Loction
utrakhand
Average Trekking
53 km
Duration
8 Days
Difficulty
Difficult
Altitude
16,499 Ft
Get in touch with our trek Experts
+919557711495
tvmadventures@gmail.com
10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs | GMT +5:30
Monday - Saturday | Sunday Closed
The Roop kund Trek also known as mysterious trek or skeleton trek is located in the Himalayas in Chamoli, Uttrakhand. It is known as the mystery lake as human skeletons are found around the lake. It is estimated that around 300-900 people lost their lives over there, these skeletons are visible when the ice melts and the water of the lake is clear for us to gaze at. It is said that along with the skeletons other artefacts like iron spearheads and wooden arts were also found.
According to native mythology the King of Kanauj, Raja Jasdhaval along with his pregnant wife and servants went on pilgrimage to Nanda Devi shrine, but on the way the group faced a storm and probably met an unfortunate end near the lake. The Roopkund Trek will start from the base camp village Lohajung and with each passing day you will encounter new shades of mother nature.
- +5% GST (goods and services tax).
- Services Rishikesh to Rishikesh.
- Reporting Time: 6:00 a.m. Drop Time:6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (Timings are subject to change based on weather and road conditions). Please reach Rishikesh a day before to avoid any delays.
- Insurance 210
- Transport 1,600
₹14,410
₹12,700 with Addons
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Location
Uttrakhand
-
Average Trekking
53 Km
-
Duration
8 Days
-
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
-
Altitude
16,499 Ft
Trek Overview
Trek Name: ROOPKUND TREK
Days: 8
Adventure Type: Trekking
Base Camp: KASHMIR GREAT LAKES
Season:Summer | Autumn |
Month:March | April | May | September | October | November |
Distance: 58 Km.
Trail Type: Circle trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the same point.
Country: India
Altitude: 16,499 Ft
Grade: Difficult
Stay: Hotel and teahouse
Food: Meals while on trek & at Hotel/Guesthouse (Veg & Eggs)
Highlights:
- USD 107 +5% GST for Non-Indians and OCI card holders
- +5% GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Highlights
The Mystery of Skeletons: Roopkund Lake is famous for the human skeletons that lie at its edge, visible when the snow melts. The mystery of these skeletons, combined with the lake’s stunning glacial beauty, makes it a fascinating destination.
Panoramic Views of Himalayan Peaks: The trek offers close-up views of some of the most prominent peaks in the Garhwal Himalayas, including Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m). The view of Trishul from the Bedni Bugyal is particularly iconic.
Diverse Landscapes: The trek takes you through dense oak and rhododendron forests, as well as expansive alpine meadows like Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, which are among the largest and most beautiful high-altitude meadows in India.
Varied Trail: The trail is diverse, ranging from lush green forests to rocky paths and steep climbs as you approach Roopkund Lake. The final stretch involves navigating snow and ice, especially in early summer or post-monsoon.
Picturesque Campsites: The campsites at Ali Bugyal, Bedni Bugyal, and Bhagwabasa are set in stunning locations, offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes and starry skies at night.
Local Villages: The trek starts from Lohajung and passes through quaint villages like Didna and Wan, where you can experience the traditional lifestyle of the locals.
Safety Tips
Physical Fitness : The Roopkund Trek is moderately challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. Regular cardio exercises, leg strength training, and endurance-building activities will help you prepare.
Acclimatization: Proper acclimatization is crucial as the trek reaches altitudes of over 4,800 meters. Spend some time in Lohajung to acclimate, and ascend gradually during the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If symptoms persist, descend immediately and consult your guide. Carry necessary medications like Diamox.
Weather Preparedness: The weather in high-altitude regions like Roopkund can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes, including snowfall, cold winds, and freezing temperatures.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and keep your energy levels up with nutritious snacks. Avoid consuming alcohol or smoking during the trek, as they can exacerbate altitude sickness.
Who can participate
- Age; 10 years +.
- First-timers can apply.
- The climber must be fit and have sufficient stamina to cover a 4 km distance in 35 minutes without stress.
- Foreigners are not permitted on this journey. Indians with any Indian Id like a Passport, Adhaar, Driving license or Pan card are allowed.
Itinerary
- Quick Itinerary
- Detailed Itneray
- Day-1: Drive RISHIKESH to LOHAJUNG
- Drive Distance: 210 KM
Drive Duration: 10-11 HRS.
- Day-2: Lohajung To Didna Village
- TREK DISTANCE : 6.5 KM
- Altitude Gain : 7,662-8,045Ft
- Trek Duration : 10-12 hr
- Day-3: Didna Village To Ali Bugyal
- TREK DISTANCE : 10.5 KM
- Altitude Gain:8,045 to 11,320Ft
- Trek Duration : 10-12Hrs
- Day-4: Ali Bugyal To Patar Nachauni Via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lothani
- TREK DISTAANCE : 7 KM
- Altitude Gain-11,320 to 12,818Ft
- Trek Duration : 10-12Hrs
- Day-5: Patar Nachani To Bhagwabasa Via Kalu Vinayak
- TREK DITANCE : 4KM
- Altitude gain: 12,818 to 14,117 Ft
- Trek Duration : 10-12Hrs
- Day-6: Bhagwabasa To Roopkund and Back To Bedni Bugyal
- TREK DISTANCE : 10 KM
- Altitude Gain: 14,117 15,755Ft
- Day-7: Patar Nachauni To Lohajung Via Bedani and Wan
- TREK DISTANCE : 15 KM
- Altitude Loss: 12,818 to 7,662Ft
- Day-8: Return To Rishikesh From Lohajung
- DRIVE DISTANCE : 210KM
Drive Duration – 10-11 hrs.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
Arrive at Lohajung village
Whether you are coming from Rishikesh or from Kathgodam, there will be a long drive to reach the base village of Roopkund trek – Lohajung. Both roads are scenic and will usher you into the adventure mode as you pass through meandering mountain roads, hamlets, refreshing greenery and finally arrive at Lohajung, a lively mountain town in Chamoli district, at an altitude of 7,662 ft. The majestic view of Mt. Nanda Ghunti during sunrise and sunset will be forever etched in your mind. You can go for a stroll in the village market to quickly restock your necessary personal items or rent trek gear. You will also get mobile networks in Lohajung.
So, rest, rejuvenate and get ready for the exciting journey ahead. You will get comfortable accommodation at the guest house on a sharing basis. The actual trek starts from Day 2 onwards.
Lohajung to Didna Village
The journey towards the mysterious alpine lake, Roopkund, begins today. First thing first, a good spread of breakfast. This will prepare you for the journey ahead. We will start around 8:30-9:00 am. So stay prepared with your rucksack and other necessary items like water and small snacks to munch on the trail.
First you will have a slight ascent on the jeep road towards Wan village. After 1 and a half hour walking you will reach Kulling, 6km ahead of Lohajung. Kulling is a picturesque mountain village with a small population.
Ahead of Kulling the trail will take you to a small stream fed by Neel Ganga and after further descent you reach Neel Ganga where you need to refill your water bottles.
After Neel Ganga the road ahead will start getting moderately steep until you reach Didna village, which is situated at an altitude of 8000 ft. You will be passing by a refreshingly green ancient forest to rejuvenate your senses. After about two hours of climbing you reach the top of a ridge with a panoramic view. Once you reach Didna you will be reaching your Day 2 accommodation at comfortable village homestays.
You will be reaching late afternoon, have warm snacks and rest and rejuvenate for the day. Evening there will be a briefing for the next day. Enjoy the fresh, crisp village air devoid of pollution and have a restful night.
Didna Village to Ali Bugyal (meadow)
On Day 3 of the trek to Roopkund you reach the biggest alpine meadow, Ali Bugyal. This will be also the camping and resting spot for Day 3. Today you will gain some more altitude and reach at a height of 11000 ft.
From Didna village itself you can have a view of Ali Bugyal, which is located on a mountain top! Naturally to reach to this mountain top you will have to trek on a steep trail. Brace yourself for the upcoming adventure! But here is the good news – the trail has gradual ascent and not much challenging gradient.
As you continue you will come across Tolpani, a major shepherd abode with friendly and welcoming people. Today’s trail will also take you through ancient, mysterious mountain forests decorated with Oak, Birch, and Rhododendron trees.
The climb will take approximately 3 to 4 hours, and you will observe the treeline slowly making way for the vast expanse of the grassland, Ali Bugyal! On clear weather, get ready to spot famous peaks like Mt. Trishul and Mrighthuni, which are the tallest mountain peaks in this part of the Himalayas. Today your stay will be arranged in sharing tents, the camping of Roopkund trek. After you reach the campsite, retire to your tent, rest and then you can visit temple at Bedni Kund, which is nearby.
Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani
Day 4 starts on a refreshing note amid nature and after a good, warm breakfast we start on our way. Our next camping location is Gora Lutani, a perfect and picturesque camping spot.
We will reach our destination today after much adventure as today’s trail is marked by quite an altitude gain, from around 12,500ft to 14,500ft. On the way we will pass through Patar Nachauni.
After a trek of around 10kms, you will reach today’s campsite, Ghora Lotani. Today’s walk will be a bit strenuous with slow, continuous ascent, which puts a lot of stress on your legs. Also, as the air gets thinner with higher altitude you will feel the effect of strenuous breathing. Today’s campsite we will also use for acclimatisation. Rest well as tomorrow we will start very early in the morning for the final push to the mysterious skeleton lake, Roopkund!
Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak
We are already on Day 5! Today the adventure starts pretty early! We will need to get ready and start by early morning so keep your bag and trekking gear ready!
But we will have a good breakfast first to refuel ourselves for the long day ahead, stretch for a smooth walk after yesterday’s weary trek and then start on our way. Today we will cover another 10kms and the trail will get steeper as we push to the final altitude of 15696 ft.
Today our final destination will be Bhagwasa, located at an altitude of approximately 14000 ft. To reach Bhagwasa we will cross the Kalyuvinayak temple. The path towards this temple is tricky but a view from this temple and the visit to the temple itself is pretty rewarding.
Be aware of the signs of AMS like headache or bloated stomach and inform your trek lead immediately if you have symptoms of AMS. The air will get thinner as you gain altitude. From Kaluvinayak temple a grand view of Roopkund will instill fresh energy in your mind and body to push for the final stretch of the trek!
Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Bedni Bugyal
Star of the trek, Roopkund lake visit is on Day 6, today! So, gear up for this exciting day and a lifetime worth of memory of visiting a unique lake in the lap of the Himalayas!
Day 6 will need you to start even earlier than any of the previous days! We will start the journey at around 4:00 am. So, retire to your sleeping bags early the previous day and get up fresh and ready for the trek on Day 6.
The strenuous and uphill climb to Roopkund lake is around 3 kms. In the thin air this walk will feel very strenuous but once you are able to reach the lake you will know all those steps and efforts were worth it. Roopkund Lake is surrounded by mystery! The near-about 500 skeletons in the lake, preserved, will take your breath away! There are many stories and theories surrounding the deposition of these skeletons in the lake, but no one knows for sure how these skeletons ended up here.
Once you reach the lake, and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings, immerse yourself in the mystery and exalt at the feeling of reaching the highest point of the trek, rest and have a good breakfast. After that and spending some more time around, catching our breath and the beautiful scenery, we will start our return journey to Bedni Bugyal via Bhagwasa.
Patar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan
Day 7 is the last day of the trek and we will retrace our way all the way to Lohajung. Get ready for another day of adventure ahead as you keep descending the trail. It will be quite strenuous and steep descent that may put a lot of pressure on your knees and ankles so make sure you have necessary support like a good ankle covering trekking boot and trek poles.
However, the accompanying scenery will again divert your mind from the pain and make you reflect on the refreshing mountain view, settlements along the way. Through the zig-zag strenuous trail amid the forest you will reach Gahroli Patal and then continue the journey towards Neel Ganga. You will again pass the Wan village and then continue the journey onwards till you reach Lohajung. On this return journey you will cover a distance of 18 kms and after taking proper rest and pit stops on the way you reach the final destination, Lohajung, almost after 10 hours. It will feel like bliss after you reach the village.
Wake up leisurely today. Day 8 and the last day already! You will bid adieu to the mountain and retrace your way back to your home. Whether you want to return to Kathgodam or to Rishikesh, there will be a long drive ahead. So plan your journey ahead accordingly. Alternatively you can stay a day back in Lohajung, enjoy the thrilling ziplining and spend a day to rest and recuperate after the strenuous trek to Roopkund.
Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60 to 90 beats per minute).
Blood Pressure Reading must be in between (DIASTOLIC 70 – 90, SYSTOLIC 100 – 140 mm Hg).
Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 to 20 breaths per minute).
Should not have Liver and kidney issues.
Should not have Diabetes Mellitus, Bronchial Asthma, Heart problems, Hypertension, etc.
No pacemaker implant.
People with Sinus issues, Epilepsy please contact to trek coordinator before booking the trek.
If your BMI is not normal, Please contact our Trek coordinator before Trek booking.
- Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when they join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and the Ministry Of Tourism (MOT).
- Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before the trek departure date.
- This service is exclusive to Indian government employees and is applicable only for treks within India.
- Do mail at info@trekthehimalayas to apply and mention your booked trek date and trek name.
- Junior trekkers (below 15 years) should have a company of parents/guardians.
- Trekkers between 15 to 18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/guardian.
- Medical & Disclaimer Form (Mandatory Documents) Click here to download Medical & Disclaimer Form
How To Reach
Pick-Up Information
- It is essential for everyone to arrive at Rishikesh (06:00 am)
- Pick-up Location – Tapovan, Landmark -Nainital Bank opposite Shiv Vilas Hotel
- Once you have reached Rishikesh, TMV will manage the rest of your travel arrangements, if you have opted for TMV’s pick-up service, you can select this option during the booking process by adding it as an add-on.
Options to Reach Rishikesh
First, you can arrive at Delhi, Dehradun airport or Chandigarh. The journey from these locations to Rishikesh is explained below.
1. Take overnight train/bus to Rishikesh.
2. Take overnight train/bus to Haridwar and drive to Rishikesh (25km | 35 min drive with normal traffic).
3. Take overnight train/bus to Dehradun and drive to Rishikesh (50km | 1hr 20min drive with normal traffic).
( We always recommend going for the govt. Buses over the private ones outside the bus station as based on the experience we have found that there are very high chances of delay involved with private buses. Also, govt. Buses are always more reliable. Whichever bus you choose, just make sure to reach Rishikesh at least by 05:30 am. )
4. Board a flight to Dehradun airport (Jolly Grant Airport) (21 km, 30 min). If you’re arriving by air, then come one day in advance.
Drop-Off Information
- The designated drop-off point is Tapovan, Rishikesh.
- Reach in Rishikesh by 6:30 to 7:30 pm.
- Please consider planning your subsequent travel arrangements after 10:00 pm.
Note – In July and August month always have a buffer day in your Itinerary due to the Monsoon.
- It’s highly advisable to keep a buffer day in your travel plan. If the buffer day is not used, it can be used to explore Rishikesh.
( If you prefer to travel independently to Base camp and don’t want to take TMV’s pick-up service, you can either take a government bus or book a private cab from Rishikesh. Your trek coordinator will provide guidance on how to arrange for the bus or cab booking. )
- TMV offers comfortable transportation through Tempo Traveler, Bolero, or equivalent vehicles. If you wish to upgrade your mode of transportation, please contact your trek coordinator for further assistance.
Cost Terms
- Inclusion & Exclusion
- Canellation Policy
Inclusion :
• Veg meals: breakfast, Lunch, Evening snacks and dinner
• Tents(triple/double sharing), SleepingBags, Sleepingmatts
• Gears: Micro spikes and Gaiters as per snow conditions
• Accomodation in hostel / Guest house on Day1
• Experienced and Qualified Guides
• Friendly and Supportive staff
• Forest permits
• Medical Amenities: First Aid Kits, oximeter, oxygen cylinder
• Sanitised and Hygienic camp site and hostels
• Mode of Transportation
• Numbers of people (1-4): Hatch back – Alto, Swift or Equivalent Vehicle
• Numbers of people (5-8): tata sumo/Mahindra bolero or equivalent
vehicle
• Numbers of people (9-12): Temp travel
Exclusion:
• Anything not mentioned in the list
• Meal during transportation
• Any kind of personal expenses during trek
• Porter/mule-charges (Personal), Backpack offloading charge
• Unscheduled or extended stay due to road blocks, landslides, bad weatherandsnowfall
• Cost of evacuation in-case of an emergency
The Mountain Vibes.
We get that a travel and adventure enthusiast like you will be as bumped about cancelling a trek as us but we also understand that you may have to cancel the trek for any unforeseen reason and therefore the Cancellation Service of The Mountain Vibes does not return the advance amount paid by the trekkers instead we provide a voucher for the exact amount which is equivalent to the amount paid by you.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Terms & Conditions for the cash voucher:
- You can book any other trek of your choice with The Mountain Vibes including the one you cancelled at any other given point of time with the voucher.
- The voucher is only valid for treks directly booked with The Mountain Vibes
- Your Voucher will be valid for 24 months starting from the month you got your trek cancelled.
- To redeem the Voucher text us on our official TMV number or TMV e-mail id.
- The Mountain Vibes holds the right to add or remove any of the terms and conditions without notifying.
Trek Essentials
| Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
| Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
| Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
| Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
| Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
| Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
| T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
| Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
| Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
| Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
| Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
| Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
| Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
| Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
| Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
| Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
| Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
| Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
| Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
| Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
| Buff / Neck-gaiters | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
| Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
| Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
| Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
| Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
| Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
| Micro spikes | 1 Pair (TTH provides when required) |
| Sunscreen | 1 Nos |
| Moisturiser | 1 Nos |
| Chap-stick / Lip balm | 1 Nos |
| Toothbrush and toothpaste | 1 Nos |
| Toilet paper & Wipes | 1 Nos |
| Soap / hand sanitizers | 1 Nos |
| Antibacterial powder | 1 Nos |
| Quick dry towel | 1 Nos |




















FAQ
The Roopkund Trek is a journey of adventure and discovery that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. The trek is named after the mysterious Roopkund Lake, also known as the Skeleton Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 15, 696 feet. The trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, as it takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and traditional Himalayan villages. The highlight of the trek is the Roopkund Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The lake is also known for its mysterious skeletons, which are believed to be the remains of ancient travelers who perished in a hailstorm. The Roopkund Trek is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable trekking experience in the Himalayas.
Roopkund Trek is a 53 km trek.
Roopkund Trek takes 8 days to complete the trek.
The best time to do the Roopkund Trek is during summer (mid-Apr to Jun) and autumn (Sep to mid-Nov).
The maximum altitude reached during the Roopkund Trek is 15,696 ft.
The sole purpose of The Mountain Vibes is to provide its trekkers with the best trekking experience with quality as well as safety. We take extra percautions when it comes to the safety of our trekkers.
- We have a team of well trained and certified trek leaders.
- We have high end quality trekking gears and equipment.
- We have 24*7 medical assistance.
- Our staff is not only well behaved but also good at heart and will be available at your service 24*7
- We can proudly assure you that our team is the best in the field work it conducts to ensure you don’t go through any problem.
Roopkund Trek is a moderate – difficult grade trek.
The highlights of the Roopkund Trek include the Roopkund Lake, grand views of Chaukhambha Range, Kedarnath, Kedar Dome, and Neelkanth Peak, camping in picturesque campsites.
During the Roopkund Trek, you will stay in a guest house in the base camp, and on the slopes you will be staying in tents (twin-sharing).
Yes, it is safe to do Roopkund Trek with an expert organization. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines issued by the Trek Leaders and guide while trekking in the mountains.
Here’s a list of essential items to pack for the Roopkund Trek:
Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes with a sturdy sole and ankle support is essential for the trek.
Backpack: A backpack with a capacity of 40-50 litres is suitable for carrying your essentials, including clothing, food, and water.
Warm clothing: The temperature at high altitudes can drop significantly, so it’s important to carry warm clothing, including thermal layers, fleece jackets, and a down jacket.
Rain gear: The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it’s important to carry a rain jacket and pants to stay dry.
Trekking pants: Lightweight, quick-drying pants that are comfortable to walk in are ideal for the trek.
Headlamp or flashlight: A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries is necessary for navigating through dark trails and campsites.
Water bottle: A reusable water bottle with a capacity of at least 1 litre is necessary to stay hydrated during the trek.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun’s UV rays can be strong at high altitudes, so it’s important to carry sunglasses and sunscreen with a high SPF.
Basic first aid kit: A basic first aid kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and pain relievers can come in handy in case of injuries.
Personal hygiene kit: Toiletries like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues can help you maintain personal hygiene during the trek.
Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a professional expert for the Roopkund Trek, especially if you are a beginner or have limited trekking experience. A professional can provide you with valuable assistance, including knowledge of the local terrain, weather conditions, and the culture of the region. They can also help you with navigation and ensure your safety throughout the trek.





