Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand

Popularly known as the Skeleton Lake, Roopkund trek is a popular trekking place in Uttarakhand. It is also known as Mystery Lake because it has skeletal remains visible at the bottom of the lake when the snow melts down. Set in the lap of the snow-capped Mt. Trishul, this beautiful lake is located at 4,536 m above sea level and a trek to this skeleton lake is a must for every trekking enthusiast.

The existence of these skeletal remains has followed several opinions and theories. While some theories are scientific, others are spiritual. If the local legend is to be believed, these skeletons date back to the 9th century CE when the King of Kanauj, Raja Jasdhaval, with his pregnant wife Rani Balampa, servants, dance troupe, and others embarked on a pilgrimage to Nanda Devi shrine.

However, the group faced a strong hail storm with large hailstones, because of which the entire group died at Roopkund Lake. The route of this adventurous trek makes the trekkers discover the unexplored side of Uttarakhand. As the trekkers move through oak and blooming rhododendron forests, they feel close to nature.

Roopkund trek is of moderate level. The trek trails through thick green forests, mountainous rivers, beautiful ridges, and beautiful meadows. The terrains of the trek are quite challenging, which makes it a must among the list of adventure lovers. Uttarakhand Roopkund Trek is also famous for religious reasons as it takes you to the revered site of ‘Nanda Devi.’ This pilgrimage takes place once every 12 years.

Here is detailed information about Roopkund Trek

• Roopkund Trek Duration: 8 Days / 7 nights
• Roopkund Trek Altitude(height): 5,029 meters (16,499 feet)
• Roopkund Trek Level: Moderate to Challenging
• Best Season for Roopkund Trek: May – June and September – October
• Region: Garhwal Himalayas
• Trekking Distance: 60 km
• Nearest Railway Stations: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead.
• Nearest Major Town: Lohajung is the nearest town, which is easily accessible from Kathgodam.

Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek

May to June and August to mid-October is the best time to visit the Roopkund trek. The lush greenery and meadows are in full swing from May to June. The monsoon season experiences heavy rainfall, which makes the trail muddy and slushy, due to which trekking is difficult. During the winter season, the tough climatic conditions and heavy snowfall make trekking in the region challenging.

Where is Roopkund Lake Located?

Situated in the remote area of the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Roopkund Lake is encompassed by glaciers and the mighty Himalayas. It is snuggled at the base of the two Himalayan peaks, Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. Lohajung is the base camp of the Roopkund Trek, which is well-connected with the Kathgodam railway station.

Roopkund Trek Details Itinerary 

Roopkund Trek Route: Kathgodam – Lohajung – Gharoli Pata – Bedni Bugyal – Patar Nachauni – Bhagwabhasa – Roopkund – Patar Nachauni – Lohajung – Kathgodam

Day 1: Kathgodam Railway Station – Lohajung base camp

On your arrival at Kathgodam Railway Station, meet our tour guide and get transferred to Lohajung base camp in the evening, around 6 – 7 p.m. A night stay is scheduled at Lohajung.

Day 2: Lohajung – Gharoli Pata

Today, your trek starts from Lohajung to Gharoli Pata. Overnight stay at Gharoli Pata.

Day 3: Ghaeroli Pata – Bedni Bugyal

On the 3rd day of the tour, continue your trek from Ghaeroli Pata to Bedni Bugyal. Overnight stay at Bedni Bugyal. 

Day 4: Bedni Bugyal – Patar Nachauni

On the 4th day, you trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni. Overnight stay at Patar Nachauni.

Day 5: Patar Nachauni – Bhagwabhasa

Today, you indulge in a trek to Bhagwabhasa from Patar Nachauni. A night stay at Bhagwabasa.

Day 6: Bhagwabhasa – Roopkund – Patar Nachauni

On the 6th day, you will trek from Bhagwabhasa to Roopkund. Adore the natural beauty and tranquility of Roopkund Uttarakhand and again start your return trek to Patar Nachauni. Overnight stay at Patar Nachauni.

Day 7: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Wan

Today, you will trek back from Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Wan. A night stay at Lohajung.

Day 8: Lohajung – Kathgodam

On the 8th and last day, drive to Kathgodam from Lohajung for your onward journey.