- Kathgodam, Uttarakhand
Peoples's Choice
- People's Choice
- Travel Safe
- Certified Team
- Easy Cancellation
- Well Equipped Campsite
- Experienced Guide
- No Hidden Charges
Starting from
₹14,470/-PP*T&C
+5% GST
10% Off
4.3
- 8 Days
- 15,600 Ft.
- 53 Km
- Moderate-Difficult
- Uttarakhand
Best season : May to June, September to November
Opening Dates
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
02/Sep/2023
03/Sep/2023
09/Sep/2023
10/Sep/2023
16/Sep/2023
17/Sep/2023
23/Sep/2023
24/Sep/2023
30/Sep/2023
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
Overview
Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand is a well-known trekking destination situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. The trek is named after the mysterious Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake, which is surrounded by snowy mountains and lies at an altitude of 16,499 feet (5,029 meters) above sea level. The lake is famous for the hundreds of human skeletons that were discovered here in the 1940s, which remain a mystery to this day.
The Roopkund Trek is a challenging trek that takes around 8-9 days to complete, covering a total distance of 53 kilometers (33 miles). The trek starts from the village of Lohajung and takes you through a scenic route that passes through dense forests, mountain ridges, and high-altitude meadows. The trek is known for its stunning views of the Nanda Ghunti and Trishul mountain ranges, as well as the vibrant flora and fauna that can be spotted along the way.
The ideal time to go on the Roopkund Trek is from May to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather can be found pleasant with mostly clear skies, providing excellent visibility and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. However, it is not advisable to undertake the Roopkund trek during the monsoon season as the paths can become risky and slippery due to the heavy rainfall.
The Roopkund Trek is categorized as a moderate to difficult trek and demands a high level of physical fitness and endurance. The altitude gain is significant, with the highest point of the trek being the Roopkund Lake at 16,499 feet (5,029 meters) above sea level. The Roopkund trek involves steep uphill climbs and downhill descents, which can be physically demanding even for seasoned trekkers.
Along the way, trekkers will pass through several scenic campsites, including Bedni Bugyal, Bhagwabasa, and Patar Nachauni. These campsites are equipped with basic amenities such as tents, sleeping bags, and food, making the trek more comfortable for trekkers. The local guides and porters are also knowledgeable and experienced, providing valuable insights into the local culture and environment.
The Roopkund Trek is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the Himalayas while also challenging yourself physically and mentally. It is a unique trek that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, as well as the mysterious legends surrounding Roopkund Lake. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, the Roopkund Trek is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Lohajung
Arrive at Kathgodam railway station.
Meet with our guide and driver toward Lohajung.
Begin the scenic drive to Lohajung (2300m), a small village in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand
Explore the village and its surroundings in the evening
On the first day of your trek to Roopkund, you will arrive at the Kathgodam railway station, where you will meet your guide and driver. After that, you will begin the scenic drive to Lohajung, a small village in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The drive will take you through winding roads and picturesque landscapes. On reaching Lohajung, you will check in to your hotel/guesthouse and rest for the day. You can explore the village and its surroundings in the evening.
Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village
After breakfast, start the trek to Didna Village (2550m)
The trail passes through oak and rhododendron forests with stunning views of the Himalayan peaks
Reach the village by late afternoon
Check in to your homestay and rest for the day
In the evening, interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life
After having breakfast, you will start your trek to Didna Village. The trail passes through oak and rhododendron forests with stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The trek to Didna Village is a gentle climb and will take you around 5-6 hours to complete. You will reach the village by late afternoon and check in to your homestay. The evening will be spent interacting with the locals and learning about their culture and way of life.
Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal
After breakfast, begin the trek to Ali Bugyal (3300m), one of the most scenic meadows in the region
The trail is steep in some sections but the panoramic views of the Himalayas make it worth the effort
Reach the campsite by late afternoon
Settle in and rest for the day
Enjoy the sunset and stargazing at night
Today, you will begin the trek to Ali Bugyal, one of the most scenic meadows in the region. The trail is steep in some sections, but the panoramic views of the Himalayas make it worth the effort. The trek will take you through lush green forests and open meadows. You will reach the campsite at Ali Bugyal by late afternoon and settle in. The evening will be spent enjoying the sunset and stargazing at night.
Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani
After breakfast, start the trek to Patar Nachauni (3850m) via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani
The trail passes through some of the most beautiful meadows in the region and offers stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks
Reach the campsite by late afternoon
Settle in and rest for the day
Explore the surroundings and enjoy the sunset
After breakfast, you will start your trek to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani. The trail passes through some of the most beautiful meadows in the region and offers stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. You will reach the campsite at Patar Nachauni by late afternoon and settle in. The evening will be spent exploring the surroundings and enjoying the sunset.
Day 5: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak
After breakfast, start the trek to Bhagwabasa (4300m) via Kalu Vinayak
The trail is steep and strenuous but the views of the Himalayan peaks are breathtaking
Reach the campsite by late afternoon
Settle in and rest for the day
Enjoy the views and stargazing at night
Today, you will begin the trek to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak. The trail is steep and strenuous, but the views of the Himalayan peaks are breathtaking. You will reach the campsite at Bhagwabasa by late afternoon and settle in. The evening will be spent enjoying the views and stargazing at night.
Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Patar Nachauni
Wake up early and start the trek to Roopkund (5029m), a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks
Spend some time at the lake and explore the surroundings
Start the descent to Patar Nachauni
Reach the campsite by late afternoon
Settle in and rest for the day
Enjoy the views and stargazing at night
On the sixth day of your trek, you will wake up early and start the trek to Roopkund, a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by snow-clad peaks. The trek to Roopkund is steep and strenuous, but the views are breathtaking. You will spend some time at the lake and explore the surroundings before starting the descent to Patar Nachauni. You will reach the campsite at Patar Nachauni by late afternoon and settle in. The evening will be spent enjoying the views and stargazing at night.
Day 7: Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan
After breakfast, start the descent to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan
The trail passes through lush green forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayas
Reach Lohajung by late afternoon
Check in to your hotel/guesthouse and rest for the day
Explore the village and its surroundings in the evening
After breakfast, you will start the descent to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan. The trail passes through lush green forests and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. You will reach Lohajung by late afternoon and check in to your hotel/guesthouse. The evening will be spent exploring the village and its surroundings.
Day 8: Lohajung to Kathgodam
After breakfast, start the drive back to Kathgodam
Reach the railway station by late afternoon
Board your train back home
On the last day of your trek, after having breakfast, you will say goodbye to Lohajung and begin the drive back to Kathgodam. The drive will take you through the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand and give you a chance to reflect on the amazing experiences you had during the trek. On reaching Kathgodam, you will bid farewell to your guide and driver and head back to your onward destination.
Map
Inclusion
- Accommodation: On all days of Trek (On Triple sharing Basis)
- Food: All Veg. Meal from Dinner at base camp on the day first till the last day Breakfast
- Forest Charges: Included all the necessary entry charges for the particular trek.
- Other Charges: Vehicle permit, toll and parking charges.
- Trek Leader and Guide: Qualified and Experienced trek leader and guide.
- Transportation: From Dehradun-Dehradun on a shared basis
Exclusion
- All kinds of personal expenditures
- Anything that we have not mentioned in the Inclusion section.
- The trek cost doesn't include meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day. (Food starts from dinner at base camp on the day first till the last day lunch).
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
- Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.
- Fees or permits for non-Indians.
Things to Carry
Here is a list of essential things to carry for the Roopkund Trek:
- Trekking Shoes: A sturdy pair of trekking shoes with good ankle support and grip is a must for the Roopkund trek.
- Clothing: Warm and comfortable clothing suitable for weather conditions, including a waterproof jacket, a fleece or a down jacket, thermal wear, trekking pants, and full-sleeve t-shirts. It’s advisable to carry an extra set of clothes in case of emergency.
- Base Layers: Thermal base layers are crucial for keeping you warm and dry. They should be made of moisture-wicking material to keep sweat away from your skin.
- Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jackets are great insulating layers that trap heat and keep you warm in cold temperatures.
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight and quick-drying trekking pants with zippered pockets are ideal for trekking in high-altitude regions.
- Waterproof Jacket and Pants: A good quality waterproof jacket and pants are essential to protect you from rain, snow, and wind.
- Backpack: A good quality backpack with a capacity of 40-50 litres to carry all your essentials like clothes, food, water bottles, and personal items.
- Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are helpful in providing balance and support while trekking on difficult terrain.
- Sleeping Bag: A good quality sleeping bag that can withstand temperatures up to -10 degrees Celsius.
- Water Bottles and Hydration System: You will need to carry at least 2 litres of water per day for the trek, so make sure you have water bottles or a hydration system.
- Headlamp/Torch: A headlamp or torch with extra batteries for the night trekking.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with essential medicines, painkillers, and band-aids.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes, so protect your eyes and skin with sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Personal Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser, wet wipes, tissue papers, and a small towel.
- ID Proof: Carry valid ID proof like an Aadhaar card, Voter ID card, or Passport.
Make sure to pack light and carry only the necessary items to avoid unnecessary weight on your back during the trek.
How to Reach
The kathgodam, a town in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand serves as the starting point for the Roopkund Trek. As Kathgodam is very well connected by all three means of transportation Road, Rail and Air.
To reach Kathgodam one can follow the following steps:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kathgodam is the Pantnagar Airport, which is approximately 68 km away. You can take a direct flight from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore to Pantnagar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi or bus to Kathgodam.
- By Train: Kathgodam has its railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. You can take a direct train or a connecting train to Kathgodam railway station. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi or bus to reach your destination.
- By Road: Kathgodam is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Haridwar, and Dehradun. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from these cities to reach Kathgodam. Additionally, you can also take a self-drive car or a motorcycle to reach Kathgodam.
Once you are in Kathgodam you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi or bus to reach Lohajung, which is the base camp for the Roopkund trek. The distance between Kathgodam and Lohajung is approximately 225 km, and the journey takes around 9-10 hours. The road journey passes through beautiful landscapes, and you can enjoy the scenic views of the Himalayas.
Safety & Security
Roopkund Trek is a challenging and thrilling trek, and it’s important to take necessary safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some safety tips specific to the Roopkund Trek:
- Trekking in a group: Trekking in a group is recommended for safety reasons. A group ensures mutual support and assistance in case of any emergency.
- Hire a Guide: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended. A guide can provide valuable information about the terrain, weather, and local customs. They can also help in case of an emergency.
- Adequate Preparation: Adequate preparation before the trek is necessary. This includes physical fitness, acclimatization, and carrying appropriate gear and supplies.
- Physical Fitness: Trekking to high-altitude regions can be physically demanding, so it’s important to be physically fit before embarking on the trek. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance activities can help prepare your body for the trek.
- Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is a common problem for trekkers in high-altitude regions. It’s important to take regular breaks and acclimatize yourself to the altitude by ascending gradually.
- Weather Conditions: The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check the weather forecast and carry appropriate gear to protect yourself from rain, snow, and wind.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is important to stay hydrated and prevent altitude sickness. It’s recommended to carry a water bottle and hydration system to ensure a steady supply of water during the trek.
- First Aid Kit: A first aid kit with essential medicines and supplies should be carried at all times during the trek.
- Trekking Gear: Good quality trekking gear such as a backpack, trekking poles, and sturdy shoes with good ankle support should be used to prevent injuries.
- Emergency Plan: It’s important to have an emergency plan in case of any unforeseen events such as injuries or accidents. Familiarize yourself with the emergency services and contact numbers in the area.
- Environmental Conservation: It’s important to respect the environment and wildlife in the area by not littering and staying on designated trails.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that planning an outdoor trip brings a lot of excitement and joy. However, we also know that cancellations can be disappointing. While Hello Hikers rarely cancels treks due to our efficient ground operations, cancellations can happen due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, government regulations, or any other factors beyond our control. In such cases, the following cancellation policy will be applicable.
To ensure a hassle-free experience, we recommend making your booking at least two months in advance. If you do need to cancel your trek, please inform us in writing. Cancellation charges will be effective from the date we receive written advice.
Our cancellation policy is as follows:
We have designed a cancellation policy that is fair, feasible, and convenient for all our customers. The procedure is as follows:
- If you cancel your trek 21 or more days before the start date, we will deduct 10% towards GST and transaction charges and refund 90% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 15-20 days before the start date, we will deduct 30% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at base, ration, etc., and refund 70% as a trek voucher valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 7-14 days before the start date, we will deduct 50% towards GST, transaction, accommodation at the base, ration, trek leaders, permits, equipment, etc., and refund 50% as a trek voucher that is valid for 1 year.
- If you cancel your trek 1-6 days before the start date, we will deduct 100% as all arrangements have been made, and we are ready to take you on the trek.
We also have some terms and conditions for the trek voucher:
- The voucher will be valid for 12 months from the date of issuance.
- The voucher can be used for any trek with Hello Hikers.
Thank you for choosing Hello Hikers, and we hope to see you on our treks soon!
FAQS
Why Choose Roopkund?
Roopkund Trek is an ideal choice for those looking for a unique and exciting trekking experience in the Indian Himalayas. This trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural significance, making it a favourite among trekkers.
The scenic beauty of the Roopkund Trek is simply breathtaking. The trek takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Himalayas, including dense forests, lush meadows filled with wildflowers, glacial lakes, and awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks. The journey to Roopkund Lake is particularly intriguing, as it is shrouded in mystery due to the skeletal remains found in and around the lake. This mystery adds an element of excitement and intrigue to the trek.
The cultural significance of the Roopkund Trek is another reason why it is a popular choice among trekkers. The trek takes you through several small villages, providing an opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their unique culture and way of life. This cultural exchange adds a meaningful dimension to the trek and allows you to gain a deeper appreciation for the region.
Roopkund Trek is also an adventure-packed journey that requires physical fitness and endurance, making it a great challenge for adventure seekers. The trek is a challenging one, with steep ascents and descents, high-altitude acclimatization, and unpredictable weather. However, the stunning natural beauty and cultural significance of the region make it a truly rewarding experience.
Accessibility is another factor that makes Roopkund Trek an ideal choice. The trek is easily accessible from Kathgodam and can be completed in a week, making it perfect for those with limited time. This accessibility also makes it a great option for trekkers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced hikers.
Why Roopkund is known as Mystery Lake?
Roopkund is known as the "Mystery Lake" because of the human skeletons that are visible at the bottom of the lake. The presence of these skeletons has puzzled scientists and researchers for many years. The skeletons are believed to be the remains of people who died in a massive hailstorm around the 9th century AD. However, there are no clear answers as to who these people were, where they came from, and what they were doing in this remote location. The mystery surrounding the skeletons and the lake has made Roopkund a popular destination for trekkers, adventure seekers, and researchers alike.
What is the story behind Roopkund?
The story behind Roopkund Trek dates back to the 9th century AD. According to local legends, a king and his queen were travelling through the Himalayas with their retinue of servants and soldiers. They were caught in a severe hailstorm and perished near Roopkund. The hailstones were said to be as big as cricket balls and caused fatal injuries to the people caught in the storm.
In the early 20th century, a British forest guard discovered the human skeletons while on a routine patrol. Since then, researchers and scientists have been trying to unravel the mystery surrounding the skeletons. The skeletons have been carbon-dated to the 9th century AD, which matches the local legends.
Recent studies have suggested that the people who died at Roopkund were not just the retinue of a king and queen, but a mixed group of men and women. The group may have been on a pilgrimage or a trade mission, or they may have been caught in a hailstorm while travelling through the region.
Roopkund continues to fascinate researchers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts from around the world, and the mystery of the skeletons at the bottom of the lake is yet to be fully solved.
What is the location of Roopkund?
Roopkund is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Chamoli district of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The lake is situated at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,750 feet) above sea level, in the lap of the Trishul massif. The nearest town to Roopkund is Lohajung, which is located at a distance of about 260 kilometres from the city of Rishikesh.
How old are the skeletons in Roopkund?
The exact age of the skeletons found in Roopkund is not known with certainty, but it is believed that they are several hundred years old. Radiocarbon dating of the bones has indicated that they date back to the 9th century CE, which suggests that they may be the remains of pilgrims who died while undertaking the arduous journey to the nearby Nanda Devi shrine. However, this theory is still a subject of debate among archaeologists and historians, and the true origin and age of the skeletons remains a mystery.
How deep is Skeleton Lake?
Skeleton Lake, also known as Roopkund, is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The depth of the lake varies depending on the amount of snow and rainfall it receives, but on average it is about 2 meters (6.5 feet) deep. The lake is relatively small, with a surface area of about 0.02 square kilometres (0.008 square miles), and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and rocky terrain. Despite its small size, the lake is famous for the hundreds of human skeletons that have been found in and around it, which has made it a site of both historical and archaeological interest.
Which village is near Roopkund?
The village that is nearest to Roopkund is Lohajung. It is located at an altitude of approximately 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level and is the starting point for the Roopkund trek. Lohajung is a small village with basic facilities such as guesthouses, shops, and a post office. It is surrounded by lush green forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. From Lohajung, trekkers can follow a well-defined trail that takes them through dense forests, meadows, and high-altitude passes, and eventually leads to the Roopkund Lake.
What is the difficulty level of the Roopkund trek?
The Roopkund trek is considered to be a moderately difficult trek. It involves trekking at high altitudes and involves steep ascents and descents, which can be challenging for some trekkers. The trek covers a total distance of approximately 53 kilometres (33 miles) and takes around 7-8 days to complete. The highest point on the trek is Roopkund Lake, which is located at an altitude of approximately 5,029 meters (16,499 feet) above sea level. The trail to Roopkund passes through several scenic locations, including lush green forests, beautiful meadows, and high-altitude passes, making it a popular trekking destination in the Indian Himalayas. Trekkers are advised to have prior trekking experience and to be physically fit before attempting the Roopkund trek.
How many kilometres is the Roopkund trek?
The total distance covered during the Roopkund trek is approximately 53 kilometres. This includes trekking through various terrains such as forests, meadows, steep climbs, and rocky paths. The distance covered each day varies, with the longest being around 12 kilometres from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa, while the shortest is around 3 kilometres from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal.
Best time to visit Roopkund Trek
The best time to do the Roopkund Lake trek is during the summer months, from May to June, and then again from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear and pleasant, with moderate temperatures during the day and chilly nights.
In the summer months, the trek offers lush green landscapes and vibrant wildflowers, making it a picturesque sight. The autumn season from September to November, on the other hand, offers stunning views of the colourful autumn leaves and clear blue skies.
However, it's important to note that the Roopkund Lake trek involves high altitudes, and the weather can be unpredictable at times. So, it's advisable to check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly. Additionally, it's always best to go with a trained guide who can provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the trek.
Opening Dates
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
02/Sep/2023
03/Sep/2023
09/Sep/2023
10/Sep/2023
16/Sep/2023
17/Sep/2023
23/Sep/2023
24/Sep/2023
30/Sep/2023
01/Oct/2023
07/Oct/2023
08/Oct/2023
14/Oct/2023
15/Oct/2023
21/Oct/2023
22/Oct/2023
28/Oct/2023
29/Oct/2023
04/Nov/2023
05/Nov/2023
11/Nov/2023
12/Nov/2023
18/Nov/2023
19/Nov/2023
25/Nov/2023
26/Nov/2023
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