Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand : Journey Through History and Nature

Introduction of Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a popular trekking destination located in the Chamoli district, India. It is known for its high altitude glacial lake, Roopkund, which is also called the ‘Mystery Lake’ or ‘Skeleton Lake’ due to the presence of hundreds of human skeletons around the lake. The lake is situated at an altitude of about 16,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by snow-clad peaks and a breathtaking view of the Himalayan range.

The trek to Roopkund is considered a moderate to challenging trek and takes around 7-8 days to complete. The trek starts from the base camp at Lohajung and passes through beautiful meadows, dense forests, and stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, river crossings, and camping in high-altitude areas.

Apart from the Roopkund Lake, trekkers also get to visit the Bedni Bugyal, Ali Bugyal, and Junargali, which are some of the most picturesque places in the region. The trek is best done during the summer months of May-June and September-October, when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand : Journey Through History and Nature

Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a must-do trek for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Himalayas.

History of Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a popular trekking destination located India. The trek is known for its scenic beauty and the Roopkund Lake, which is also known as the Mystery Lake or Skeleton Lake due to the presence of human skeletons at the bottom of the lake.

The history of the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand dates back to the 8th century, when a group of pilgrims was on their way to Nanda Devi, a sacred Hindu temple located in the Garhwal Himalayas. It is believed that a severe hailstorm hit the area, killing the pilgrims and causing their bodies to be preserved in the ice.

In the 1940s, a British forest ranger discovered the lake and the skeletons while on a routine patrol. Over the years, many theories have emerged about the origin of the skeletons, including that they belonged to a group of soldiers who were caught in a blizzard while on a mission during World War II, or that they were the remains of a group of travellers who were caught in a hailstorm.

In recent years, scientific studies have been conducted on the skeletons to try and determine their origin. Carbon dating has shown that the skeletons date back to around the 9th century, which supports the theory that they were pilgrims. The cause of death of the pilgrims is believed to be a sudden hailstorm, which caused fatal injuries.

Today, the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. The trek takes around 8-9 days and involves a challenging climb through rugged terrain and steep mountains. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas, dense forests, and a variety of wildlife. The Roopkund Lake remains a fascinating sight for trekkers, with the skeletons visible in the clear water of the lake.

Story of Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a must-visit travel destination for adventure enthusiasts who love trekking and exploring the natural beauty of Uttarakhand. This trek is considered to be one of the most challenging treks in the region, but it is also one of the most rewarding experiences one can have.

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is known for its stunning vistas, breathtaking landscapes, and of course, the Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake. This lake has a fascinating history and is believed to be the final resting place of hundreds of pilgrims who were caught in a sudden hailstorm while on their way to Nanda Devi temple.

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand takes around 8-9 days to complete and involves a challenging climb through rugged terrain and steep mountains. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, dense forests, and a variety of wildlife.

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a great resource for those planning to embark on this adventure. It provides detailed information on the trek, including the best time to visit, the route, the difficulty level, and the necessary equipment.

If you’re planning a Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, make sure to pack warm clothing, sturdy boots, and a good pair of trekking poles. It is also important to stay hydrated and carry enough food supplies to sustain you throughout the trek.

In conclusion, the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a challenging yet rewarding experience that every adventure enthusiast must undertake at least once. With its stunning vistas and fascinating history, it is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Best time to visit Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

If you are planning to embark on the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, it is essential to know the best time to visit. The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand suggests that the best time to visit Roopkund is between May and June, or from September to October.

During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making it the perfect time to enjoy the stunning vistas and breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the route is relatively safe and easily accessible, making it an ideal time to plan your trip.

However, it is important to note that the weather conditions can be unpredictable, and it is essential to be prepared for any eventuality. During the monsoon season, which lasts from July to August, the trek route can be hazardous and should be avoided.

Similarly, during the winter months from December to February, the trek route is generally inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, making it impossible to undertake the trek during this time.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is between May and June, or from September to October. However, it is essential to be prepared for any weather conditions and to ensure that you have the necessary equipment and supplies to undertake the trek safely.

Gear Used for Photography and Accessories

Roopkund Trekking Routes

Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers several trekking routes for adventure enthusiasts to choose from. The Roopkund Trek travel guide Uttarakhand provides detailed information on each route, including the distance, difficulty level, and the time required to complete the trek.

The most popular route for the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is the Bedni Bugyal trek, which is approximately 10 km from the base camp. This route takes trekkers through dense forests, meadows, and a variety of landscapes, offering stunning vistas of the Himalayas.

Another popular route is the Ali Bugyal trek, which is a relatively easy trek and takes trekkers through beautiful meadows and dense forests. This route is ideal for beginners who want to experience the beauty of the Himalayas without undergoing a strenuous climb.

The Wan trek is another popular route that takes trekkers through scenic landscapes and dense forests, and offers stunning views of the Nanda Ghunti and Trishul peaks. This trek route is moderately difficult and is ideal for those who have some prior trekking experience.

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand also offers the Bhagwabasa trek route, which is a challenging trek that takes trekkers through rocky terrain and steep slopes. This route is only recommended for experienced trekkers who are in good physical condition.

In conclusion, the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers several trekking routes to choose from, catering to different levels of experience and fitness. It is essential to choose a trek route that suits your ability and to ensure that you have the necessary equipment and supplies to undertake the trek safely. The Roopkund Trek travel guide Uttarakhand provides detailed information on each route, helping you plan your trip more effectively.

Activity in Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand


Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers a range of activities for adventure enthusiasts to indulge in. The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand provides detailed information on the activities that can be enjoyed during the trek, helping you plan your trip more effectively.

  • Trekking is the primary activity during the Roopkund Trek, and it offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The trek takes trekkers through rugged terrain and steep mountains, offering stunning vistas of the Himalayas, dense forests, and a variety of wildlife.
  • Camping is another popular activity during the Roopkund Trek, and it offers a unique experience of spending the night under the stars in the lap of nature. Trekkers can set up their campsites in the beautiful meadows of Bedni Bugyal or Ali Bugyal and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas.
  • Bird watching is also a popular activity during the Roopkund Trek, and trekkers can spot a variety of birds such as Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, and Himalayan Griffon. The trek takes trekkers through dense forests and meadows, providing an ideal habitat for a variety of birds.
  • Photography is an activity that can be enjoyed by all during the Roopkund Trek, as it offers breathtaking landscapes and stunning vistas of the Himalayas. Trekkers can capture the beauty of the Roopkund Lake, the Trishul peak, and the Nanda Ghunti peak, among others.

In conclusion, the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers a range of activities for adventure enthusiasts to indulge in. From trekking and camping to bird watching and photography, there is something for everyone. The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand provides detailed information on these activities, helping you plan your trip more effectively.

Things to do before Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

Before embarking on the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, there are several things that you need to do to prepare for the trek. The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand provides detailed information on the things that you need to do before undertaking the trek, helping you plan your trip more effectively.

  • Physical fitness is essential before starting the trek, and it is recommended that you undergo a fitness regime to prepare yourself for the strenuous climb. It is also essential to carry the necessary equipment and supplies, such as trekking shoes, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and a sleeping bag.
  • Acclimatization is also crucial before starting the trek, and it is recommended that you spend a day or two in Lohajung to adjust to the high altitude. This will help you avoid altitude sickness and other related health issues during the trek.

It is also essential to carry enough food and water for the trek, as there are limited facilities along the way. You can either carry your own food or opt for a trekking package that includes meals and camping equipment.

Lastly, it is essential to obtain the necessary permits and permissions before starting the trek, as Roopkund falls under a protected area. You can obtain the necessary permits from the Forest Department or through a trekking company that organizes the trek.

In conclusion, before undertaking the Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand, it is essential to prepare you physically, carry the necessary equipment and supplies, acclimatize to the high altitude, carry enough food and water, and obtain the necessary permits and permissions. Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand provides detailed information on these things, helping you plan your trip more effectively.

Itinerary of Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

Roopkund Trek is a popular trekking destination located in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes you through beautiful forests, meadows, and high-altitude lakes, and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Here’s an itinerary for the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand:

Day 1: Kathgodam to Lohajung (2134m) – Drive

You’ll start your journey from Kathgodam and drive to Lohajung, which is the base camp for the trek. The drive takes around 10-11 hours and offers scenic views of the Himalayan range. You’ll stay overnight in Lohajung.

Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (2550m) – Trek

You’ll start the trek from Lohajung and walk through the forests of oak and rhododendron to reach the village of Didna. The trek takes around 5-6 hours and offers beautiful views of the valley. You’ll stay overnight in Didna.

Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal (3300m) – Trek

You’ll continue your trek and walk through the meadows of Ali Bugyal, which is one of the most beautiful meadows in India. The trek takes around 4-5 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll stay overnight in Ali Bugyal.

Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (3354m) – Trek

You’ll trek through the meadows of Bedni Bugyal, which is another beautiful meadow in Uttarakhand. The trek takes around 4-5 hours and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll stay overnight in Bedni Bugyal.

Day 5: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni (3850m) – Trek

You’ll trek through the meadows of Patar Nachauni, which is another beautiful meadow in Uttarakhand. The trek takes around 6-7 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll stay overnight in Patar Nachauni.

Day 6: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa (4100m) – Trek

You’ll trek through rocky terrain to reach the base camp of Bhagwabasa. The trek takes around 4-5 hours and offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks. You’ll stay overnight in Bhagwabasa.

Day 7: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (5029m) and back to Patar Nachauni – Trek

You’ll start early in the morning and trek to the high-altitude lake of Roopkund. The lake is famous for the human skeletons that are found at its bottom. The trek takes around 4-5 hours to reach the lake and another 3-4 hours to return to Patar Nachauni. You’ll stay overnight in Patar Nachauni.

Day 8: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung – Trek

You’ll start early in the morning and trek back to Lohajung, which is the endpoint of the trek. The trek takes around 5-6 hours and offers scenic views of the valley. You’ll stay overnight in Lohajung.

Day 9: Lohajung to Kathgodam – Drive

You’ll drive back to Kathgodam, which marks the end of the Roopkund Trek. The drive takes around 10-11 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayan range.

Note: The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and other factors. It’s recommended to check with the trek operator before planning your trek.

Accomodation In Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

During the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, you’ll be staying in campsites and guesthouses along the way. Here’s a breakdown of the accommodation options available on the trek:

  • Lohajung: There are a few guesthouses and homestays in Lohajung where you can stay before and after the trek. The accommodation here is basic but comfortable.
  • Didna Village: There are a few guesthouses and campsites in Didna Village where you can stay overnight. The accommodation here is basic, with shared toilets and limited facilities.
  • Ali Bugyal: You’ll be camping in Ali Bugyal, which is a beautiful meadow surrounded by mountains. The campsites here are basic but comfortable.
  • Bedni Bugyal: You’ll be camping in Bedni Bugyal, which is another beautiful meadow along the trek. The campsites here are basic but comfortable.
  • Patar Nachauni: You’ll be camping in Patar Nachauni, which is a rocky terrain and the last campsite before the Roopkund Lake. The campsites here are basic but comfortable.
  • Bhagwabasa: You’ll be camping in Bhagwabasa, which is the base camp for the Roopkund Lake. The campsites here are basic but comfortable.

Note: The accommodation facilities on the trek are basic and may not have the amenities you’re used to in cities. It’s recommended to carry your sleeping bags and warm clothing, especially during the winter months. Also, it’s advisable to carry your own water bottles to refill water at the water sources available on the trek.

Food Facility

During the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, you’ll be provided with meals by your trekking operator. The meals are generally vegetarian and include local cuisine. Here’s what you can expect in terms of food:

  • Breakfast: You’ll be served a hot breakfast every morning, which includes porridge, eggs, bread, and tea/coffee.
  • Lunch: You’ll be served a packed lunch during the trek, which includes a sandwich, fruit, and energy bars.
  • Dinner: You’ll be served a hot dinner every evening, which includes rice, dal, vegetables, chapatis, and a sweet dish.
  • Snacks: You’ll be provided with tea/coffee and snacks during the trek, which includes biscuits, namkeen, and popcorn.

Note: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s recommended to inform your trek operator in advance so that they can make necessary arrangements. It’s also advisable to carry some energy bars and dry fruits for snacking during the trek. Additionally, it’s important to carry a water purifier or purification tablets to treat water from streams and rivers on the trek.

Budget of Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

The cost of the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand depends on several factors, such as the trekking operator you choose, the duration of the trek, the level of comfort and services you require, and the time of the year you plan to undertake the trek. However, here’s a general breakdown of the budget you can expect for the Roopkund Trek:

  • Trekking operator fees: The trekking operator fees can range from INR 8,000 to INR 20,000 per person, depending on the level of comfort and services you require.
  • Accommodation: The cost of accommodation varies based on the type of accommodation you choose. The cost of guesthouses and homestays in Lohajung can range from INR 500 to INR 1,500 per night per person. The cost of camping during the trek can range from INR 500 to INR 1,000 per night per person.
  • Food: The cost of food is generally included in the trekking operator fees. However, if you plan to carry your own food, you can expect to spend INR 500 to INR 1,000 per day per person.
  • Trekking equipment: If you plan to rent trekking equipment, such as trekking shoes, jackets, and backpacks, you can expect to spend INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 per person.
  • Transportation: The cost of transportation depends on your mode of travel. If you plan to hire a taxi or a jeep, you can expect to spend INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 for the round trip from Kathgodam to Lohajung.

Overall, you can expect to spend INR 15,000 to INR 30,000 per person for the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand, excluding the cost of transportation to and from Kathgodam. However, the cost can vary based on the factors mentioned above.

How to reach

The base camp for the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is Lohajung, which is located in the Chamoli district. Here’s how you can reach Lohajung:

By Air

The nearest airport to Lohajung is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is around 230 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Lohajung.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Lohajung is Kathgodam, which is around 210 km away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Lohajung.

By Road

Lohajung is well-connected by road with major cities in Uttarakhand. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun to reach Lohajung. The road distance from Rishikesh to Lohajung is around 280 km.

Note: The roads to Lohajung are steep and narrow, so it’s advisable to hire an experienced driver or a local guide to navigate through the roads. Also, it’s recommended to check the road conditions and weather forecast before starting your journey.

Roopkund Trek is famous for

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is famous for several reasons, including:

  • The Skeleton Lake: The Roopkund Lake, which is the main highlight of the trek, is also known as the Skeleton Lake. The lake is surrounded by human and animal skeletons, which are believed to be from the 9th century AD.
  • Scenic beauty: The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba, and Kedarnath peaks. The trek also takes you through lush green forests, meadows, and high altitude glaciers.
  • Cultural experience: The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand takes you through several villages, including Lohajung, Bedni Bugyal, and Wan, where you can experience the local culture and way of life of the people living in the Himalayan region.
  • Adventure: The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a challenging trek that requires physical fitness and endurance. The trek takes you through steep ascents, rocky terrain, and high altitude passes, making it an adventure of a lifetime.

Overall, the Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a unique and unforgettable experience that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Nearby Places to visit Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand offers an opportunity to explore some of the nearby places of tourist interest. Here are some of the nearby places you can visit before or after the trek:

  • Bedni Bugyal: Bedni Bugyal is a beautiful meadow located at an altitude of 3,354 meters above sea level. It is known for its scenic beauty and is an ideal place for camping and trekking. The meadow is also home to the Bedni Kund, a natural spring that is believed to have healing properties.
  • Ali Bugyal: Ali Bugyal is another picturesque meadow located at an altitude of 3,580 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by dense forests of oak and rhododendron and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range.
  • Hemkund Sahib: Hemkund Sahib is a popular pilgrimage site for Sikhs and Hindus. It is located at an altitude of 4,632 meters above sea level and is surrounded by seven snow-capped peaks. The site is known for its gurudwara, which is built on the banks of a glacial lake.
  • Valley of Flowers: The Valley of Flowers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park located in the Chamoli district. It is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The valley is accessible only during the summer months, from June to September.
  • Rishikesh: Rishikesh is a popular tourist destination located at the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its spiritual significance, adventure activities, and scenic beauty. The city is also known as the Yoga Capital of the World and is home to several yoga centers and ashrams

FAQ

How difficult is Roopkund Trek?

The Roopkund Trek is a moderate to strenuous trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and prior trekking experience. The trek involves ascending and descending steep sections, crossing streams and bridges, navigating narrow paths, and trekking at high altitudes. The highest point on the trek is the summit of Roopkund at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level.

Why is Roopkund Trek closed?

The Roopkund Trek is closed during the winter months, from December to April, due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. The trekking trail is covered with deep snow, making it difficult to access and navigate, and the temperature drops well below freezing, making it dangerous for trekkers to undertake the trek.

Are there still skeletons in Roopkund Lake?

Yes, Roopkund Lake is also known as the “Skeleton Lake” due to the presence of hundreds of human skeletons that have been discovered at the bottom of the lake. The origin of these skeletons is a subject of ongoing scientific research and debate, but it is believed that they date back to the 9th century AD.
While the skeletons are still present in the lake, they are not visible to the naked eye as they are mostly covered by sediment and have been preserved in the cold water. The lake is also frozen for most of the year, making it difficult to access the site.

Which is the best time for Roopkund?

The best time to do the Roopkund Trek is from May to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear, and the trail is open for trekking.

Can beginners do Roopkund trek?

The Roopkund Trek is a moderate to strenuous trek and is not recommended for beginners with no prior trekking experience. The trek involves ascending and descending steep sections, crossing streams and bridges, navigating narrow paths, and trekking at high altitudes. The highest point on the trek is the summit of Roopkund at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level.

Disclaimer

To all of you, I would like to take a special note that all the information in all these articles is a mixture of internet social media and my own experience while photographing. Because the more you read about something, the more you will keep getting information.

These information will increase your interest about nature, try to understand the stories behind them through its beauty and photos and increase your knowledge as much as possible.

 So how did you like the information, will definitely tell us about it, thank you.

Welcome all to Uttarakhand, come here and see beautiful and fascinating scenes here, you will surely like the culture here.

उत्तराखंड में आप सभी का स्वागत है, यहां आएं और यहां के खूबसूरत और मनमोहक नजारे देखें, यहां की संस्कृति आपको जरूर पसंद आएगी।

If you enjoyed reading my blog or got some information, follow me so that we can connect with you all.

For More Pictures Of this place or any place which we have blog you can direct message me on Instagram.

Buy images for your own personal work without any copyright you can download from our shop at low price :

Visit our website: https://photosticenthusiast.com

Thank you so much for reading this article . If you enjoyed this article share with us for giving your feedback and beautiful comments .

Connect with us

Also Read

Leave a Comment