Here’s a comprehensive user-friendly guide for the Roopkund Trek in Uttarakhand, covering everything you need to know from planning to execution. This guide is structured for a first-time trekker or travel enthusiast.
About Roopkund
Roopkund is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at an elevation of around 16,499 ft (5,029 m). It is famously known as the “Mystery Lake” because of the hundreds of ancient human skeletons found in and around it.
- Trek Duration: 7 to 9 days (including travel from base)
- Trek Distance: ~53 km (round trip)
- Best Time to Visit: May to June & September to October
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
- Region: Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand
- Base Village: Lohajung
Best Time to Go
- May–June: Snow-laden trails, great for snow lovers.
- Sept–Oct: Clear skies, lush green meadows, and post-monsoon beauty.
- Avoid: Monsoon (July–Aug) due to landslides and slippery trails.
- Winter (Nov–Apr): Trek usually closed due to heavy snow.
Route Overview
- Kathgodam – Reach via train or bus from Delhi.
- Lohajung (base village) – 10-hour drive from Kathgodam.
- Trek begins:
- Day 1: Lohajung to Didna Village
- Day 2: Didna to Ali Bugyal
- Day 3: Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni
- Day 4: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa
- Day 5: Summit Roopkund and back to Bhagwabasa/Bedni Bugyal
- Day 6: Return to Lohajung
- Day 7: Drive back to Kathgodam
Packing List (User Checklist)
Essentials:
- 50–60L trekking backpack
- Waterproof jacket and windcheater
- Thermal inners and fleece jackets
- Quick-dry trekking pants (2–3 pairs)
- Woolen cap, gloves, neck warmer
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Trekking shoes (ankle-high, good grip)
- Extra socks and undergarments
- Headlamp or torch
- Reusable water bottle (1–2L)
- Energy bars, dry fruits, ORS
- Sunscreen, lip balm, personal toiletries
Documents:
- Govt. ID (Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID)
- Medical certificate (from certified doctor)
- Disclaimer/trekking form (provided by trek operator)
Accommodation
- Stay during trek: Tents or local guest houses (depends on trek operator).
- Lohajung: Basic homestays or lodges available.
- Toilets: Dry toilets (compostable pits), especially at high camps.
Food
- Basic vegetarian meals are provided by trek operators.
- Include rice, dal, vegetables, chapati, tea, porridge, and occasional sweets.
- Carry small snacks like chocolates, nuts, glucose, ORS.
Fitness & AMS Tips
- Roopkund is a high-altitude trek; prepare 1 month in advance.
- Run or brisk walk 3–5 km daily, do stairs, squats, and breathing exercises.
- Acclimatization is crucial – don’t rush the trek.
- Watch for AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): headaches, nausea, fatigue.
- Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol/cigarettes, sleep well.
Cost Breakdown (Approximate)
Item | Cost (INR) |
Delhi to Kathgodam (train/bus) | 500–1000 |
Kathgodam to Lohajung (shared cab) | 1000–1500 |
Trek package (6–7 days) | 10,000–15,000 |
Extra gear rental (shoes, jacket) | 500–1000 |
Food/snacks | 500–1000 |
Misc/Buffer | 1000 |
|
Total Estimate: ₹14,000–₹20,000 per person
Top Trekking Operators
- Indiahikes
- Trek The Himalayas (TTH)
- Himalayan Trekkers
- Bikat Adventures
Book well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Highlights of the Trek
Dense Oak & Rhododendron forests
Ali & Bedni Bugyal (high-altitude meadows)
Snow-covered peaks like Mt. Trishul & Nanda Ghunti
Roopkund Lake with mysterious human skeletons
Stunning sunrise from Junargali Pass
Safety Tips
- Go with a certified guide/operator
- Keep emergency contact details with you
- Always inform someone of your trekking plan
- Respect the environment – no littering
- Weather can change suddenly – be prepared
Local Cultural Tip
- Villagers in Lohajung and nearby areas are humble and helpful.
- Respect local traditions and ask before taking photos of people.
- Carry some cash, as there’s no ATM network at higher altitudes.
Final Thoughts
The Roopkund Trek is a true adventure into the heart of the Himalayas. It’s physically challenging but spiritually rewarding, perfect for those who love mystery, nature, and personal growth. If you’re mentally prepared and physically trained, this trek will leave you changed.
“The mountains whisper to those who listen. Roopkund has a story to tell — are you ready to hear it?”