Roopkund Trek

duration Duration 8 Days / 7 Nights
altitude Maximum Altitude 16,100 ft
visit Best time to visit Apr - Jun, Sep - Nov
age Minimum Age 8+
Camp Base Camp Lohajung
Camp Accommodation type Guest House & Tents

Roopkund Trek Package

Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India; the Roopkund trek journeys through various mysteries, mythologies, and local folklores. The remnants of horses and human skeletons from the Palaeolithic era have led to the appellation "Mystery Lake" for this body of water. Thus, the mysterious Roopkund Lake continues to draw attention amidst Himalayan ranges.

The Roopkund trekking tour starts in a little community called Lohajung. It’s known as the Roopkund base camp. It's a minor pass in the Garhwal Himalayas that is located 16,499 feet above sea level. Journeying to one of the most well-known lakes in all of Uttarakhand, the trip to Roopkund admires the natural Himalayan beauty. Get an enchanting view of Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, Nanda Devi, and other nearby landmarks, as well as the Gomati River on the sides. Furthermore, the expansive alpine panorama and the glacier that surrounds the bone lake will astound you as you approach it.

What not to miss on Roopkund trek distance?

The Roopkund trek distance starts from Kathgodam, on a well-marked path to Raun Bagad. What’s interesting is to observe how the scene changes as one progresses on your Roopkund trekking guide. From the mesmerizing views and the diverse terrain, here are some of the highlights of Roopkund trekking packages: -

#1 The unbeatable meadows at Roopkund trek altitude

The Roopkund trek altitude features two mind-blowingly large alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. It resembles your famous Windows XP wallpaper nearly exactly. These bugyals cover a sizable region and serve as pastures for the local animals. Any person will be drawn in by the bugyals' lush vegetation and stay for a while. These bugyals are particular to the Garhwal region's eco-system, and they become much more captivating during the flowering season when the blooms paint the meadows with vibrant hues.

#2 Deep dense forest & sparkling streams of Roopkund Trek

Mountains have a unique eco-system that differs significantly from lowlands. The magnificent dark woodlands are where the Roopkund Trek goes. On a calm day, one can hear a symphony of cooing birds among the greenery, whistling wind through branches, and rustling dry leaves. You will pass the "Ran ka Dhar," a creek, as you continue on your trek to Ghairoli Patal. Along the way to your destination, oak and rhododendron woodlands will be encountered. On your trip from Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni, you will also pass another creek.

#3 Roopkund trek in India meets the nation’s ‘Mightiest’

One of the main highlights of the Roopkund trek is the peaks that you’re going to experience. 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, Neelkanth Peak, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and other white peaks from the Roopkund Lake.

#4 Skeleton Lake, the ultimate trophy of Roopkund Trek

The glacier lake is your final stop, at Roopkund trek itinerary. At one point of time, the lake included 500 or more skeleton remains of humans and animals. For a long time, it has been a fascinating subject that draws more people there. Situated at 16,100 ft. above sea level, the lake is encircled by towering mountains and glaciers and continues to be mostly covered with ice. Despite the fact that the human skeletons are fascinating, visitors should not take a piece for themselves.

The Roopkund trek difficulty level offers the perfect dose of adventure with a bunch of steep climbs with slippery but fun descents. No roller coaster can give you the adrenaline rush you get as you walk along a sharp and exposed ridge. Besides, if you want to be within the breathing space of Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, this is the place to be.

For Any Queries Regarding Roopkund Trek Package visit & contact us at MoustachEscapes.

Roopkund Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Kathgodam/Rishikesh to Lohajung

Drive: 210 km
Altitude: 7,662 ft.
Stay: Guest house/homestay on sharing basis
Meal: Dinner

  • Arrive at Rishikesh (or Kathgodam), and get transferred to Lohajung (9-10 hours).
  • Enjoy your ride watching the stunning views of Trishul, Maiktoli, Nanda Devi, Ghori Parvat, Nanda Khat, Hathi Parvat, and Ghori Parvat.
  • Take a small halt at “Teen Dhara” for refreshments, continue driving to Lohajung.
  • Once arrived check-in to your Guest House/Homestay.
  • Visit local markets, shopping jackets, hand gloves, shoes, etc. if case you forgot to pack any. Later, have dinner and rest.

Day 2: Lohajung Base Camp to Didna Village via Kuling village

Trek: 10 Km
Altitude: 8,145 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis
Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner

  • Wake up for breakfast and afterwards trek to Raun Bagad.
  • Descend through mixed forests on a moderate difficult trail (2-2½ hrs) to reach the Ruan Bagad, which is an iron bridge across the famous Neel Ganga River.
  • Hereafter climb to Didina which is relatively tough time in the beginning. Although, you would reach Didina in about an hour and a half time.
  • Overnight stay in your camp for dinner and rest.

Day 3: Didna Village to Abin Kharik via Ali Bugyal and Toplani

Trek: 12 Km
Altitude: 12,200 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis
Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner

  • Start your day with breakfast and start your trek to Toplani.
  • From Toplani, the trail ascends to Tolkaan in the northern direction. The meadow trek goes through a series of switchbacks and grassy oak mountains.
  • After reaching Tolkaan, take a sharp left towards the south and steer through the ridge to come out of the forest at Ali Bugyal.
  • Take your time enjoying the meadow view. Later, start trek to Abin Kharik with slight ascend.
  • Reach your campsite (1.5 -2 hours) for overnight stay, post dinner at the campsite.

Day 4: Abin Kharik to Bahkuwabasa via Bedni, Pater Nachoni & Kaluvinayak

Trek: 12 Km
Altitude: 14,000 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis
Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner

  • Begin your day early to reach Bhawabasa and acclimatize to the weather.
  • After breakfast depart to Patar Nachauni, a 5 km (2-3 hours) trek.
  • Witness the alpine charm of Nanda Ghunti and Trishuli Peak; along with waterfalls and small water lakes between meadows.
  • Ascend on the steep and zigzag trail to Kalu Vinayak that gradually descends through snow patches.
  • Stay overnight in the campsite, having dinner and taking some rest.

Day 5: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (Junargali) and back to Bhagwabasa

Trek: 10 km
Altitude: 16,000 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis

  • Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner
  • Start your day early at 4 am. The snow is still hard before sunrise and softens as the day progresses. Thus, making your feet sink in the ice and unfavourable to trek further.
  • The Roopkund trek route ascends (3Km) from Bhagwabasa to reach Roopkund.
  • Once you climb to Roopkund, you must climb up to Junargali (around 200 ft.) which is 25 - 30 min hike.
  • Start off early to return back to Bhagwabasa. Careful on the snowy slopes, as it may trick you.

Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Ghairoli Patal via Bedni Bugyal

Trek: 15 km
Altitude: 11,000 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis
Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner

  • Start early post breakfast. 
  • Descend without delay as the weather at these high altitudes changes suddenly. It can get windy up here and the possibility of sudden rain cannot be ruled out.
  • We also might rest at Pathar Nachauni if the weather permits, as it doesn’t take much time.
  • Reach Bedani in around 5 hours, followed by 2km descend to Ghairoli.
  • You can camp at Ghairoli Patal for the night.

Day 7: Ghairoli Patal to Lohajung via Wan & Ranka Dhar

Trek: 5 km
Drive: Wan to Lohajung
Altitude: 7,662 ft.
Stay: Tent stay on sharing basis

  • Meal: Breakfast - Lunch - Evening Snacks - Dinner
  • Wake up fresh, having breakfast and continue you trek from Ghairoli.
  • Hike on the steep ridge descent to reach Neel Ganga River.
  • From the river, it takes a short half-hour climb to the ridge above Wan Village.
  • Once arrived, hop onto your jeep from Wan to Lohajung (45 mins).

Day 8: Lohajung to Kathgodam/Rishikesh

Meal: Breakfast
Drive: 210 km

  • Wake up, freshen up, and have your breakfast.
  • Drive back to Kathgodam/Rishikesh.

The trek ends here.

How to Reach Roopkund Trek Base Camp

Air:- Pantnagar Airport (32 km away from Kathgodam) is the nearest airport. Get a taxi from the airport to reach Kathgodam. Those travelling from Delhi, can get on a train or bus to reach Kathgodam.

Road:- Volvo transfers are available from Delhi to Kathgodam.

Rail:- Nearest railway station is Kathgodam, which is well connected with different parts of the country.

NOTE:- Before booking a cab or bus to or from Dharchula, it is advisable to contact the trek operator first. As the Roopkund trek guide contact their local transport facility, easing your trip to the base camp.

Things to Carry for Roopkund Trek

  1. Shirts / T-shirts –2/3, Jeans / Trekking Pants -2
  2. Windproof jacket of decent quality (no flimsy wind cheaters please!) preferably with a hood
  3. Warm and thick Fleece / Full-sleeve Woollen sweater
  4. Thermal inner wear (upper & lower), Scarf/muffler (optional)
  5. Woollen cap, Woollen gloves, Woollen socks & regular socks (3-4 pairs)
  6. Comfortable Trekking/Hiking shoes (Waterproof shoes with a thick sole are recommended)
  7. Lightweight floaters/sandals/slippers
  8. Raincoat / Poncho, Small quick dry towel
  9. Water bottle (sturdy ones, no empty Bisleri bottles!!)
  10. Cap / Hat to keep the strong sun away from your face
  11. Sun glasses (polarized/UV Protected), Walking stick / Trekking pole
  12. Sunscreen Lotion, Lip Balm, Torch / Flashlight (with extra batteries)
  13. Medicines, if requiring any specific medication
  14. Personal toiletries
  15. Day pack/small bag in case if you are planning to offload your regular backpack
  16. Hand Sanitizer
  17. Extra face masks

Inclusions in Roopkund Trek Package

  • You will be greeted by our trek team on your arrival at Lohajung.
  • All stays included from Dharchula to Dharchula on sharing basis:-
    (i) Guest house on day 1 & 7.
    (ii) Tents on day 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • All meals included from Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast. Vegetarian meals will be served throughout the trek.
  • Skilled local staff who have ample knowledge of the route
  • Hot water in buckets can be provided on request depending on availability, while staying at guest houses / home stay only.
  • All trek essentials included–
    (i) Accommodation - tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats etc.
    (ii) Safety equipment - microspikes, gaiters as per requirements and basic first aid kit with a portable oxygen cylinder.
    (iii) Permit - forest and camping fee included.

Exclusions in Roopkund Trek Package

  • The above trek charges does not include the GST charges (5%).
  • Personal essentials -
    (i) Equipment - Gumboots, trekking poles, etc.
    (ii) Insurance - Personal and travel insurances.
    (iii) Beverage - Mineral water bottles/bottled or canned beverages
    (iv) Snacks - Chocolate, dry fruits, protein or nutrition bar.
    (v) Entertainment - Camera or drone fees.
  • Transportation - The charges of transportation on day 1 and 8 are to be borne and shared between the trekkers.
  • In case if your trek remains incomplete or uninitiated because of ""force majeure"", medical emergency or by personal choice after you arrive at the starting point, you will not be able to get refund, reschedule or replace any services that remain unutilized by you.
  • Any additional cost incurred due to changes in Government Guidelines related to travel/trek/COVID-19 will be borne by the Guest.
  • Anything which is not included in Inclusion.

Cancellation Policies for Roopkund Trek

  1. If cancellations are made 26 days prior to the start date of your trek/tour/activity, no cancellation fee will be charged.If cancellations are made between 8-25 days prior to the start date of your trek/tour/activity, 25% of the total package amount will be charged as cancellation fee.
  2. If cancellations and rescheduling are made within 7 days from the start date of your trek/tour/activity, 100% of the total booking amount will be charged as a cancellation fee.
  3. Guest can reschedule the tour/trek/activity between 8-25 days prior to the start date of your trek/tour/activity (Depending on the availability), after this period no rescheduling can be done and no amount can be refunded. 
  4. Rescheduling of the tour/trek/activity is applicable only once, after that if you want to cancel or reschedule the trek/tour/activity again, it will not be possible and no refund will be processed.
  5. If you book the tour/trek/activity by making a partial payment of the total booking amount and fail to make the 100% payment before 26 days from the date of travel. In this case, your booking will get cancelled automatically and can only be reconfirmed once you make the full payment, depending on the availability of slots.
  6. In case if your tour/trek/activity remains incomplete or uninitiated because of "force majeure", medical emergency, government policy changes, local strikes, or by personal choice after you arrive at the starting point, you will not be able to get a refund, reschedule or replace any services that remain underutilized by you.
  7. In case if your tour/trek/activity gets cancelled because of "force majeure", medical emergency, government policy changes, local strikes between 0-7 days from your date of travel, you will be eligible to reschedule the date of your trek/tour/activity or you can get a credit note of the amount paid, however no cash refund will be possible in this case.
  8. Cancellations are strictly subjected to cancellation policies mentioned on the website & are irrespective of the date of booking.
  9. The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 business days.

Roopkund Lake Trek FAQ's

Where is Roopkund?

Roopkund Lake is situated 16,500 feet above sea level in the Uttarakhand region of India on Trishul, one of the tallest mountains there. The "Skeleton Lake," which was uncovered by a British forest warden on patrol in 1942, has the bodies scattered all over and buried beneath the ice.

How difficult is Roopkund trek?

The Roopkund trek difficulty level ranges from easy to moderate. The trail starts to ascend sharply into an oak and rhododendron woodland after two hours of difficult ascent across alpine meadows.

How to reach Roopkund?

The 8-day/7-night Roopkund Trek to Skeleton Lake begins in Lohajung, which is conveniently located on motorable highways. The trek from Bedni Bugyal is challenging and should only be attempted by people who are well-prepared and have previous trekking expertise. Bedni Bugyal is 14 kilometres from Roopkund.

Is Roopkund trek open?

Roopkund, once the most well-liked high altitude trek, is still CLOSED as of 2022. You may look into the Ali Bedni Bugyal trip, which has practically all of the trail's highlights but omits the lake!

Are there any local stores/shops for shopping rental trekking gears?

Lohajung, the base camp for Roopkund Trek is only place you can rent your trekking gears. However, it is suggested to not rely on rentals due to its unknown expiry time.

Is it safe for a solo woman traveller to trek in fixed departures?

Yes, it is absolutely safe for solo woman or female in general. Women on the trek will be sharing tent with each other. In case if there is only one woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.

What equipments are provided for snowfall during the trek?

You will be provided with good quality of gaiters and microspikes, ropes and ice axe depending upon the snow.

What is the best season for Roopkund Trek?

The Roopkund trek best time only lasts for 3 to 4 months of the year. This trek is accessible in the summer months, between April till June. And, also in the post-monsoon months between September to November. However, the trek remains closed for monsoon months of July, August and the winter months of December, January, and February.

How's Roopkund trek weather?

During the months of May and June, the temperature at your campsites will range from 5°C to -1°C during the day and 3° to -4°C at night.
During the months of September and October, the temperature at your campsites will be around 6°C to 1°C during the day and 4°C to -4°C at night.

Who can do Roopkund Trek?

The difficulty level of this trek is moderate. If you aren't used to walking for long hours, then you may run short of breath very frequently. Given that, there are several steep climbs along with zigzag rocky paths. Nonetheless, for any beginner with a basic fit body, this hike is safe and possible.

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