meadows, and rugged terrains. As trekkers ascend, the iconic Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti come into view, creating a dramatic backdrop against the clear blue sky.

The trek reaches its zenith at an elevation of around 4,800 meters, revealing the mystical Roopkund Lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The lake, frozen for most of the year, thaws during a brief summer, exposing the skeletal remains that add an air of enigma to the landscape.

Roopkund Trek is not merely a physical challenge; it’s a cultural exploration and a rendezvous with nature’s extremes. The ancient temples en route, the diverse flora and fauna, and the ethereal beauty of the high-altitude landscapes make this trek a holistic adventure, inviting trekkers to unravel the mysteries hidden in the folds of the Garhwal Himalayas.

Upcoming Treks to Roopkund

A Complete Guide to Trekking Tours in India

India Tours

International tours, destination wedding, medical tourism, plan your trip.

• Trekking in India

Roopkund Trek

• Accommodation
• Sightseeing
• Trip Highlights
• Best Time to Visit

About Roopkund Lake Trek

Known for its mysterious surrounding and astounding scenic beauty, Roopkund is a high altitude trek in Uttarakhand at the base of Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti. The maximum height of this trek is 5029 m. The trek in the Garhwal Himalayas offers magnificent views of the mountains surrounded by rock- strewn glaciers. This 9 days trek in Chamoli District is of moderate to difficult trekking grade.

The lake at Roopkund is also known as a ‘mystery lake’ for the human skeletons and remains of horses that are found in huge numbers in the surrounding areas. These remains are believed to be of around the 15th to 16th century when a strong hailstorm took away the lives of hundreds of pilgrims.

Lohajung is the base of Roopkund trek and is easily accessible by road from Rishikesh. The drive from Rishikesh to Loharjung is picturesque with the views of snow-clad mountains, sprawling valleys and meandering rivers.

The trek to Roopkund starts from Lohajung and passes through the village of Didna. In between Loharjung and Didna, there is a small village called Kulling from where River Neel Ganga flows between Wan and Lohajung. From Kulling a steep ascent leads to Raun Bagad which is partly thick and dotted by the rhododendron, oak, and pine forest. On this trekking trail, the trekkers can spot many birds like fork-tailed Himalayan Magpie on the branches of rhododendrons. On the lower levels of Neel Ganga River, Lammergeiers are found soaring over the valley. One can also see yellow-throated marten.

The trail to Raun Bagad ends at an iron bridge from where the climb to Didina starts. From Didina the trail leads towards Bedni Bugyal, one of the major attractions of Roopkund trekking tour which again passes through Ali Bugyal. The trail from Didina to Bedni Bugyal is a stiff climb at the beginning but an easy walk in the middle as it ascends towards the end.

The trail from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal is carpeted with soft green grassland. Camping at Bedni Bugyal is another major highlight of Roopkund lake trek. Witnessing the evening reflection of sunlight on Trishul Mountain peak is yet another attraction of this trek in Garhwal Himalayas.

From Bedni Bugyal one has to head towards the meadows of Ghora Lotani where the vicinity is painted with the shades of olives and browns spread across all directions over the black terrain. Trekkers can witness abundant snow while reaching Bhagwabasa. Further, the trekkers have to head towards Roopkund from Bhagwabasa which is a 5-km ascent. There are series of switchbacks and a steep climb over the snow patched route but the stretch is not long and the hard snow is helpful to trek without being worried about the danger.

Roopkund Trek Highlights

• Explore the mystery of the Skeleton Lake, Roopkund, witness the years long buried human and animal bones in the snow.
• Enjoy the breathtaking views of lofty Himalayan peaks like Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba & Trishul and Rudragaira.
• Cherish the sprawling lush alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal.
• Get an opportunity to visit some of the remotest villages of Uttrakhand.
• Enjoy camping under the open sky and amidst the stunning landscape.

Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek

Roopkund can be trekked between May and June and August and mid-October. The harsh climatic conditions only provide trekkers with a small window to trek between the 1st week of May to about the 1st week of July. June is the perfect time to witness the twin Bugyals /meadows of Ali and Bedni as by this time, the meadows are in their full spring. Trekking between the last week of August and the first week of October is another good trekking season in Roopkund. The sky remains clear and the weather is perfect for a hike.

Where is the Roopkund?

Roopkund is situated in a remote area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand State. It is an isolated place with no permanent human settlements in the vicinity, Roopkund is surrounded by glaciers and situated near the base of two Himalayan peaks Trishul, and Nanda Gunti. Despite of its increasing popularity, it generally remains inaccessible for six months in a year because of its high altitude and continuous snow.

Roopkund Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Delhi – haridwar – rishikesh, other benfits (on arrival).

• Stay Included

In the morning take an AC train for Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar, meet our representative who will help you with transferring to Rishikesh and check-in in to your hotel. Evening time is free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Rishikesh - Karanprayag - Wan (2200 mts /7200 ft) (170 kms / 6-7 hrs)

Today, we will drive along the River Ganges to reach Wan. En route visit the famous places of religious importance. Continue to drive further via Rudraprayag and Karanprayag to reach Wan by evening. Dinner and overnight stay in tents / tourist rest house.

Wan - Bedni Bugyal (3350 mts / 11000 ft) (10 Km / 4-5 hrs)

After the breakfast, we shall head towards the enchanting villages of Wan to reach the ridge of Rankiyadhar. From here, the trail descends to the river Neelganga River. After crossing the river, we will pass through the dense forests of Rhododendron and Oak to reach Gairoli Patal. The trail still continues to ascend to the Dolia Dhar ridge, which is marked with a temple. The trail then continues towards the meadows at Bedni. Overnight stay in tents.

Bedni Bugyal

Today, we will explore the region of Bedni Bugyal and capture wonderful photographs of nature. This is a rest day to acclimatize. Overnight stay in the tents.

Bedni Bugyal - Bagubassa (4100 mts / 13450 ft) (8 km / 4-5 hrs)

After the breakfast today, we will trek from Bedni to Bagubassa via Patar Nachaniya. Overnight stay in tents.

Bagubassa - Roopkund (4450 mts/14600 ft) - Bedni Bugyal (7-8 hrs)

Post breakfast, we shall trek from Bagubassa to Roopkund. The trail passes through alpine pasture lands that offer a fantastic view of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Badrinath peaks. Later, the trail becomes steep as we get near to the Roopkund Lake. After exploring the area and taking the pictures, we shall return to Bedni Bugyal. Overnight stay in the tents.

Bedni Bugyal - Wan (10 km / 3-4 hrs) – Rudraprayag

In the morning today, we shall trek from Bedni to Wan. The trail goes downhill and offers wonderful opportunity to enjoy the forest trail. Upon reaching the road head, we will drive towards Rudraprayag. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Rudraprayag - Haridwar – Delhi

After the breakfast, drive towards Haridwar via Devprayag and Rishikesh. After arriving in Haridwar, catch a train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs.

Fill Enquiry Form Below

Why tmi for trekking holidays, experienced.

An experienced trekking tour operator, with a team of an experienced adventure enthusiast ensure to give our clients well-designed trekking tour packages.

We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

Happy Customers

TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best adventure holidays.

Local Offices

We have local office in Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Jammu & Kashmir, & Himachal Pradesh for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere.

Related Tour Packages

08 Nights - 09 Days

Adi Kailash Trek

17 Nights - 18 Days

Auden’s Col Trek

6 Nights - 7 Days

Auli Gorson Bugyal Trek

Auli snow view trek.

8 Nights - 9 Days

Bagini Glacier Trek

12 Nights - 13 Days

Bali Pass Trek

5 Nights - 6 Days

Brahmatal Trek

Chenap valley trek.

4 Nights - 5 Days

Chopta Chandrashila Trek

11 Nights - 12 Days

Darma Valley Trek

Dayara bugyal dodital trek, dayara bugyal trek.

14 Nights - 15 Days

Dhumdhar Kandi Pass Trek

Dodital lake trek.

7 Nights - 8 Days

Dodital Yamunotri Trek

Gangotri kedarnath trek.

9 Nights - 10 Days

Gangotri Nandanvan Trek

Gangotri tapovan trek, gulabi kantha trek.

10 Nights - 11 Days

Har Ki Dun Ruinsara Tal Trek

Har ki dun trek, hemkund sahib trek, kafni glacier trek, kalindikhal trek, kanari khal trek, kedar kantha trek, kedarnath trek, kedarnath vasuki tal trek, kedartal trek.

15 Nights - 16 Days

Khatling Sahasratal Trek

Kuari pass tapovan trek, kuari pass trek, lamkhaga pass trek, masar tal lake trek via khatling glacier, mayali pass trek, milam glacier trek, nag tibba trek.

16 Nights - 17 Days

Nanda Devi East Base Camp

20 Nights - 21 Days

Nanda Devi Inner Sanctuary Trek

Nanda devi trek, nandi kund trek, panch kedar trek, panchachuli bc trek, pangarchulla peak climb trek.

13 Nights - 14 Days

Panpatia Col Trek

Panwali kantha trek, pindari glacier trek, pithoragarh sin la pass trek, pithoragarh to lipulalekh trek, rupin pass trek, satopanth lake trek, shivling base camp trek, sunderdhunga bc trek, valley of flowers trek, more about trekking in garhwal, our latest informative travel blogs, explore the hidden natural treasure of himalayas with these unexplored treks in uttarakhand, india trekking guide: best informative blogs on india himalayas trekking tour, where to visit in uttarakhand and himachal for adventure, chilling, and finding peace for a post-lockdown holiday, india trekking information at a glance, trekking destinations.

• Uttarakhand

Special Interests Treks

• Wildlife Treks
• Spiritual Treks
• Weekend Treks
• Cultural Treks
• Family Treks

Best Time for Trekking in India

• Best Time to Do Ladakh Trek
• Best Time to Do Uttarakhand Trek
• Best Time to Do Sikkim Trek
• Best Time to Do Himachal Trek
• Best Time to Do Kashmir Trek
• Best Time to Do Garhwal Trek

Fixed Departure Tours

• Fixed Departure for Ladakh
• Fixed Departure for Uttarakhand
• Fixed Departure for Sikkim
• Fixed Departure for Himachal
• Fixed Departure for Kashmir

Seasonal Treks

• Spring Season Treks
• Summer Season Treks
• Monsoon Season Treks
• Autumn Season Treks
• Winter Season Treks

Essential Links

• Things to Carry
• Terms & Condition
• Trekking Equipment
• Trekking Permit

How It Works

• Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• After you submit the form, one of our travel experts will get back to you with customised holiday package based on your requirement, within 24 hours.
• Grab the deal and start packing your bags for an indelible holiday with Tour My India.

Call Us for details

+91-9212553106

Request a quote.

About Roopkund

There are some iconic trekking destinations that people do talk about from time to time and Roopkund Trek makes it almost every list. The trekking experience lies in the Gharwal region of the Himalayas present in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is mostly known for the mysterious glacial lake which reveals its hidden skeletal remains as the ice melts. The trek is also known for the difficulty and it is perfect for those who are up for a great adventure. So, let us know a little more about this coveted trekking trail.

About the Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund trek will take you at a maximum altitude of 5,000 m or 15,700 ft. and its main location is in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This is a long duration trek that lasts for almost 8 days and a participant needs to trek for 53 KM in total. This trek is considered a difficult trek because of the terrain that one needs to pass to reach the lake. The path remains closed during the winter months because of the extreme weather conditions.

Wan is the base camp for the Roopkund trek and one will find it easy to reach from nearby towns of Haldwani and Kathgodam. One needs to pass the village of Lohajung when they are on the way to reach Wan, the place from which the real trek takes place. It takes a trek of 6 days to finally reach the beautiful glacial lake. The stops and campsites included in this trek are Ghairoli Patal, Bedni Bugyal, Patar Nachauni, Bhagwabasa, Roopkund, and Junargali.

The rise in altitude from 8000 ft. to 15,700 ft provides you with the experience of having a look at different types of terrains and you also get acquainted with the vegetation and wildlife. The Bugyals or vast stretches of alpine meadows are eye-soothing for the trekker. Along with that, you will also cross dense forests especially in the first days of the trip.

An amazing view of different peaks such as the Chaukhamba range, the Neelkanth peak, the Kedarnath and the Kedar Dome peaks make the whole trek worthwhile. Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunt are the most prominent peaks when you are on your way to the Roopkund Lake .

Quick Facts about the Roopkund Trek:

• Min/Max Temperature: Day: 12 to 18°C and Night: -5 to 7°C
• Altitude: 5,000 m or 15,700 ft.
• Distance: 53 KM
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Starting/Ending point: Wan Base Camp
• Last ATM: Wan
• Base Camp: Wan
• Duration: 8 days
• Region: Chamoli District, Uttarakhand, Garwhal Himalayas

Highlights of the Trek:

Whenever we are planning to go on a trek, the very first things that we think about are the experiences that we are going to have. The Roopkund trek is often known for the mesmerizing views and the diverse terrain. So, here are some of the highlights of the trek:

The alpine meadows that the trekkers get to see in the form of the Bedni Bugyal, as well as the Ali Bugyal, are breathtakingly beautiful. These bugyals stretch over a large area and they act like pastures for the animals living nearby. The greenery of the bugyals will entice any person and make them stay for a long time. They look mesmerising at the right time as flowers make the meadows appear more colourful. These bugyals are unique to the eco-system of the Garwhal region and because of their fragility, conservation methods are being utilised by the government.

Forest and Streams:

Forests and streams are quite important when you go on a trekking tour. The eco-system of the mountains is distinct and it is completely different from the plains. In the Roopkund trek of Uttarakhand you embark on the journey from Wan and as you are on the way to Ghairoli Patal you will pass the ‘Ran ka Dhar’ which is a stream. To reach your destination you will also pass forests of Oak and Rhododendrons. You will also get to see another stream when you are on your way to Patar Nachauni from Bedni Bugyal.

As we have already said above, one of the main highlights of the Roopkund trek is the peaks that you are going to experience. Mt. Trishul and Mt. Nanda Ghunt are the dominant peaks that you can spot throughout the journey. When you reach Roopkund Lake, you can also spot the Neelkanth peak, the Kedarnath peak along with a distinct view of the Chaukhamba range. The view of the white peaks will always stay in your mind.

Glacial Lake:

The main highlight of the Roopkund trek has to be the glacial lake which will be your prime destination. The lake may have approximately 500 or more human and animal skeletal remains and it has always been an interesting topic that pulls more people towards it. The lake is situated at an altitude of 5,000 m and it is surrounded by glaciers and other high mountains. The Lake remains covered in ice most of the time. The human skeletons are definitely an attraction, but people should definitely refrain from picking up a piece for themselves.

When you are on the Roopkund trek you will get to enjoy the campsites that allow you to live right under nature. The mesmerizing view of the surrounding areas along with the pollution-free sky lets you see the stars which you may not have experienced before. On top of that, the campsites allow you to have a personal connection with nature. In the Roopkund the base camp, Wan, in itself is a beautiful sight to behold. The campsites at Patar Nachauni allow you to have a wholesome view of the nearby peaks and mountain ranges.

What is the best time to visit Roopkund Trek?

There are mainly two dominant times for availing the Roopkund Trek. One is definitely during the summer months of May and June and the second one is from September to mid-October. If you are someone who would like to see snow, then we will recommend you to visit during the summer months as you can still see the traces of snow, especially near the Lake. But the post-monsoon months of September and October offer a great view of the Bugyals as they are full of greenery and the flowers are blooming. You should always avoid the monsoon season as they make the trails slippery which may lead to accidents. So, choose a time according to your interest. Roopkund trek has always been a favourite of those who wanted to beat the heat of the summer months.

How to reach Roopkund?

The journey to Roopkund takes you 6 days if you start from Wan which is the base camp. If you are coming from Delhi, then you will need to take a train, a bus or a car to either Kathgodam or Haldwani and from there you have to travel to Wan which is generally via a car and takes about 11 hours. On the next day, you will need to trek from Wan to Ghairoli Patal which takes about 4 hours. On the third day, the trekking is from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal which lasts for about 3 hours. On the fourth day, you have to trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Ghora Lotani and you can see the green surroundings turning into a rockier terrain. On the fifth day, the trek is from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa, which is a small village and on the way you can pay your regards at the Kalu Vinayak temple. The next day is the most eventful as you will final trek to the Roopkund Lake from Bhawabasa but it is also one of the most difficult treks in the whole journey because of narrow ways and high-altitude.

Roopkund Weather:

When you are visiting a place it is quite important to find out about the weather. This helps you in deciding on the time when you want to go on the trek. As Roopkund trek is a high-altitude trek it is quite obvious that you are going to find cold weather over here.

The summer season which lasts from April to June is quite popular among trekkers. In the daytime the weather is pleasant and it does get chilly at night, so people should definitely pack well when they are preparing for the trek. It is best to avoid the months of July and August as there is torrential rain and the weather isn’t favourable for trekking activities. During this time, snow is still present in the upper part of the trek.

The next best season for visiting Rookund is during the autumn months of September and October. The weather is chilly but the lake doesn’t freeze yet and it will reveal the skeletons present in it. The weather is better during the autumn months and fewer crowds are present.

Roopkund Temperature:

Knowing the temperature of a place helps to decide on the things that one needs to carry with them. When you are on trekking to Roopkund you should always make sure to carry enough warm clothes as it does get chilly by night.

During the summer months of May and June, the temperature during daytime can be anywhere between 18 degrees Celsius to 12 degrees Celsius but during the night it can drop to 7 degrees Celsius to -5 degrees Celsius.

During the autumn months of September and October, the usual daytime temperature is 20 degrees Celsius to 9 degrees Celsius and during the night is alters between 4 degrees Celsius to -8 degrees Celsius

In the winter months, at night the temperature can even fall to -26 degrees Celsius.

So, here are some of the things that you need to know about the mesmerizing Roopkund trek which is known for its campsites along with the great experience that it provides to the trekkers. We think that people who find trekking interesting should definitely try it out at least once in their life.

Day 1 :  Kathgodam pickup and drive to Wan

• Hire a shared cab or bus from Kathgodam Railway Station.
• 210 Km Journey.
• 10-11 hours drive to Wan.
• Accommodation and food in Guest House in Wan.

Day 2 :  Trek from Wan to Ghairoli Patal

• 8,005 ft to 10,005 ft.
• 6.5 Km Trek.
• 4 to 5 Hours duration.
• Lunch at Ghairoli Patal Campsite.

The Trek for the day is mostly climb, but before that a small ascent to Ran ka dhar and another half hour descent to Neel Ganga and from here onwards, it’s a straight climb of 3 hrs. From Wan, the initial trail is cement route and through a few houses. This is a small walk of not more than 10 minutes and leads you into a jungle. From here, we will move up to the Latu Devta temple. Latu Devta is a deity worshiped by the locals. Before the starting of the Nanda Devi Jat Yatra, Latu Devta is worshiped by the people taking part in the yatra. While crossing the temple, you will find many trekkers visiting the temple, and your guides and helpers will even suggest you the same for a happy and safe trek. Ran ka Dhar, is a point half an hour from here, from where you have a complete view of the valley you left behind. The name ‘Ran aka Dhar’ means stream of blood, which was the result of the battle goddess Parvati had with the demon Lohasur. The trek further continues to Neel Ganga bridge, which gives a refreshing point on your trek. This trek further moves up to Ghairoli Patal through a forest of Oak and Rhododendron. There are lush green alpine meadows dotted with wild flowering plants, evergreen whispering and raging forest and varied landscape to simply grab the imagination of every trekker, and further the view of Trishuli is an icing on the cake as you enter Ghairoli Patal.

Day 3 :  Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal

• 10,005 ft to 11,484 ft.
• 3 Hours duration.
• Camping in Bedni Bugyal
• Accommodation and food in Tents

The trek today begins with a steep climb into an oak and rhododendron forest which leads you to a huge meadow. This further after walking for around 2 hrs leads you straight to one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in India, Ali Bugyal. The mesmerizing beautiful meadows at Ali Bugyal spread in every direction. The sight of this meadows gives you a rewarding feeling after all that exhausting trek. The sight is no less than what you get at a windows XP wallpaper. Further, move ahead to Bedni Bugyal in mildly descending trail which then turns into a gentle trail of around one hour which ends at another beautiful campsite Bedni Bugyal.

Day 4 :  Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni

• 11,484 ft to 12,700 ft.
• 6 to 7 Hours Duration.
• Camp in Patar Nachauni by Lunch.
• Accommodation and food in Tents.

Today, the trek will be a straight trail all the way to the meadows of Ghora Lotani, the mules are not taken further. Ghora Lotani makes an excellent campsite not only in terms of beauty but also slows down your altitude gain to a halt. Also, a clear stream on the side, keeps it one point ahead as a campsite. But we will be choosing Patar Nachauni as our campsite for the day. The trail from here is a climb to Kalu Vinayak. Patar nuchani is where you get your first sight the snow.

Day 5 :  Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak

• 12,700 ft to 14,102 ft.
• 5 Hours Duration.
• Camp by lunch in Bhagwabasa.

Today we carry atleast 2 litres of water along, climb since there will be water sources on the way and the day is a bit challenging as compared to previous days, the approach is laborious, but not difficult. The trek will be a high elevated 1.5 hrs climb to Kalu Vinayak resulting in a rapid altitude gain. This section need to be negotiated slowly. Take small breaks while climbing up the steep path. These breaks are important as going up very fast could mean inviting AMS. In these breaks take rest while taking support of your walking stick as sitting down causes your muscles to relax and makes it difficult to get back on track. This is a crucial height where most trekkers feel the thinness in the air. You get breathless very soon and sometimes even feel dizzy. Trekkers give their best today but it becomes a problem later when the altitude gain for Roopkund starts. Kalu Vinayak, the black Ganesha figure in a stone temple just as you finish the climb from Patar Nachauni. The trail further from Kalu Vinayak to Bhagwabasa is a simple 2 kms gradual decent. Snow patches will start accompanying you on trail from now onwards. Bhagwabasa is a place something small than a village. The people here also provide beds for the night stay and even also fooding is available, at an additional cost.

Day 6 :  Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and Junargali and back to Patar Nachauni

• Bhagwabasa,14,102 ft. to Roopkund at 15755 ft, Junargali at 16000 ft and back to Patar Nachauni at 12,800 ft by 5PM
• 15 Km Trek.
• 10 Hours duration.
• Early Start and Breakfast at Roopkund , Lunch at Bhagbasa and Camping in Patar Nachauni.

This is the day we will reach Roopkund Lake and return back to Patar Nachauni. We will start our trek in the early morning. One need to climb while the snow is still hard. There’s plenty of snow even in the middle of summer. In the daytime, the snow becomes soft and your feet start sinking in, which needs to avoid this. Our initial walk includes a 5 kms gradually ascending walk which will leads us to the Roopkund lake which takes about 2½ hrs to climb up to Roopkund. Take small breaks while climbing up the steep path. These breaks are important as going up very fast could mean inviting AMS. In these breaks take rest while taking suppport of your walking stick as sitting down causes your muscles to relax and makes it difficult to get back on track. The last stretch of climbing in the snowy requires support of all four limbs and is exhausting but is not long. Depending on the snow depositions, the team may be required to rope up. After reaching the Roopkund, enjoy the breathtaking sight of the lake and its surroundings. After spending some time here, we will descend without delay as the weather at these high altitudes changes suddenly. It can get windy up here and possibility of sudden rain cannot be ruled out. We also might attempt Junargali if the weather permits, as it doesn’t take much time. The Roopkund lake is a mysterious lake. The human bones spread all over the area are what accounts for its mysteriousness. It has been a surprising element to the scientist and historians. After the summit to the lake or further up to Junargali, trekkers often find getting down from Roopkund difficult. Reach Bhagwabasa in around 3 hours. And from here a 5km descend from Bhagwabhasa to Pathar Nachauni which you will cover in 3 hours. You can camp at Pathar Nachauni for the night.

Day 7 :  Patar Nachauni to Wan.

• 12,800 ft to 7,650 ft.
• Full Day Trek , Drive from Wan to Lohajung
• Accommodation and food in Guest House

Today retrace your path all the way back to Wan, at the last day of this exhausting yet exciting trek. On the way back, you get astounding views of Mt Trishul on a clear day

Day 8 :  Wan to Kathgodam

• 210 Kms, 10 to 11 hours Drive.
• Try to reach at Kathgodam by 6 PM.

It’s time to bid farewell to Wan and its mountains. Today, we board a vehicle that drives us to Kathgodam through Kausani and Ranikhet. Depart from Wan after an early breakfast. Kathgodam, is well connected to Delhi by a number of Buses and Trains, and you can move further as per your convienience.

₹ 10800 /- ₹ 12500 /- (₹ 1700 off)

Payment secured by.

Talk to our Adventure Expert

Trek packages, roopkund ( 8 days / 7 nights ), trek highlights, trip length, aprox 53 km, max altitude, difficulty level, uttarakhand, pickup location, droplocation, start point, may to june, cancellation policy, health and saftey.