roopkund trek in december

Roopkund Trek

The Most Popular Trek of Them All

We are not organising the Roopkund trek anymore as camping on the meadows are banned.

Check out Ali Bedni Bugyal for an alternative.

If you’re trekking in India, the Roopkund trek is a must-do! It’s got everything going for it. Deep virgin forests, gurgling brooks, breath-taking campsites, miles of undulating meadows, snow and ice and the taste of a great adventure as you climb from 8,000 ft to 16,000 ft in six days.

Roopkund, perhaps the most popular trek in India, is almost picture-perfect. The Roopkund trail climbs out of splendid dark forests suddenly bursting into Ali and Bedni Bugyal, arguably India’s most beautiful high altitude meadows. Out of the meadows, the trail quickly gets into terrific alpine stretches.

Climbing on snow to the Roopkund lake is a heart-pounding thrill. The beautiful Mt Trishul looms over the setting getting closer as you climb higher when at a ridge above Roopkund, only air separates the trekker from them and Trishul.

Ropkund Trek Videos

Watch these videos to plan and prepare for your trek.

Why I Believe Everyone Must Trek: A Note from the Founder

Trekking transforms lives. It has completely changed my life. When I see my colleagues at Indiahikes, all of them have been impacted greatly. The transformations have been profound and irreversible. 

I see it in our trekkers too. I have seen them change professions, careers or start a new life. I have seen them get in and out of relationships, and start new projects. These are life-changing experiences. 

I have seen children building resilience. I have seen families come together. When I see those above 55, I see them rediscover passion and a sense of purpose. These are not small gains.

In the mountains new professions, new economies and new businesses have opened up. Our staff no longer go to cities to earn their living. Their income has increased. Above all, they are happiest working in this world. Trekking has been truly transformative.  

Everyone must trek. It transforms lives far more than you imagine.

Expert Speak

Arjun Majumdar, Founder, CEO

Arjun Majumdar, the Founder of Indiahikes, first went on this trek almost 6 years ago. Here, he shares his candid thoughts about the Pin Bhaba Pass trek.

2015 was one of my most memorable years of trekking. It was the year when I did the Pin Bhaba Pass trek. It has been quite a while now, and I have done more treks in between. Yet, none of them has been able to match Pin Bhaba for such dramatic changes in scenery.

What I Like About the Roopkund Trek

Arjun Majumdar, the Founder of Indiahikes, first went on this trek almost 6 years ago. Here, he shares his candid thoughts about the Pin Bhaba Pass trek. 2015 was one of my most memorable years of trekking. It was the year when I did the Pin Bhaba Pass trek. It has been quite a while now, and I have done more treks in between. Yet, none of them has been able to match Pin Bhaba for such dramatic changes in scenery.

1 . The dense oak forests of Gehroli

On the very first day, the trail enters the deep oak forests of Gehroli Patal. On a quiet day, all you’ll hear is the rustling of dry leaves, wind whistling through the branches and birds cooing amongst the foliage.

The climb lasts just around 3-4 hours before you reach your campsite. You camp right in the middle of the forest, in a clearing, surrounded by ancient oak trees. The evening light on these trees and Mt Trishul that peeks at you from the horizon is picture-perfect.

Evening light in the forests of Gehroli Patal. Picture by Arvind Kumar

2 . The meadows make the trek unbeatable

The two gigantic alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyalwill blow your mind away. It almost feels like walking into the famous Windows XP wallpaper.

Throughout the trek, you’re fed with magnificent views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. Apart from these two, you see the imposing Chaukhamba range, Neelkanthpeak, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and  several other high risers  on the Roopkund trek.

Trekkers take in the view of Mt Trishul during sunset from Bedni Bugyal. Picture by Sudipto

3 . A great dose of adventure

The Roopkund trek offers the right dose of adventure with a bunch of steep climbs and slippery but fun descents. No roller coaster can give you the adrenaline rush you get as you walk along a sharp, exposed ridge towards Junargali, while holding onto a rope. Although this part of the climb depends on a lot of factors such as weather and time of the day, if you want to be within the breathing space of Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, this is the place to be.

The trek gives you a big dose of adventure as you climb through deep snow to reach the Roopkund lake. Pciture by Chetan Walia

4 . An element of mystery

Apart from all this, the Roopkund Lake also carries an element of mystery with it. The  300 human skeletons  at 15,750 feet have intrigued anthropologists, scientists and historians alike. Trek this trail and let our local guides (who happen to be great storytellers) narrate to you the suspense filled stories about the lake and the trail itself.

The stunning Roopkund at an altitude of 15,750 ft. Picture by Ravi Singh

Know Your Trek

We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on a Himalayan trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.

Use this section to learn about the Roopkund trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Trekkers find that extremely useful.

How Does Each Day Look

Complete day-wise details

How Difficult is the Trek?

This will tell you just how fit you must be

How to reach the basecamp

Plan your travel

What to Pack on the Trek

Frequently Asked Questions about Roopkund Trek

Answers to all your questions

How to get fit for the trek

Fitness guide

Photo Gallery

The stunning Ali bugyal. Photo by Aditya Bhat

Breathtaking views of Mt Trishul from Bedni bugyal. Picture by Tarun Gupta

The forests of Gehroli Patal is delightful trail to trek in. Picture by Arvind Kumar.

The autumn colours on the Roopkund trek. Photo by Piyush Sharma

The adventure of climbing upto 15,000+ feet. Photo by Chetan Walia

The Roopkund. Picture by Ravi Singh Rana

5 Reasons Why Indiahikes

When we brought out new trails in Indian trekking, safety came with us. Back in 2012, we were the first to introduce microspikes, and two years later, pulse oximeters became standard thanks to us. Nobody does safe treks like Indiahikes. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with – everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes.

We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have brought out treks that have become India's most famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Brahmatal, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023 alone, we brought out five new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone . This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own.

More than 25,000 people trek with us every year. We are the largest trekking organisation in India. 24% of our trekkers come back to trek with us every year. Over 4,000 students from the top educational institutions trek with us every year. Aside from this, families with children choose to trek with Indiahikes knowing that our treks are the safest. We have taken over 8000 children trekking so far, and the number continues to grow.

We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey.

Since 2012, we have pioneered sustainable practices that have become standard in trekking. Using eco-bags, our trekkers have cleared over 120 tonnes of litter from the mountains. We do not carry packaged foods; instead, we serve freshly made food. We do not light campfires; we carry coal to light angethis to keep you warm. Our bio-toilets not only keep our toilets odour-free but also enrich the soil. When you trek with us, you leave mountains better.

Indiahikes Features

You’re guarded with our trek again philosophy

If you are unable to complete a trek, or if you love a trek, you can repeat it with us anytime. You don’t have to pay us for it. See our thoughts behind this here .

Daily 3-time health checks keep you safe at any altitude

Our thrice-a-day oxi-metre checks keep altitude sickness at bay, never allowing you to reach a point where you need evacuation.

Join any group, they are all women-friendly groups 

With around 30% of our trekkers being women, all women, including those travelling solo are comfortable to join any of our groups.

Request Jain/Vegan-friendly food

Our kitchen teams understand your needs as a vegan (or a Jain). We will take special care of your food, even in the remote Himalayas. 

Be comfortable and sustainable with bio toilets

We have specially designed bio toilets to ensure you have no sight or smell in toilets, at the same time making sure the toilets cause no harm to the fragile ecosystem we trek in.

Fresh, nutritious food at every camp

We’ll admit it. Our love for food surpasses our love for minimalism. Expect freshly cooked, multi-cuisine food at all camps, designed to meet your nutritional requirements and keep your taste buds happy!

Leaving Mountains Better

Green Trails is our promise to leave the mountains better. We have removed over 1 lakh kilos of the waste left behind by others on trekking trails. Yet this is a small percentage of what we do. Green Trails dives into reducing the use of resources, reducing our carbon footprint and bringing about a change in the daily practices of our trekkers too.

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Roopkund Trek

Max Altitude

Moderate To Difficult

Trekking KM.

10,500 /Person

• +5% GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• Kathgodam to Kathgodam | included transport
• Rs 9,100 Trek Cost & Rs 1,400 Transportation (All included in the cost)

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• 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs Monday - Saturday GMT +5:30 Sunday Closed
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Trek essential.

• Important Links
• Trail Type Round trail. The trek starts and ends at Lohajung
• Rail Head Kathgodam is the nearest rail head to the base camp
• Base Camp Lohajung
• Summer Treks (Mid Apr - Jun)
• Autumn Treks (Sep - Mid Nov)
• Snow Mid December to Mid June
• Services from Kathgodam to Kathgodam | Included Transport
• Meals Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
• Stay Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse
• Region - Uttarakhand
• Duration - 8 Days
• Grade - Moderate To Difficult
• Max Altitude - 15696 Ft.
• Approx Trekking Km - 53 Kms.

Roopkund is a famous glacial lake in the state of Uttarakhand in India . This lake is famous due to more than five hundred skeletons of humans that are found at the edge of the lake. It is located in the Himalayas and rests at an altitude of nearly 4,800 meters. Roopkund is located in the Chamoli district of Garhwal. It is one of the best sites for Trekking in Garhwal. It is closer to hill stations like Nainital and Kathgodam. At a distance of 217 km from Nainital and 235 km from Kathgodam, Roopkund is one of the major adventure attractions for people in the country and those traveling from abroad. Roopkund, which is located in the lap of Trishul massif is also known as the ‘mystery lake’. You can find human skeletons at the bank of the lake, which are believed to belong to the Palaeolithic age.

These are believed to be the skeletons of the heroes who had fought here in earlier times. Along with the skeletons of humans, you can also find the skeletal structure of horses and other animals. There are reports that these skeletons belong to the 12th century to the 15th century. It is believed by specialists that the death of many people in this region was a result of landslides, blizzards, or an epidemic. The human skeletons were re-discovered in 1942 by H K Madhwal, who was a Nanda Devi Game reserve ranger.

Later in 2004, a team of Indian scientists along with some Europeans visited the area to gain more information about the nature of the  skeletons . Through extensive research and findings, they found human skulls, bones, and other jewellery. The DNA of the skeletons was taken, and it appeared that the people belonged to many classes and showed different features and morphological structures. There was a group of short and tall people believed to be closely related to each other. Though the exact number of the skeletons cannot be ascertained, a total number of around 500 hundred skeletons were found. It is also believed that an equal number of skeletons perished due to the natural environment.

The Radiocarbon dating of the skeletons at the Oxford University Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit determines the age of the skeletons be somewhere around 850 AD. Later extensive research has been carried out in various parts of the country and the world. Many scientists are of the idea that the people did not die of an epidemic but due to sudden hailstorms. The hailstorms are supposed to be as big as the size of a cricket ball, and as there was no shelter in the open areas of the Himalayas, people might have come under its disastrous and direct effect. It is considered one of the strongest reasons for the extinction of the natives of this area.

The cold and icy weather conditions can be said to be the reason for the preservation of the skeletons for such a long time. The favourable weather conditions prevented the skeletons to decay and decompose into the soil. With landslides that were rampant in the area, many bodies slipped into the lakes and stayed there for a long time. The bodies that fell into the lake had a greater shelf-life as compared to the ones which remained in the open. However, it is still not determined if this group of people lived here, or if they were heading towards a destination. Historical evidence of any trade route toward Tibet has not been established. Therefore it is hard to decipher the real purpose of the group of people that were victims of this natural calamity. There are possibilities that the group may be heading towards the Nanda Devi pilgrimage where Nanda Devi Raj Jat festivities take place once every 12 years.

Lohajung is the starting trekking point for Roopkund. The Roopkund Trek can also be called Skeleton Trek due to the presence of different skeletons in and around the lake. The lake is surrounded by snow-clad mountains and rock-strewn glaciers.

Trekking in India and choosing the Roopkund Trek is an adventurous journey that passes through many exotic and beautiful locations. As you trek towards the lake, you would find lush green grassy land and conifer forest ranging towards the fall of hills. Thereafter the trek takes its way along the Pindar River. You can enjoy the natural and lush green beauty of the surroundings with the pleasant breeze that blows all around you, giving a soothing effect to your senses.

Roopkund is a picturesque, beautiful, and attractive tourist destination in the Himalayas. Located at the base of two Himalayan peaks, Trishul and Nandghungti, it attracts people who have an adventurous side to life. Religious festivals take place in autumn, held at the alpine meadow of Bedni Bugyal , where the nearby villages participate. The lake is covered with ice all the time and it adds to its beauty. It is an enjoyable travelling destination as one is surrounded by mountains from all sides. Trekking in Uttarakhand also gives you the chance to Trek The Himalayas . You can also go for the Nanda Rajjat Yatra.

There are many routes for a trek to Roopkund. One of the most common routes travelers and adventurers take is through Lohajung up to where you can travel by road. Trekking  begins after this point. There are also some plains or flat areas where you can camp during the night. If the weather is not foggy, you can easily see  Bedni Bugyal and Trishul . On your way to Roopkund, you would also find many grazing lands for horses, sheep and mules. You would come across a few temples and lakes on your journey. Many waterfalls are also visible on the slopes of the surrounding mountains. However, it should be kept in mind that the weather is generally hostile throughout the year and travellers need to be fully equipped and prepared for these conditions

Who can participate

• Age; 15 years.
• Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 4,000m/13,100ft.
• The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress.
• The climber should be able to carry a 12-16 kg backpack.

Health Awareness

• Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute)
• Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 75 – 85, SYSTOLIC 100 - 130 mm Hg)
• Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute)
• Should not have Liver and kidney issues
• Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, Hypertension etc
• No pacemaker implant
• People with the Sinus issues please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek
• If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.

Government Employees {SCL}

Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed  for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)  Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.

• Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parent/guardian.
• Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
• Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents)    Click here
• Altitude 7,662 ft.
• Stay in guest house.
• Drive 210 km (10 hrs drive).
• Local market and network is available.
• Pick up time 06:00 am at the parking of Kathgodham railway station.
• Route:- Kathgodam - Bheem Tal - Almora - Kausani - Gwaldam - Dewal - Lohajung.

The journey will take not more than 10 hours, which includes one or two breaks. The serpentine road goes through the region of Kumaon and covers deep valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges. The road will take you to Gwaldam which lies under the administrative district of Garhwal. The road goes through coniferous forest and unrelenting curves. Though there is a direct road from Gwaldam to Deval, the final destination of the day, it is not preferred due to damages at various places due to the yearlong rains. Via Nandkesri the distance to be covered is less, around 11kms, but it is better to walk on a longer, but safer trail through Tharali, which is around 36kms. Around 2 hours of the ride will take you to Deval, a village with all provisions of purchasing food and kerosene required for the rest of the journey. The days last stretch of the journey is from Deval to Lohajung. The extremely curvy and winding road gains considerable height. The roads are so thrilling to drive on that sometimes even the slightest of oncoming cars and trucks send Goosebumps. It is generally rainy and foggy during most of the time and temperatures remain very cold. The night is spent a tourist rest house or nearby lodges.

• Trek 6.5 km.
• 7,662 to 8,045 ft.
• Reach Didna before lunch.
• accommodation in village home stay.
• No local market but Network is available.
• Till ruan bagad bridge gradual descent (4.5 km).
• Refill your water bottle at ruan bagad bridge from Neel Ganga river.
• After ruan bagad bridge 2 hours of a steep ascent to Didna Village (2 km).

The actual trek begins today. After a good home prepared breakfast, the walk starts on the level ground with slight ascent on the jeep road; the road goes till the village of Wan. An hour and a half walk on the flat surface will take you to Kulling, which is located at a distance of around 6km form Lohajung. Kulling is a peaceful village in the district of Garhwal, with a small pool of the population; it is filled with the beauties of nature. Exotic birds can be spotted very easily; the air feels crisp and fresh. After a break at Kulling, you take a right turn and gradually descend towards the village. At the start, you will notice a narrow concrete plain which cuts through houses and fields and takes you to a small stream. This small stream is fed by Neel Ganga. You descend further till you reach the bed of Neel Ganga. Go ahead and cross the cemented bridge and then start climbing the ridge on the right side of the bridge. The road ahead is moderately steep and ends at the village of Didna, situated at an altitude of 2450mts, 8000ft. The trail encompasses evergreen alpine forests and trees which are huge in size. After a climb of around two hours, you reach the top of the ridge; the view ahead is magnificent. It is surprising to find huge open lands at such a high altitude on the lap of the mountains. There are two villages very near to each other Didna and Kuling, basically they host the same type of people and trekkers. The first village is habited during the summer and monsoon months while the second one is popular during winter. The days trek is over at around 3pm, after which a hot lunch is enjoyed. Total distance covered during the day is approximately around 10kms, and the night is spent in a traditional guest house.

• Trek 10.5 km.
• 8,045 to 11,320 ft.
• Accommodation in tent.
• Carry water and ors both.
• Reach Ali Bugyal by late noon.
• Keep your wind and waterproof handy.
• Tolpani is the last point for drinking water.
• First half of is through oak and rhododendron forest (Steep ascent).
• Second half of the trek is through big alpine meadows (gradual ascent).

Todays trek involves trekking through the beautiful village of Ali Bugyal, which located at an altitude of 3400mts or 11000ft, is one of the highest inhabited locations of the country. Ali Bugyal is on top of the mountain and is clearly visible from the backdrop of Didna. The trek will take you to climb on top of this mountain, after the start the trail will take out of the village. On the right, the trail is slightly ascending with a very gentle gradient. On the way, temporary settlements of local shepherds known as Tolpani and their huge herds of sheep are a site to behold. They are very friendly and warm in welcoming people; you can even share their lunch, which they think as a friendly gesture. On the other hand, the trail on the left side is short in length but is steeper. But it doesnt really matter which trail you take, eventually both of them will take you to the same destination. Oak, Birch, and Rhododendron trees are the only trees that grow in these areas, and are magnificent and huge in size. According to locals, anyone visiting the place during the spring season can see the unbelievable view of the valley covered with thousands of Rhododendron flowers in vibrant colours. After reaching the mountain top, the tree line gradually recedes, and the plain grasslands start. The climb takes around 3 to 4 hours, after which right in front of your eyes, the Himalayas most attractive meadows, Ali Bugiyal welcomes you. The view is very similar to the default wallpaper of Windows XP and is a treat for the eyes. During summer months, wild horses and cows graze the fields which are filled with vast stretches of grass and flowers of various bright colours. On a clear weather, it is easy to spot the peaks of Trishul and Mrighthuni, the tallest mountain peaks in this part of the Himalayas. The mighty Trishul beckons to be climbed upon and feels as there is some hidden energy which attracts towards itself. After crossing the meadows, there comes a small face on the way, and another half an hour of trekking will take you to Bedni, the camping spot for day 3. After lunch, visit the nearby temple in Bedni Kund, if the weather is clear you might be able to view the Garhwal Himalayan ranges at its glory.

• 11,320 to 12,818 ft.
• Easiest day of the trek.
• Reach Patar Nachauni before lunch.
• Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal (gradual ascent 2 km).
• Bedni Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (gradual ascent 4 km).
• Ghora Lotani to Patar Nachauni (gradual descent 1 km).
• Spend some time at Ghora Lotani good for acclimatization.
• Ware proper clothing (this is the place where most of the trekkers get AMS).

Today being the 4th day of the trek you can have the choice of starting a bit late and sleeping a little bit extra. Your next camping location is Gora Lutani, which is a perfect camping spot. Keep on walking and enjoy the picturesque locations in the adjoining area. Along the way, you will come across Patat Nacholi, a rather unused and vest able landmass. This day you will make steep altitude gain from around 12,500ft to 14,500ft. The high altitude and the long continuous walks will make your legs hurt, and you will also start feeling the effects of the weather changes and the thin air will make breathing difficult. But don't worry; the wonderful surroundings will give you enough motivation to reach your destination. The positive vibes flowing in the air lets you forget all your troubles. After a travel of around 10kms, the campsite for the day is reached. Ghora Lotani will give you a good night's sleep, but the next morning waking up early is very crucial as it is going to be an exciting day ahead.

• 12,818 to 14,117 ft.
• Reached Camp site by lunch.
• Patar Nachauni to Kalu Vinayak Tempel .
• (first 1 km is gradual ascent and rest 1.5 km is steep ascent).
• Kalu Vinayak to Bhagwabasa (gradual descent 1.5 km, become tricky in may and June ).
• There will be snow on the trail in the month of may and jun and in sep and oct it will be a rocky trail.

Wake up early and brace yourself for the longest day of trekking. Have a filling breakfast and dont forget to do a few stretches. It should be kept in mind that today; the trekking will approximately cover 10kms and that too on a steep slope. Walk towards Bagubasa, located around 14000ft above the sea level. This road will also take you across Kalyuvinayak temple. The most thrilling part to see the temple is to travel up 2kms, also equivalent to gaining an altitude of around 200ft. The path leading to this temple is very uneven and zig-zag in shape. It is essential that proper safety gear and clothing is ensured before the days trek is even started. The walk should be done very slowly and carefully; one small slip and anyone can get hurt very badly. But since there is no gain without pain, the gifts await you at the top. It is difficult to understand how someone could create the temple at such a height. The temple is basically traditional in design and construction and has been there for centuries. As the altitude increases, the air gets thinner, and the quantity of oxygen also decreases, this might lead to headache and acute stomach pain, but dont worry, take some rest for a while. The temple is carved out of stones with ultimate precision and perfection; it installs divine intervention in your minds. From the temple, you can view  Roopkund , the final trekking destination. The view is just magnificent one with shining and sparkling Trishul on one side and bell shaped Nandagunti on the other. You further follow up the uneven trail leading to Bhaguabasa at 1km distance from there. The region has its own specialities, flowers that bloom only during the monsoon months. You currently stand at a very high altitude of 14000ft and the terrain seems to look rough and not so easy to traverse.

• Trek 10 km.
• 14,117 to 15755 ft.
• Start your trek by 4:00 am.
• Climb to Roopkund is 3 km.
• Challenging day of the trek.
• Carry energy bars, ors and water.
• Breakfast will be at Roopkund top.
• Reach Bhagwabasa back by lunch time.
• Reach Patar Nachauni camp by evening.
• In Aug, Sep, Oct can see skeleton but no snow.
• In May and Jun snow will be there but can't see the skeleton.

Start early on this day to reach the mega destination – Roopkund. At an altitude of more than 16000ft, it is surely the highest point on the trek. Though the path is not that complicated to climb, but even the 4km walk will take a breath out of you and tire you like hell. But no trekking is easy, right? During monsoon, the snow covering this area is very less and shallow, which makes the path reveal itself properly. From Bhaguabasa, your first checkpoint is Chhirianag which means ladder like snake. From this place, the next point lays Roopkund – The mystery island. The lake of skeletons is one of the most mysterious places in the world. Till date, even archaeologists, and scientists are not able to find out how there were so many skeletons on the bed of the lake. There are theories and fables which state that once a king and his fellowmen were going to Nanda Devi, and, unfortunately, a severe hailstorm led to their deaths. If you are extremely lucky, then from the edge of the lake you can clearly see somewhere around 300 human skeletons. This view in itself is breath taking and people go crazy after seeing this. From this place, the trek will be along a hard and steep terrain. After the steep climb gets over, you will find the Nanda Devi temple. This is very near to the Nanda Devi Biosphere reserve. A perfect site for taking good snaps with friends and other fellow trekkers. Depending upon the weather and the co-climbers conditions may decide to risk on the Junargali pass which stands 16700 feet from sea level. Without any meteorological interference, you would need about 45 minutes to climb. You will have to pass through Bhagwabasa on the return journey. These places are filled with sheer exhilaration and thrill. The descent along the path is twice difficult that of the ascent it is so steep that one might have the feeling of falling down from the top. Move along to discover a cave like structure called as Bhagwabasa or the abode of the tiger. You further climb down to reach PatarNachuni about 12500 above ground level. You continue backwards through Ghora Lautani back to Bedni Bughyal. Your day will end at the campsite amidst lush greenery. This trip is one of the longest, covering over a distance of 15km taking about10-15 hours for completion. The legs will push you to deep sleep as they need a lot of rest. But before going to bed, do realize the whole trek was not at all easy and requires a whole lot of determination and courage to complete it.

• Trek 15 km.
• 12,818 to 7,662 ft.
• Accommodation in guest house.
• Patar Nachauni to Ghora Lotani (1 km gradual ascent).
• Ghora Lotani to Bedni Bugyal ( 4 km gradual descent).
• Bedni Bugyal to Doliya Dhar ( 0.5 km gradual walk).
• Doliya Dhar to Ghaeroli Patal ( 3 km steep descent ).
• Ghaeroli Patal to Neel Ganga ( 4 km steep descent ).
• Neel Ganga to Ranka Dhar ( 1 km moderate ascent ).
• Ranka Dhat to Wan Village road head ( 1.5 km gradual descent).
• Wan Village to Loharjung ( 45 minutes drive, road condition is not good).
• Route :- Patar Nachauni - Ghora Lotani - Bedni Bugyal - Doliya Dhar - Ghaeroli Patal - Neel Ganga - Ranka Dhar - Wan Village - drive to Lohajung.

Day 7 is probably the last day of the trek where you will have to walk and return to the camp site at Day01. Descending and climbing up are two things that are very different, though the path remains the same. This time you travel on the right side of the trail and it seems a simple path as compared to the previous days strenuous affair. For the first time, you will see wooden huts dotted along the path. After travelling a little more, you are now able to see the road dividing itself into two lanes. You need to take the one which leads to right. It goes down and down, and as you descend further you can again see that you have entered the forest region with trees all along the lane. The bird tweeting and the cool aiwin past your ears are a treat that you will rarely get to feel. Due to the varying slope, trekkers are cautioned to take each and every step very carefully; otherwise one might end up hurting themselves. Shortcuts though may look rewarding must be avoided as much as possible as the terrain is pretty rough. After walking a few more yards you near an opening inside the dense forest called the Gahroli Patal. You continue our journey till you reach the banks of the river of Neel Ganga. Once you reach the river bed, your journey continues, till you reach the wan village called Ran ka Dhar. The village of Wan is the next stop after which you descend further. Wan feels like very much at home, a big village with hills and mountains covering the edges, a view to cherish all your lives. As you travel a few more yards at the road and you find the car waiting to pick you up. The distance covered for the day for the descent is nearly 18km and requires about 10 hours. It needs an hour from Wan to reach Lohargunj. The road taken by car is rocky. Once you reach back the tourist guest house you can rejoice all the memories of the trip and comfortably sleep on the warm bed.

• 10 hrs drive.
• Drive 210 km.
• Reach Kathgodam by 6:00 pm.
• On the way to Kathgodam at Kausani you can buy herbal tea and some souvenir.

Roopkund trek in Seasons.

Summer Treks (April, May, June) 1. Less colder 2. More windy 3. Weather is unpredictable 4. Cant see human skeleton 5. Roopkund is in frozen condition 6. Higher camps covered with snow 7. Natural source of drinking water are easily available 8. Best for those who want to see snow and want to do a difficult level of trek

Autumn Treks (September, October, November) 1. Less windy 2. More colder 3. Mostly clear weather 4. Can see human skeleton 5. No snow at any camp site 6. Roopkund lake is properly visible 7. Natural source of drinking water are limited 8. Best for those who want to see greenery and want to do moderate level of trek

Wake up early in the morning; have a nice cup of tea and an awesome hillside breakfast. Today you will leave for Lohargunj, along with all the beautiful and unforgettable memories pack your own stuffs and luggage. Your cab will drop you at the Kathgodam railway station. The car journey will take something around 10 hours, and do make sure that you are carrying mint and tablets which prevent nausea. From Kathgodam railway station, you will find trains to various locations. Board your respective train and take along a healthy experience with memories that will never fade away.

• Pick Up Place

At first you have to reach Rishikesh, after that TTH will take care of your further travel plan.

Our Pick-up place

Trek The Himalayas Head office , Tapovan Laxmanjhula, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel

Options to reach Rishikesh

1.  Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.

2.  Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (35 min drive with normal traffic).

We always recommend to go for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am positively.

3.  Take the flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) and drive to Rishikesh (20 km, 30 min), if coming by flight then come one day early.

• TTH’s Tata Sumo, Tempo Traveller or similar vehicles will pick-up you.
• Pick-up is included in the cost of the trek.
• If you wish to upgrade the transport service, please contact the Trek Coordinator.
• After morning tea move to Rishikesh (breakfast and lunch on the way)
• Reach Rishikesh by 6:00 pm
• Drop off point is Trek The Himalayas Office (Tapovan) Laxmanjhula 
• Plan your further travel plan after 7:00 pm
• Cancellation Policy

1. Accommodation. (Guest house, Home stay, Camping) 2. Meals while on trek (Veg.+ Egg) 3. Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and Support staff. 4. All necessary permits and entry fees. 5. First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder. 6. Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required). 7. Services from Loharjung to Loharjung. 8. TTH Staff insurance. 9. Mules to carry the central luggage.

1. Any kind of personal expenses. 2. Food during the transit. 3. Insurance. 4. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage. 5. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges. 6. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.

Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)

1- Satellite phone/setphone -  is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.

2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) -  is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.

3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) -  are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly

Insurance is mandatory  and can be obtained through TTH or other providers. Non-Indian rates are slightly higher, trek coordinator will share the balance payment link after booking. If you choose not to book through us, we will refund your insurance fee; email us immediately after booking for the refund.

Normally  TTH  expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to Mule. Charges of offloading backpack:- INR 1800/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance INR 2000/- if you inform us after reaching Loharjung The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs. Backpack should have waterproof cover. Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.

Special Offers

Make a single payment and trek the number of times you want.

If you book a trek with Trek The Himalayas and are unable to complete the same or you have successfully completed that trek and want to do it again, you can repeat it multiple times without paying the cost of the trek.

Terms and conditions

• This offer is a non-transferable.
• This offer is valid for Trek The Himalayas limited fixed departures.
• This offer is valid for 5 years from the date of booking.
• This offer is not valid if the participant has received a cash refund or voucher at the time of cancellation.
• Participants don’t have to pay for the trek cost but have to pay for transportation and trek permit costs.

The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.

Cancellation terms:

For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected]   At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.

Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip

Refund options

• 5% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for any trip till one year

Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip

• 30% deduction of trek fee
• 100% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 85% cash voucher for any trip till one year

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip

• Book the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch
• 50% deduction of trek fee
• 80% cash voucher for same trip till one year
• 70% cash voucher for any trip till one year

Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek

• Transfer your trek (same trek, same batch) to your friend
• No cash refund
• 20% cash voucher for the same trip till one year
• 10% cash voucher for any trip till one year

In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:

While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.

In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.

• The issuance of a voucher is not applicable in situations where you are required to descend from the trek for any reason. The trek leader may make the decision to send you down from the trek due to factors such as insufficient fitness level, symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), high blood pressure, exceeding the designated turn-around-time, health concerns, or if you are found smoking, drinking, or violating the rules set for the trek. In such cases, the provision of a voucher does not apply.

In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:

We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.

In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by TTH
• TTH holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice
• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers

Cash Voucher Terms:

• This is a non-transferable voucher
• The voucher cannot be merged with any other offer of Trek The Himalayas
• The voucher is valid for Trek booked directly with Trek The Himalayas in India
• To avail the voucher please use your register phone number or e-mail id
• All the other Terms of booking a trek with Trek The Himalayas are applicable to the voucher
• Trek The Himalayas holds rights to add/remove any of the Terms and Conditions without prior notice

Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.

• Personal Utilities

Fitness regime for:

Calculate Your BMI :

Your BMI value is

Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!

• If your BMI is normal, you can plan your fitness regime as mentioned.
• If your BMI is not normal, consult your trusted physician before you plan your fitness regime.
• If you're suffering from any chronic illnesses consult a medical practitioner.

• Customize the Trip
• Cost & Cancellation Terms
• Risk & Respond

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Doodhpathri trek, nafran valley trek, frequently asked questions.

The Roopkund Trek is a journey of adventure and discovery that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. The trek is named after the mysterious Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 15, 696 feet. The trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, as it takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and traditional Himalayan villages. The highlight of the trek is the Roopkund Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also known for its mysterious skeletons, which are believed to be the remains of ancient travelers who perished in a hailstorm. The Roopkund Trek is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas.

Roopkund Trek is a 53 km trek.

Roopkund Trek takes 8 days to complete the trek.

The best time to do the Roopkund Trek is during summer (mid-Apr to Jun) and autumn (Sep to mid-Nov) .

The maximum altitude reached during the Roopkund Trek is 15,696 ft .

Roopkund Trek is a moderate - difficult grade trek.

The cost of the Roopkund Trek is 10,500 INR per person.

The highlights of the Roopkund Trek include the Roopkund Lake, grand views of Chaukhambha Range, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and Neelkanth Peak, camping in picturesque campsites.

During the Roopkund Trek , you will stay in a guest house in the base camp, and on the slopes you will be staying in tents (twin-sharing).

Yes, it is safe to do Roopkund Trek with an expert organization. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines issued by the Trek Leaders and guide while trekking in the mountains.

Here's a list of essential items to pack for the Roopkund Trek: Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes with a sturdy sole and ankle support is essential for the trek. Backpack: A backpack with a capacity of 40-50 litres is suitable for carrying your essentials, including clothing, food, and water. Warm clothing: The temperature at high altitudes can drop significantly, so it's important to carry warm clothing, including thermal layers, fleece jackets, and a down jacket. Rain gear: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it's important to carry a rain jacket and pants to stay dry. Trekking pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants that are comfortable to walk in are ideal for the trek. Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries is necessary for navigating through dark trails and campsites. Water bottle: A reusable water bottle with a capacity of at least 1 litre is necessary to stay hydrated during the trek. Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun's UV rays can be strong at high altitudes, so it's important to carry sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF. Basic first aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers can come in handy in case of injuries. Personal hygiene kit: Toiletries like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues can help you maintain personal hygiene during the trek.

Yes, it is recommended to have prior trekking experience before attempting the Roopkund Trek as it is considered a moderately difficult trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents, and the altitude can also be a challenge. It is important to have good physical fitness and stamina to complete the trek comfortably. Prior trekking experience can help you to be better prepared for the challenges of the trek, such as acclimatization, managing your energy levels, and dealing with the rugged terrain. However, if you are in good physical condition and have a positive attitude, with proper guidance and preparation, you can still attempt the Roopkund Trek even if you are a beginner.

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a professional expert for the Roopkund Trek , especially if you are a beginner or have limited trekking experience. A professional can provide you with valuable assistance, including knowledge of the local terrain, weather conditions, and the culture of the region. They can also help you with navigation and ensure your safety throughout the trek.

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Roopkund Trek Temperature and Weather

Roopkund temperature remains pleasant in summer, from May to June, and in autumn, from September to mid-October. The trek has two seasons with mild temperatures and clear weather.  

Roopkund trek weather is pleasant with comfortable daytime temperatures in the summer months of May and June. Night and early morning are known to have freezing temperatures. The autumn months also feature clear weather and visibility. 

In September and October, the day temperature in Roopkund remains warm and snuggly.  You need additional layers as the temperature can be notoriously extreme at night.  

Roopkund Trek temperature depends on the season you are trekking in. As the trek takes you to a higher altitude of more than 16,000ft, Roopkund trek temperature is cool and frigid.

Here is a detailed temperature guide for the Roopkund Lake trek, also known as the skeleton lake trek in Uttarakhand 

Roopkund Trek Monthly Temperature Details

Roopkund trek weather in winters (december to february) .

Roopkund Lake Trek in winter registers a minimum of -10°C to -15°C.   The temperature remains low throughout the day, and the number declines to minus. December, January and February are the coldest with heavy and constant snowfall. Roopkund temperatures in December, January and February are not favourable for trekking. 

Roopkund Temperature in December

Roopkund temperature registers minimum -10°C at higher elevations in December. Maximum temperature hover around 5°C . The lower regions will have slightly warmer temperatures. Roopkund trek temperature is at its lowest during early mornings and at night.

Roopkund Temperature in January 

The temperature declines further, making it extremely difficult to trek in January. Excessive snow also obstructs your speed on the trail. Expect a maximum of 4°C and a minimum of -15°C in January in Roopkund. 

Roopkund Temperature in February

Roopkund experiences comparatively warm weather in February.  You can expect clear sunny days offering crisp mountain views. Roopkund temperature in February ranges between 5°C to -12°C in the higher regions.

Roopkund Trek Weather in Spring (March to April)

The temperature increases in spring seas as the winter cold wears off, making way for bright sunny days.  A colossal amount of snow on the trail in spring months makes it challenging to navigate the higher campsites. 

Roopkund Temperature in March

March in Roopkund has a maximum of 7°C during the day to a minimum of -8°C in the morning and night. It is extremely cold at higher campsites and becomes windy in March. 

Roopkund Temperature in April

The trek in April registers a slight increase in day temperatures. Roopkund temperature in April ranges between 10°C in the daytime to min -5°C at night and early mornings.  April has warm and sunny days featuring clear weather and magnificent views of the big mountains. 

Roopkund Trek Weather in Summer (May to June)

May marks the arrival of trekkers to Roopkund. Summer begins in May and continues till May end. Mild temperatures and clear weather mark summer as the most loved season for Roopkund trek. 

Roopkund Temperature in May 

In May, the average temperature on the Roopkund trek is recorded between 12°C to 14°C during the daytime . It reaches 0°C to -5°C at night time. Roopkund weather in May will be warm and sunny if the weather is clear. At night, the temperature dips down and it gets chilly after sunset. 

Roopkund Temperature in June 

June temperature in Roopkund ranges between a maximum of 17°C. The night and early morning record 8°C  to 0°C, hence, carry enough layers of clothes to keep yourself warm at higher altitudes with sub-zero temperatures. During the daytime, your body will remain warm and cosy. Keep an outer layer handy in case it gets windy on the trail. 

Roopkund Trek Weather in Monsoon (July to August)

Roopkund is not accessible in monsoon. It rains heavily in the region making it difficult to traverse the slippery and muddy trail. The weather is harsh and the cold is unbearable. Trekking conditions are not conducive to attempt Roopkund trek in July and August. 

July and August register a minimum of 1°C and a maximum of 18°C in Roopkund. 

Roopkund Trek Weather in Autumn (September to Mid-October)

The second season for the Roopkund trek begins in September and continues till mid-October. The campsites have manageable temperatures during this period. 

Autumn temperature is mild during the day, however, the night gets chilly with cold. 

Roopkund Temperature in September 

September temperature in Roopkund is around 4°C to 15°C during the day. You will have to deal with freezing temperatures at night. 

Trekkers aren’t deterred by the freezing temperatures of September to November, as this season offers clear and stable weather, providing unobstructed views of the Himalayas while trekking along the Roopkund Lake trail.

In September, the temperature reaches a maximum of 15°C, and at night time it declines to -5°C. 

Roopkund Temperature in October 

In October, the Roopkund Lake trek temperature reaches 13°C during the daytime and touches a minimum of -6°C.  Come prepared with a minimum of five layers to guard against the biting cold. 

Roopkund Temperature in November 

Roopkund weather becomes extremely cold by November. You will experience a significant drop in temperature. November records a minimum of -7°C and a maximum of 10°C in Roopkund. The cold and harsh weather condition makes it strenuous to embark on a Roopkund trek. 

Come prepared with enough layers to guard yourself from the biting cold night temperature. 

Roopkund Trek Highlights 

The famous Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand leads you to an enigmatic Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake. This glacial lake is located at a staggering altitude of 16,470 ft above sea level. Roopkund owes its immense popularity to the presence of human skeletons. The Lake continues to be shrouded in innumerable mysteries with no definitive conclusions to date. 

Since the confounding discovery of the human skeletons, the Roopkund Lake has attracted trekkers, explorers, and researchers worldwide. 

The trek to the infamous skeleton lake passes through the stunning meadows of Ali Bedni Bugyal. Roopkund is also famed for the spellbinding sight of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. 

The trek starts from Lohajung village. Roopkund Lake trek distance is around 40 km, and you can complete the trek comfortably in 8 days, including travel to and from the base camp. The hike is for seasoned trekkers with prior hiking experience. 

If thrilling folklores, mesmerising meadows, and majestic mountains intrigue you, Roopkund Trek is a must for all adventure lovers. 

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Roopkund Trek

Uttarakhand • 8 days.

MAX ALTITUDE

₹ 12650 + 5% GST

Lohajung to Lohajung

Available Batches

Brief description.

Roopkund Trek is hands down the most popular trek in India. Roopkund, locally known as Mystery Lake, is a high altitude glacial lake in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Roopkund lies in the lap of Trishul massif and is famous because of the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. The Roopkund (lake) is located at an altitude of about 15,700 feet. It is surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow clad mountains, making it a good trekking destination. The route leading to Roopkund passes through the twin Bugyals of Ali & Bedni. All along the Roopkund trail, you get amazing views of peaks like Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul & Nanda Ghunti. The beautiful campsites of Roopkund trek are a sight to behold. Roopkund is recommended for experienced trekkers because of it's moderate plus difficulty level. Roopkund trek best time is May - June, and September - October. Everything that you need to know like - Roopkund trek route map, itinerary, temperature, weather, height, photos, and videos is here on this page. Scroll to the end and read some amazing Roopkund trek blogs.

On the trail

The Bridge on Neel Ganga

Tolpani Campsite

Skeletons at Roopkund Lake

View of Trishuli Peak

Bedni Bugyal

Ali Bugyal in October

A turn before Patar Nachauni

Panoramic View from Kalua Vinayak

Heading towards Roopkund Lake

Starting the trek early morning from Bhagwabhasa

Pushing Limits before Roopkund Lake

Roopkund Lake

Haldwani to Lohajung - 220 km Drive

Arrive in Haldwani by early morning, and board your vehicles for the drive to Lohajung - the base of Roopkund trek. The road winds through beautiful Kumaon region. We pass though Almora & Kausani. On the way, you will get some spectacular views of peaks like Kamet & Panchachuli. We will arrive in Lohajung by the evening & check into a guesthouse for the night. The town of Lohajung ( The starting point of Roopkund Trek ), located at 2300 M is also a small mountain pass connecting Gwaldam side to Wan side of the mountain. Spend some evening time in the small market of Lohajung which by the way closes very early or enjoy a beautiful sunset from the balcony of your guest house. Dine early & break into bed for a good long nights sleep.

Lohajung to Tolpani | 8300 FT | 11 Kms

Our trail for the day is easier as compared to the entire trek and soon we get lost in the beauty of it. We trek through the forest following the Neel Ganga. The trail is initially easy which then starts to climb up steadily. As the trek continues, we get set into it and start negotiating the climb to Ali Bugiyal. After a good climb, we reach Didina. From Didina, Tolpani is a gradual 1 km ascent.

Tolpani to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal | 12700 FT | 12 Kms

We start early today not just to enjoy the best views but also because it is a long day. We will walk through the twin meadows of Ali & Bedni. The trek is steep till we reach Ali Bugyal. From here, the trail comprises of long sections of a gradual ascent. You will realize on the trek that these meadows are one of the best in the country. As you are walking through the Ali Bugyal, Nanga Ghunti & Trishuli are prominently visible in the East. We trek on the marked trail. You will spot a small structure made from stones. It is a temple. Slightly to your right you can see a cluster of fiber huts green in color. Find a suitable spot here for the packed lunch. Starting from the stone structure, a section of the trail ahead is uphill & in the zigzag shape. After the lunch, we commence our trek and reach Bedni Bugyal Campsite by afternoon. From here, the trek is short. Walk slowly and steadily as next campsite is not very far. There is only one steep climb as you leave the campsite of Bedni Bugyal. After that, there are sections of mild ascent till we reach Patar Nachauni, situated at the foothill of the mountain at the top of which lies the temple of Kalua Vinayak. Stay in camps.

Rest & Acclimatization

The day is reserved for rest and acclimatization after a very long Day 4.

Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa | 14200 FT | 4 Kms

Distance wise today's trek is not very long but it is one of the steepest section of the entire trek. Taking an early start always helps. You have to climb the mountain right in front of you to the top. The trek starts with a flat walk, followed by a steep ascent to kalua Vinayak which is a Temple. The view in Patar Nachauni is restricted by mountains. But once you reach Kalua Vinayak you get a panoramic view. Some of the prominent peaks visible from this point are Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul & Nanda Ghunti. From Kalua Vinayak, the trail is downhill up to Bhgwabasa camps. We reach Bhagwabasa camps by early afternoon. It is the highest campsite of Roopkund trek. The night is extremely cold here. Bhagwabasa is used as a base camp for trek to Roopkund lake.

Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15750 FT) & return to Patar Nachauni {16 Kms (6 Kms Uphill, 10 Kms Downhill}

Starting early is the key today. As we get late snow starts melting and makes the climb difficult. Morning snow is fresh and easy to walk upon. Today's trek is a 4 km long gradual ascent with sections of steep ascent in between. In the last leg, you will have to climb down 250 feet to reach the Roopkund (lake). Roopkund is at the height of 15750 ft. If weather permits we will trek to Junargali which is just 250 ft up from Roopkund. After spending some time around we will head back to Patar Nachauni. Expect to reach by late afternoon.

Patar Nachauni to Lohajung | 7700 FT | 15 Kms

Break camps early & head towards Wan. Today's trek is about 6-6.5 Hours. We descend to a village. We will take a brief halt at Ghairoli Patal, which is also a good camping site. We have to descend to the bottom of the valley where the river Neel Ganga welcomes us. It's not a bad idea to wash in the river after a strenuous downhill trek. From the river, it’s a half an hour uphill trek up to Wan. From Wan village its further one & half hour downhill up to Kasar Bagad which is the road ahead. We board a vehicle from here. Drive up to Lohajung. Check into the Guest House in Lohajung. The Roopkund trek ends here. You may plan your return the next day on your own. If you wish to book your return journey with us, select the suitable option while making your booking.

Lohajung to Haldwani - 220 km Drive

In the morning board vehicle for the return journey to Haldwani. Reach Haldwani by evening. You are advised to book your return from Kathgodam/Haldwani after 9 PM to have sufficient time at hand in case of any delays in the road journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick your question, eligibility: experience required.

• Should have at least 7-10 trek days in the Himalayas in their kitty.
• For the trek’s achieving more than 5000 meters, a person must have a prior experience of trekking at altitudes of 3700 meters.

Eligibility: Fitness benchmark

• Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) - You would be required to produce a screenshot from a fitness app testifying the same
• Hold your breath for 30-35 seconds

If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.

Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?

The trek begins from Lohajung which is about 200 km from Kathgodam/Haldwani. There are no direct buses from Kathgodam/Haldwani to Lohajung. But you can take a shared jeep which will cost you around INR 900. It takes around 12 hours to get to Lohajung from Haldwani/Kathgodam.

Kathgodam is well connected to Delhi through rail and road transport. Here is how you can reach:

Uttarakhand Roadways provides all kinds of bus services between Delhi ISBT to Haldwani. The distance between Delhi to Kathgodam is 294 km which takes about 7 hours to cover. You can book your bus tickets online through https://utconline.uk.gov.in/ or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi. These taxis come at exorbitant prices.

Kathgodam is the last railhead before Lohajung. Board Ranikhet Express from Delhi which reaches Kathgodam early in the morning. Or you can take Delhi Sampark Kranti which reaches Kathgodam in the night in case you want to stay the night.  

Pantnagar Airport is the closest to Lohajung at a distance of 256 km. There is one Air India flight running every day between Delhi and Pantnagar. It is suggested to make your bookings well in advance due to a low frequency of flights. In case you are flying to Pantnagar, take a taxi from the airport to Kathgodam and then take one of those shared jeeps to reach Lohajung.

Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?

Kathgodam is located in Nainital district of Uttrakhand. Nainital is 53 km from Kathgodam and can be reached by local buses. Nainital is a famous tourist spot in the mountains in visited by a lot of people all around the year. Naini Lake is the heart of Nainital where you can enjoy boating, yachting, and paddling. Perch on the Tiffin Top to enjoy the views of Nainital. Stroll at The Mall Road where you can buy some souvenirs from the trip.

Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?

One can expect full network till Wan Village and some points beyond this village. Garoli Patal is one point where you can expect reception. BSNL network connectivity is sparsely available through the trail till Patarnachauni.

Packing List: What to pack

Eligibility: Requisite Skills

• Know campsite basics like how to use a sleeping bag, sleeping tent, toilet tent.
• Ascending & descending technique for mountain trails
• Basic mountain mannerisms
• Ascending & descending on snow
• Basics of Mountain Sickness
• Basics of Mountain Hazards
• How to cross small water streams

Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?

The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.

Accommodation: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?

When you arrive in Lohajung, your stay will be made at local guest house.The rooms will be provided on twin or triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email few days prior the trek. On trekking days, all the trekkers will be accommodated in twin or triple sharing tents. Along with this, there will be also be a toilet tent and a dining tent installed at every campsite as we roll.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?

We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.

Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?

Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek.These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.

Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?

During the day, the temperature will range from 13-18 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 0-7 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain during Roopkund trek, the colder it gets. Refer this chart for Roopkund Temperature details: Roopkund Temperature

Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?

You can expect snows in the first season i.e. May-June. It is difficult to expect snow post monsoons in September when the Roopkund trek opens again for its second season. October is likely to receive fresh snowfall at higher altitudes if the climate is favorable.

Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?

You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes from us depending upon the situation of the snow. Our trek leaders will also be carrying ropes and ice axe.

Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?

If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.

Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?

A team of participant will be led by a course certified trek leader and a local guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have a certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.

Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?

Yes, trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.

Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?

Lohajung is a small town with a very small market. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.

Miscellaneous : Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?

Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.

Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?

You can rent following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.

Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?

Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfil the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes,and bread butter served in breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.

Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?

We have two pick-up points: ISBT, Tikonia Chowk in Haldwani and Railway station in Kathgodam. The dropping points remain the same.

Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?

Expect to reach Haldwani/Kathgodam late in the evening, post 17:00 - 18:00 Hrs. Make sure your bus bookings from these points to your respective destinations are late in the night, post 21:00 Hrs.

Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?

Roop kund trek best time is: May-June, September-October

Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?

Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?

Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the trek?

ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried) is the mandatory document required for the trek.

About the activity: Why should I go for this trek?

Roopkund trek - the skeleton lake.

Learning Experience

• We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
• We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
• To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
• These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.

Loyality Programs

Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.

• Currently we have three levels:
• Basic Membership
• Summiteer Membership
• Leader Membership

Personalized Attention

• Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
• Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
• On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.

Best Expedition Leaders

• Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
• Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.

Eco-friendly Practices

• Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
• Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
• We follow a rolling campsite model.
• We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.

For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.

• To ensure this:
• Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
• The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
• Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
• Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.

What's Included

Whats included.

• Food as per menu on the trek (starting with breakfast on Day 2 till Breakfast on Day 8)
• Forest Permits/Camping Charges (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
• Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats
• Micro-spikes, Helmets, and Gaiters, as required
• Experienced Trek guide, cook, helpers
• Porters or mules for carrying common luggage
• Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification
• 2 Nights Dormitory/Guest House Stay in Lohajung

Whats Not Included?

• Meals during road journeys,if any
• Meals duiring guest house stay (except the meals mentioned in Inclusions section)
• Cost of any kind of travel insurance
• Any expense of personal nature
• Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.

Cancellation Policy

Cash refund.

Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date 5% Deduction

Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure 50% deduction

Less than 15 days of departure No Cash Refund

Voucher Refund

Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date No Deduction

Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure No Refund

Please note

• Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
• This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.

How to use a Trekking Pole : Benefits & Precautions

Dhaarna Kukreja 02 August 2017

How to use a trekking pole: 101

To use or not to.

Trailcraft Basics : Ascending and Descending on Trail and Snow

How to avoid and treat blisters on the Trek

How to maintain Personal Hygiene on the trek

Trailcraft Basics : Ascending and Descending on Snow

Experiential.

Roopkund Lake, Where The Skeletons Lay.

Days Of Solitude, A Could Have Been Bear & The Mystery Lake - Roopkund Trek !

No Fairytale Crap: Why I Don’t Want a Flawless Trek

Baraadsar Lake Trek Photo Story

Informative.

The peaks around Roopkund

The Skeletons of Roop Kund have Something to Say

The Trek that Gives Back: What Roop Kund Means to Locals

Why do I Need a Guide for Roop Kund?

5 ALTERNATIVE TREKS TO DO IN 2019 INSTEAD OF ROOPKUND

Hey Roopkund! Have You Met Your New Alternative?

How to reach the famous base village Lohajung?

Enter your email, certifications.

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Roopkund Trek

Duration: 10 Days (2 extra days if you extend to Homekund)

Destination: Rishikesh - Mundoli - Wan - Bedni Bugyal Bhaggubasa-Roopkund - Homekund - Sutol - Ghat

Experience: Hiking and Trekking

Total Trekking Distance: 103 kms

Arrive at the spiritual city of Rishikesh, filled with spiritual vibes coming from the temples. Explore the city, and its wonderful ambience will add to your experience. Stay the day and spend your time by the sides of the tranquil waters of the Ganga river.

Get up and pack your bags and head to a 240 kms drive to Mundoli. Enjoy the hot piping tea with some lunch for your route. Upon reaching Mundoli, you can choose between spending the night in a cozy bed at a homestay/hotel or can stay in one of the camps and spend your night under the starlit skies.

Begin your journey with a 13 kms walk to the small hamlet of Wan. The beauty of the quaint village can be best described as being postcard worthy. Enjoy the fresh environs with an overnight stay.

Bedni Bugyal

Tie up your shoelaces and get ready to explore the 12 kms trek to the majestic Bedni Bugyal. Its lush green environs are dotted with a panoramic view of the valley. Spend a night while enjoying the night skies with a bonfire.

Gear up for the next destination, Baggubasa.The 9 kms trek will refreshen you with its verdant vistas. Upon reaching the camp, spend your time exploring the village and enjoy an overnight stay at the location.

Shail Samudra via Jurangali Pass and Roopkund

Wake up to the aroma of a hot cuppa and enjoy the sight of the sunrise. Prepare your bags to depart to the next destination, Shail Samudra. Don't miss out on passing through the Jurangali Pass and Roopkund. Enjoy a warm lunch amidst the verdant natural setting with the songs of the birds providing a soothing setting. Upon reaching the camp, rest your feet here for the night.

Homekund to Chandaniya Ghat

Get an early start to the day and head straight to Homekund. The trek to the mountain pond is filled with adventure and is the perfect route for adrenaline junkies. The pond resting at the foothills of the Nanda Ghuti peak offers the perfect vantage point of the snow capped mountain tops of the Trishul and Nanda Ghuti peak. Go further 7 kms trekking down to the Chandaniya Ghat with a warm lunch and explore the routes passing through the dense forests. Upon reaching camp take a time off to reflect on your journey.

Wake up early and stretch your legs before heading up to the 18 kms quaint village of Sutol. Hike through the beautiful trek dotted with dense forests and the chirping of birds, you can stop and take pictures if you want. Upon reaching the village, explore the town and retire for the night at the camps.

A new day for a new adventure, pack your bags and get ready to head to the Ghat packed with a hot meal to enjoy en route. Once you reach the picturesque ghat, spend some time reminiscing on your journey before you head off to the 20 kms drive to Nandprayag. Upon your arrival check into the Homestay and get out exploring the wonders of the city.

Conclude your trip with a 191 kms drive to Rishikesh, a hot lunch will be served en route.

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Roopkund Trek – One Of The Best Hikes In Uttarakhand (Currently Closed)

Asia , India

Roopkund trek is one of the best hikes in Uttarakhand .

The hikes highlights includes walking up snowy exposed ridges to Junargali and visiting the mysterious Roopkund Lake.

On the Roopkund hike you'll walk through beautiful dense forests and awe-inspiring meadows. You'll also get up close to snow-capped peaks.

Update : Unfortunately the Roopkund trek is currently closed. The Uttarakhand High Court issued an order (Petition No.: 123/2014) in August 2018, which prohibits camping on alpine meadows or grasslands known as Bugyals. The court denied a reconsideration appeal on September 26th, 2018, and it is highly unlikely that the Roopkund trek will opened anytime soon. As of 2023 the Roopkund hike remains closed due to the ban on camping in Bugyals. See other hikes in Uttarakhand .

Roopkund Hike FAQs

What topography will i experience on the roopkund trek.

The topography of the hike is diverse, and you will hike through forests, alpine meadows and across mountainous ridges.

Initially you will hike through dense forest before they give way to the beautiful meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which stretch onwards for miles.  Roopkund itself, is a high altitude, glacial lake and is famous for the hundreds of ancient skeletons found in and around it.

Interestingly, research concluded that the ancient local people died from a sudden and severe hailstorm here, with hailstones the size of cricket balls.

What wildlife and plants might I see on the Roopkund hike?

On the first day of this spectacular hike you will walk through the Oak and Rhododendron forests of Ghairoli Patal. 

You will also pass through the  Bugyals , which are spectacular alpine pastures. In winter the area is covered with snow, and in summer it becomes a beautiful carpet of colourful flowers and emerald grass.

The area is used by traditional herdsmen to graze their cattle. 

What is the Roopkund hike like?

It is easy to see why the Roopkund trek is one of the best in Uttarakhand. One of the reasons the trail is so popular is its amazing alpine meadows located above 4,000 feet, which are so big it takes days to cross them.

Another is the oak and rhododendron forests which are very dense. You will hike through the forest for almost a day, and will pass through it on both the ascent and the descent.

Lastly, the mountainous section of the hike is truly an adventure. All in all, this  Indian hike is definitely one for your trekking bucket list.

What interesting facts should I know about the Roopkund hike?

• When the ice of Roopkund Lake melts, hundreds of human skeletons are revealed.
• The skeletons were first reported in the 19th century, but the news failed to spread.
• The area of Uttarakhand is known for its Hindu Pilgrimage sites.
• The highest peak in Uttarakhand is  Nanda Devi .
• Bedni Bugyal is largely considered the most beautiful meadow.

Roopkund Trek Route

Please Note: On 28 August 2018 , an order by the Indian High Court banned overnight camping in the high meadows in Uttarakhand which has effectively closed this hike inndefinitely.

Photo by travel d'globe

Typical Roopkund Itinerary

Day 1: base camp (lohajung).

On the first day, you will arrive at the base camp in Lohajung. Lohajung is a small village and serves as a base camp for many hikes additional to the Roopkund trek. From the village you will have a beautiful view of the mountains you are about to set off into. Your altitude here is 7,700 ft.

Day 2: Drive from Lohajung to Wan - Trek to Ghairoli Patal

• Elevation Gain:  2,000 ft
• Days/Hours: 1-hour drive and 4-hour hike

On this first day, you will drive from Lohajung to Wan, where you start your trek at 8,000 ft altitude. The trial initially winds through a cluster of houses before reaching Cypress trees.

From here, the trail heads up a ridge, Ranaka Dhar, which you climb to the top of. Once reaching the top you will make your way down the Neel Ganga River . After reaching the river, the trail ascends through a beautiful Oak and Rhododendron Forests. Finally, you will arrive Ghairoli Patal.

Accommodation:  A trekkers hut in a clearing of the forest. 

Top Trail Tips

• Remember to carry sufficient water (you will be able to refill at Neel Ganga though).
• Before starting out, remember not to over pack your  backpack .
• Keep an eye out for birds such as magpies and flycatchers. 

Day 3: Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal

• Elevation Gain:  1,500 ft
• Days/Hours: 2 hours

You begin your day by continuing steeply into the Oak and Rhododendron Forests. However, after about half an hour, the forest opens up into a huge meadow and from here you continue onwards to Ali Bugyal. Ali Bugyal is an awe-inspiring sight - endless expanse of rolling meadows. From here you will make your way to Bedni Bugyal, which is your destination for the day.

Accommodation : Bedni campsite.

• Remember to carry sufficient water. 
• The changing scenery is incredible, so it may be a good idea to take a small  camera  along  to capture the moment. 

Optional day (recommended) - Excursion to Bedni Top

• Elevation Gain : 700 ft
• Days/Hours: 1 hour

This day is an optional acclimatization day at Bedni Bugyal. Here, you can do a recommended stroll to the Bedni top.

Day 4: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni

• Elevation Gain:  1,200 ft
• Days/Hours: 4 hours

Day four of the Roopkund trek leaves the Bedni campsite in an easy manner.

You will hike across the meadow before you cross a saddle and move across to the other side of a ridge.

You still are in the meadows of Ghora Lotani, which flow into the mountain side. Here, you follow the trail to Patar Nachauni, after reaching the Roopkund trail you hike upwards, above your past Bedni campsite.

Your next campsite is Patar Nachauni, where you have the option to stay in eco shelters.

Accommodation:  Camping or eco-shelters at Patar Nachauni.

• You can choose to spend an extra day Ghora Lotani to acclimatise. 
• The view from Patar Nachauni is amazing but can be rather windy. 
• There are no water sources along the way, so carry sufficient water. 

Day 5: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa

• Elevation Gain:  1,400 ft
• Days/Hours: 5 hours

You begin the day with a steep climb to Kalu Vinayak, where the trail follows a zig zag track up the mountain.

The trail from Kalu Vinayak to Bhagwabasa is much easy, and gradually heads downwards. When you reach Bhagwabasa, you reach a group of stone huts made by the locals in the area.

If you choose to stay here, you will pay on a bed basis, but you can also campsite just outside of the huts.

Accommodation:  Huts or camping.

• Take it slowly, as you will probably feel the thin air.
• Be aware of snow patches, as they can be slippery.
• Nights very cold, so make sure you have an adequate  sleeping bag .

Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund to Junargali - Return to Patar Nachauni via Bhagwabasa

• Elevation Gain:  Total elevation - 3,800 ft
• Days/Hours: Total hours - 9 hours

You start your day early and begin your climb up towards Roopkund. From the huts it is roughly 3.1 miles (5 km) to Roopkund, although beginning in a gradual manner, the trail soon becomes a steep climb and switch backs. Finally, you will reach Roopkund which is a crater on the mountain face and you will have to climb down roughly 50 ft to reach it.

From Roopkund, you follow a gentle incline until you reach the face of the mountain, where you climb steeply before reaching Junargali. Start you return from Junargali, reaching Roopkund in roughly half an hour. From Roopkund you will gradually make your way down, which is initially rather tricky.

Once you are out of the switchbacks, it’s an easier walk to Bhagwabasa. From here you descend back to Pathar Nachuni, where you camp for the night.

Accommodation:  Camping at Pathar Nachuni. 

• Leave early so that snow isn’t soft, if you go later in the day you may struggle,
• If you are trekking alone, you should take an ice axe to cut steps into the snow,
• Rope can come in handy when climbing Junargali. 

Day 7: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan

• Elevation Gain:  4,500 ft decline
• Days/Hours: 6 and a halfs with a 1-hour drive

Here, you begin the journey downwards, back towards home. Today you will retrace your steps to Bedni Bugyal.

After about roughly 20 minutes, you will reach the edge of the tree line of the Oak and Rhododendron Forest and you will make your way back to the Ghairoli Patal.

You then descend to Neel Ganga River, and from here, it is a short climb to the Wan village. From here you make an hour drive to Lohajung.

Accommodation:  Lohajung.

More Roopkund Treks FAQ

When is the best time to visit roopkund .

The best time to visit Roopkund depends on what you want to see. If you're looking for snow, then around late May is the best time, however, if you want to see vegetation then September is a good time. 

The best time to do the Roopkund trek is in the summer, between  May and June , as it means that you will get to see many of the flowers in the area in bloom.

September is also a good time to go, as this is just before the region freezes over, with late September having a lot of snow on the trek.

Please Note: Throughout the year, almost all of Roopkund is typically covered in snow. So, dress warmly!

Do I need a permit to go on Roopkund hikes? 

At present, you cannot secure a permit for the Roopkund trek. As of 2018 , there is a ban on camping in the Uttarakhand meadows to better preserve the area. So, until the ban is lifted, trekking in the Uttarakhand meadows has come to a stop for now. 

Are the Roopkund hikes difficult?

The difficulty of Roopkund hikes is rated between moderate and difficult, as some days are harder than others. Generally, you should be hiking fit and have a good understanding of the route prior to setting off. 

The overall difficulty of the trek will ultimately depend on your level of fitness, in combination with factors such as the weather, your experience in hiking and a little bit of luck. However, the route is not overly technical.

You can do Roopkund hikes without a guide, but you will have to do a fair bit of planning beforehand. 

Is altitude sickness a risk on Roopkund Treks?

Yes, altitude sickness is a risk on Roopkund treks due to the relatively high altitude. You will have to keep this in mind and avoid hiking too quickly so as to allow your body to acclimatize.

If you are fit before hiking, and you take an acclimatization day at Bedni Bugyal, you reduce the risk of sickness.

However, remember to be aware of your body and drink lots of water  along the way.

Photo by Tarun Gupta

What gear do I need for Roopkund Treks?

Two essential items you will need on this trek are a good, study pair of  hiking boots , as well as a good quality hiking backpack, between 40 and 60 l is a good idea in terms of volume.

Be aware that the evenings can be cold, and certain times of year are snowy - so check the weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Generally speaking, clothing that you can easily layer is recommendable. Lastly, a trekking pole will come in handy, especially on the day that you hike up to Roopkund and Junargali. 

Are there any recommended guidebooks for the Roopkund area?

There are two recommended guidebooks for the Roopkund area. First, is the Uttarakhand & Haryana - Blue Guide Chapter from Blue Guide India . This guidebook comes with a map as well as detailed information on Indian history and culture and eating and accommodation tips.

The second recommendation is the Trekking in the Indian Himalaya by Lonely Planet which covers the region’s top treks.

Continue browsing...

See more information on  India . Or check out these other Indian Hiking articles:

• Trekking Guide to  Ladakh 
• Himachal Treks
• Sikkim Hikes
• Markha Valley Trek
• Chadar Trekking Guide
• Hiking the Singalila Ridge
• Trekking in Arunachal Pradesh
• Best trekking places in India

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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Roopkund Trek

Roopkund Trek - Say yes to new challenges

• Price: Rs. 9,499
• Distance : 53km
• Altitude : 15,696 ft.
• Grade : Difficult - Moderate

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Roopkund is a famous glacial lake located in the state of Uttarakhand . Apart from its scenic beauty, the Roopkund is also famous because about 500 human skeletons (believed to belong to the 12th to 15th century) have been found near the lake. Towering at a high altitude of 4,800 m , the lake is situated in the Chamoli district of Garwhal.

Roopkund trek is regarded as one of the best trekking locations in the region . It attracts a huge number of travellers and adventure seekers towards itself due to its close proximity to the famous hill stations like Nainital & Kathgodam.

Lohajung acts as the base camp for the Roopkund trek, and the journey will take you through exotic locations. The Roopkund Lake is located at the base of Mount Trishul & Nangangati .

The trail is filled with adventures of all kinds , you will come across ancient temples, vast grazing lands and tons of waterfalls all along the route. The weather on the Roopkund trek is highly unpredictable and makes it a challenging trek not advised for beginners.

If you plan to embark upon this trek, proper trekking equipment and gears are a must have.

Day 1 :- Kathgodam to Lohajung

Day one of the Roopkund Trek starts with a 210 Km drive through the Kumaon region and takes about 10 hours . The road passes through the deep valley of Shivalik Mountain ranges and coniferous forests. We will be crossing Deval village where you can shop for any amenities that you might require for the trek. The last part of the journey from Deval to Lohajung is very exciting with breathtaking views and curved roads. Overnight stay at Lohajung guest house/ homestay.

Brief Overview of the Day

• Altitude - 7,660 ft.
• 210 Km drive, 10 Hours approx.
• Network - Available
• Pickup from Kathgodam Railway Station

Day 2 :- Lohargunj to Didna Village

Today after having breakfast, we will start walking. The trail at the beginning is simple and flat, and we will be crossing Wan & Kulling villages . Kulling is a masterpiece of nature. You can spot various exotic birds in this beautiful village which has a very low population. 

As we keep walking further, we will climb down to the bed of the river called Neel Ganga and cross the bridge over the river. After crossing the bridge the trail starts to get a bit steeper. Soon we will reach the Didna village which is at an altitude of 8000 ft . above the sea level. Overnight stay in camps

• Trekking Distance - 7 Km
• Highest Altitude - 8,050 ft.
• Stay at Didna Village.

Day 3 :- Didna Village to Ali Bugyal

Today we will be passing through the beautiful village of Ali Bugyal , located at an high altitude of 11,000 ft . We will leave Didna to climb up to Ali Bugyal on a slightly ascending trail. There is another trail that goes to Ali Bugyal from the village which is shorter but steeper. You will be able to spot the beautiful trees of Oak, Birch and Rhododendron on the way. 

As we reach closer to our destination the tree line starts to shrink gradually and you will find open grasslands in the area. As you reach the top of Ali Bugyal, you will find a vast open meadow and if the weather is clear you will also be able to spot Mount Trishul & Mrighthuni . The trek will take around 4 hours to complete and we will spend the night in camps.

• Trekking Distance - 11Km
• Highest Altitude - 11,300 ft.
• Overnight stay in camps

Day 4 :- Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani

On the fourth day of the Roopkund trek we will start walking in the morning and our destination will be Gora Lutami , one of the most beautiful camping spots of the area. As we keep climbing further you will see the drastic changes in weather and the thinning of air which has less oxygen to breathe as we inch closer to 12,800 ft . 

After trekking for 10 km we will finally arrive at our camping destination for today at Gora Lutami. We will spend some time acclimatizing and the night would be spent at camps.

• Trekking Distance - 10 Km
• Highest Altitude - 12,800 ft.

Day 05: Ghora lotani to Bhagwabasa

Today we will wake up early in the morning as we have a very long day ahead of us. After having our breakfast we will start walking on a steep trail and will cover approximately 10 Km . Our destination for today is Bagubasa which is located at an extremely high altitude of 14,000 ft . 

We will visit the Kalu Vinayak temple located on the same trail. Make sure to carry hot water to drink and wear proper clothes to reduce the chances of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). Walk slowly and steadily on the slippery spots .

As we keep climbing the air will start to get even thinner and that might cause headaches and stomach pain but dont worry as we can rest if needed. Once you reach the temple, you will be able to spot the Roopkund Lake which is the final destination of our trek. We will follow a trail to Bhagubasa which is located about a kilometer away from the temple. Overnight stay at Bhagubasa.

• Trekking Distance - 10 Km.
• Highest Altitude - 14,100 ft.
• Visit Kaluvinayak Temple
• Steep trail

Day 06: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Bedni Bugyal

We wake up early in the morning and after having breakfast, we will push to our final destination - Roopkund . The path is easy but the high altitude makes it difficult to cover 5 Km to the Roopkund Lake at 16,000 ft . 

As we reach the lake, and if you are lucky, you might be able to spot hundreds of human skeletons on the bed of the lake. It is believed that a king and his fellowmen were travelling to Nanda Devi but a hailstorm caused this devastation.

From this point we walk further on a steep trail to reach Nanda Devi Temple. After spending some time at the temple, we will start descending back to Bhagwabasa . If you think it would be easier to descend than it was to ascend, then you are mistaken. Walk very slowly and carefully as the steep downward trail increases the chances of disbalance and falling down.

This is one of the most difficult days of the Roopkund trek and we will be climbing down through Ghora Lotani all the way down to Bedni Bugyal. Overnight stay in camps.

• Trekking Distance - 15 Km
• Highest Altitude - 16,000 ft.
• Overnight stay at Bedni Bugyal

Day 07: Bedni bugyal to Loharjung

Today is the last day when you will have to walk on the Roopkund trek. It's another long day and we will retrace our steps back through the same trail we came from. Once again we will cross Neel Ganga through Wan village and back to Lohajung . The travelling distance is around 15 Km and a 10 hour walk.

• Trekking Time - 10 Hours
• Stay at Lohajung

Day 08: Loharjung to kathgodam

Today is the last day of the Roopkund trek. The drive from Lohajung will take you back to Kathgodam and you will be dropped at the railway station. The 210 Km long drive will take 10 hours to complete.

• Driving Distance - 210 Km
• Driving Time - 10 Hours
• Drop off at Kathgodam Railway Station

HOW TO REACH

You can take a flight from Delhi to Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can take a train to Kathgodam or drive there. The Naini Jan Shatabdi leaves at 3:45 pm in the afternoon, and the Kathgodam Express leaves at 11:25 pm at night. From Kathgodam, you take a taxi to Lohajung, which is the base camp. The taxi journey takes 7 hours, 45 minutes.

Two trains run daily from Delhi to Kathgodam. The Ranikhet Express leaves Delhi at 10:40 pm and arrives in Kathgodam at 5:30 am in the morning. The Uttar Sampark Kranti Express leaves at 4 pm in the evening and arrives at Kathgodam at 10:40 pm.

In both cases, you take a taxi to Lohajung from Kathgodam to reach base camp. The taxi journey takes 7 hours, 45 minutes. This is the fastest way to reach Lohajung.

Regular buses leave from ISBT Delhi Anand Vihar Station for Nainital. Since they are government buses, they are punctual and trustworthy. You have to get down at the Haldwani railway station and take a taxi from there to Lohajung. Haldwani Railway station is merely 4 km from Kathgodam railway station.

Inclusions :-

• Accommodation. (Home stay, Camping)
• Meals while on trek (Veg.+ Egg)
• Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dining tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required)
• All necessary permits and entry fees.
• First aid medical kits, stretcher and oxygen cylinder.
• Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide and Support staff.
• Mules to carry the central luggage

Exclusions :-

• Any kind of personal expenses.
• Food during the transit.
• Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
• Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
• Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Note : Normally THE CRAZY MOUNTAINEERS expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to Mule.

Charges of offloading backpack:-

INR 1200/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance

INR 1500/- if you inform us after reaching Sankri

The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs. Backpack should have a waterproof cover. Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.

Trek Essentials

Cancellation Policies

Cancellations prior to 24 days from the start of the trek

Book any other trek till one year or get 95% refund (Note: If the trek charges are more, the balance needs to be paid by the trekker)

Cancellation between 24 days and 14 days to the start of the trek

Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the trek

Choose to go on the same trek, in the same season, with any other batch or get 50% refund.

Cancellation less than 10 days to the start of the trek

Transfer your trek (same trek, same batch) to your friend. No cash refund.

• Change of trek batch is dependent on the availability of seats in the batch.
• In case of transferring a trek to a friend, he/she should satisfy all the mandatory requirements put forward by THE CRAZY MOUNTAINEERS.
• THE CRAZY MOUNTAINEERS holds the right to change/cancel the policies, without prior notice.

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A Starter’s Guide to Roopkund Trek

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate

An idyllic trail that will astonish trekking enthusiasts, The Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand is home to the mystical ‘Skeletal Lake’. The enchanted Trishul Peak that offers a picturesque sight during this stimulating expedition surrounds it. The trail points you to the frozen Roopkund Lake with its pious offerings in Nanda Devi, to create an all-embracing experience with the richness of culture, nature and adventure. You will witness opaque forest expanses with torrential streams across the savannahs as you meander into the generous wilderness of nature through the regions of Loharjung, Didina, Bugyal and Bhagwabasa among others. Arriving at the ‘Mystery Lake’ that houses remains of calamitous pilgrims will make you shudder, especially with the majestic vision of Roopkund Glacier, Choukhamba and Nandaghungti peaks in the backdrops.

How To Reach

The starting point of this trek is at Kathgodam, a small town in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand . It is accessible by railways and roadways, which are the only two ways to arrive in this beautiful clandestine settlement. The closest airport is the Pantnagar Airport, which is 71 kms away – you will have to rely on road transport or rails to arrive in Kathgodam. With well-connected rail systems, the Kathgodam Railway Station is linked to all major cities through standard trains. You can also travel by private or state run buses that ply from Nainital, Rudrapur, Moradabad, Chandausi, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Delhi among others.

Nestled amidst the Kumaon Ranges of the Himalayas, Kathgodam is a beautiful spot to relish nature and cultural heritage. A ride from here will take you through charming narrow roads to arrive at Loharjung, which will be your base camp for this trekking expedition. This little village rests at the edge of a hill and offers a picturesque view of the Nilganga valley. It stands at 2300 meters and will dazzle you with its lively sights. It has few lodging facilities and restaurants with small shops for purchasing daily need items. Your trek begins from here and will enthrall you beyond imagination.

Best Season To Visit

The Roopkund Trek takes you from the charmed Kathgodam Township through Loharjung, Didina, Bugyal, Lotani, and Bhagwabasa to reach Roopkund. With a moderate climate that persists for most months, summers last from April to June with a temperature that falls below 30°C. Winters lasts from December to February and can be quite harsh with temperatures dipping below freezing point. The months from July to November are considered to be appropriate to visit, with cool amiable winds that allow you to experience nature’s best-kept secret of the Himalayas.

About The Locals

With a rich history and a fascinating culture, these towns and villages in Uttarakhand is largely blessed with temples that are the pride of the locals. Observing the culture of this town, you will discover the traditions and practices, which are closely monitored and ritually followed. With a hike in tourism since the past decade or so, the people of the region have absorbed diversity and thus are very friendly to tourists. With their compassion and respect for travellers, they will make sure that your expedition is filled with memorable experiences. Elevation Points.This noteworthy trekking tour takes you from Kathgodam located at the foothills of the Kumaon Ranges at a height of 554 meters while offering you an exquisite panorama of sights. As you begin your drive from here to Loharjung that stands tall at 2300 m, your trek to Roopkund lies en route Ali Bugyal which summits a majestic 3350 meters height. Cross by Ghora Lotani that falls a few kms ahead and bypass Bhagwabasa that peaks at 4100 m. To experience the picturesque destination at Roopkund, you will ascend to its marvellous pinnacle at 5020 m.

Required Entry fees at certain check points, permits for the trek and obligatory forest camping charges in the region for the entire length of the trek will be required. Please carry your identification cards such as driving license or voter ID along with a passport size photo, a medical certificate ensuring your fitness for the trek and a disclaimer certificate ensuring your submission to voluntarily participate in this trek. Permits can be obtained at Loharjung where you have to pay camping charges to the Forest Officer.

Medical Advice and Emergency Numbers

A well-equipped first aid kit will be accessible with the guides throughout the duration of the trek. We recommend that you carry your own individual resource of first aid items such as medicines, antiseptics, insect repellents, prescription drugs etc. All precautionary measures shall be taken to ensure your safety yet there lays no harm in having awareness of the general know-how of healthcare. CPR and other common medical knowledge about altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness) should be present. This illness is associated with trekking with symptoms that range from headache, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, lung problems, ataxia etc. Please consult your doctor before your trip to procure prescription drugs for such possible situations and only consume them if required, as they are powerful and have strong effects, especially if taken during your trek.

As Roopkund lies within the region of District Chamoli, please keep with you at all times the following emergency contact details.

Uttarakhand Helpline: 0135 – 2710334, 0135 – 2710335, 0135 – 2710233 Army Control Number: 0135 – 2716201, 0135 – 2710925, 0135 – 2716201, 0135 – 2710925 Army Medical Emergency numbers – 18001805558, 18004190282, 8009833388 Police: 100 Fire: 101 Ambulance: 102 Chamoli Control Room – 01372-251437, 251077, 09411352136 Flood Information – 01372-251437, 09411352136

Advice and Expectations

This expedition is the perfect experience to enjoy the thrill of the Himalayas yet it holds extreme conditions and is generally considered to have a moderate to hard level of difficulty. Prepare thoroughly with regard to clothing and other protective gears to endure the unpredictable mountain weather, as it may get very cold. Keep your trekking gear safe and always keep essentials such as wind-proof jacket, dry socks and caps at hand. Make sure you choose correct and good quality footwear and fitted boots to avoid frostbites. Wear the right kind of socks to facilitate blood circulation. Carry a sturdy sleeping bag that is durable and comfortable. Carry a good quality backpack that can ensure harsh conditions of wear and tear, especially with a plastic or waterproof lining. Carry your identification proof as you might be expected to furnish it with the officials.

Things To Carry

– Durable good-quality trekking shoes – Camping shoes for crossing streams – Thick woolen socks – Thermal inner wear – Heavy fleece clothes – Torch – Whistle – Covers to store used/wet clothing – Winter jacket and water proof coat – Trekking pants – Woolen cap, gloves, etc. – Sunglasses – Sun screen lotion and other toiletries – Water bottle – Trekking pole – First aid kit – Personal medication – Swiss knife

Attractions

Kathgodam – Kathgodam is situated adjacent to its twin town of Haldwani in the state of Uttarakhand. Literally meaning ‘timber depot’, Kathgodam is the centre of trade and commerce of the district. This charming town rests at the foothill of the Kumaon Ranges in the Himalayas and is its last railhead. It is perched at 554 meters and was an overlooked hamlet until the British took it on the Railway Map in 1909. The River Gaula and its dam located here is a superlative picnic abode. It is also adjacent to the Corbett Falls and the Bhimtal Lake, which is a famous romantic paradise.

Loharjung – A tiny settlement that is sited at the edge of a mountain, Loharjung has a striking view of the basins of Nilganga. It offers a placid and private abode to travellers, most of who pass through here to go across to the other charms of the area. Few restaurants are available here and very few lodging facilities are present. This is where you can obtain permits for your trek and enjoy amidst the serenity of nature.

Didina – Situated in the mountain terrains of Chamoli District, Didina boasts of mixed forests and beautiful meadows. Silk Worm rearing is a famous occupation in this village while the villagers also engage in farming of potatoes in the cultivable land along with goat and cow rearing. If offers a picturesque beauty along the ridge of farms with small houses that are scattered randomly across the village.

Ali Bugyal – Located at a majestic height of 3400 m, Ali Bugyal lies atop a mountain while treading through thick vegetation of oak, rhododendron and birch trees. With beautiful grassy terrains and green stretches, Ali Bugyal offers an enchanting view with misty winds and colourful treats. Horses and cattle commonly graze the area while a view of the Trishul Peak and Mrigthuni Peak forms an amazing backdrop to this mesmerising location.

Ghora Lotani – Literally meaning ‘Horse Return’, Ghora Lotani gets its name from the fact that the trekking route beyond this point does not allow horses to proceed, which thus have to return back. Barren lands and boulders smuggle the spread of the region while clouds of mist enclose the beautiful hilltops. Vegetation is not developed here and drinking water is not available which makes it a fleeting region for travellers to pass through.

Bhagwabasa – A noticeably isolated location is what stands at Bhagwabasa with stone blocks on all sides of the trail. An array of abandoned stone huts ranging in size can be seen here and were rented out to trekkers in the past. These huts now stand destroyed but yet offer a great view amidst the misty backdrops with abundant cloud cover. The peaks of Nanda Ghunti, Trishul and Kali Dak can be clearly sighted from here

Roopkund Lake – A high altitude lake situated in Uttarakhand, it is located at an elevation of 5020 meters and is also called the ‘Mystery Lake’. It has a mystical history with remains and skeletons of humans and horses spotted here that are believed to be from the Palaeolithic Age (500-600 years ago). This lake is nestled amidst the panoramic scenery of mountains, rock-strewn glaciers and skeletal remains. Roopkund is a famous trekking destination among travellers with its mystical appearance.

Day 01:  Drive from Kathgodam to Loharjung (2300 m) Day 02:  Trek from Loharjung to Didina (5 1/2 – 6 1/2 Hours) Day 03:  Trek from Didina Village to Ali Bugyal (3350 m) (2 1/2 Hours) Day 04:  Trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (3 km) Day 05:  Trek from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa (4100 m) (2 km) (1 1/2 Hours) Day 06:  Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake (5020 m) – Bedni Bugyal (4 – 5 Hours) Day 07:  Trek from Bedni Bugyal –to Wan (6 Hours), Drive from Wan to Loharjung (1 Hour) Day 08:  Drive from Loharjung to Kathgodam

Tips And Tricks

– Hydrate two days before your trek – you must triple your water intake to avoid dehydration. – Choose a shoe that is half a number larger than your normal size. It may be uncomfortable if one chooses a shoe size, which is one number smaller than your actual size. You may end up with sore fingers and blisters at the end of the trek. To avoid blisters, you can wear double layers of socks – a thin nylon one first followed by a thick Turkish sock. – In case you carry your camera or a mobile phone, make sure you carry enough supply of plastic waterproof bags to keep them safe. – Once you start trekking with the entire group, try and get your natural rhythm of walking. Never attempt to walk too fast or too slow as this can lead to premature fatigue. – It is advisable to carry a windcheater but it is not advisable to wear it while trekking. During trekking, our body produces solid heat and to regulate that, the heated muscles of our body sweat profusely. In a humid atmosphere with a hot and perspiring situation, we aggravate it by wearing windcheaters. All in all, it leads to a suffocated feeling. Our advice is to carry a windcheater in your sack and wear it only when you take a long halt.

What is the best time for the Roopkund trek?

Roopkund Trek Guide advises you to take up the Roopkund Trek during the summer months of April, May, and June for the best experience. It is not at all recommended to take up the trek during the monsoon season.

What activities are included in the Roopkund lake trek?

The activities that shall be included in your Roopkund Trek are as mentioned below: An adventurous trekking expedition all the way from Loharjung to the mystical Roopkund Lake. Camping at some of the most exquisite locations amidst the beautiful Himalayas. Crossing some chilling yet astonishing streams flowing amidst the mountains. Soaking in the views of the famous Roopkund Lake. Admiring the beauty of Deadar and Sal forests along your way. Witnessing the beauty of hidden waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh. Relishing some hot food cooked right in front of you on the campsite. Experiencing the essence of the untouched traditional villages and culture of the Himalayan mountains.

Which type of shoes should I carry for Roopkund Trek?

Consider carrying professional trekking shoes for walking along the hilly terrain. You should also carry along a pair of camping shoes for crossing streams. You should carry a few extra pairs of thick woolen socks along with your shoes to keep you warm during the extremely cold nights of Roopkund. You can also seek advice from your Roopkund Trek Guide regarding the feasibility of your shoes for the entire trek.

What is the difficulty level of the Roopkund trek?

Due to the extreme climate conditions and steep hilly terrain, the Roopkund trek is a slightly moderate to difficult level trek. One is highly recommended to have good health conditions along with a decent level of fitness to be able to easily complete the trek, whilst enjoying the same. Your Roopkund Trek Guide shall help you in the best way possible to make your trek easy and enjoyable.

How long is Roopkund Trek?

The Roopkund Trek, which stretches over to 8 days and 7 nights is almost 53 kilometers long. You shall be accompanied by a Roopkund Tour Guide through the entire trek to help you explore the trail in the best way possible. Out of the 8 days, you shall be trekking on your feet for almost 6 days with your Roopkund Trek Guide.

What is the height of the Roopkund trek?

The height of Roopkund Trek is almost 5029 meters. The Roopkund Lake is surrounded by snow-capped majestic Himalayas and glaciers. The Lake has extreme temperature conditions all throughout the year and has a unique and mystical environment. The nearest camping point where you shall be setting up your camps, with the help of your Roopkund Trek Guide for an overnight stay would be at Bedni Bugyal, which is at 3354 meters altitude.

I have been travelling across India for a long time and I am using this blog to share my experiences with you so that you can see the tremendous beauty which India has to offer. Thrillophilia Blog

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A Complete Guide to Trekking Tours in India

India Tours

International tours, destination wedding, medical tourism, plan your trip.

• Trekking in India

Roopkund Trek

• Accommodation
• Sightseeing
• Trip Highlights
• Best Time to Visit

About Roopkund Lake Trek

Known for its mysterious surrounding and astounding scenic beauty, Roopkund is a high altitude trek in Uttarakhand at the base of Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti. The maximum height of this trek is 5029 m. The trek in the Garhwal Himalayas offers magnificent views of the mountains surrounded by rock- strewn glaciers. This 9 days trek in Chamoli District is of moderate to difficult trekking grade.

The lake at Roopkund is also known as a ‘mystery lake’ for the human skeletons and remains of horses that are found in huge numbers in the surrounding areas. These remains are believed to be of around the 15th to 16th century when a strong hailstorm took away the lives of hundreds of pilgrims.

Lohajung is the base of Roopkund trek and is easily accessible by road from Rishikesh. The drive from Rishikesh to Loharjung is picturesque with the views of snow-clad mountains, sprawling valleys and meandering rivers.

The trek to Roopkund starts from Lohajung and passes through the village of Didna. In between Loharjung and Didna, there is a small village called Kulling from where River Neel Ganga flows between Wan and Lohajung. From Kulling a steep ascent leads to Raun Bagad which is partly thick and dotted by the rhododendron, oak, and pine forest. On this trekking trail, the trekkers can spot many birds like fork-tailed Himalayan Magpie on the branches of rhododendrons. On the lower levels of Neel Ganga River, Lammergeiers are found soaring over the valley. One can also see yellow-throated marten.

The trail to Raun Bagad ends at an iron bridge from where the climb to Didina starts. From Didina the trail leads towards Bedni Bugyal, one of the major attractions of Roopkund trekking tour which again passes through Ali Bugyal. The trail from Didina to Bedni Bugyal is a stiff climb at the beginning but an easy walk in the middle as it ascends towards the end.

The trail from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal is carpeted with soft green grassland. Camping at Bedni Bugyal is another major highlight of Roopkund lake trek. Witnessing the evening reflection of sunlight on Trishul Mountain peak is yet another attraction of this trek in Garhwal Himalayas.

From Bedni Bugyal one has to head towards the meadows of Ghora Lotani where the vicinity is painted with the shades of olives and browns spread across all directions over the black terrain. Trekkers can witness abundant snow while reaching Bhagwabasa. Further, the trekkers have to head towards Roopkund from Bhagwabasa which is a 5-km ascent. There are series of switchbacks and a steep climb over the snow patched route but the stretch is not long and the hard snow is helpful to trek without being worried about the danger.

Roopkund Trek Highlights

• Explore the mystery of the Skeleton Lake, Roopkund, witness the years long buried human and animal bones in the snow.
• Enjoy the breathtaking views of lofty Himalayan peaks like Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba & Trishul and Rudragaira.
• Cherish the sprawling lush alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal.
• Get an opportunity to visit some of the remotest villages of Uttrakhand.
• Enjoy camping under the open sky and amidst the stunning landscape.

Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek

Roopkund can be trekked between May and June and August and mid-October. The harsh climatic conditions only provide trekkers with a small window to trek between the 1st week of May to about the 1st week of July. June is the perfect time to witness the twin Bugyals /meadows of Ali and Bedni as by this time, the meadows are in their full spring. Trekking between the last week of August and the first week of October is another good trekking season in Roopkund. The sky remains clear and the weather is perfect for a hike.

Where is the Roopkund?

Roopkund is situated in a remote area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand State. It is an isolated place with no permanent human settlements in the vicinity, Roopkund is surrounded by glaciers and situated near the base of two Himalayan peaks Trishul, and Nanda Gunti. Despite of its increasing popularity, it generally remains inaccessible for six months in a year because of its high altitude and continuous snow.

Roopkund Trek (Detailed Itinerary)

Delhi – haridwar – rishikesh, other benfits (on arrival).

• Stay Included

In the morning take an AC train for Haridwar at 06:50 hrs. After arriving in Haridwar, meet our representative who will help you with transferring to Rishikesh and check-in in to your hotel. Evening time is free for leisure activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Rishikesh - Karanprayag - Wan (2200 mts /7200 ft) (170 kms / 6-7 hrs)

Today, we will drive along the River Ganges to reach Wan. En route visit the famous places of religious importance. Continue to drive further via Rudraprayag and Karanprayag to reach Wan by evening. Dinner and overnight stay in tents / tourist rest house.

Wan - Bedni Bugyal (3350 mts / 11000 ft) (10 Km / 4-5 hrs)

After the breakfast, we shall head towards the enchanting villages of Wan to reach the ridge of Rankiyadhar. From here, the trail descends to the river Neelganga River. After crossing the river, we will pass through the dense forests of Rhododendron and Oak to reach Gairoli Patal. The trail still continues to ascend to the Dolia Dhar ridge, which is marked with a temple. The trail then continues towards the meadows at Bedni. Overnight stay in tents.

Bedni Bugyal

Today, we will explore the region of Bedni Bugyal and capture wonderful photographs of nature. This is a rest day to acclimatize. Overnight stay in the tents.

Bedni Bugyal - Bagubassa (4100 mts / 13450 ft) (8 km / 4-5 hrs)

After the breakfast today, we will trek from Bedni to Bagubassa via Patar Nachaniya. Overnight stay in tents.

Bagubassa - Roopkund (4450 mts/14600 ft) - Bedni Bugyal (7-8 hrs)

Post breakfast, we shall trek from Bagubassa to Roopkund. The trail passes through alpine pasture lands that offer a fantastic view of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and Badrinath peaks. Later, the trail becomes steep as we get near to the Roopkund Lake. After exploring the area and taking the pictures, we shall return to Bedni Bugyal. Overnight stay in the tents.

Bedni Bugyal - Wan (10 km / 3-4 hrs) – Rudraprayag

In the morning today, we shall trek from Bedni to Wan. The trail goes downhill and offers wonderful opportunity to enjoy the forest trail. Upon reaching the road head, we will drive towards Rudraprayag. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Rudraprayag - Haridwar – Delhi

After the breakfast, drive towards Haridwar via Devprayag and Rishikesh. After arriving in Haridwar, catch a train for Delhi at 18:05 hrs. Arrival at Delhi by 22:45 hrs.

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Roopkund Trek – 7 days hike to the Himalayan Mystery Lake

Roopkund trek is one trail that’s unique, where you will gain altitude from 7750 feet to 15750 feet in hardly 4 days with few steep climbs. This is a trek where the trail goes through the forest (Didina village and Ghairoli Patal), river crossing (Neel Ganga), Asia’s largest high altitude meadows (Ali Bughyal), beautiful campsite (Bedni Bugyal and Pathar Nachauni), steep climbs, holy place (Bedni Bugyal, Kalu Vinayak and beyond Roopkund), camping on snow (Bhagwabhasa campsite), a pond full of skeletons (Roopkund), the Junargali Pass and the Mt. Trishul.

This Roopkund trek trail has a lot to offer in only a week. This hike is a must-do if you want to trek in India, and you can proudly add it to your To-Do list. I am updating this blog entry to inform you that trekking to this magnificent location is now prohibited, and you may need to obtain special permission for research purposes or if you are a resident of this area, since camping overnight in the meadows is prohibited in Uttarakhand following a high court judgment.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Short Itenary of the Roopkund Trek

Day 1 – A fearful Jeep drive from Kathgodam

Day 2 – Lohajung to Didina village

Day 3 – Didina to Bedni Bugyal

Day 4 – Bedni Bugyal to Pathar Nachauni

Day 5 – Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa via Kalu Vinayak temple

Day 6 – Bhagwabhasa to Roopkund and back to Pathar Nachauni

Day 7 – Pathar Nachauni to Ghairoli Patal

Day 8 – Ghairoli Patal to Wan

Roopkund Trek Information

Region:  Uttarakhand Duration:  8 Days Grade:  Moderate to Difficult Max Altitude:  15,696 Ft. Trekking Km:  53 Km. Trail Type:  Round trail. The trek starts at Lohajung and ends at Wan. Railhead:  Kathgodam is the nearest railway station to the base camp. Take Raniketh Express – Overnight sleeper train from Old Delhi to Kathgodam. Road:  Kathgodam is well connected to Lohajung. Take a shared taxi to Lohajung, a 10-hour drive to Lohajung from the railway station. Base Camp:  Lohajung or Wan Best Season:  May, June, Mid August to October Snow:  Mid December to Mid June (avoid snow, cannot trek after Bedni Bugyal during winter). Stay  Guesthouse at Lohajung, Tea house at Didina village, and camping on all other days.

Is the Roopkund trek difficult?

Depending on the weather, each trekker can expect to spend 5 to 6 hours on the trail. Nonetheless, for a novice with a basic fit body, this walk is safe and possible. Every Roopkund journey takes roughly 7 to 8 days. Regarding Roopkund trek difficulty level – It becomes difficult, and in some rare circumstances, causes altitude sickness and death, as a result of insufficient practice. Take the pre-exercise seriously, and you’ll be fine.

Roopkund trek in Seasons

Summer treks (april, may, june).

• Less cold and windier
• Weather is unpredictable
• Can’t see a human skeleton
• Roopkund is in frozen condition
• Higher camps covered with snow
• Cannot hike further to Junargali Pass
• Natural sources of drinking water are easily available
• Best for those who want to see snow and want to do a difficult level of trek

Autumn Treks (September, October, November)

• Less windy and colder
• Mostly clear weather
• Can see human skeletons
• No snow at any campsite
• Roopkund lake is properly visible
• Can hike further to Junargali pass, view of Mt Trishul in full, Shila Samudra and Homkund
• Natural sources of drinking water are limited
• Best for those who want to see greenery and want to do the moderate level trek

Why is Roopkund famous?

Roopkund, which has a depth of roughly 3 meters, is well-known for the hundreds of ancient human remains discovered along the lake’s edge. When the snow melts, the human skeletal remains are exposed at the bottom. Climbing uphill from Roopkund allows you to observe the iconic Mt Trishul from the base to the summit, a glacier in front, and the advanced basecamp to Homkund which is the basecamp for Mt Nanda Ghunti, which is another three days of hiking.

Every 12 years, a Hindu pilgrimage known as the Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra takes place, an ancient custom that is being practiced today. Roopkund is en route to Homkund, the end goal of this exhausting foot trek.

Is Roopkund Trek banned?

The popular journey, which has seen many trekkers walk on its track after being a consistent favorite for many years, has now been outlawed owing to the damage we have made to the biodiversity of the alpine meadows that fall on the trail. You may still be permitted with special government approval. You may still trek to the meadow-like Li and Bedni Bugyal, but camping is not permitted. Roopkund is not prohibited, but because this is a week-long walk, it is nearly difficult to travel without sleeping on the meadows. This is a high court order, and the prohibition may be removed in the future; you should check the latest online.

What is the mystery of Roopkund Lake?

H K Madhwal, an Indian forest inspector, discovered hundreds of human remains stored in and around Roopkund lake in 1942, also called the Roopkund trek skeletons. He recounted the strange discovery – a hidden lake where 300 to 800 individuals died tragically – and the frozen Himalayas continued to preserve the human bones. You can find a reference to a story published on BBC Travel here .

I managed to complete the Roopkund trek which was organized by Indiahikes back in 2014 and is one of the best Himalayan trekking trails in India. You definitely need some practice before going to this trail as it’s not that easy when compared to the Tarsar trek or Kashmir Great Lakes .

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Before you go on a hike make sure to check this out – some of the Absolute mandatory Hiking Accessories to carry . Hope you enjoyed reading this blog post. Buy me a coffee to support my work or you can go to my store to buy some of my images. Also, do not forget to join my  FriendZone by signing up for my newsletter . Consider  subscribing to my YouTube channel .

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Roopkund Trek: Everything you need to know before going on the trek

The Roopkund trek unarguably falls under one of the most saleable and quintessential treks that India has to offer .

For years it has enthralled travellers all across the globe to see the infamous skeleton lake with their naked eyes. Yes! You may be wondering why skeleton lake . It is believed that during the occurrence of a catastrophic event, ancients humans from 1000 years ago have perished there and ever since then the remains of the skeletons are still visible when the snow melts. There are plenty of articles on the internet about this lake and how it has been a fascination to the rest of the world. Quite the chills!

Roopkund lake also known as the mystery lake is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in India. It is a glacial lake with an altitude of 5072 metres .

This location provides an outstanding panoramic view amidst the lap of mountains and paddocks. Over the years, Roopkund has evolved to become an excellent renowned trekking destination in Uttarakhand , attracting hundreds of visitors every year. This is undoubtedly a true natural delight that is worth every penny and time. The exquisite ginormous alpine meadows , the varieties in the terrains, picturesque skies, snow-clad mountains and a lot more will cleanse your mind and soul with its purgatorial effects. It's true as they say, there is nothing comparable with the mighty Himalayan elegance.

In this article, we have briefly answered some of the most asked questions related to this trek thereby to make it an ultimate hassle-free experience for the trekkers.

What can you see in the Roopkund Trek?

Note: Below descriptions are laid in the order of the trekking route towards the Roopkund lake.

Lohajung (beginning point of the trek) - Lohajung offers a breathtaking view of the Didina Valley, you also get the sight of Mt. Nanda Ghunti which lies on the outer rim of Nanda Devi Sanctuary. Add to that the peaks of Trishul, Ronti, Chaukhamba and more.

Wan to Ghairoli Patal - Wan is a small village situated at an hour's drive from Lohajung . Initially, it has become the stoppage point for many trekking groups. You can witness the locals engaged in their daily shenanigans like farming and animal grazing. The oak trees here are one of the densest in India. From wan, a 3-hour trek will lead you to Ghiaroli Patal which consists of dense commendable forests and water streams. It is also an ideal location for campsites .

Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal - As you descend from the forests of Ghairoli Patal, the next trail opens up to a huge lush green meadow, this is Ali Bugyal. Miles and miles of beautiful pastureland is truly a bolt out of the blue.

From this point, it takes about an hour and a half to reach Bedni Bugyal. You will halt to camp at the Bedni campsite which has a spectacular bird's eye view of the entire mountain range. These two twin grasslands are the largest high altitude meadows in India .

Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa - Patar Nachauni also means 'dancing girls' in the local language. This trail makes a way out of the Bedni campsite. You will also notice the meadows of Ghora Lotani , with bewitching horses all around. The next path follows to a steep ascent to Kalu Vinayak and a gentle slope downwards to Bhagwabasa.

Roopkund - From Bhagwabhasa it takes 3 hours to trek to Roopkund . Bed of snow-covered mountains will leave you awestruck. These moments will certainly leave you wondering how giving mother nature is! You finally get to see the infamous mystery lake of Roopkund . The bones of the skeletons add to the spooky vibe which makes it an unforgettable experience for a lifetime.

You follow the same trail and return to Lohajung!

Best Time to visit Roopkund Lake Trek

Due to the climatic changes, Roopkund is accessible for only 3 to 4 months a year . It depends totally on one's personal preference, whether you'd want to trek in the thick white blanket of snow or clear vibrant fields.

Should you choose to trek in the snow, you must go there between mid-May to the end of June. Regardlessly, the best time for trekking would be in autumn which is in mid-September until October, simply because of the magnificent crystal clear view and lesser crowds in the trails. You must also not forget that this is the time when the snow melts and you witness the skeletons near the lake. Nevertheless, it depends upon one's comfort zone. You should also avoid trekking during the monsoons.

What is the temperature in Roopkund?

In the month of May to June, the temperature at your campsites during the day will be somewhere between 5°C to -1°C and 3° to -4° C at night time.

In September to October, the temperature at your campsites in the day will be somewhere around 6° to 1° C and 4° to -4°C at night respectively.

How to reach Roopkund?

You will usually be asked to assemble at Kathgodam or Lohajung which is considered as the starting point of the trek.

• By air - The Jolly Grant Airport which is known as the Dehradun Airport is the primary airport in Uttarakhand. Dehradun Airport serves as the gateway for the towns and cities of Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Mussoorie, Nainital, Haridwar, Rishikesh, etc. Dehradun Airport is well connected with all the major cities of India. You can further take a train, bus or car from Dehradun to reach Kathgodam.
• By train - The last railway station nearest to Roopkund is Kathgodam railway station. You can either take a train from Delhi or Dehradun which takes you to Kathgodam directly. There are also train stations at Haridwar or Rishikesh which is well connected to Roopkund.
• By road - There are overnight Volvo buses available directly from Delhi to Kathgodam. You can also break your journey into parts by halting at Haridwar, Rishikesh or the nearest town of your preference.

And as mentioned earlier, buses, shared taxis, and private cars are readily available if you are beginning the journey from Dehradun.

If your base camp is at Lohajung you can take a bus, shared taxi or private car directly from Kathgodam. The distance is 218 km which should be covered in approximately 7 hours 30 minutes.

Is Roopkund trek for you?

The difficulty level of this trek is moderate . You may run short of breath very frequently given that there are quite a several steep climbs and zig-zag rocky paths.

If you aren't used to walking for long hours without panting or gasping for breath or isn't leading any active lifestyle at the present you may want to switch to other easier trek options.

But if Roopkund trek is the only thing you'd want, then you should start working out at least 3 to 4 months prior.

Every trekker needs to do the trekking on an average of 5 to 6 hours, prevailing weather conditions.

Nevertheless, this trek is safe and doable for a beginner, with a basic fit physique.

You should also not have any issues related to the heart and lungs. A healthy physical condition is an absolute necessity for a smooth trekking experience

Every trek to Roopkund takes about 7 to 8 days.

I hope that answers most of your questions regarding the Roopkund Trek.

Trekking is magical and if you are an avid mountain person we definitely suggest you to attempt this thrilling adventure at least once in your lifetime.

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Trek to mysterious Skeleton Lake

Roopkund lake.

June - October

₹ 19999+ 5% GST

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

Roopkund trek, via ali bugyal (4,800 m), ₹19999+ 5% gst, haldwani to haldwani, + rs. 1989 backpack offloading + rs. 2200 haldwani - haldwani + rs. 688 mandatory insurance, difficulty level - 4, lohajung-  7 days , up to 15% off in may-jun batches for a limited period ✨, batches: may, june, september & october  2023.

Roopkund Lake Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek takes you through beautiful valleys, meadows, and forests and culminates at the stunning Roopkund Lake. The lake is also known as the 'Mystery Lake' due to the presence of hundreds of human skeletons at the bottom, which are believed to be the remains of travelers who died here in a hailstorm centuries ago.

The trek starts from the small village of Lohajung and passes through several villages and dense forests before reaching the alpine meadows of Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal. From there, the trail leads to Roopkund Lake, which is located at an altitude of 16,499 feet. The trek takes around 6-8 days to complete, depending on the route and itinerary chosen. 

Roopkund Lake, also known as the "Mystery Lake" or "Skeleton Lake," is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Uttarakhand region of India. The lake is known for containing the remains of hundreds of human skeletons, which were discovered in the 1940s.

The discovery of the skeletons has led to various theories about their origins, including that they were the remains of a group of pilgrims who died due to a sudden hailstorm or an epidemic, or that they were the remains of an army that perished in battle.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Roopkund Lake is also a popular trekking destination due to its beautiful natural surroundings, including snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and forests. The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks, and takes trekkers through remote villages, dense forests, and high-altitude meadows.

Itinerary of Roopkund Trek

Here's a detailed itinerary for the Roopkund Lake Trek:

Day 1: Drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung (213 km/ 9-10 hours)

The Roopkund Lake trek starts with a drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung, which is a small village situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The distance between Kathgodam and Lohajung is around 213 kilometers and it takes around 9-10 hours to cover this distance by road. The route passes through the beautiful towns of Almora, Kausani, and Baijnath, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the surrounding valleys. Lohajung is the starting point of the Roopkund Lake trek and serves as the base camp for the trek.

Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (10 km/ 5-6 hours)

On Day 2, the trek starts from Lohajung towards Didna Village. It is a 10 km trek that takes around 5-6 hours to complete. The trail passes through the forests of oak, rhododendron, and maple. You will also pass through a few small villages and cross a few streams along the way.

The trek is a gradual ascent and you will gain an altitude of around 700 meters during the trek. The path is well-defined and easy to follow. Didna Village is a small village located at an altitude of 7,800 feet above sea level. It is the last village on the trek and offers a scenic view of the surrounding mountains. Overnight stay will be in tents or homestays in the village.

Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal (12 km/ 6-7 hours)

The trek from Didna Village to Ali Bugyal is a beautiful stretch that takes you through lush green meadows, dense forests, and scenic mountain views.  The trek begins with a gradual ascent through the forests of oak and rhododendron trees. The trail  is well-defined and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  After trekking for around 2-3 hours, you will reach the open meadows of Tolpani. This is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains ar ound you.

From Tolpani, the trail continues to climb steadily towards Ali Bugyal. This stretch is quite steep, and you may need to take a few breaks along the way.  As you approach Ali Bugyal, the trail opens up to a stunning meadow with lush green grass and panoramic views of the mountains. This is a great place to camp for the night and enjoy the scenic beauty around you.  

Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (11 km/ 5-6 hours)

The trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani is an interesting and challenging one, with some steep climbs and descents through a beautiful forested landscape

After breakfast, begin the trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani, which is about 11 km away and should  take 5-6 hours to complete.  The trail descends from Ali Bugyal through a dense forest of oak and rhododendron, with occasional clearings that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  

After about 2 hours of descent, you will reach the village of Bedni Bugyal, which is a popular camping spot for trekkers. Take a short break here to rest and admire the stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. From Bedni Bugyal, the trail descends further to the Bedni River, which you will have to cross over a small bridge. The river is a tributary of the Neel Ganga, which you will encounter later on in the trek.

After crossing the river, the trail climbs steeply up to the other side of the valley, passing through more forested areas and crossing several small streams. After another couple of hours of trekking, you will reach the campsite at Ghora Lotani, which is located in a small meadow surrounded by towering peaks. Settle into your tents and enjoy a well-deserved rest after a long day of trekking.

Day 5: Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa (14 km/ 7-8 hours)

The trek from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa is a challenging day of the Roopkund Lake trek.The trek starts with a steep climb of around 4 km through a dense forest of rhododendron and oak trees. After the initial climb, the trail becomes relatively easy and gradually ascends towards the open meadows of Bedni Bugyal.  

Bedni Bugyal is a vast meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is known for its high-altitude grasslands. Bedni Bugyal is a vast meadow that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is known for its high-altitude grasslands.  

Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake (5 km/ 3-4 hours)

On Day 6, the trek will continue from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake. The distance covered on this day will be around 5 km, which will take approximately 3-4 hours to complete. The trek starts early in the morning as it is a steep climb to Roopkund Lake. The trail passes through a moraine field, and you will get to see the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. The path is rocky and challenging, and you will need to be careful with your footing.- The lake is located at an altitude of 5,029 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

As you climb higher, you will see the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the glacial lake of Roopkund. The lake is located at an altitude of 5,029 meters and is known for its skeletal remains. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and the view is breathtaking.

After spending some time at the lake, you will head back to Bhagwabasa for the night.

Day 7: Roopkund Lake to Bedni Bugyal (12 km/ 6-7 hours)

After spending some time at the mesmerizing Roopkund Lake, the trek continues towards Bedni Bugyal on Day 7. The trail mostly descends through a steep and rocky terrain before reaching the Bedni Bugyal meadow. The trek also offers panoramic views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks along the way.

Start the day early in the morning and leave from Roopkund Lake towards Bedni Bugyal. The trail descends through steep and rocky terrain, so trek carefully. Pass through Junargali, a high-altitude mountain pass offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Continue trekking through the scenic meadows of Bedni Bugyal, filled with a variety of alpine flowers. Reach Bedni Bugyal in the evening and set up camp for the night. Relax and enjoy the beauty of the meadow, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding mountains.

Day 8: Bedni Bugyal to Lohajung (10 km/ 4-5 hours)

After breakfast, start trekking down towards the Neel Ganga river. Cross the river and continue on the well-defined trail. The trail passes through forests of rhododendron and oak trees, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

After a while, you will reach the village of Wan, where you can take a short break and have some tea or snacks. From Wan, it's a short drive to Lohajung, where you will spend the night in a guesthouse.

Overnight stay in Lohajung.

Day 9: Drive from Lohajung to Kathgodam (213 km/ 9-10 hours)

On Day 9, you will drive back to Kathgodam which is the nearest railway station.- Overnight stay in Kathgodam (optional).

Included 

Food as per menu on the trek (starting with dinner on Day 1 till Breakfast on Day 8)

Forest Permits/Camping Charges (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)

Tents on twin sharing basis, Sleeping bags, mats

Micro-spikes, Helmets, and Gaiters, as required

Experienced Trek guide, cook, and helpers

Porters or mules for carrying common luggage

Mountaineering course certified Trek Leader with First Aid certification

2 Nights Dormitory/Guest House Stay in Lohajung

Not Included 

Meals during road journeys, if any

Meals during guest house stay (except the meals mentioned in the Inclusions section)

Cost of any kind of travel insurance

Any expense of personal nature

Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.

Unveiling Mystery and Majesty: Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand

• By Nikhil Singh
• Oct 29, 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction

Deep in the heart of the Uttarakhand Himalayas, there exists a trek that is as thrilling as it is mysterious – the Roopkund Trek. This adventure takes you on a journey through some of the most majestic landscapes in India and offers an opportunity to explore the enigmatic history of “Skeleton Lake.”

Overview of Roopkund Trek

At an altitude of about 16,499 feet above sea level, Roopkund Lake is shrouded in a mystique that beckons trekkers from around the world. The Roopkund Trek is a thrilling escapade that traverses a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests to barren lands and snow-capped peaks. Covering approximately 53 kilometres in 8-9 days, this trek presents you with a snapshot of the natural beauty and rich history of the region.

Historical Significance: Mystery of Roopkund

Roopkund Lake is not just a high-altitude body of water. It is a place of intrigue, known for the discovery of hundreds of human skeletal remains in and around the lake. The sight of these skeletons, exposed during the summer months when the ice melts, has fueled numerous theories and research attempts to unravel the mystery of their origins. Was it a catastrophic event, an epidemic, or a pilgrimage gone awry? The theories are as diverse as the trekkers who come to explore the site.

As you trek along, you’ll be walking through history and nature in equal measure.

Trek Itinerary and Highlights

The Roopkund Trek unfolds its magic gradually, day by day. Your journey will take you through picturesque landscapes and captivating vistas. Starting from Lohajung, you’ll ascend through dense forests, blooming meadows, and high-altitude pastures, known as Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. These lush meadows are as picturesque as they come. Then, as you reach Bhagwabasa and Bhuna, you’ll be closing in on Roopkund, surrounded by the snow-clad peaks of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. The final ascent to Roopkund is a thrilling climb, but the reward is worth every step. You’ll be standing by the enigmatic lake, encircled by jagged mountains.

Read Also: Exploring the Enchanting Valley of Flowers Trek: A Floral Paradise in the Himalayas

Best Time to Visit and Preparation

The ideal time to take on the Roopkund Trek is during the summer months, from May to June and September to October. These months offer favourable weather conditions, clear skies, and breathtaking views. However, the region is best avoided during the monsoon season.

To prepare for this adventure, ensure you are physically fit. Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, will be beneficial. Acclimatization is crucial at these high altitudes, and it’s recommended to spend at least a couple of days in Lohajung before commencing the trek. Don’t forget to carry essential gear, obtain the necessary permits, and adhere to local guidelines.

Challenges and Rewards

The Roopkund Trek comes with its share of challenges, including the high altitudes, steep ascents, and unpredictable weather conditions. However, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning vistas you’ll encounter along the way make these challenges worthwhile. The view from Roopkund, with its pristine lake and the backdrop of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks , is a memory you’ll treasure forever.

Cultural and Natural Delights Along the Route

As you traverse the route, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the locals and get a taste of the Garhwali culture. The villages you pass through are a testament to the traditions and hospitality of the people of Uttarakhand.

The trek also exposes you to the rich biodiversity of the region. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna. The forests are home to a variety of wildlife, so you may be lucky enough to spot some Himalayan birds and animals along the way.

The Roopkund Trek is an enchanting journey that offers the perfect blend of mystery, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. It’s an experience that lures adventurers from all walks of life. As you embark on this remarkable journey, you’ll find yourself drawn not only to the grandeur of the landscapes but also to the intrigue of the skeletons in the lake’s depths. Roopkund is a trek that will leave you both in awe of nature’s majesty and deeply curious about its enigmatic history. It’s an adventure that promises to unveil mysteries while creating memories that will stay with you forever.

Explore some other Treks in India.

Nikhil Singh is the Founder and CEO of The Wanderer India. He establishes the company as a leading online platform for travel and adventure enthusiasts. Under his leadership, the company has grown significantly and has gained a reputation for providing high-quality content and services. In addition to his work with The Wanderer India, Nikhil is also the CEO of NV Rise, a media company that specializes in creating engaging content for online audiences.

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Roopkund Trek

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Reviews (0), things to take, available dates, include / exclude, roopkund trek is most popular in uttarakhand himalayas.

The Roopkund Trek is the most popular trek of all if you are trekking in Garhwal Himalayas Uttarakhand India , the most trek in India. Roopkund is a lake at an altitude of 16,156 feet in Uttarakhand, it is also known as “Mystery Lake”

Roopkund Trek is a picturesque tourist destination that is one of the important places for trekking in the Chamoli district, Uttarakhand Himalayas. This is one of the special treks in the world today, Located within cavernous virgin forests, unending beautiful meadows, and magnificent campsites, this trek is a must-do for every trekker. Roopkund has everything from deep dark forests to breathtaking snow-capped mountains to a frozen lake that is a divine sight to one’s eyes. If you have a quest for Adventure this trek is perfect for you, located at a height of 15,696 ft with bewitching ridges, lush forests, and beliefs of finding humans skeleton in the lake, which are said to be from the Paleolithic age and are clearly visible when the snow melts. This thrilling fact also gives the lake its famous name “The mystery lake”. All this said, the roopkund trek will surely fulfill every one of your Adventure’s thirsts.

The Roopkund Trek is a popular trekking destination in the Indian Himalayas. Here are some of the main highlights of the trek:

• Roopkund Lake: The Roopkund Lake is the main highlight of the trek. The lake is situated at an altitude of 4,800 meters and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is also known as the Skeleton Lake because of the human skeletons that can be seen at the bottom of the lake.
• Stunning Views: The trek offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and Chaukhamba peaks. The trek also passes through beautiful meadows, forests, and waterfalls.
• High Altitude Passes: The trek involves crossing two high altitude passes – the Roopkund Pass and the Junargali Pass. These passes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Cultural Experience: The trek passes through several traditional mountain villages, where trekkers can interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life.
• Flora and Fauna: The trek passes through the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Trekkers can spot Himalayan musk deer, bharal (blue sheep), and several species of birds and butterflies.
• Adventure Activities: The trek involves several adventure activities, such as river crossing, rappelling, and rock climbing, making it an exciting and challenging trekking experience.

Overall, the Roopkund Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural experience, and adventure activities, making it a must-do trek for any avid trekker.

Roopkund Trek is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the trails are thrilling

This place is unique and has hidden stories behind it. Glaciers and snow covered mountains surround this precious Lake, you can see snow and ice everywhere and the trail is exhilarating. It takes you through dense forests and fascinating meadows like Bedni Bugyal and Ali Bugyal. Get majestic views of Mt. Trishul along with this catch the

Views of Chaukhamba Range, Kedarnath , Neelkanth and many more peaks are visible from there which makes this place picture perfect.

Sights to Behold

The trail along the Roopkund trek is an enthralling expedition of walking through the splendid oak and rhododendron forests. Throughout the journey you willbe blessed with magnificent views of Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti. One can gaze at thebreath-taking views of the two massive alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, which almost feels surreal to look at. You can also see the Neel kanth peak, Kedarnath, Chaukhamba range, Kedar Dome and many other gigantic mountains and meadows on your trail to theRoopkund trek. All this beauty makes it one of the most beautiful treks in the country, justifying its popularity.

This divine trek will fill your heart with Adventure, joy, and peace. The lush green forests, along with birds chirping around and with the cold breeze passing through the trees, will calm down your senses and will give you peace like no other. Roopkund is a picturesque, beautiful, and attractive tourist destination in the Himalayas and should be must do for you.

Snow Covered Forests in Roopkund Trek

During your Roopkund trek through undulating meadows and dense forests with abundant trees of Rhododendrons pine forest and Oaks, totally covered in snow and spot some Himalayan animals on the way. Most importantly Roopkund trek is a most popular trek and other Himalayan treks are getting crowded day by day.

However, you will find no other groups on the trail which passes through dense woods serene and unspoiled. Roopkund trek is best for people looking for treks not crowded.

Most Important point for Roopkund Trek?

Before heading towards the itinerary, it is really essential to perceive the reason behind choosing Roopkund trek.

See firstly, the trekking distance is a total of 62 km which is to be covered into 8 days. Yet, it comes under moderate level of easy to moderate because of the things that this trek has to offers. These are:

See firstly, the trekking distance is a total of by taxi 420 Km and on foot 64 km which is to be covered into 07 nights or 8 days. .

Roopkund trek is a high altitude mountain trek Altitudes is 5087 meter

Need proper gear & clothing for sub-zero temperature?

You got to see so many heavenly bodies at one place like the panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, meadows, lakes, pine forests, different variety of flora and fauna surpassing through bona fide Garhwali heritage and Kumaon and valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges

During winter season, this fascinating Roopkund trek remains covered in snow and the white sheet of snow makes it look like a magical wide snow-land or lake.

And, in summers, the bedni valley turns totally different and amusing because of meadows, wildflowers and woods blooming in different colors.

Best Time to visit roopkund trek

The Roopkund trek is at its peak beauty during pre-monsoon (summer) and post-monsoon (Autumn) seasons, therefore making May, June, and September, October the best months to witness the beauty of this magnificent trek. However, the weather conditions are different during both these seasons. During the summer months, the weather conditions can be unpredictable, even so,it is less cold during these months, but the winds can be harsh. If you want to witness the lake in its most frozen form with higher camps covered in snow the summertime is best for you, however the trek during this time can be a little difficult but this mostly depends on the weather conditions. But if are one looking for some added adventure and looking forward to discovering some human skeletons, this season is probably not for you as the lake is frozen making it impossible for the skeletons to peek through.

However, the Autumn season is a better match for you with mostly clear weather conditions and the lake being clearly visible one can easily find some skeletons lying around. During the Autumn season the temperatures are on the higher side,but it is overall less windy,and the higher camps are also snow free making the trek level Moderate.Autumn season is the best for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the lush green forests and are fond of the luxuriant unending greenery.

The altitude we are going to cover in Roopkund Trek

Lohajung base – 7,663 feet

Didna Village – 8096 feet

Ali Bugyal – 11,320 feet

Patar Nachauni – 12,818 feet

Bhagwabasa camp – 14,126 feet

Roopkund trek – 15,756 feet

 The difficulty  level of  Roopkund trek  ?

Roopkund Trek is a moderate trek, roopkund Trek is a mild climb from Lohajung  to Roopkund summit Top, and when roopkund comes back from the summit, it is a completely downhill trek route

When you go on this trek, you will not even know when you have reached the camp, the beautiful view and beautiful hills all around will keep you happy.

This trek is a bit difficult, but if your fitness is good and you have it in your mind that I want to trek then you can do it absolutely. Where help is needed, our guides will support you, you just have to be strong and capable of the trek. One thing is that all you can do is to have courage and I myself am passionate.

Is it a safe Trek ?

Yes this is safe trek. Set amidst the high altitude ranges, concerns among the beginners regarding Roopkund trek safety are indeed very valid questions. We have all the possible probabilities calculated if anything goes off the schedule. All our professional strive their best to provide trekkers with the best experience possible.

Since this is beginner friendly trek we advise trekkers to wary themselves of the path and high altitude medical conditions before proceeding to this trek.

Weather conditions

Weather conditions depend on the time of the year trekkers are travelling. Months from May to October  experience moderate temperatures during the day with substantially colder nights. Monsoons in these areas are moderate in level with favorable conditions to trek.

  Key Points of Roopkund Trek

Duration: –   07 Nights 08 Days from Kathgodam to Kathgodam

Base camp: – Lohajung village

Summer Temperature: – Day 5°C to 15°C-  Night 2° C to 8° C

Roopkund – Altitude: – 16,156 feet

Best Time: – May , June, Sep, Oct

Trek Level: – Moderate

Trek distance: – On foot 64 Km – By taxi 420 km

Group Size: – Minimum 05 people maximum 20 people

Short Itinerary of Roopkund Trek –

Day-1- Pickup to you from Degradun/ Kathgodam railway station – Drive to Lohajung   – 210 Km (9/10 Hours) (7,663 feet) overnight stay hotel

Day-2: Trek from Lohajung to via Wan to Ghairoli Patal (5.5 km) (4/5 Hours) (10,100 feet)

Day-3: Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal (10 km) (5/6 hours) (11,506 feet)

Day-4: Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni (07 km) (4/5 Hours) (12,818 feet)

Day-5: Trek from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa (4.5 km) (4/5 Hours) (14,126 feet) via Kalu Vinayak (14,310 feet)

Day-6: Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further Junargali Top (16,156 feet). Return to Patar Nachauni (10 km) (8/9 Hours) (12,700 feet) via Bhagwabasa.

Day-7: Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung (15 km) (7/8 Hours) (7,663 feet) via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung

Day-8: Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam (210 km) (8/9 Hours)

How to Reach Roopkund Trek

Roopkund trek is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, the trek starts from Lohajung and the nearest main railway station in the district is the Kathgodam station.

If you are traveling from big metro cities, you can reach Delhi via air, train or bus. The basic route for travel isDehliàKathgodamàLohajung

After Reaching Kathgodam, the Himalayan Hikers team would arrange for transportation from Kathgodam railway station to Lohajung .Our vehicles leave between 6 am to 7 am so make sure to reach by then.

Dehradun is the nearest major city to Roopkund trek. Here are the steps to reach Dehradun for the Roopkund trek:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Dehradun is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. It is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dehradun.
• By Train: Dehradun railway station is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a train to Dehradun from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Dehradun.
• By Road: Dehradun is well-connected to major cities in India by road. You can take a bus or taxi to reach Dehradun from Delhi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other nearby cities.

Once you reach Dehradun, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Lohajung, which is the base camp for the Roopkund trek. The distance between Dehradun and Lohajung is around 300 km, and it takes around 10-12 hours to reach by road.

How to reach Kathgodam

By Train: If you are travelling from Delhi, your first option would be to take the Ranikhet Express from Delhi. The train departures at 10.40 pm from Old Delhi Railway Station and reaches Kathgodam at around 5.30 am if you would prefer an overnight journey or you could take the the Uttar sampark Kranti train from Old Delhi that leaves at 4:00pm and would reach Kathgodamby 10:40pm.If you are taking the day train, Uttar sampark Kranti then you would have to stay overnight at Kathgodam.

From Dehardun catch the Doon Express that will departure from Dehradun at 10:30 pm at will arrive at Kathgodam at 7:10 pm.

By Bus: Hop on to an overnight bus from Delhi to Kathgodam, regular buses leave from Anand Bihar ISBT mostly around midnight. You could also find some Volvo buses that leave around 9 pm. Try to reach early at ISBT to get yourself a seat as there are no prior booking or online bookings for Buses to Kathgodam.

(Note: Reach Kathgodam Railway Station between 6:00 am – 7am to catch our team’s pick-up transportation from the station)

Additional Services and Connectivity Availability in Roopkund Trek

Please make sure to carry cash during the start of your Journey from Delhi as there would be no banks or ATMs available during our entire trip. The last ATM would be Kathgodam, but depending on this ATM service would not be advised.

There is no Network reception during the entire trek, so one should be prepared accordingly. You can give your family members our head office contact number in case of some Emergency.

Why to Choose  Himalayan Hikers?

• Himalayan Hikers is one of the oldest trekking organisations, which is organizing trekking and adventure expedition in Uttarakhand Himalayas from almost 32 years.
• We are the local people of Uttarakhand who can provide you the best experience here
• Good and experienced people from more than 20 villages are working with us, who will continue to serve you in your trek and will always be there with you throughout the trek.
• Himalayan Hikers provide the safety of their trekkers and a good experience throughout the trek as well as share every story related to the mountains with you.
• Himalayan hikers will feed you with good, healthy, and delicious food every day during the trek

There are several reasons why you might want to consider trekking Roopkund with Himalayan Hikers team:

• Experienced Team: Himalayan Hikers has an experienced team of trek leaders and guides who have been leading treks in the region for many years. They are well-trained and have the knowledge and expertise to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.
• Safety: Safety is a top priority for Himalayan Hikers. They follow all safety guidelines and protocols to ensure that trekkers have a safe and secure trekking experience. They provide high-quality equipment and gear and take all necessary precautions to prevent accidents and mishaps.
• Well-Organized: Himalayan Hikers is well-organized and takes care of all the logistical details of the trek, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and permits. They have a well-planned itinerary that ensures that trekkers have enough time to acclimatize and enjoy the trek.
• Local Knowledge: Himalayan Hikers has a team of local guides who have an in-depth knowledge of the region and its culture. They can provide valuable insights into the local customs and traditions and help trekkers better understand the area.
• Eco-Friendly: Himalayan Hikers is committed to promoting eco-tourism and minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment. They follow a strict policy of leaving no trace and ensure that all waste is disposed of responsibly.

Will there be electricity in Roopkund trek

Let me tell you that there is no electricity in the forest area of roopkund trek . Here we use Stobe Light and or Solar Light, candal light at the nights

If you come on this trek, then you should bring your own head light and your camera with full charge, if possible, it would be good to bring extra battery backup, and also bring the phone after full charge, today people most of the phone use the same

You will get the last electricity only in our home stay at Lohajung base, where you have to charge the battery of your phone and camera at night.

What do we do for safety in Roopkund trek?

First of all, the safety of trekkers is much more for us, if you see in the trek, then there are all the risks, which I do not think about.

Himalayan Hikers worry more about you that no one should ever have any problem in the trek.

What should we and you keep more safety in the trek

• Whenever you are going for any trek, it is very important that you go completely fit and ready.
• Roopkund trek is Moderate, if you make your feet and your mind calm and strong, you will find the trek very easy.
• While trekking, keep in mind that you are walking on the right route or not always with your guide.
• Most people look somewhere and where they are walking, this can cause twitching in your legs, which can ruin your entire trek.
• It is important to ask your doctor if you have any medical problems
• I should always keep my medical kit with me, it is very important.
• Himalayan Hikers always keep a medical kit with you, such as oxygen cylinders, medicine to be given in emergency on the trek
• If any trekkers have any more problems, then they are brought back to the base camp by laying them in the stretcher.
• Our Camp in Roopkund trek is around the 6000 feet to 13,000 feet where you can not have any problem of oxygen, this is tree line area
• In case of any medical problem, the help of your guide or a well-informed trekkers should be taken
• If there is major health problems inroopkund trek , then Nearest Hospital is in Chamoli- Karanparyag which is about 98  Kms away from Roopkund trek  last option in dehradun and Rishikesh the distance is 257 kms
• Remember that when we go on any trek, we go from low altitude to high altitude, it does not cause much problem on us.
• Our camps also move forward day by day and our bodies also work with the altitudes that are safe for trekkers
• Along with the trek we keep getting acclimatization

Day 1: Pickup to you from Kathgodam railway station – Drive to Lohajung village

Total distance – 210 km – 9/10 Hours journey

Mode of journey – By taxi

Altitude – Lohajung – 7,663 feet

Night stay – Our Home stay – on twin share basis

Our vehicle picks you up from Kathgodam Railway station and en routes to Lohajung, the journey is of 9/10 hours, there will be one or two breaks, have your breakfast and lunch on the way.

We will go through the region of Kumaon and valleys of Shivalik mountain ranges.

The road takes you through picturesque places with beautiful forests and curves with mountain views in the backdrop.

There is a direct road from Gwaldam to Deval but it is damaged due to heavy rains so the other route is preferred, from there we will reach Deval.

Deval is a village from where one can purchase food and kerosene for the journey, now from Deval drive is towards Lohajung.

Road to Lohajung is windy and curvy and an experienced driver is needed to drive on those roads.

Temperature is mostly cold here as we gain height while going upwards and it is rainy and foggy most of the time.

Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel or home stay

Day 2 : Trek from Lohajung to via Wan to Ghairoli Patal

Trek Distance – 5.5 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Mode of journey – On foot

Altitude – Ghairoli Patal – 10,100 feet

Night Stay – Our Camp site – on twin share basis

After having proper breakfast your trek begins, you have to walk on levelled ground, reach village Wan from here you have to walk on flat ground to reach Kulling which is 6 km away from Lohajung.

Kulling is a small village with few people living there, this place looks peaceful. You can spot variety of birds here, the climate is invigorating; you can feel the freshness in the air.

Take a break here after your break descends to the village, the trail is narrow which takes you through houses and pasturelands to a small stream, the water in this stream comes from Neel Ganga.

Continue walking and cross the bridge, now you have to climb a ridge, this is a steep climb, it ends at an altitude of 8,000feet at village Didna.

The trail is through the evergreen alpine forest. Reach the top of the ridge it will take two hours to reach there, the views from here are entrancing and magnificent, you will see open lands on the lap of the mountains.

Didna is a famous village where trekkers stay.

Reach your destination Ghairoli Patal you will reach there through dense forest, the campsite looks alluring, set up your camps in the desired area, hot lunch will be served dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 3 :Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Bedni Bugyal via Ali Bugyal

Trek Distance – 10 km – 6/7 Hours journey

Altitude – Ali Bugyal – 11,506 feet

Have your breakfast in Ghairoli Patal and start your trek to Bedni Bugyal, today you will go through the village of Ali Bugyal, this village is at an altitude of 3410m.

Ali Bugyal is visible from Didna as it is on the top of the mountain.

You have to climb the mountain to reach Ali Bugyal, the trail is not steep, but it is slightly upwards, on the way there are shepherd huts, known as Tolpani.

Now the other climb is steep, but it takes you through picturesque places, there are trees of Oak, Birch, and Rhododendrons only these trees grow there, on the way you can see local people with their sheep, you can communicate with them.

During the spring season the valley gets more beautiful with exotic views blooming flowers make this valley look divine.

You will see the receding treeline and plain grasslands after some hours of the climb the Ali Bugyal unfolds in front of you, it has got fascinating views, there is inherent beauty in this place.

In the month of summer, you can see some beautiful white horses and cows grazing the fields, the fields are all covered by grass and flowers.

From here you can spot the tallest mountain peaks Mrigthuni and Mt. Trishul, the views are the main attention seeker.

Cross the soothing meadows and trek for more half an hour to reach Bedni, there is our campsite where we will set up our tents.

Have your lunch intents and then visit Bedni Kund which is a temple nearby.

Garhwal Himalayan ranges are also visible from here if the weather is clear. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 4 : Trek from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni

Trek Distance – 07 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Altitude – Patar Nachauni – 12,818 feet

Night Stay – Our Camp – on twin share basis

The morning views of Bedni Bugyal are unmatched there are lush green trees and soothing greenery is all around.

Sunrise looks mesmerizing from there. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created Vedas here.

Have your breakfast and then depart to Patar Nachauni which is 5 km away.

The trail is an easy climb following the trail from Bedni campsite is visible till 3km further then it disappears.

Continue trekking and you will sew the other side of the ridge which is entirely different and beguiling, different scenic views in one trek.

It is a delight for trekkers, have full view of charming mountains like Nanda Ghughunti and Trishul.

You can see some waterfalls and narrow streams flowing through the meadows, they add beauty to them.

Reach your campsite Patar Nachauni, it is a meadow from where you get spectacular sight of mountains and the clouds touch the peaks, it looks wonderful, enjoys sightseeing snacks and meal there and then overnight stay in tents.

Day 5 : Trek from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabhasa via Kalu Vinayak (14,310 feet)

Trek Distance – 4.5 km – 4/5 Hours journey

Altitude – Bhagwabhasa camp – 14,126 feet

After breakfast, start your trek to Bhagwabhasa (14,126 feet), it is a 6km long trek, and it takes 4 to 5 hours to reach there. The story behind this place is dancers were converted into stones because goddess Nanda cursed them.

Patthar- stone Nachauni- dancers.

Walk towards Bhagwabhasa and the same trail will take you to Kalu Vinayak temple, to reach the temple you have to travel 2kms by gaining 200ft altitude.

The path isn’t easy, it is uneven and zig-zag in shape so walk carefully because a single mistake can be very dangerous, this climb is worth your every effort because the top will mesmerize you.

It is very windy there because the altitude increases, oxygen decreases at this level, take breaks and drink water while ascending.

The temple has a traditional design and made of stones but it looks beautiful and unique. You can feel spiritualty in the atmosphere there.

Visiting a temple at such a high altitude is very interesting and people who love to explore can only understand this.

When you reach the temple from there you can see Roopkund the place which you are going to visit the next day and your final destination

Also, The view of glittering beautiful amongst all Mt. Trishul on one side and Nandaghunti on the other.

Now, follow the trail which not leveled, it will take you to Bhaguabasa which is 1 km away from here.

The trail is rocky and is not easy to cross, take breaks and continue walking reach Bhaguabasa, the place is a barren piece of land but during monsoon, flowers bloom in this region.

Set up your tents there and dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 6 : Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further Junargali Top (16,156 feet). Return to Patar Nachauni

Distance – 10 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Altitude – Roopkund – 15,756 feet

Night Stay – Camp site – on twin share basis

Early morning we will provide hot tea or coffee then we will leave for Roopkund with packed breakfast because in the morning you can have a clear view of the mountains and later they get covered by the clouds.

Today trek to Roopkund is difficult ascending and 400 meters to Junargali Dhar Top summit (5029 meters).

Roopkund is a glacial lake at high altitude also known as “Mystery Lake” because the human skeletons.

from ancient times are found here and can be seen inside the lake when the ice melts.

You can spot those skeleton on the edge of the lake, you will be lucky enough if you spot them.

After a steep climb, you will see Nanda Devi temple visit that temple from there you can get scenic views,

click pictures spend time there and if the weather is good you can visit Junargali Top which is (16,700 feet) when you reach top it is very windy there,

you will be amazed while standing at Junargali top, the sense of confidence you will feel would be one of the best feeling.

Now return to Patar Nachauni you have to go through Bhagwabhasa the descend is more difficult because while ascending trail was steep and it the trail becomes thrilling while coming down,

Follow the same trail go to a cave-like structure which is known as Bhagwabhasa, descend and you will reach Patthar Nachauni your campsite.

Spend your time in peace and relax your body and mind. Dinner and overnight stay in tents.

Day 7: Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung

Distance – 15 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Altitude – Lohajung – 7,663 feet

Night Stay – Home stay – on twin share basis

Today is the last day of your trek so cherish these moments relish the sunrise and move towards Lohajung.

Today from Bedni Bugyal we will go from another route which goes to Lohajung,

the trail is through the dense forest there are big and thick trees, this place is rich in flora and fauna.

At Wan village,

A famous temple of Latu Devta in which there is puja organized by the villagers.

You can visit this temple or take a break here.

The trail is simple and with the trail, you will spot wooden huts and further you will see the road diverged into two paths.

Descend and you will enter a forest region and there are trees all around.

You can hear birds chirping which is the trail is varying so walk carefully so that you don’t get slipped.

walk further cross some yards and you will reach Gahroli Patal which is opening of a forest.

Then reach the banks of river Neel Ganga continue walking and visit a wan village,

it is a big village surrounded by mountains and from there back to Lohajung by Taxi.

Dinner and overnight stay at tourist guest house.

Day 8 : Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam Railway station

Distance – 210 km – 8/9 Hours journey

Depart for Kathgodam and reach the Railway station by 6:30 pm – 7:00 pm.

Mandatory Documents

Please carry the documents given below.

Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc, Passport and Visa important to foreigners Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker) Declaration Certificates

Note: –   Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.

Necessary Items for trekkers

Backpack (50 to 60 liters) A strongly built backpack with good support is compulsory for a trek. (Rain cover is important)

Sturdy Trekking Shoes The shoes should be strong enough with good support. The people ask if sports shoes would be comfortable but it is good to bring the right trekking shoes.

The Clothes You Should Bring On a Trek Avoid keeping extra clothes because it only makes you backpack heavy.

Trek Pants – The jeans are never suitable for a trek so you need at least 2-3 trek pants for treks carry more for longer treks.

Jacket – Jackets are very important to carry on a trek it protects you against the chilly weather. So carry 2 jackets on a week long trek.

Layers of warm Clothing  Carry warm woolen layers or fleece. Carry more layers during winter season (at least 2 to 3) and less during summer.

Thermals – The Temperature decreases at night so you might be need thermals for Night.

T- Shirts – Bring those t shirts which dry fast.

Poncho –They are needed if you are trekking on a Rainy day to keep you dry.

Hiking Pole

Water Bottle 2

Cap or Balaclava

Woolen and Waterproof Gloves

Socks (Woolen and Regular)

Torch head light

Personal Toiletry Items –  (toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, sanitizer etc.)

Carry Personal Medical Kit

Personal Medical Kit (Carry minimum 5 tablets and maximum 10)

Diamox – (Prevents altitude sickness)

Digene – (It cures discomfort in stomach, acidity)

Crocin Advance – (Cures fever and headache)

Aspirin/Combiflam – (Pain reliever)

Disprin – (Cures headache)

Avomine – (Prevents motion sickness)

Avil – (It treat allergies)

Norflox TZ & Lomofen – (Prevents Diarrhoea)

Ranitidine – (Reduces the amount of acid in stomach)

Volini/Moov spray – (For sprains)

Betadine/Savlon – (Antiseptic cream)

Stretchable/Elastic bandage

Note:- Use medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek, discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.

Sorry! Here are no Available dates right now. For Any Queries you can Email us with [email protected] and Call Us +91 9756197558

What is Included In This Trek?

Forest Permit and entrance fee

Accommodation in Hotel Lohajung

Accommodation in tents on twin share basis

All meals: breakfast, packed lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and dinner

(All camping gears)

High quality tents

Sleeping bags

Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents

Dining Tent

Dining Table

Kitchen team

Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication

Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide

Medical Kit

Oxygen Cylinders

Crampons and Gaiters

What is Not Include In This Trek?

Personal Insurance

Medical Certificate

Personal toiletry Items and Personal Medicine kit

On first day En Route to base camp the Breakfast and Lunch are Not Included

Last Day En Route Lunch and Dinner are Not Included

Transport Facility

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15 Best Treks in December

About treks in december.

If you are looking for the best treks in December, look no further than the iconic Himalayan treks of India. As the winter season announces its arrival, the Himalayan trekking trails adorn a majestic curtain of snow and transform into a unique, serene wonder. From snow-covered meadows and forests to frozen lakes and melting snow showcasing the vibrant colours of autumn hidden underneath, Himalayan treks are an unmissable experience in December.

December draws trekkers looking for a unique adventure on some of the most popular Himalayan treks of India. Witness the majesty of the Himalayas in this transition period from autumn to peak winter, when the lower reaches showcase the vibrant hues of autumn and the higher reaches offer the first glimpse of snow-capped mountains. With less snowfall and dry weather conditions, the best treks in December offer the ideal trekking experience for adventurers who wish to indulge in a hassle-free winter trek through the Himalayas of Uttarakhand and Himachal.

From skiing to camping under the stars, climb through stunning trails and witness the mesmerising beauty of snow-filled meadows, forests, frozen lakes, and the most renowned Himalayan peaks on these adventure-filled treks. Listen to fascinating myths and local legends as you cross villages and temples with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.

Popular Treks to do in December

Explore the most popular Himalayan treks in a new avatar as you embark on the stunning Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, and Chopta-Chandrashila treks. Witness the unique biodiversity of the Sandakphu trek and the most beautiful meadows of India on the Dayara Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal treks. The Himalayas form a central part of Indian mythological traditions, which trekkers can learn about on the Har ki Dun Trek, Prashar Lake Trek, Triund Trek, Bijli Mahadev Trek, and Serolsar Lake Trek.

Admire the most magnificent Himalayan ranges like the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar as you spot iconic Himalayan peaks like Mt Everest, Mt Nanda Devi, Mt Trishul, Mt Chaukhambha and many more on treks like Roopkund, Kareri Lake and Kuari Pass. Indulge in numerous snow adventures like skiing as you go for stunning experiences like the Auli Trek.

One of the best treks in December is the Kedarkantha Trek, an easy-to-moderate trek experience in the Himalayas. Renowned as the Queen of Winter Treks, Kedarkantha has stunning campsites and an adventurous summit climb. Admire the snow-capped landscape filled with lush meadows, forests, villages, rivers, and mountain peaks as you embark on this six-day trek. Listen to fascinating myths from your knowledgeable guide and indulge in the thrills of a night trek in Kedarkantha.

Among the most beautiful treks in December, the Brahmatal Trek is renowned for its snow-filled landscape, two glacier lakes, and mesmerising views of the Himalayan ranges. With stunning sights of the two well-known peaks, Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti, the six-day Brahmatal Trek is an unmissable winter experience. Explore the meadows and centuries-old forests filled with oak and rhododendron trees and learn about the legends of Brahmatal from your guide.

If you are looking for a quick winter trek experience but wish to get the best of the Himalayan adventure, the three-day Chopta-Chandrashila Trek is the perfect choice for you. Popular as one of the most iconic treks in Uttarakhand in December, spot Nanda Devi, Trishul, Kedar Peak, Bandarpunch, and Chaukhamba peaks on this easy-to-moderate trek. Explore the beautiful snow-capped landscape of Uttarakhand’s ‘mini-Switzerland’ at Chopta and the summit of Tungnath, Chandrashila, with a knowledgeable guide.

Popular as a “Trekkers’ Wonderland”, the six-day Sandakphu Trek is one of the best treks to go in December. The trek follows the snow-covered Singalila Ridge of the Himalayas and offers trekkers stunning views of four prominent peaks namely, Mt Everest, Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Lhotse, and Mt Makalu. Experience the cultural beauty of Nepali trekking and admire the biodiversity of Singalila National Park as you spot rare bird and animal species, including red pandas.

An easy-to-moderate trek, the Kuari Pass Trek ranks among the top treks in December in the Himalayas. Admire the beautiful snow-covered meadows and forests filled with oak and rhododendron trees as you come across two of India’s most famous mountain peaks, namely Mt Nanda Devi and Mt Dronagiri. Other prominent peaks trekkers can see on the journey include Mt Chitrakantha, Mt Chaukhamba, and Tali Top, as well as the rivers Bhagirathi and Alaknanda.

Experience the magic of a stunning snow-filled trek as you embark on the Dayara Bugyal Trek, one of the best treks in Uttarakhand in December. The easy-to-moderate trek, which is among the shorter Himalayan winter treks, offers magnificent views of the mountain ranges and peaks like Bandarpoonch, Kala Nag, Shrikhand, Mahadev, and Gangotri. From alpine lakes and calm streams to adventures like skiing, admire the serene beauty of one of India’s highest rolling meadows.

Renowned in trekking circles as the oldest trek route of the Himalayas, the Har ki Dun Trek is among the must-try treks in December. The seven-day trek, which has an easy-to-moderate ranking on the difficulty scale, is a stunning winter wonderland filled with numerous legends and ancient villages. Learn about the fascinating stories of Har ki Dun from your knowledgeable guide as you admire the mesmerising Swargarohini group of peaks in the Himalayas.

Among the most popular December treks in Himachal, the Prashar Lake Trek is a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural beauty of the mountains. A short two-day trek with an easy trail, the trek offers exquisite snow-covered views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Kinnaur ranges. Admire the beauty of the iconic Prashar Lake and listen to fascinating stories about the Prashar Rishi Temple from your highly-experienced guide.

If you are looking for December treks in Himachal, look no further than the quick Kareri Lake Trek, an easy-to-moderate trek that lasts three days. Admire the calming beauty of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas as you travel through the snow-covered pasturelands and dense forests. Soak in the splendid views of the iconic Kareri Lake as you listen to local folklore and learn about the exotic flora of the trek from your guide.

Feel the magic of one of the best treks in Himachal in December as you embark on the Triund Trek, a quick two-day adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. Known as one of the easiest Himalayan treks, Triund Trek is in Dharamshala and offers mesmerising snow-covered views of the Dhauladhar range and Kangra valley. Witness the region’s highest waterfall as you camp under the stars at Triund Trek.

Experience the thrills of trekking in a day as you go for the Bijli Mahadev Trek, one of the pilgrimage treks in Himachal in December. Embark on the quick trek as part of your Kullu-Manali trip with a highly-experienced guide who will narrate intriguing tales about the sacred Bijli Mahadev temple. Witness the snow-covered deodar forests and landscape as you trek amidst the high Himalayan ranges and admire the serenity of the Kullu valley.

Among the offbeat December treks in Himachal is the Serolsar Lake Trek, an easy one-day trek that offers the best of the Himalayan experience. Dotted with pine and deodar forests, the trek has stunning sights like the frozen Serolsar Lake and a 360-degree Viewpoint. Admire the magnificent views of the Pir Panjal and Great Himalayan ranges as you learn about the intriguing myths and religious beliefs surrounding this lake from your guide.

Admire the snow-capped beauty of the Himalayas as you embark on the Auli Trek, one of the most iconic treks in Himachal in December. The easy five-day trek includes a fun cable car ride along with traversing through snow-filled landscapes and oak and coniferous forests. Witness Nanda Devi and other Himalayan peaks and explore local villages and their cultural traditions with two highly-experienced guides. Trekkers can also enjoy adventures like skiing on the Auli Trek.

Undoubtedly one of the most popular Indian treks, Roopkund Trek is among the must-try treks in Uttarakhand in December. A nine-day trek, Roopkund ranks among the moderate-to-difficult Himalayan treks and has everything trekkers seek, from dense forests, calm streams, and huge snow-capped meadows to beautiful campsites and tons of adventure. Among the best experiences is climbing on snow to reach Roopkund Lake and witnessing the iconic Mt Trishul of the Himalayas.

The Bedni Bugyal Trek, among the most stunning treks in Uttarakhand in December, offers exquisite views of the grandest meadows of the Himalayas. From snow-covered rhododendron and oak forests to giant Himalayan peaks like Mt Trishul and Mt Chaukhambha, the views en route to Ali Bedni Bugyal are mesmerising. The six-day trek has a moderate difficulty level and is suitable for trekkers looking for adventure and natural sights combined in one trekking experience.

Why December is the Best Time for Trekking?

The unparalleled beauty of snow-covered Himalayas comes alive on treks in December, which sees the beginning of the snow season in the region.

The first snowfall occurs in mid-November, and by early December the deposits of snow are substantial, particularly on the treks that reach up to 10,000 feet. Most treks in December lack the heavy blanket of snow, which makes it better to go trekking this month.

As the winter season progresses, the blanket of snow thickens, making trekking more difficult and dangerous.

The peak winter season also means frequent heavy snowfall, which often disrupts trek plans.

With clear skies and less snowfall, the best treks in December can be experienced without any hassles.

Another lesser-known fact is that as the snow is not deep, it melts quickly between snowfalls and exposes the colourful landscape underneath, creating a uniquely beautiful sight of the Himalayan landscape.

The Himalayan treks to go in December offer favourable weather conditions to trekkers.

As December marks the beginning of the winter season, the temperatures drop below zero degrees but are still manageable as compared to peak winters.

December treks in Himachal and Uttarakhand are marked by temperatures that are just the right amount of cold, making it comfortable for trekkers who wish to experience the Himalayan cold and snow without freezing.

The air in treks to go in December has a sharp chill and is dry due to lack of precipitation, making the month a good time to visit for hassle-free trekking.

Since December sees negligible precipitation, meaning no overcast skies or wet trails, the trek experience does not have the added weather challenges.

The weather in December allows you to see the vibrant Himalayas of the autumn season in the lower reaches, and the snow-covered charm of winter as you climb higher.

Himalayan treks in December are a stunning sight to behold. The peak trekking season in the Himalayas is generally in the spring or autumn season, so when you explore the treks to go in December, you sign up for a rare adventure in the snow-covered mountains.

Witness the magical landscape of the Himalayas in December, when you would see the vibrant hues of autumn in the lower reaches and the white landscape of winter in the upper regions.

As you embark on the uniquely beautiful trails, you enter the land of the mystical Himalayas of our mythological traditions.

Soak in the refreshing chills of winter as you admire the serene beauty of the snow-covered meadows, tall and dense forests, frozen lakes, flowing streams, and snow-capped mighty mountains.

The Uttarakhand treks and treks in Himachal in December promise to reshape the trekker within you through unique adventures like skiing and camping under the stars.

FAQs About Treks in December

Which are the best treks in the himalayas in december.

The best treks in December in the Himalayas include the Kedarkantha Trek, Brahmatal Trek, Chopta-Chandrashila Trek, Kuari Pass Trek, Dayara Bugyal Trek, Har ki Dun Trek, Prashar Lake Trek, and many more. With the natural beauty and cultural reference these treks will make your experience unforgettable.

Which are the best easy treks in the Uttarakhand Himalayas in December?

The easiest and best treks in Uttarakhand in December include the Kedarkantha Trek, Brahmatal Trek, Chopta-Chandrashila Trek, Kuari Pass Trek, Dayara Bugyal Trek, and the Har ki Dun Trek. With their duration varying from two to seven days, the treks cater to all kinds of trekkers and offer mesmerising sights and Himalayan adventures.

Which trek is best in December?

The best treks in December are the snow treks, which include Himalayan treks like Kedarkantha, Brahmatal, Chopta-Chandrashila, Sandakphu, Kuari Pass, Dayara Bugyal, Har ki Dun, Prashar Lake, Kareri Lake, Triund, Bijli Mahadev, Serolsar Lake, Auli, Roopkund, and Bedni Bugyal. Indulge in adventures like skiing as you witness the snow-covered Himalayas.

Is December a good time for trekking?

Yes, December is a good time for trekking in the Himalayas. As winter begins, most trails see fewer crowds, allowing visitors to explore at leisure. Treks in December see the snow season, which draws trekkers looking for a thrilling trekking experience. Witness the unparalleled beauty of snow-capped mountains as you challenge yourself at the snow-covered treks.

Is December a good time to trek to Nepal?

Yes, December is a good time to trek to Nepal. While trekking in Nepal is popular in the spring and autumn months, treks to go in December have unique advantages and see many trekkers coming along. During the non-peak season, trekkers can enjoy trails with fewer crowds, and witness the spectacular views underneath clear skies.

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Roopkund Trek

Chamoli,Garhwal,Uttarakhand

Moderate to Difficult

Maximum Altitude

INR 14,500/- Per Person Haridwar to Haridwar

Available Date

8th June to 15th June 2024

About Roopkund Trek

In the world of Himalayas, The Name Roopkund is a Legend, and provides an inner thrill and goosebumps to all the explorer throughout the world. The Mysterious lake famous for the Human Skeleton found at the edge of this famous Lake of Uttarakhand. Every Trekkers dream destination, every Historians paradise and one of the most important spot of Hindu Mythology.

Roopkund, the high altitude glacial lake of Uttarakhand, lies in the lap of Trishul massif and to the Base of Mt.Nanda Ghunti of Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Situated at an altitude of 16470 ft. the area around the lake is uninhabited, surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains. And to the north of Lake a rock face named Junargali guards it,and to the East one could see a peak named Chandania Kot.

The Skeleton mystery has suppresed the mythical fact of it's name "ROOPKUND"

A beautiful mythological stories runs around the mysterious lake. A thrilling climb to the Mysterious lake is every adventurers dream. The trekking trail in the lower altitude goes through interior villages, inside the Banj Oak and then Kharsu Oak jungles to finally Rhododendrons. The Tree Line recedes and alpine meadow or locally called “Bugyal” starts. Sprawling meadow, common to this altitude in Himalaya, but this picturesque span needs a special mention. Ali Bugyal, combined with Bedni Bugyal arguably delivers finest of alpine meadows that you can see on the Himalayas. Mighty Himalayan peaks peep behind while tiny little myriads of wild flower carpet the grassy slopes during monsoon . On higher altitude barren rocky terrain coupled with snow and ice ignite the adventurous mind. Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks cordon the area while Mrigthuni Chaukhamba, Neelkanth and other peaks set the backdrop.

Roopkund holds a special place in the world of Mountaineering and trekking, to the noth of the Lake lies Junargali Col. One attempts Ronti Saddle as well.

Reporting at Kathgodam/Haridwar , then drive to Lohajung :-

After arrival on Kathgodam/Haridwar, drive to Lohajung, which is about 210kms, through beautiful town Gwaldam, Tharali, Deval. On arrival briefing and registration to be completed, by the Trek Leader. Relax yourself and get prepared for the next day adventure. Overnight at Guest House/Lodge.

Lohajung to Didna Village ( 8000ft, 7 KM, 5 Hr) After hot breakfast, we move for our first campsite Didna. Today we cover 7 km long trek in 5-6 hr crossing the rhododendron tree jungle.Spot the beauty of the Neelganga river as you ascend during the trek. Trek towards the snowy trail and arrive at the pristine Roopkund Glacier Lake. After, admiring the beauty of the famous lake, traverse through mixed forests of oak and bamboo to arrive at Didna Village. Arrive at your first base camp and enjoy a hot dinner by the campsite.Overnight stay in camp.

Didna to Ali Bugyal (10,400ft, 11KM, 8 Hr) After early breakfast, we start trek for Ali Bugyal,  one of the  largest meadows of the trail, which resembles to a Windows XP homescreen. The trail takes you through oak and bamboo forests. You can also spot the snow-capped Garhwal Himalayas during the trek, keep enough water today for the trail, and the windcheater handy. Arrive at Ali Bugyal, and immerse in the beauty of open alpine grazing meadows as you relish over the dinner. Overnight stay at Ali Bugyal

Ali Bugyal to Patharnachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani (10 kms., 7-8hrs)

Today is the easiest and beautiful day, the trail will be through the beautiful alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, one could prominently spot Nanda Ghunti and Trishul on the east side of the trail. After Bedni Bugyal there is a mild steep ascent till Ghora Lotani. Ghora Lotani has got its name from a myhtological story as well. We recommend everyone to keep windcheater handy as one could face cold winds in the bugyal, and as we gain altitiude one may get mild AMS sysmptoms, so keep yourself hydrated properly. After the ascent reach Patharnachauni, relax yourself in the beautiful ambience. Overnight stay at Camps

Patharnachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak Temple (4 kms).

Today may be a short distance but keep yourself ready to meet a steep ascending slope. After morning breakfast, start a steep climb to KaluVinayak Temple, which is dedicated to Bhagwan Ganesh. As you reach the KaluVinayak Temple the entire surrounding changes, like opening a window, from where the beautiful peaks of Garhwal is prominently visible like Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul, Nanda Ghunti. We will be reaching Bhagwabasa in the afternoon, this is the base camp of Roopkund lake and Highest campsite. Be prepared for an extreme cold night. Today we will be sleeping early. Overnight stay at camps.

Bhagwabasa to Roopkund , then return to Patharnachauni .(16Kms)

Today is the most important day, so we will be starting as early as possible. The first part of the trail till Roopkund is gradual ascent with some steep sections in between, where one may need technical support for which the Team Leader/Trek Leader of Himalayan Passion will be there to assist you. On the last part one have climb down 100m to reach the beautiful mysterious lake. On reaching, get goosebumps from this holy place and observe the skeletons around the lake. It is strictly forbidden to touch the skeletons/carry, if anyone found touching or carrying the skeletons will be expelled from the group. If time permits we will go to the Junargali col, which is just 200m to the north of the Lake. Prepare to return to Patharnachauni, reach the campsite around the late afternoon. 

Patharnachuni  to  Lohajung (15 kms.)

Today is the last day of the trek, we will descent down to the valley where river Neel Ganga welcomes us. The trek to Wan, from Wan we will drive to Lohajung. Overnight stay at Homestay/Hotel.

Lohajung to Kathgodam/Haridwar Drive(220kms)

Early morning we will start our journey from Kathgodam to Lohajung, plan your return journey from Kathgodam after 9PM. We will drop you at Kathgodam railway station, Our journey ends here, leave your footprints take only memories.

"What included"

Cost of accommodation in Huts/Hotels/Homestays two night in Lohajung Cost of transportation from Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh to Dehradun/Haridwar/Rishikesh Cost of Fooding while on trek (Morning and evening Tea, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner- meals will be provided. Breakfast-Roti, Sabji/Maggi, etc., Lunch/Dinner-Rice/Roti, Sabji, Dal, Achar, etc.).(Day 1:- Dinner to Day 6:- Dinner) Technical Camping equipments:- Tents(sharing basis), Sleeping Bag, Mattress, Utensils, Microspikes, Technical climbing equipments Guide,Support staff,cook, Supporting crew. Cost of Permit fees.

"What not included"

Cost of Personal expenses. Hotel in Haridwar/Kathgodam. Cost of emergency due to bad weather conditions. Cost of personal porter for offloading Meals during transit i.e. meals while on road or travelling will not be provided. No meals will be provided in Last day (Day 7) Anything which is not mentioned in the inclusion.

Things to carry on a trek, check out the blogs by our clients.

We at Himalayan Passion always encourage the Trekkers and participants to write a story or blog to express their feelings and emotions about mountains, and how they enjoyed the trek, which will be a document of memories for the participants, team members and for Himalayan Passion as well 

WEAL AND WOE ENROUTE "ROOPKUND TREK"

Have a question in your mind?

call us or whatsapp

+91-9748955458   +91-9674715111

click the whatsapp button to start whatsapp chat

to know our office location and more details

Booking Policy:

To book your trek, you need to pay 30% of the trek fees as advance. Rest 70% to be paid in cash when you reach the basecamp, to be collected by the team leader.

One can pay the amount online(Net Banking, GPay, UPI ID). 

Details to be shared on request.

Cancellation Policy:

30 days before the trek date, full refund of the paid amount

15 days before the trek date, 50% refund of the paid amount.

Cancellation less than 15days to the start date of the trek, no refund possible

In case Himalayan Passion cancels the trek or trip, full refund will be paid.

One has option to send another person on their behalf.

One has option to adjust the paid amount on any other trek, if a person cannot join the trek he/she paid for. 

13 Best Himalayan Treks To Do in October, November, and December in India

In October, November, and December, the Himalayas, famed for their breathtaking trekking options, are at their best. The greatest hikes throughout this late fall to early winter season are examined in this article. For hiking in the Himalayas, choosing the proper season is crucial. These months are perfect for travelers because they provide bright skies, comfortable temperatures, beautiful landscapes, plentiful animals, cultural experiences, and lower weather threats. A compelling and safe experience unlike any other may be had when trekking in the Himalayas throughout October, November, and December.

1. Kedarkantha Trek:

The Kedarkantha Trek , which is situated in the gorgeous state of Uttarakhand, is an excellent option for anyone looking for a trekking experience in late fall. Starting at Sankri, the walk progressively ascends to the Kedarkantha Base Camp. Its modest complexity makes it appropriate for both novice and seasoned hikers. The route is decked with colorful fall leaves in October and November, resulting in a stunning panorama.

Also Read : Thrilling Kedarkantha Trek 2023: Uttrakhand Adventure

2. Har ki Dun Trek:

The modest Har ki Dun Trek , another treasure of Uttarakhand, begins at Sankri and leads you through the breathtaking Govind National Park . The best months for this journey are October and November. As you pass by historic towns like Osla and Taluka, the route provides a window into Himalayan culture. The trek’s high point is the snow-capped peak-surrounded Har ki Dun.

Also Read : Compelling Reasons to Start the Har Ki Doon Trek

3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek:

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a fantastic option if you’re going to Nepal in October or December. Trekkers may enjoy breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Machapuchare mountain ranges as they make their way from Pokhara to the base camp. This easy hike has a variety of landscapes, from dense woods to winding pathways. The best part is getting to the base camp, which is surrounded by beautiful peaks. Along the route of the journey, you may discover the diverse cultures of the Gurung and Magar populations.

4. Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek:

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek in October and November is an amazing experience for those looking for a more difficult expedition. Highlights include experiences with local culture, including the indigenous Bhutia and Limbu populations, and breathtaking vistas of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.

5. Kuari Pass Trek:

The Kuari Pass Trek , which takes place in Uttarakhand, is renowned for its breathtaking vistas of the Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Kamet peaks. This simple to moderately difficult trek begins from Haridwar and ascends through Joshimath to the Kuari Pass. One of the highlights is Kuari Pass, often known as the “Curzon Trail,” which offers stunning Himalayan views.

Also Read : Top 5 Reasons to Choose Winter Kuari Pass Trek

6. Roopkund Trek:

The Roopkund Trek in October and November offers an intriguing mix of mystery and adventure. This trip, which starts at Lohajung, takes you to the enigmatic Roopkund Lake, which is surrounded by beautiful meadows and is noted for its skeleton remains. The Roopkund Lake itself, which is steeped in legend and surrounded by snow-capped hills, is unquestionably the centerpiece.

Also Read : Exploring the Serene Lakes of Uttarakhand

7. Hampta Pass Trek:

The thrilling Hampta Pass Trek is available in Himachal Pradesh and is ideal for October and November. This hike starts in Manali and ends in Chatru after passing through the Hampta Valley. Landscapes along the path dramatically shift from verdant valleys to stony deserts. The Lahaul Valley may be seen in amazing detail when hikers pass via the Hampta Pass. A cultural element is added to the journey through contacts with local shepherds and their grazing animals along the way.

8. Dayara Bugyal Trek:

The Dayara Bugyal Trek in Uttarakhand is a wonderful option if you’re looking for a very simple trek in December. This journey from Haridwar takes you to Dayara Bugyal’s wide alpine meadows. Rhododendron flowers and oak trees line the route, giving it a lovely appearance. Dayara Bugyal provides peaceful camping with sweeping views of Bandarpoonch and Draupadi ka Danda peaks while being covered in snow in December. Dayara Bugyal trek is among the best winter and snow treks for beginners.

Also Read : Dayara Bugyal – the finest meadow trek in Uttarakhand

9. Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek:

An exciting trip to the Nanda Devi Sanctuary , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the Nanda Devi Base Camp Trek in October and November. This walk, which starts in Munsiyari, takes you into the untainted nature of the Kumaon area. The Milam Glacier is traversed by the path, which also provides breathtaking views of Nanda Devi’s East and West summits. Trekkers also get to see the region’s distinctive vegetation and animals.

Also Read : 10 Toughest and Most Difficult Treks in India in 2023 to Push Your Boundaries

10. Triund Trek:

Starting at McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh, the Triund Walk is a beautiful walk that takes place in October and November. It is ideal for novices because of its modest difficulty level and breathtaking vistas of the Dhauladhar range. The highlight of the hike is arriving at the Triund campground, which is located between rhododendron trees and meadows. Trekkers can experience tranquil camping while taking in the splendor of the Himalayas.

Also Read : Explore 33 Best Places for Treks in Himachal Pradesh in 2023 for All Levels

11. Prashar Lake Trek:

In Himachal Pradesh, Prashar Lake , the best Trek in October and November offers a tranquil retreat. This journey, which starts in Mandi, takes you to the beautiful Prashar Lake, which is encircled by a pagoda-style temple. The route provides views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar hills from a distance as well as beautiful vegetation. With its fantastical beauty, Prashar Lake is the ideal location for rest and contemplation.

Must Read : Preparing for Himalayan Winter treks – 9 Prerequisites

12. Rupin Pass Trek:

The tough Rupin Pass Trek in October and November starts from Dhaula in Uttarakhand. You will go via the Rupin Pass, which separates the lush Garhwal area from the desolate Kinnaur region, on this walk. Waterfalls, snow bridges, and isolated settlements along the path, which is popular with hikers. A feeling of achievement and breathtaking vistas are provided by the Rupin Pass itself.

Also Read : Rupin Pass, a medley of beautiful trails

13. Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek:

The Deoriatal Chandrashila Trek departs from Haridwar and is a spectacular winter trek. This is one of the best places to trek in December. You may reach Deoriatal Lake by this straightforward to difficult hike, which is encircled by oak and rhododendron trees. The Chandrashila Peak, which provides sweeping vistas of the Garhwal Himalayas, including Nanda Devi and Trishul peaks, is the trek’s high point. The journey offers visitors a chance to explore local culture by visiting nearby communities.

Finally, setting off on the top Himalayan treks in October, November, or December is an unforgettable experience that allows you to see the mountains at their most beautiful. These treks provide a combination of natural beauty and cultural complexity, from the breathtaking scenery of the Kedarkantha Trek in November to the tranquil paths of the Dayara Bugyal Trek in December.

Therefore, the Himalayas are waiting for your feet if you’re looking for the best trekking places in India in September, October, November, or December. For an experience unlike any other, lace up your boots and tackle these treks in the months after the monsoon and late in the fall.

Equipment and Gear Recommendations:

It’s crucial to have the proper gear for hiking in the Himalayas in October, November, and December:

• Clothing Layers for Cold Weather: Layering your clothing is essential when it’s cold outside. Start with base layers that drain away moisture, add layers of insulation for warmth, and conclude with an outer layer that is waterproof and windproof.
• Footwear and hiking Poles: Invest in a pair of reliable, waterproof, and grippy hiking boots. Trekking poles provide you stability and ease the pressure on your knees as you descend.
• Sleeping Bags and Tents: Make sure you have a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather that can resist below-freezing temperatures . For a pleasant camping trip, high-quality, lightweight tents are a need.

Must Read : How to Pack Your Backpack

Which are the best Himalayan trekking regions during this period?

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Home » Shop » Roopkund Trek

• GETTING THERE
• Detailed Itinerary
• COST INCLUSIONS
• CANCELLATIONS
• 1 Week trek
• Garhwal Treks
• Moderate Grade Treks in Himalayas
• Summer Treks
• Uttarakhand

Roopkund Trek:

Updates on Roopkund trek 2023: Erstwhile the most popular high altitude trek Roopkund remains CLOSED as of 2023 . You may check Ali Bedni Bugyal trek which covers almost all attractions of the trail without the lake! The trail is in pristine condition due to very rare visits by the trekkers and is an excellent choice who wish to avoid crowds, yet wish to get fantastic mountain views and some significant general aspects of a Himalayan hike.

As per Uttarakhand High Court order (Petition No. : 123 / 2014) in August 2018, one can not camp on alpine meadows or grassland, locally called Bugyal. Therefore we inform you with regret that we won’t be able to run any Roopkund trek for this season. Check here the notice  issued by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF), Uttarakhand in accord with the court verdict. On 26th Sep’18 a reconsideration appeal is also turned down by the court and the possibility to arrange Roopkund trek is next to nil .

Roopkund – India’s most popular summer trek is closed due to Bugyal camping ban:

As we update this page on March 2019, there has been no positive outcome on trekking to Roopkund. As a responsible tour operator we are always committed to Green, Eco Friendly treks which are sustainable and have minimal impact on the environment. However the honourable court had a different opinion which put a bar on camping at Bedni Bugyal and Patar Nachuni, two back to back campsites on Roopkund trail. In reality this means, one has to push 16 hours or probably more to reach Roopkund from a permitted campsite and return! Who would have thought last summer that this will be the end of it? Below pictures are shared by our trekkers during 2018 summer treks.

As Roopkund trek is closed, which trek I may consider?

It is still possible to enjoy the magnificent peak views and sprawling meadows through our Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal trek . It is true that you can’t reach Roopkund anymore, but you will literally spend two full days on alpine meadows while camping inside jungle. Needless to say that you will get to see all the peaks in this trek as well. This is certainly a suitable alternate for those who want to avoid large trekking groups during peak season and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Remember that the proposed trek is shorter in duration, still imposes a “ Moderate ” trekking grade. Also Check our Fixed Departure Trek Calendar 2019   for a general listing of available treks.

Roopkund an alpine medium size lake, situated at an altitude of 16000 ft inside the district of Chamoli in Garhwal region (State of Uttarakhand), bordering western flank of Kumaon. Roopkund trek route has almost everything a high Himalayan trek can offer. Two seasons, first one in Summer/Pre Monsoon ( around two months starting in early May) and the other being Post Monsoon/Fall ( for 2 months, starting from early September) spanning around a window of 4 months in a calendar year.

The trekking trail in the lower altitude goes through interior villages, inside the Banj Oak and then Kharsu Oak jungles to finally Rhododendrons. Around ~ 3300 m/11000 ft the Tree Line recedes and alpine meadow or locally called “Bugyal” starts. Sprawling meadow, common to this altitude in Himalaya, but this picturesque span needs a special mention. Ali Bugyal, combined with Bedni Bugyal arguably delivers finest of alpine meadows that you can see on the Himalayas. Mighty Himalayan peaks peep behind while tiny little myriads of wild flower carpet the grassy slopes during monsoon . On higher altitude barren rocky terrain coupled with snow and ice ignite the adventurous mind. Trishul and Nandaghunti peaks cordon the area while Mrigthuni Chaukhamba, Neelkanth and other peaks set the backdrop.

This is not all. The lake is often called Mystery Lake or Skeleton Lake. Skeletons of over 200 people remain in and around this shallow lake of maximum 2 metre depth. The cold climate helped to preserve the hairs and soft tissues. Stories and legends meet to a logical conclusion that a group of pilgrims reached the lake with locals and were crossing the Junargali Pass above Roopkund. Bad weather sealed their fate. Scientific research unveil that the skeletons are as old as dating back to ~ 850 A.D. ( Source : The Nanda Devi Affair, Bill Aitken, ISBN: 9780140240450; National Geographic : Riddles of the dead: Skeleton Lake). Recently in August 2019 an experiment result is published regarding these skeletons in Nature magazine. Read here for the revelations of the Roopkund skeletons .  It is truly a fascinating journey to listen the legends from the local and experiencing the present.

Watch this fantastic short film “Roopkund – Rocking The Himalayas” depicting the journey to Roopkund. This is filmed and edited by Mario Yáñez Aller. He trekked with HT during May/June 2015 season. This is shared for viewing purpose only.

Filming and editing: Mario Yáñez Aller Music: Dirty Paws .-. Of Monsters and Men Cameras: GoPro 4 Silver Edition, Canon EOS 70D, Canon EOS 350 D

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1:  Drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung – 220 Km – 10/11 hours Day 2: Lohajung to Didna – 10 Km – 4/5 hours Day 3: Didna to Bedni Bugyal – 12 Km – 6/7 hours Day 4: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachuni – 4 Km – 2/3 hour Day 5: Patar Nachuni to Baguabasa – 5 Km – 4/5 hours Day 6: Baguabasa to Roopkund and back to Patar Nachuni – 12 Km – 8/10 hours Day 7: Patar Nachuni to Wan – 17 Km – 8/9 hr – 1 hour drive back to Lohajung Day 8:  Drive from Lohajung to Kathgodam – 220 Km – 10 hours

*** Trekkers need to reach on their own to Kathgodam on Day 1 morning (by 7 am) or the  previous night. Return to Kathgodam on Day 8 evening (by 7 pm). Arrange your tickets for  inward journey and return from Kathgodam accordingly ***

Update of treks in May/June 2018:

This season, weather unusually turned rough during early weeks of May. It snowed in first and second week, as low down till Ali Bugyal (~ 11000 ft), accumulating more than one foot of snow at Baguabasa. Groups started reaching Roopkund including HT’s only after mid of May. At the end of May snow condition reduced naturally, having 3/4 hours walking on snow, all together. Weather is also cleared up, with great views of the mountains. Some moments from our May teams.

Why Roopkund with HT?

We believe that we have the best local support team in the region with whom you are probably safest on the trail. From our inception in 2010 we have arranged this trek and we know the seasonal variations, changing weather patterns and rightly judge the adverse conditions. Our group size for Moderate treks like Roopkund is limited to a maximum of 15 trekkers that you can enjoy and at the same time we can manage efficiently. Apart from the standardised camping equipment and medical kit, you are accidentally insured in your Roopkund trek with us.

Altitude and distance profile graph for Roopkund trek:

Below is a graphical representation of the altitude and distance of major points on Roopkund trek trail.

Can I try Roopkund trek as my first hiking/trekking on the Himalayas?

Yes you can try Roopkund trek as your first trek. It is always better if you have prior hiking/trek experience(s) like in Sahyadris or in Deccan or perhaps on any trail. Experiences walking on snow/icy conditions definitely helps in pre monsoon/summer season. This is NOT a Difficult but a Moderate grade trek and we do encourage first timers on this trail. But not to forget that this takes you to an alpine lake which is really high altitude in any standard (Just less than 16000 ft). To minimise the risk (as that any high altitude Himalayan trekking) you must have the following:

• A healthy physical condition [as well as mental; You need to adjust and share on mountains :-)] without any known issues related to heart or lungs.
• Must be in a fitness training schedule. Your focus should be achieving more cardio vascular output through a regular aerobic training. A minimum of 2 months training is a must that you can walk comfortably on the slope. People will find it easier who are already following a routine. It is it highly advised that you follow a minimum of 6 months routine (weekly 4/5 days of training for an hour or more) if you are not living an active life at present. To know more on how to prepare, click here.
•  Specialised personal gears like waterproof trekking shoes, warm jacket, wind cum waterproof jacket are must.  To read on how to choose the right gear click here.
• And most importantly you need reliable and experienced support team who know every corner of the trail. In high altitude an unexpected weather can increase the risk many fold. Trekkers who wish to go independently must have an experienced freelance guide and his team to provide support and guidance that you are safely back to trek base.

Is Roopkund trek better in Summer (May/Jun) or Post Monsoon Sep/Oct)?

Well, each season has its own beauty, and advantages. In India, summer treks are popular for much anticipated reasons. A summer vacation, respite from scorching days along with snowy alpine lake are solid to be a compelling proposition. No wonder that Roopkund trek is de facto the most popular summer trek in India. If you are not keen on these but like to hike on the same trail over lush greener meadows (Bugyals are indeed best in Aug/Sep), flowers in abundance then post monsoon is the right choice for you. So the journey of the frozen Roopkund in summer is a different one than the original skeletal lake as seen in post monsoon. Actually there is no disadvantage in any season (assuming you have a solid support team) and you may choose as per your own taste 🙂

Access to Roopkund trek base (Lohajung) and Kathgodam:

We will arrange a pickup  from Kathgodam railway station to trek base Lohajung and drop to Kathgodam. This will be shared by the team members on actual basis and paid directly to the driver. his will be shared equally by the team members on actual basis (usually Rs 800/1000 one way). You pay directly to the driver/transporter. The fare is Rs 5500 for a Tata Sumo/Mahindra Maxx one way. This can accommodate 6 to 8 people. A Tempo Traveller charges Rs 9000 (12-14 seat) one way.  This is NOT included in TREK FEE.

It takes 8/9 hours to reach Kathgodam from Delhi.

Take overnight Ranikhet Express (Train No 15013) from Delhi  Junction(STN Code: DLI), which departs at 10 pm. From New Delhi (NDLS), it is hardly 4 Km, but may take 30 min in Auto Rickshaw. Just adjacent metro station is Chandni Chowk. If the tickets are already wait-listed you can:

Book online Volvo/AC bus from Delhi  UTC (Uttarakhand Transport Corporation https://utconline.uk.gov.in/ ). Select Anand Vihar ISBT (45 mins in Blue line metro from New Delhi, NDLS) to Haldwani city , 7 Km before Kathgodam. Reserve an auto rickshaw/shared from Haldwani to Kathgodam. There are frequent ordinary/regular busses by state corporations from Anand Vihar ISBT/Terminal to Haldwani in the evening. Tickets are on boarding. You can get private busses from booking portals.

While returning from Kathgodam to Delhi, similar options for overnight

To reach the trek base Lohajung independently/public transportation and more, check the details in GETTING THERE TAB.

Download  the list of things to carry in Roopkund trek

Duration:  6 days of trekking; Walking from Lohajung to Roopkund and back to Wan. 8 days from Kathgodam to Kathgodam.

Prerequisite:  Prior Himalayan trekking experience is a plus. Specially in the summer/pre monsoon due to snow and icy conditions.

Grade:  Moderate

Physicality:  6.5/10

Trail Length: 55 Km

Highest Point: Roopkund ~ 4800m/15750ft

Seasons:  May/June (Summer/Pre monsoon) & September/October (Post Monsoon/Fall)

Further Option:  From Roopkund climb Junargali and continue to Homkund and finally to Ronty Saddle.  Difficult long duration trek.

Access:  Trek starting point (trek base) is Lohajung, 220 Km from Kathgodam.

Rail station: Kathgodam (Station Code: KGM)

Airport: Delhi

Upcoming scheduled dates for Roopkund trek:  

• You can check the scheduled Fixed Departure dates in the calendar available inside Booking Form or inside REGISTER NOW form. Tour starting Dates are highlighted as per our itinerary ( Day 1 of  8 days itinerary ).
• At present BOOK NOW functionality is disabled . You can get all the information in your email by submitting the REGISTER NOW form.
• If you are a group of people and available dates are not matching then you may select Custom date mode  (by clicking the Select your custom date) and fill in the displayed form.
• You can also check all the available dates at a glance in our TREK CALENDAR .
• Trekkers need to reach Kathgodam on Day 1 morning (latest by 7 am). Return to Kathgodam on Day 8 evening (7 pm). Arrange your tickets for inward journey and return accordingly.

How to reach Lohajung (The trek base):

Nearest Rail station: Kathgodam (Station Code: KGM)

Nearest   Airport: Delhi

We will arrange a pick up and drop from Kathgodam to Lohajung and back. This will be shared equally by the team members on actual basis. You pay directly to the driver/transporter. The fare is Rs 5500 for a Tata Sumo/Mahindra Maxx one way. These can accommodate 6 to 8 people. Similarly a Tempo Traveller charges Rs 9000 which can accommodate 12 people. This is NOT included in the TREK FEE and to be payable directly to the driver/owner.

If you wish to reach our Trek Base Lohajung on your own by public transportation:

• From Kathgodam there is no direct bus or shared car service to Lohajung. Reach latest by 6 am to Haldwani (The city, 4 Km before Kathgodam) and take a shared Jeep service to Deval. This is is 25 Km before Lohajung. From Deval you may get another shared service to Lohajung or you may have to hire one.
• If you travel from Haridwar side, then reach Rishikesh on the previous night (Day 0, 25 Km from Haridwar) and board the bus for Mandoli/Lohajung at 5 am next morning. This private bus takes 12 to 14 hours to reach Lohajung. As this is a privately operated bus so may not operate during the high demand of Chardham yatra season. The route is via Devprayag, Rudraprayag, Karanprayag, Tharali and Deval. 260 Km.
• From Lohajung the bus to Rishikesh starts early in the morning by 6 am and reach by 6 pm .

How to reach Kathgodam:

For the treks in Kumaon or in the bordering area of Garhwal, one has to reach Kathgodam/Haldwani normally. Lal Kuan is just 20 Km and Haldwani is 5 Km before Kathgodam. Bus, shared taxi and private cars are available.

You can fly or by train reach New Delhi as per your convenience from any part within India. Reach Delhi accordingly that you have enough time for transit withing Delhi.

There are direct trains from Kolkata to Kathgodam(KGM)/Lal Kuan(LKU)

BAGH EXPRESS – Train No. 13019 (ONLY book when you stay the night at Kathgodam, DON’t book this train when you plan a long onward journey immediately in the morning)]

HWH LKU EXP – Train No. 12353 – Lalkuan Express (runs only on Friday, you need to stay at Kathgodam for the night, only 20 Km away)

Avoid booking wait listed (WL) tickets in AC classes (1A/2A/3A) or Chair Car (CC). Book Sleeper class (SL)/Second Sitting class (2S) tickets which have normally more seats/berth and hence much better chance to get confirmed.

You can reach KATHGODAM/HALDWANI EASILY FROM NEW DELHI BY TRAIN OR BUS (~ 6/8 HOURS) AND IS AROUND 270 KM.

Following trains are good to reach Kathgodam and run daily.

RANIKHET EXP – Train No. 15013 (best option, runs overnight, arrives KGM early morning @ 5 am. Board from Delhi(DLI)/Old Delhi Junction station)

UTR SAMPRK K EX – Uttaranchal Sampark Kranti Express – Train No. 15035 (good option when you stay the night @ Kathgodam and travel next morning)

ANVT KGM SHT – Anand Vihar Kathgodam Shatabdi Express – Train No. 12040 (Arrives KGM in the morning @ 11:40 am, alternate choice when you stay the night in Kathgodam and travel by car next morning)

Always avoid booking wait listed (WL) tickets in AC classes (1A/2A/3A) or Chair Car (CC). Book Sleeper class (SL)/Second Sitting class (2S) tickets which have normally more seats/berth and hence much better chance to get confirmed.

Haldwani buses are more frequent than that of Kathgodam. Its easy to reach Kathgodam from Haldwani which is only 5 Km away.

Govt. Road Transport (Roadways of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana etc) buses are frequently available in day time and night from Anand Vihar ISBT Tickets are available on board for these regular type buses. Some of the state transport companies offer online reservation for Volvo/A.C Luxury buses. Check these Govt. operated state bus services for online booking:

https://utconline.uk.gov.in/

https://www.upsrtconline.co.in/#   

From Delhi Airport or Station you can reach ISBT Anand Vihar via Delhi Metro service ( http://www.delhimetrorail.com/metro-fares.aspx ).

For privately operated bus, you can book online from different portals ( http://www.redbus.in ). Select a boarding point suitably. Overnight Volvo/A.C/Push back bus service.

For night stay in Kathgodam:

Trekkers reaching on the previous day before the journey to the actual trek base need to stay the night in Kathgodam. There are few options in Kathgodam for spending a night while staying in Standard accommodation.

State run KMVN (Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam) operates Tourist Rest House at Kathgodam just opposite to the railway station (beside Bus stand). This is a reliable and a decent choice for Standard accommodation. Check the following for reservation of the above

http://www.kmvn.gov.in/contacts/index/23

There are privately run hotels/lodges near Kathgodam railway station & Haldwani Bus terminus.

Return from Kathgodam:

Normally you reach from trek base to Kathgodam by 5/6 pm in the evening. You can take any train after 7 pm or regular bus service as mentioned above to reach Delhi or directly to your homeward journey.

Drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung - 220 Km - 10 hours

Trek to didna - 10 km - 5 hours, trek to bedni bugyal - 12 km - 6/7 hours, trek to patar nachuni 5 km - 3 hours, trek to baguabasa - 4 km - 4 hours, baguabasa to roopkund and back to patar nachuni – 12 km – 8/10 hours, patar nachuni to wan – 15km – 7/8 hours – 1 hour drive back to lohajung, drive from lohajung to kathgodam – 220 km by car 9/10 hours.

P.S.: Distances and altitudes are approximate and may not be exact.

  TREK FEE: ₹ 13,800 (Lohajung to Lohajung) + 5% GST  

Book for 5 persons or more persons and avail flat 10% Group Discount.

Inclusions:

 2 night’s accommodation at Lohajung (Day 1 & Day 7) in lodge on sharing basis and dinner.

 All meals during the trek. Regular Indian style nutritious vegetarian food during the trek (including occasional eggs), breakfast packed/hot lunch (depending upon the time you reach a campsite), snacks, dinner along with coffee/tea/soup.

Excellent Trekking Guide, who will be a local to this particular area and has profound knowledge of the trekking trails around.

 Specialised Cook, Support staff, Porters/Packed Animals for carrying the central logistics of the trek.

 Stay in tents (3 persons dome or ridge shaped tents) on sharing basis during the trek.

Camping equipment like Sleeping bag, Carry mattress, Gaiters, Micro spikes/Crampon. (Bring your own sleeping if you have a high altitude specific personal Sleeping Bag. This is always better for hygienic reasons.)

Kitchen tent, dinning tent and toilet tent as required during the trek.

All permit fee, camping charges, forest levy required for the trek.

 Basic Medical & First Aid kit.

Accidental Insurance Policy covering high altitude trekking tours (For Indian nationals it is included in the TREK FEE, up to 60 years of age).

Exclusions:

Transportation from Kathgodam to Lohajung and back to Haridwar/Kathgodam (Rs 1500-1800 per persons both ways for the pick up and drop)

We assume that you will carry your personal Rucksack/Backpack with all your personal belongings. If you want to offload your Rucksack and be carried by our Pack Animal/Porter then you need to pay additional ₹ 1500 for the entire duration of the trek. The Rucksack should not weigh more than 10 Kg.

 Any tip/gratuity to the HT supports staff.

Anything is is NOT mentioned in the “Inclusions” or personal in nature.

• We assume that you have read and understood our “Terms & Conditions” ( https://himalayatrekker.com/terms-and-conditions ) before Booking a trek/tour.
• To reserve your place in a scheduled Fixed Departure trek or a Customised/Private trek  pay 25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE  as the initial  “Booking Deposit” . You can pay by Net banking/Draft/Cheque/Credit/Debit/AMEX cards. This will ensure your participation in the desired trek and we will reserve your place in the scheduled date. You need to pay the remaining amount at least  15 days before Trek Starting Date .
• If you book a Trek/Tour before 14 days or less from Trek/Tour Starting Date, you need to pay the full TREK/TOUR FEE .

  Cancellations:

• “Booking Amount” i.e. 25% of the TREK/TOUR FEE is Non-Refundable  at any stage.
• If in case you are not able to make it due to unavoidable reason(s), we provide you a very flexible choice of Shifting to another trek within next one year . One year is counted from the starting date of the trek/tour you booked initially with us.
• In case you postpone your trip you need to inform minimum of 15 days before  the trek/tour starting date. (Though we suggest to inform us earlier if known)
• In case you postpone a trek/tour before 15 days of the scheduled Trek/Tour Starting date or prior , you may shift to another group of the same trek/tour scheduled in the same season or within next one year. You may shift to another suitable route also. For changing any, you need our approval first. Your request must be in written communication through your registered email with us.
• If you cancel/postpone a trek/tour from 14 days to 8 days before tour starting date , your Booking Amount is Non-Refundable. We will not take any request of shifting dates. We will charge 50% of the amount as Cancellation Charges and process refund of remaining 50%. You may also shift to another group within next year but 25% Booking Amount will be deemed as Cancellation Charge and the rest amount will be transferred to the shifted group.
• If you cancel a trek/tour  7 days (i.e. a week) before Trek/Tour Starting Date or later , there will be NO REFUND.
• In case of any unforeseen incident including but not limited to natural calamities like flood, earthquake, landslide, forest fire or any political unrest, if we are compelled to cancel the trek/trip, you will be entitled to redeem the full amount for the same/similar kind of trek/trip within next one year.

If you need more clarifications write in to [email protected]

Tour Reviews

have been with Himalaya Trekkers for Roopkund trek! The weather was the worst of the time with severe snowfall throughout 3 days of the trek. The entire team of Himalayan trekkers made sure that we are comfortable and continued serving hot and tasty food, tea throughout the day in our tent. Their hospitality was far beyond expectations with very knowledgeable and experienced trek guides! Worth an experience to cherish.

Fantastic. Overall package is very good. I would like to trek in future with your group. Please send me some information on how can I patch up for a trek on a fixed departure schedule as a single member. One thing I like to mention is that when many groups are trekking on same day and staying at same place. It will lucrative if you spend some money on colourful tent and equipment (like banner, walking stick etc.).

Very exciting and thrilling. Wonderful experience of the trek and local people. All were very helpful.

Excellent support staff with superb behaviour and knowledge especially Dev Singh Ji and Sheru, good food, top guide, good arrangements all around under very tough conditions.

Really fantastic experience with Himalaya Trekkers on the Roopkund trek. We were guided through beautiful villages and mountain scenery, enjoyed the company of our guides who shared their stories and jokes with us, finished off the day with an absolutely delicious hot meal, and slept very comfortably in warm tents they provided. I really can’t say enough good things about my experience with Himalaya Trekkers and I can’t wait to go back! Hiking in the Himalayas was one of the best experiences of my life and I am so glad I chose to travel with Himalaya Trekkers! It is the most comfortable and fun way to experience the Himalayas. It is also an incredible price for the many services they provide during the trek (mules, setting up tents, cooking dinner, help with any odd problem that might arise during the trek). Definitely a five star experience. Hoping to do a longer glacier trek next summer!

It was a perfect trekking experience. The trek offered all kinds of landscape, meadows, forests, snow; weather varied from rainy to foggy to bright sunny, and the views were awe-inspiring. The trek was very well organized; transport was well arranged, food was very good, camping was a comfortable affair, and the support staff was knowledgeable and experienced. I enjoyed every minute of it, and will always cherish it.

It was my first trip to Himalayas, and I joined HT for Roopkund trek which takes you to an altitude of 1600 ft above sea level. The route is very scenic. The climb is not a very easy for a beginner – however I received excellent guidance on how to prepare and what to expect. Support and assistance was provided at every stage of the trip, from the very beginning. Importantly, it was a very friendly group. All the staff members in HT proved to be highly experienced, passionate and know what they do. The routes they planned, the meals they provided, the stories they shared with us, the way they took care of the team, the way they encouraged us when the going got tough, – it all made the trek a successful one. And one that I would cherish for a life time! The feeling standing there on that snowy peak is an unforgettable one.. Would love to do another challenging trek with HT another day!

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Submit this form that we can email you all the necessary details and call you to discuss., tour starting date: green boxed dates indicate starting of a scheduled fixed departure tour (day 1 of our tour itinerary). please check the calendar and choose a suitable fixed departure date (green boxed) unless dates are not matching or you are looking for a customised/private trip., i accept the terms & conditions.