Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand
Popularly known as the ‘Skeleton Lake’, Roopkund Lake is extremely popular for the mystery connected to it. Lying at an altitude of 14638 feet, Lying at an altitude of 14638 feet, the lake and its surroundings are sprinkled with thousands of human bones and skeletons. It is said they are the skeletal remains of a group of travelers who got caught in a natural disaster that happened in the 14th century. The fact that this is one of the exciting summer treks in Uttarakhand that goes through spectacular terrains and could be undertaken by beginners. This makes it one of the most popular trails for trekking in Uttarakhand.
The lake is placed on the route to the pilgrimage site of Nanda Devi temple is known to have a challenging terrain along with Bedni Bugyal grasslands and stunning snow-clad peaks. The trek to Roopkund Lake takes around seven and nine days where trekkers cross-religious sites, lush forests, cascading streams, clean snow and, peaks of Bedni Bugyal and Trisul.
This trek begins from Lohajung, following an uphill climb, arriving at Ran ki Dhar, then to Bhaguwagasa, and then finally to Roopkund. Human skeletons are visible at the lake’s bottom when the snow melts.
History & Mystery of Roopkund Lake
Roopkund gained worldwide attention when over 200-300 skeletons were discovered in 1942. Research suggests:
- These people belonged to a pilgrimage group
- They died due to massive hailstones
- DNA shows a mix of locals & South Asian travelers
According to mythology, the lake lies on the sacred trail of Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, a ritual that occurs every 12 years.
Adventure, history, spirituality - Roopkund has it all!
Route & Trek Highlights
| Trek Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Lohajung |
| Total Trek Distance | 53 km |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to Challenging |
| Trek Duration | 7–9 Days |
| Max Altitude | 4,500m (14,638 ft) |
| Ideal For | Fit beginners & experienced trekkers |
The trail passes through:
- Dense oak & rhododendron forests
- Bedni Bugyal & Ali Bugyal - India’s biggest alpine meadows
- Rocky & snowy glacial paths
Perfect for photographers & adventure lovers!
Roopkund Trek 7-Day Detailed Itinerary
| Day | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Lohajung - Didna | Village trail |
| Day 2 | Didna - Ali Bugyal | Meadows & ridge views |
| Day 3 | Ali Bugyal - Ghora Lotani | Sunset over Trishul |
| Day 4 | Ghora Lotani - Bhagwabasa | Glacial rocks |
| Day 5 | Bhagwabasa - Roopkund - Patar Nachauni | Skeleton lake visit |
| Day 6 | Patar Nachauni - Lohajung | Long descent |
| Day 7 | Lohajung - Departure | End of trek |
Nearby Attractions Around Roopkund Trek
Trekking to Roopkund also gives a chance to explore famous natural and spiritual gems located nearby:
- Bedni Bugyal – One of India’s largest alpine meadows with mesmerizing mountain views
- Ali Bugyal – Stunning green landscape ideal for photography and camping
- Kausani – Known as the “Switzerland of India” for captivating sunrises and sunsets
- Nanda Devi Temple – Sacred pilgrimage site connected to Himalayan mythology
- Wan Village – A picturesque village offering a glimpse of Garhwali culture
- Pindari Glacier – Another popular glacier trek in the Kumaon Himalayas
Best Time to Visit Roopkund
| Season | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| May – June | Snow stretches + adventurous climb |
| Sep – Oct | Green meadows + clear skies |
Avoid Monsoon - landslides & slippery route
Quick Facts About Roopkund Trek
| Category | Info |
|---|---|
| Temperature | +15°C to –5°C |
| Permit | Required |
| Accommodation | Tents / Camps |
| Network | Poor after Lohajung |
| Difficulty | Moderate - Strenuous |
Roopkund Trek Cost (Approx.)
| Package | Cost per Person | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Rs. 12,000 – Rs. 15,000 | Meals + Camping + Guide |
| Standard | Rs. 16,000 – Rs. 20,000 | Permits + Gear + Trek leader |
| Premium | Rs. 22,000 – Rs. 28,000 | Porters + Transfers + Better amenities |
Prices vary by weather/operator/group size
How to Reach Roopkund Trek Base – Lohajung
Lohajung, which serves as the starting point of the Roopkund Trek, is well connected with major cities in Uttarakhand by air, rail, and road. You can easily reach Dehradun, Haridwar, Rishikesh, or Kathgodam first and then continue your onward journey to Lohajung by road. Shared jeeps and buses are available, offering a scenic but slightly long mountain drive.
Travel Options to Reach Lohajung:
- By Air: Reach Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) and travel approx. 210 km to Lohajung by taxi/jeep.
- By Train: Nearest major railway stations are Haridwar and Rishikesh, followed by road journey.
- By Road: Regular buses and shared jeeps run from Kathgodam, Haldwani, and Dehradun to Lohajung.
Roopkund Trek is a perfect mix of mystery, Himalayan beauty, and spiritual history. From lush meadows to snow ridges and a chillingly mysterious lake - it promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for every trekker visiting Uttarakhand.
