Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek, Uttarakhand
Trip Highlights
- Roopkund Lake is a mystic beauty, you can actually see the human skeletons in the water and on the banks of the lake.
- Marvel at the stunning views of Roopkund Glacier, Trishul, Nandaghungti, and Choukhamba peaks.
- Gigantic mountains, mysterious lake and Himalayan vegetation is sure to make your journey all the more interesting.
- Surrounded by snow clad mountains the path is drenched in snow & laden with forest covers and verdant meadows
Know Before You Go
- Climatic conditions in the high altitudes vary from the plains; take adequate time to get acclimatized to high altitudes.
- The management reserves all the right to modify the trek during any emergencies or natural calamities.
- Consult a physician before undertaking the trek. Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the trek.
- It is recommended to carry enough warm clothes and the right kind of shoes for the trek.
- Pay heed to the trek guides and instructors in order to enjoy a safe and sound trek
- Avoid consumption of alcohol or any other intoxicants during the trek.
- The trek takes place through an eco-friendly zone; do not encourage littering the local sites or campsites. Travelers littering may be fined.
- Do not encourage trekking during the night unless it is a part of the itinerary and a guide is with you; this might lead to unforeseen mishaps.
- Avoid using plastic bags and maintain the ecological balance of the destinations.
- Guidelines issued by the State-Government are to be followed. Social distancing to be maintained. Frequent hand sanitization and use of mask is recommended.
- Professional guide(s) are available to ensure high safety and more information and personal attention which are necessary to appreciate a trek.
- Any personal expenses, items of personal nature, meals not mentioned, etc. will not be in part of the package.
- Carry dry snacks/food from home (you will save a lot of money). Carry water bottles with you, so that you can refill.
- Keep your luggage minimum; the more you carry, the more you hassle.
- Please carry a valid ID proof.
- The exact location of the the starting point of the trek will be shared post booking.
Additional Information
About the Roopkund Trek-
The Roopkund trek is an invigorating expedition from the high altitude region of Loharjung, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at 16499 ft. The trail for the trek that leads to the frozen Roopkund Lake also overlaps with the religious pilgrimage of Nanda Devi thus making this experience of trekking in Uttarakhand, an overall mix of culture and adventure. Going by legends, the ‘Mystery Lake’ is immersed and circled by hundreds of skeletons which is the major attraction of this trek.
At the top of the mysterious lake of Roopkund, witness, and marvel at the stunning views of Roopkund Glacier, Trishul, Nandaghungti, and Choukhamba peaks. Roopkund trail cuts through dense thickets and surpasses through the varied landscape of gushing waters and streams as well as charming lakes and vast expanse of lush grasslands.
Quick Facts:
Duration: 8D/7N
Maximum Altitude: 16,499 ft.
Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Total Trek Distance: 53 km
Temperature: May – June: day 15°C to 20° C and night 7°C to -2°C Sept-Oct: Day- 15°C to 10°C and night 5°C to -5°C
Best Time To Travel: May- June & September- October
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
Base Camp: Lohajung Base Camp
ATM: Last ATM is in Kathgodam
Start point/Endpoint: Kathgodam
How to reach Kathgodam:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kathgodam is the Pantnagar Airport located at a distance of 32kms from Kathgodam. The airport is connected with Delhi by 4 round flights per week. Taxis are easily available from the Airport to Kathgodam.
By Train: From Delhi take the Ranikhet Express (5014) Dep. Delhi at 10:40 pm arrival Kathgodam at 5:30 am (Overnight Journey)
or the Uttar sampark Kranti (5035) Dep. Delhi at 4:00 pm arrival Kathgodam at 10:40 pm (6 hrs. 40min. Journey)
From Dehardun take the Doon Express (4120) Dep. Dehardun at 10:30 pm arrival Kathgodam at 7:10 pm (8hrs. journey)
By Road: Buses to Kathgodam are easily available from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi. Regular buses ply from ISBT Delhi Anand Vihar station to Kathgodam. Buses that go to Nainital stops at Haldwani which is a twin town of Kathgodham (8 hrs. Journey).
Roopkund Trekking Inclusions:
1. Accommodation – Guest House stay on 1st and 5th night. You will be staying in tents for 3 nights of the trek (3 people/tent). The room/tent is separate for the male and female participants.
2. Meals – (Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner). We provide simple, nutritious vegetarian food on all days of the trek
3. Camping charges – All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.
4. Trekking equipment – High-quality tents and sleeping bags in all the camps. Sleeping bags can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC.
5. Safety equipment – First aid kit, oxygen cylinders, oximeter, etc. will be with guide/trek leader and at the campsite as well to deal with emergencies.
6. Expert trek Leaders – All our trek leaders are at least qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering and first aid course.
7. Expert Trek support team – The mountain staff on this trek consists of certified guides, cooks, helpers, and porters.
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What is the best time to go on Roopkund Trekking?
The best time when you can enjoy the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek is around the months of May, June, September and October. While May and June experience summers and are considered to be offering the best climatic conditions, the months of September and October on the other hand let you enjoy a pinch of cooler climate without any harsh weather conditions.
If you are wishing to go for a trek here without feeling too cold then we would recommend going during the best summer months and if you are all in for the cooler climatic conditions then September and October are preferable.
What is the difficulty level of Roopkund Lake Trek?
The difficulty level of the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek ranges between moderate to highly difficult. Covering a distance of around 53 KM, this trek needs you to have proper knowledge of the activity and a perfect physical condition.
To prepare for the trek, you can start a month early to build calf muscles by riding a bicycle or just running for a minimum of 30 minutes.
What is the mystery and story behind Roopkund Lake?
Roopkund (locally known as Mystery and Skeletons Lake) is a high altitude glacial lake in the Uttarakhand state of India. It lies in the lap of Trishul massif and is famous for the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. This area is uninhabited in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 5,029 metres (16,499 feet).
Surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains, the lake is a popular trekking destination. A shallow lake, having a depth of about two metres, Roopkund has attracted attention because of the human skeletal remains that are visible at its bottom when the snow melts.
Researchers have concluded that the skeletons are the remains of people killed in a sudden, violent hailstorm in the 9th century. Because of the human remains, the lake has been called Skeleton Lake in recent times.
How much does the Skeleton lake trek cost?
The Skeleton Lake trek can cost INR 8,890. This cost would include a stay at guesthouses and campsites, vegetarian dishes, sleeping bags, mattress, medical kits, oxygen cylinder, etc. Additional charges might be included if you wish to hire a porter or extra amenities.
However, make sure you buy wardrobe essentials, trekking shoes, water bottles, etc. If you wish to buy your own food then the approximate cost will increase. Also, the travel cost will be additionally charged when reaching Lohajung.
Which type of shoes should I carry for Roopkund Trekking?
Good quality and sturdy trekking shoes that cover your ankles. Refrain from using sport shoes for your own safety and the trails are uneven and tricky hence requiring good grip trekking shoes.
If you are buying new shoes for your trek, please remember to use them for at least a month before you commence your holiday.
What is the level of fitness expected from the participants for the Roopkund Trekking?
Where does Skeleton lake trek start?
The Skeleton Lake Trek begins from the base village of Loharjung. To reach the base village, travel via road from Kathgodam to Loharjung. The pathway is draped in a blanket lush green scenery of oak trees and high peak mountains.
After reaching the starting point i.e. Loharjung, trek to the Didina village. Beginning from Loharjung Base Camp, the trek reaches Roopkund Lake and heads back to the base camp via Bedni Bugyal.
How can I reach Skeleton lake?
To reach the Skeleton Lake of Roopkund, begin the trek from Loharjung Base Camp and head to Didina village. On this day, head to Ali Bugyal and set up your camp at this heavenly beauty. Next day will take you to Ghora Lotani from Ali Bugyal.
On this day, hike to the steep terrains of Bhagwabasa from 12500 ft to 14500 ft. Next day, you’ll reach the Skeleton lake after hiking for almost three hours from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund.
How long is the skeleton lake trek of Roopkund?
The Skeleton Lake Trek is 8 days long. The trek begins from Loharjung and heads to the Didina village, Ali Bugyal, Ghora Lotani, Bhagwabasa, Roopkund, and ends at Loharjung. To reach the lake, every day includes 1 to 3 hours long trek amidst snow-capped mountains and high altitudes.
The Skeleton Lake of Roopkund is situated at an altitude of 15700 ft and it will require at least 8 days to complete the trek.
Is it safe to do Skeleton lake trek?
The Skeleton Lake trek has a moderate difficulty level. It is safe to hike at this peak with proper preparations and precautions. Sturdy trekking shoes, snow boots, and trekking poles are some of the necessary things to carry.
Also, the instructors will ensure safe and sound trekking, pay heed to the instructions provided by them. Apart from preparations, the excursion also includes medical kits, oxygen cylinder, and supporting staff.
How is the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek experience?
The mysterious lake of Roopkund is cradled in the laps of Mt. Trishul and perches at a dizzying altitude of nearly 16,500 ft.! Draped in a blanket of mystery and myth, the lake is home to skeletal remains of countless humans and animals, which are clearly visible when the snow has melted away. This has earned it the name ‘Skeleton Lake Trek’. The trail to Roopkund originates from the base village of Lohajung, and winds through mesmerising forests of oak adorned with vibrant rhododendrons.
One of the highlights of the Skeleton Lake trek is that it takes you through the twin meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which are two of the highest alpine meadows in Asia. The locals generally bring their herds to Bedni Bugyal for grazing. Bedni Bugyal makes for an ideal campsite, and unfolds breathtaking views of the neighbouring Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhambha, though the magnificent Mount Trishul rises above all others to render you truly speechless. To add to the veil of myth, there are various stories that revolve around the trek.
Every campsite has a backstory which the locals will gladly share with you. The trek from Bhagwabasa, the last campsite, to Roopkund starts very early in the morning, with millions of stars playing chaperone. Although a bit daunting towards the end, the reward more than compensates for the exertion, and everything else pales against the splendour and glory of Roopkund Lake. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, you can also trek further up to the ridge of Junargali, from where Mount Trishul seems only a touch away! The beauty and glamour of this trek is virtually unequalled, making it one of the most unmissable treks in the Himalayas, and every trekker’s dream! The awe-inspiring thrill of Roopkund will leave you with memories of a lifetime.