- 8D/7N
- 8D/7N
Available Group Departure:
October: 6,13,20,27
About the Roopkund Trek:
The Roopkund trek is an invigorating expedition from the high altitude region of Loharjung, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at 3200m, to the ‘Skeletal Lake’ of Roopkund shadowed by the mighty peak of Trishul standing tall at 5000m. The trail for the trek that leads to the frozen Roopkund Lake also overlaps with the religious pilgrimage of Nanda Devi thus making this experience of trekking in Uttarakhand, an overall mix of culture and adventure.
Going by legends, the ‘Mystery Lake’ is immersed and circled by hundreds of skeletons which is the major attraction of this trek. The skeletons happen to belong to pilgrims who fell to their deaths due to the unexpected natural calamities.
For trekking enthusiasts, the Roopkund trekking is an idyllic one comprising of trails cutting through dense thickets, surpassing the gushing waters of brooks and streams as well as charming lakes and vast expanse of lush grasslands, also known as ‘Bugyals’. At the top of the mysterious lake of Roopkund, get the opportunity to witness and marvel at the stunning views of Roopkund Glacier, Trishul, Nandaghungti and Choukhamba peaks.
About the destination:
The mysterious lake of Roopkund is cradled in the laps of Mt. Trishul and perches at a dizzying altitude of nearly 16,500 ft.! Draped in a blanket of mystery and myth, the lake is home to skeletal remains of countless humans and animals, which are clearly visible when the snow has melted away. This has earned it the name ‘Skeleton Lake Trek’. The trail to Roopkund originates from the base village of Lohajung, and winds through mesmerising forests of oak adorned with vibrant rhododendrons.
One of the highlights of the Skeleton Lake trek is that it takes you through the twin meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which are two of the highest alpine meadows in Asia. The locals generally bring their herds to Bedni Bugyal for grazing. Bedni Bugyal makes for an ideal campsite, and unfolds breathtaking views of the neighbouring Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhambha, though the magnificent Mount Trishul rises above all others to render you truly speechless. To add to the veil of myth, there are various stories that revolve around the trek. Every campsite has a backstory which the locals will gladly share with you.
The trek from Bhagwabasa, the last campsite, to Roopkund starts very early in the morning, with millions of stars playing chaperone. Although a bit daunting towards the end, the reward more than compensates for the exertion, and everything else pales against the splendour and glory of Roopkund Lake. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, you can also trek further up to the ridge of Junargali, from where Mount Trishul seems only a touch away! The beauty and glamour of this trek is virtually unequalled, making it one of the most unmissable treks in the Himalayas, and every trekker’s dream! The awe-inspiring thrill of Roopkund will leave you with memories of a lifetime.
Altitude: 15,700 ft.
Temperature: May – June: 15 to 20 degrees (during daytime) and 7 to -2 (during the night), Sept-Oct: 15 to 10 (during daytime) and night 5 to -5 degrees (during the night)
Difficulty: Moderate
Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
Base Camp: Loharjung base camp
ATM: Last ATMis in Kathgodam