The Roopkund Trek, commonly referred to as the Skeleton Lake Trek, stands out as one of the most exhilarating and enigmatic high-altitude treks in Uttarakhand. Concluding this expedition is the haunting Roopkund Lake, which lies at an elevation of 15,696 feet. Renowned for the skeletal remains visible at the lake’s floor during the summer months, Roopkund captivates adventurers, nature lovers, and those in search of mystery. This trek promises a harmonious blend of stunning scenery, historical fascination, and physical exertion.
Moreover, the Roopkund trek reveals striking vistas of some of the highest peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas, such as Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. The route meanders through verdant meadows, dense woodlands, and rugged terrain, reaching a thrilling ascent to the lake. Because of its diverse landscapes and demanding trails, the Roopkund Trek is frequently ranked among the premier treks in Uttarakhand.
Highlights of the Roopkund Trek
Mystery of Skeleton Lake: The presence of ancient human skeletons at Roopkund Lake has puzzled scientists and trekkers for years. Some studies suggest they belong to a group of pilgrims from the 9th century, believed to have died due to a severe hailstorm.
Scenic Bugyals (Meadows): The trek passes through two vast alpine meadows, Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. These meadows are among the most beautiful high-altitude grasslands in India, filled with colorful wildflowers in the summer.
Majestic Mountain Views: Throughout the trek, you get clear views of majestic Himalayan peaks, including Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, especially from Bedni Bugyal and Roopkund Lake.
Sacred Sites: On the way, you’ll come across Bedni Kund, a small lake near Bedni Bugyal, which is of spiritual significance to the local people. Nearby temples also give the trek a cultural aspect.
Adventure and Thrill: With steep ascents, tricky paths, and sometimes adverse weather, Roopkund offers an adventurous challenge to experienced trekkers.
Roopkund Trek Itinerary
The Roopkund Trek is generally completed over 8-9 days. Below is a day-by-day itinerary:
Day 1: Drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung (7,600 feet)
- Distance: Approx. 210 km (8-9 hours by road)
- Description: The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung, a small village that serves as the base camp for the Roopkund trek. The drive offers views of rivers, valleys, and picturesque mountain towns.
- Stay: Overnight stay at a guesthouse or homestay in Lohajung.
Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (8,530 feet)
- Trek Distance: 8 km (4-5 hours)
- Trek Description: The trek begins with a gradual ascent through beautiful oak and rhododendron forests. You’ll reach Didna Village, a quiet hamlet with traditional wooden houses and green fields.
- Stay: Overnight stay in tents or homestays in Didna.
Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal (11,320 feet)
- Trek Distance: 10 km (6-7 hours)
- Trek Description: Today, you’ll trek uphill to reach Ali Bugyal, a vast high-altitude meadow. This is one of the most scenic sections of the trek, with panoramic views of the mountains.
- Highlights: Enjoy the pristine meadows and sight of wild horses grazing.
- Stay: Camp overnight at Ali Bugyal.
Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (11,800 feet)
- Trek Distance: 5 km (2-3 hours)
- Trek Description: A relatively easy trek across rolling grasslands to reach Bedni Bugyal. The view from Bedni Bugyal is spectacular, with the Trishul massif looming in the background.
- Highlights: You can also visit Bedni Kund, a small lake held sacred by locals.
- Stay: Camp overnight at Bedni Bugyal.
Day 5: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni (12,700 feet)
- Trek Distance: 5 km (3-4 hours)
- Trek Description: The trail from Bedni to Patar Nachauni is relatively easy, with gradual inclines. You’ll get closer to the mountains, feeling the altitude more acutely.
- Stay: Camp overnight at Patar Nachauni.
Day 6: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa (14,117 feet)
- Trek Distance: 4 km (3-4 hours)
- Trek Description: Trek to Bhagwabasa, a challenging segment with a steep ascent. Bhagwabasa is the last camp before Roopkund Lake and offers cold, barren landscapes.
- Stay: Camp overnight at Bhagwabasa.
Day 7: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake (15,696 feet) and back to Patar Nachauni
- Trek Distance: 10 km (5-6 hours)
- Trek Description: The final ascent to Roopkund Lake is challenging, with snow and rocky terrain. After exploring the lake and taking in the views, return to Patar Nachauni.
- Highlights: The eerie skeletal remains at Roopkund Lake, along with magnificent views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
- Stay: Camp overnight at Patar Nachauni.
Day 8: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Ali Bugyal
- Trek Distance: 12 km (6-7 hours)
- Trek Description: Descend back through the meadows and forests, retracing your path to Lohajung.
- Stay: Overnight in Lohajung.
Day 9: Drive back from Lohajung to Kathgodam
- Distance: 210 km (8-9 hours by road)
- Description: Drive back to Kathgodam, marking the end of your Roopkund adventure.
Nearby Treks to Roopkund
If you’re looking for more trekking experiences around Roopkund, here are a few nearby trails:
Pindari Glacier Trek
- Altitude: 12,300 feet
- Duration: 8 days
- Best Time: May to June, September to October
- Description: This trek offers breathtaking views of the Pindari Glacier and the Kumaon Himalayas. It’s a moderate trek, suitable for beginners and nature lovers.
Kauri Pass Trek
- Altitude: 12,516 feet
- Duration: 6 days
- Best Time: December to March (for snow), April to June, September to November
- Description: Known for its beautiful forests and views of the Nanda Devi range, this trek is accessible year-round and is considered one of Uttarakhand’s classic trails.
- Kedarkantha Trek
- Altitude: 12,500 feet
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Best Time: December to April (for snow)
- Description: This is a popular winter trek, offering snow-covered trails, dense pine forests, and stunning summit views.
Brahmatal Trek
- Altitude: 12,250 feet
- Duration: 6 days
- Best Time: December to March (for snow), April to June, September to November
- Description: Known for its frozen lakes and spectacular views of the Garhwal peaks, Brahmatal is a great winter trek close to the Roopkund region.
Valley of Flowers Trek
- Altitude: 14,100 feet
- Duration: 6 days
- Best Time: July to September
- Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Valley of Flowers is famous for its colorful alpine flowers and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for nature lovers.
Tips for the Roopkund Trek
Acclimatization: Since Roopkund is a high-altitude trek, make sure to acclimatize properly to prevent altitude sickness.
Fitness: This trek is moderately challenging. Good physical fitness is essential, with cardio and leg-strengthening exercises recommended before the trek.
Packing: Carry warm clothes, trekking poles, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes with good grip. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Permits: You may need permits from the Forest Department as Roopkund is part of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Conclusion
The Roopkund Trek is a must-do for adventure enthusiasts, mystery seekers, and nature lovers. With its unique combination of scenic beauty, adventure, and historical intrigue, the trek offers an experience that’s hard to forget. Whether you’re exploring the vast meadows of Bedni Bugyal, catching a glimpse of Himalayan peaks, or contemplating the mysterious remains at Roopkund Lake, this trek is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
