The Roopkund Trek is one of the stunning and spine-chilling treks in India which draws in adventure lovers and history seekers. This trek leads you to Roopkund Trek which is called Skeleton Lake as well and is located in the Uttarakhand Himalayas. The lake, which is at an altitude of 16,500 feet, is encompassed by snow-laden peaks, green valleys, and breathtaking beauty. But the reason why the journey is mysterious is due to the human skeletons that were discovered decades ago. The trek is a blend of natural beauty, historical mystery, and a physically demanding adventure which every real trekker should experience.

Skeleton Lake aside, the Roopkund trekking trail is famous for its extraordinary landscapes, first shown to the world in the early 1900s. Coffee and tea growing regions of Southern India as well as the rich culture prevailing in Northern India makes the sight exceptionally splendid. For the premium views, trekkers have to traverse deep jungles along with take harsh altitudinal meadows such as Bedni Bugyal, desolate rocky land, and abounding patches of greenery. The trek also demands a high level of fitness to tackle the steep gradient and weather changes, while simultaneously rewarding you with magnificent views from the summits of Nanda Devi and Trishul Mountains.

In this blog, we will cover every aspect needed to prepare for an astonishing trek, ranging from an extensive outline for the Roopkund Trek to the tips and difficulty level for the journey.

Best route for Roopkund lake trek

Roopkund Lake Trek has a unique outline as well as some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas. The journey begins from Lohajung, the base camp, and trekkers head to the Kathgodam that is in Uttarakhand. There are other routes available that branch off from Lohajung to Roopkund and are well marked with perfect alpine forests, high meadows and other geological locations.

Didna Village is an important landmark on this trek as it allows trekkers to reconnect with the culture of the Himalayas and it remarkably looks like a village. From Didna, Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal are stunning meadows that, at elevation, are fantastic spots to take in the captivating views of the exquisitely snow-covered mountains. They can also be used to help step the climber acclimatize before going up higher. The trek also heads to Bhagwabasa which serves as the default campsite before Roopkund Lake. The last lake, Skeleton Lake, is surrounded by epic mountains, making the last challenging trek really breathtaking.

Once trekkers arrive at Roopkund Lake, they retrace their steps back to Lohajung, which makes a total trekking distance of approximately 53 km. This trail is the best option for nature lovers and adventurers because it combines scenic beauty and history.

Roopkund Trek itinerary

Here is a brief itinerary for Roopkund lake trek:

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

Your first step is pickup from Kathgodam Railway Station, from where you will drive to Lohajung Village. This is the base camp for the trek and takes approximately 10 hours to reach. It leaves you with mesmerizing views of the Himalayan foothills, preparing you for the excitement the tour has in store.

DAY 2- Trek from Lohajung via Wan to Ghairoli Patal

Begin your trek from Lohajung, moving towards Wan village and then to Ghairoli Patal. The trek is surrounded by forests and amazing picturesque views

DAY 3- Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Ali Bugyal and Back to Ghairoli Patal

On this beautiful pilgrimage, today’s trek will take you to Ali Bugyal, a beautiful meadow and then you are bound to witness beautiful panoramic views of Himalayan ranges and after this, you make your way back to Ghairoli Petal for your overnight stay.

DAY4- Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Pathar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal

Most incredible day of trekking will await you that makes its way through Ghairoli Patal leading to Pathar Nachauni accompanied by views from Bedni Bugyal, followed by mesmerizing views of surrounding peaks.

DAY 5- Trek from Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak

Today, you will trek over Pathar Nachauni towards Bhagwabasa while traversing Kalu Vinayak. During this part of the trek, a steep climb is required, which is rewarded with magnificent sights of snow laden peaks.

DAY 6- Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further to Junargali Top (16,156 feet)

Travel from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake, at 15,756 feet and examine the infamous skeletons. Afterward, proceed to Junargali top at 16,156 feet for breathtaking views of the mountain.

DAY 7- Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung

Trek down from Pathar Nachauni towards Lohajung*crossing over Bedni Bugyal and Wan village. This portion of the trek provides beautiful scenery while heading in towards the starting point and gives a chance for a relaxing evening.

DAY 8- Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam Railway station

On the last day, drive from Lohajung Village back towards Kathgodam Railway Station, ending the journey. As the trek comes to an end, take in the mesmerizing views that highlight this part of the Himalayan adventure.

Difficulty level of Roopkund Trek

With the combination of high altitude and physically difficult terrain, the Roopkund Trek has been classified as moderately difficult to difficult. The trip includes steep climbs alongside rugged, rocky paths and a lack of oxygen, meaning a certain level of fitness is required to complete it. At 16,500, altitude Roopkund Lake can lead to altitude sickness, meaning climbers must first acclimatize. There is also a steep stamina draining elevation gain from Bhagwabasa to the lake, which during certain points of the trek, can be steep.

During the trek, the weather is usually unpredictable, as temperatures tend to drop overnight alongside the addition of snowfall or rainfall; meaning the snowy ground is subject to becoming slippery. The trek also requires sturdy endurance, particularly navigating through the rocky, uneven terrain.

While the trek can be completed by well prepared novices, experienced trekkers will find certain aspects exceptionally challenging. To ensure a successful and safe Roopkund Lake Trek, it is imperative to adjust the gear and train adequately as well as ensure that there is proper packing.

Essential tips for a successful trek

Facts have to be clarified while preparing for a trip to Roopkund. The physical condition of the participant is of prime importance. His degree of physical fitness. A cardio-svascular system and muscular strength contributes to the endurance level. Higher altitudes demand longer periods for the person to adjust physically.

Planning your packing- Packing smartly and planning your packing goes hand in hand with the hiking and trekking aid that each person carries. Layers of clothing that cover more than one temperature is a must. Adequate protection for the feet in the form of rigid trekking boots, good gripping and also by adding trekking poles ensures balancing the body. Hydration system supplies an adequate amount of water over a long period.

Political and social factors- Like sociocultural dimensions also need to be given importance to. Knowing a culture and civilization assists in predicting and preparing appropriate cultural gear.

The next factor- Known under the universal norm is leaving no trace. Take care of waste by bringing it back as opposed to leaving it here or destroying it. Always be considerate for safety while trekking with a group. Proper planning, preparedness and a thoughtful approach will allow for enjoyable moments during the trekking journey.

Conclusion

Trekking in Roopkund is an amalgamation of natural beauty, fulfilling historical intrigue, and physical challenge. The spectacle of Skeleton Lake, with its relics from the past, combined with the views of snow capped mountains sets this place apart. And, while there are physical requirements, including prepping, having the right clothing, and getting used to high altitudes, every step you take is one in the right direction towards reaching those goals. The dedications which are put forth will certainly pay off in innumerable ways. Irrespective of your skills, as an adept, or a nascent trekker, the experience at the Roopkund Lake Trek will be one never to forget. To make this wonderful tour experience safe and well-guided, reach out to Himalayan Daredevils for the best support and guidance throughout the journey.