Roopkund Trek

Roopkund Trek: A Journey to the Mystical Skeleton Lake - The Roopkund Trek, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, is one of India’s most popular high-altitude treks. Known for its mystical Skeleton Lake, where ancient human skeletal remains are visible, this trek is a perfect blend of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and historical intrigue. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach Roopkund, the trekking route, and the best time to visit.

About Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund Trek takes you to an altitude of approximately 5,029 meters (16,499 feet) to the enigmatic Roopkund Lake, nestled in the lap of the Trishul massif. The trek traverses through dense oak forests, lush meadows (locally called bugyals), and snowfields, culminating at the glacial lake surrounded by rocky glaciers and peaks.

Way to Reach Roopkund

• By Air - The nearest airport to Roopkund is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located about 240 km from the trek's starting point. Regular flights connect Dehradun with major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From Dehradun, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Lohajung, the base camp for the trek.
• By Train - The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 220 km from Lohajung. Kathgodam is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From Kathgodam, shared cabs or private taxis can be hired to reach Lohajung.
• By Road - Lohajung is accessible via road from cities like Dehradun, Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Kathgodam. Regular buses and taxis operate from these locations. The drive to Lohajung offers picturesque views of rivers, valleys, and village

The Trek Route

The Roopkund Trek spans approximately 53 km and takes about 6-8 days to complete. Here's a day-wise breakdown:

• Day 1: Lohajung (7,700 ft)
  • Arrival at Lohajung: This quaint village serves as the trek’s base camp. Surrounded by Himalayan peaks, it offers basic accommodation and stunning views.
  • Altitude: 7,700 ft
  • Activities: Rest, acclimatization, and preparation for the trek.
• Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village (8,530 ft)
  • Distance: 9 km
  • Trail Description: The trek starts with a descent to the Neel Ganga River, followed by a steep ascent through dense oak and rhododendron forests to Didna Village.
  • Highlights: Views of mountain villages, oak forests, and tranquil surroundings.
• Day 3: Didna to Ali Bugyal (11,320 ft)
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trail Description: The trail gradually climbs to Ali Bugyal, one of Asia's largest high-altitude meadows.
  • Highlights: Expansive views of rolling meadows and distant snow-capped peaks.
• Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani (12,300 ft)
  • Distance: 5 km
  • Trail Description: A relatively easy trek across picturesque meadows with a gradual ascent.
  • Highlights: Stunning Himalayan panoramas, including peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
• Day 5: Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa (14,117 ft) via Kalu Vinayak
  • Distance: 8 km
  • Trail Description: The trail includes a steep climb to Kalu Vinayak Temple, followed by a descent to Bhagwabasa.
  • Highlights: Kalu Vinayak Temple, snowfields, and close-up views of Trishul massif.
• Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (16,499 ft) and back to Bhagwabasa
  • Distance: 10 km
  • Trail Description: This is the most challenging part of the trek, involving a steep ascent to Roopkund Lake.
  • Highlights: Roopkund Lake, skeletons, snowfields, and surrounding glaciers.
• Day 7: Bhagwabasa to Lohajung via Bedni Bugyal
  • Distance: 14 km
  • Trail Description: A long descent through Bedni Bugyal, another stunning meadow, and dense forests to Lohajung.
  • Highlights: Farewell views of the Himalayas and lush greenery.

Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund Trek can be undertaken during two main seasons:

• Summer (May to June)
  • Pros: During this time, the trails are mostly snow-covered, offering a magical experience. The meadows begin to bloom with flowers, and the weather is relatively stable.
  • Cons: The snow may make some sections challenging, requiring proper gear.
• Post-Monsoon (September to October)
  • Pros: The meadows are lush green, and the skies are clear, offering unobstructed views of the peaks. The weather is crisp, and the trails are free of snow.
  • Cons: Nights can be extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes.

Avoid trekking during the monsoon season (July to August) due to slippery trails and landslide risks.

Tips for Roopkund Trek

• Fitness Preparation:
  • This is a moderately difficult trek, so good physical fitness is essential. Cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and acclimatization are crucial.
• Essential Gear:
  • Trekking boots with good grip
  • Warm clothing (thermal layers, fleece jackets, and waterproof gear)
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping bags and tents (if not provided by the organizer)
• Permits and Guides:
  • Roopkund Trek requires forest permits, which can be arranged by your trekking agency. Hiring a local guide or joining an organized trek is advisable for safety and convenience.
• Hydration and Nutrition:
  • Carry enough water and energy snacks. Staying hydrated is crucial at high altitudes.
• Acclimatization:
  • Spend time acclimatizing at mid-altitudes to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Why Choose Roopkund Trek?

The Roopkund Trek offers a unique combination of natural beauty and mystery. The skeletal remains at Roopkund Lake, believed to date back to the 9th century, add an element of intrigue. The trek’s diverse landscapes—from dense forests to alpine meadows and glacial terrains—make it one of the most rewarding Himalayan treks.

Whether you're an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast, Roopkund promises an unforgettable adventure. From mesmerizing sunrises over the Himalayas to the tranquility of the meadows, every step of the journey is a testament to Uttarakhand’s pristine beauty.