Roopkund Trek
The Ultimate Winter Wonderland of Uttarakhand
Experience snow-covered trails, pine forests & 360° Himalayan views
Roopkund Trek at a Glance
Moderate to Difficult
Trek Difficulty
9 Day
Trek Duration
15696 FT
Altitude
Suitable For
15-50 years
Trek distance
53 km
Base Camp
Lohajung
Stay
Tents
Region
Uttarakhand
Pick up
Dehradun
Drop off
Dehradun
Cloakroom
Available
Off loading
Available
Difficult
Trek Difficulty
9 Days
Trek Duration
15696 FT
Altitude
Suitable For
15-50 years
Stay
Tents
Region
Uttarakhand
Pick up
Dehradun
Drop off
Dehradun
Trek distance
53 km
Base Camp
Lohajung
Cloakroom
Available
Off loading
Available
What Trekjunkies say about Roopkund Trek?
Roopkund was intense, beautiful, and unforgettable. The trail challenged me every day, but the rewards were beyond words. Walking through alpine meadows and reaching the mysterious Skeleton Lake felt surreal. The views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti were stunning. This trek is perfect for those who want adventure, mystery, and raw Himalayan beauty in one journey.
Neerav kalia
The Roopkund Trek pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. Steep climbs, snow patches, and long days made reaching the lake feel like a true achievement. Standing beside the frozen lake surrounded by peaks was emotional. The guides were professional, the camps were well managed, and the experience will stay with me forever.
Venkat
Roopkund is not just a trek—it’s an experience of history and high-altitude wilderness. From lush forests to rugged ridgelines, every section is dramatic. The final climb to the lake was tough but incredibly rewarding. Seeing the mysterious remains and vast Himalayan views made this one of the most powerful treks I’ve ever done.
Shristi Jain
Roopkund Trek: The Mysterious Skeleton Lake Adventure in the Himalayas
Roopkund Trek is not just a hike through the mountains—it’s a journey into mystery, challenge, and raw Himalayan beauty. As a trekker, every day on this trail feels like stepping into a story. The path takes you from dense forests of oak and rhododendron to vast alpine meadows like Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, where the landscape suddenly opens into endless green and snow-dusted horizons. Walking here with the wind in your face and peaks all around is pure freedom.
The climb gets tougher as you gain altitude, and that’s where Roopkund truly tests you. Long ascents, rocky sections, and snow patches demand focus and stamina. But with every step, the views grow more dramatic. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti dominate the skyline, reminding you how small you are in this massive world. Nights at camp are cold but comforting—huddled in sleeping bags, sharing stories under a sky bursting with stars.
Reaching Roopkund Lake is an emotional moment. After days of effort, you finally stand at the edge of the frozen, high-altitude lake, surrounded by towering peaks and silence. Seeing the ancient skeletons beneath the clear ice is eerie and fascinating at the same time. It feels like you’ve reached a place frozen in time.
From a trekker’s perspective, Roopkund is challenging, intense, and deeply rewarding. It pushes your limits, sharpens your mind, and leaves you with memories that stay long after the trail ends.
The Mystery of the Skeletons at Roopkund Lake
High in the remote Garhwal Himalayas, at an altitude of over 16,000 feet, lies Roopkund Lake—famous not just for its beauty, but for the hundreds of human skeletons scattered around its edges and beneath its icy waters. For a trekker, reaching this place already feels surreal, but standing there and seeing the remains makes the experience even more haunting. It’s as if the mountains are guarding a secret from centuries ago.
For years, locals believed the skeletons belonged to a royal procession that angered the mountain goddess and was struck down by a sudden storm of hail. This legend added a mythical layer to the lake’s story. Later, scientific studies revealed that the remains date back to around the 9th century and likely belonged to a group of travelers caught in an unexpected and deadly weather event. Injuries on the skulls suggest they were hit by round, hailstone-like objects, supporting the idea of a violent storm.
As a trekker, learning this history while standing beside the lake is chilling. You’re surrounded by silence, towering peaks, and thin mountain air, and right in front of you are people who once walked these same paths. It creates a powerful connection between past and present.
Roopkund is not just a destination—it’s a reminder of how unforgiving and awe-inspiring the Himalayas can be. The skeletons turn the lake into more than a scenic spot; they make it a place of reflection, respect, and deep mystery that stays with you long after you descend from the mountains.
Trek Fee
₹7500 + 5% GST
Complete Package from Dehradun To Dehradun.
Optional: ₹500 Per Day Backpack Offloading - base
Trek Registration
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Best Time to Visit
This is one of the best times to do the Roopkund Trek. The snow starts melting, making the trail accessible while still offering beautiful snow patches near higher camps. The meadows come alive with fresh greenery and alpine flowers, and the views of Himalayan peaks are crystal clear. Days are pleasant for trekking, though nights remain cold. This season is perfect for trekkers who want a mix of snow, clear weather, and scenic landscapes.
Autumn is considered the prime trekking season for Roopkund. After the monsoon, the skies turn clear, the trails dry up, and the air becomes crisp. You get stunning mountain views and stable weather, making the trek safer and more enjoyable. The surroundings look fresh and vibrant, and visibility is at its best. It’s ideal for photographers and first-time high-altitude trekkers
During monsoon (July–August), heavy rains make the trail slippery and risky. In winter (late October–March), heavy snowfall blocks the route, making the trek inaccessible for most people.
Through the Lens: Roopkund Trek Scenic Views
Trek Route & Itinerary
Detailed Day-Wise Roopkund Trek Itinerary
Your journey begins from Rishikesh with a scenic drive into the Garhwal Himalayas. The road winds along rivers, pine forests, and mountain towns like Karnaprayag and Kausani. By evening, reach Lohajung, the base village of the Roopkund Trek at 7,700 ft. Meet your trek leader, check your gear, and relax for the night.
After breakfast, start your trek towards Didna village. The trail moves through oak and rhododendron forests, crosses small streams, and passes remote mountain settlements. You’ll enjoy peaceful surroundings and beautiful valley views along the way. By afternoon, reach Didna, a traditional Garhwali village at 8,200 ft. Set up camp and enjoy local hospitality.
Today you climb steadily toward the famous Ali Bugyal. The trail goes through dense forests before opening into wide alpine meadows. As you gain altitude, the views of snow-covered peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti become clearer. By late afternoon, arrive at Ali Bugyal at 11,200 ft and camp in the middle of this breathtaking grassland.
You walk across rolling green meadows today, enjoying panoramic Himalayan views. The trail is mostly gentle, making it a relaxed trekking day. On the way, cross Ghairoli Patal ridge, offering stunning scenery all around. By afternoon, reach Bedni Bugyal, one of the most beautiful campsites on the trek. Visit the sacred Bedni Kund and enjoy a magical sunset.
Leaving the meadows behind, today’s trail climbs into rocky and colder terrain. The landscape changes as vegetation becomes sparse and the air thinner. The path to Pathar Nachuni, meaning “dancing stones,” involves careful walking over loose rocks. By evening, reach the high-altitude campsite at 13,000 ft, surrounded by rugged mountains and wide open skies.
The trek gets steeper and more challenging as you head toward Bhagwabasa. The trail is short but demanding, with boulders and icy patches. Trees disappear completely, leaving only rocks and snow around you. By afternoon, arrive at Bhagwabasa at 14,200 ft, the last camp before Roopkund. Rest well, hydrate, and prepare for the summit climb.
Start very early for the climb to Roopkund Lake. The trail is steep and cold, but reaching the mysterious Skeleton Lake at sunrise is unforgettable. After spending time at the lake, continue to Junargali Pass at 16,500 ft for 360-degree Himalayan views. Then descend back via Bhagwabasa to Pathar Nachuni for the night.
Today is a long descent through changing landscapes. You pass back through Bedni Bugyal and enter forest trails leading to Wan village. The route is scenic with meadows, streams, and village life along the way. By late afternoon, reach Lohajung again. Celebrate the successful completion of your Roopkund Trek with your team.
After breakfast, begin your return drive to Rishikesh. The road takes you back through mountain towns, rivers, and winding Himalayan roads. As you descend, you leave behind the high peaks and quiet meadows but carry unforgettable memories of Roopkund’s mystery, beauty, and adventure. The trek officially ends on arrival in Rishikesh.
Experience & Highlights
What truly sets the Roopkund Trek apart is the mystery of Skeleton Lake. At 15,696 feet, this glacial lake reveals hundreds of ancient human skeletons scattered around its edges and visible beneath its clear waters. Believed to be over a thousand years old, the remains are linked to theories of sudden hailstorms, pilgrim routes, and forgotten rituals. This eerie yet fascinating site adds an unmatched sense of intrigue to the adventure.
Beyond the mystery, Roopkund offers stunning landscape diversity. The trek moves from dense oak and rhododendron forests to the vast alpine meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, and finally into rocky high-altitude terrain. Add in remote villages, dramatic ridges, and towering Himalayan peaks, and you get a trek that is both visually breathtaking and emotionally unforgettable.
Roopkund Trek is packed with unforgettable highlights, making it one of the most scenic treks in the Indian Himalayas. The mysterious Skeleton Lake is the star attraction, where ancient human remains lie visible in the clear glacial water. Adding to the magic are the vast alpine meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, often called the most beautiful bugyals in Uttarakhand. From the higher sections, you get stunning views of peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti standing tall against the sky.
The scenery changes dramatically as you climb. You move through dense oak and rhododendron forests, across open grasslands, and into rugged rocky terrain near the top. Every campsite offers breathtaking views, with golden sunrises and colorful sunsets over snow-covered mountains, making the entire journey a visual masterpiece.
The Roopkund Trek takes you through a rich variety of Himalayan flora and fauna. The lower trails are lined with oak, rhododendron, and birch forests, forming natural green tunnels. In spring, blooming rhododendrons paint the landscape in bright red and pink shades. As you gain altitude, trees give way to alpine meadows like Ali and Bedni Bugyal, filled with grasses, wildflowers, and rare high-altitude blooms such as the Brahma Kamal.
Wildlife adds quiet excitement to the journey. You may spot Himalayan birds like monals, eagles, and jays, and occasionally see mountain goats on steep slopes. All along the way, dramatic views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and other towering Himalayan peaks dominate the skyline, making every step visually rewarding.
Difficulty & Fitness
The Roopkund Trek is rated moderate to challenging, ideal for trekkers with good fitness and some prior experience. Reaching an altitude of 15,696 feet, it demands proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. The trail includes long walking days, steep climbs, and rocky sections, especially near the lake. Thin air makes every step tougher. In winter, deep snow and extreme cold raise the difficulty sharply, making it suitable only for experienced high-altitude trekkers.
Roopkund Trek is not ideal for complete beginners due to its high altitude of 15,696 feet, long walking days, and steep, rocky terrain. Thin air and the risk of altitude sickness make it physically and mentally demanding. However, fit beginners can attempt it with proper preparation and prior experience on easier Himalayan treks like Kedarkantha or Dayara Bugyal. With 6–8 weeks of training and a good guide team, Roopkund becomes challenging but achievable.
Good fitness is essential for the Roopkund Trek. You should be able to walk 5–8 hours daily with a backpack and handle steep climbs and long descents at high altitude. Start training 6–8 weeks in advance with cardio like running or cycling, plus stair climbing with weight for leg strength. Strength exercises such as squats and lunges help build endurance. Mental toughness is just as important, as cold, fatigue, and thin air will test your determination.
Preparation Guide
Packing the right gear is key for a comfortable Roopkund Trek. Carry thermal layers, fleece, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer shell to stay warm and dry. Good trekking shoes with strong grip are essential for snow and rocky trails. Your backpack should include a headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle, basic first aid, and energy snacks. Don’t forget gloves, woolen socks, ID, and permits. Pack light, but pack smart for the mountains.
Proper clothing and gear are vital for a safe Roopkund Trek. Pack thermal layers, fleece jackets, a down jacket, and a waterproof outer shell for warmth and protection. Quick-dry trekking pants, woolen socks, gloves, and a beanie keep you comfortable in cold conditions. Carry a sturdy backpack with rain cover, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp, first-aid kit, and energy snacks. Don’t forget ID, permits, cash, and a power bank for emergencies and photos
Safety is crucial on the high-altitude Roopkund Trek. Walk slowly, stay well-hydrated, and allow proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Never ignore symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness—inform your guide immediately. Follow your trek leader’s instructions and stay with the group. Train well before the trek, carry a basic first-aid kit, and be ready for sudden weather changes. Respect the mountains and trek responsibly to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
Stay, Food & Facilities
You will stay in our cozy guesthouses at base villages and comfortable alpine tents at campsites with basic facilities and sleeping arrangements provided.
You will be provided nutritious vegetarian meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening snacks. Hot soups and tea served at campsites to keep you energized.
In case of any emergency our experienced trek leader carries first-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and emergency communication devices. Regular health checks ensure trekker safety throughout the journey.
How to Reach Roopkund Trek
Simply reach Rishikesh, and leave the logistics to us. We arrange comfortable transport from the designated pickup point in Rishikesh directly to Lohajung, the base village of the Roopkund Trek. Enjoy a scenic mountain drive through rivers, forests, and Himalayan towns.
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh / Haridwar, well-connected to major cities like Delhi. Book your train tickets to Haridwar or Rishikesh. Once you arrive, our team will receive you at the meeting point and begin the journey to Lohajung.
The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun). After landing, take a taxi to Rishikesh city. From there, we organize your transfer to Lohajung and manage the entire journey to the trek base.
Cost & Inclusions
Trek packages range from ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 per person, including accommodation, meals, guide, permits, and transportation from Dehradun to base camp.
Personal expenses, travel insurance, porter charges for personal bags, additional meals in Dehradun, tips, and any items not mentioned in inclusions.
Personal expenses, travel insurance, porter charges for personal bags, additional meals in Dehradun, tips, and any items not mentioned in inclusions.
Permissions & Guidelines
Forest permits and camping permissions mandatory. Trek operators arrange all necessary permits from Uttarakhand Forest Department. Carry valid ID proof for verification.
Why You Should Choose Roopkund Trek with Us
01
Experienced Guides & Safety First
Our certified trek leaders with 10+ years of experience ensure your safety with proper acclimatization, emergency protocols, and expert navigation throughout the journey.
02
Local Expertise
Our team belongs to these mountains, growing up walking these trails. Their deep understanding of local weather, culture, and hidden spots makes your trek experience richer and more authentic.
03
24/7 Support & Assistance
Round-the-clock support team available for queries, emergencies, and assistance. Stay connected with base camp throughout your trek for complete peace of mind.
Similar Treks
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Brahmatal Trek
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Frequently Asked Questions
Snowfall on the Roopkund Trek depends on the season. From December to March, the trail is covered in thick snow, and fresh snowfall is common, giving you true winter trekking conditions. In May and June, some snow remains at higher sections, but fresh snowfall is rare. During September–October, chances of snow are very low, with mostly clear trails.
If seeing snowfall is your priority, winter is the best time—but keep in mind that heavy snow also makes the trek more challenging and may affect the route for safety.
Roopkund Trek is not ideal for complete beginners due to its high altitude of 15,696 feet and challenging terrain. The steep climbs, long walking hours, and risk of altitude sickness make it demanding for first-time trekkers.
However, beginners with excellent fitness and strong determination can attempt it with proper preparation. Train for at least two months with regular jogging, hiking, and strength exercises. Consider doing an easier trek like Kedarkantha first to gain experience and understand how altitude affects you.
Trek with a reliable company, follow your guide's instructions carefully, and be honest about your fitness level. With dedication and preparation, motivated beginners can successfully complete Roopkund Trek.
Yes, Roopkund Trek is safe in winter when done with experienced guides and proper preparation. Professional trekking companies ensure safety with trained guides who understand winter mountain conditions, carry emergency equipment, and choose safe campsites away from avalanche-prone areas.
However, winter trekking requires extra caution and the right gear. Temperatures drop to minus 15 to minus 20 degrees Celsius, making warm clothing essential. Trails become slippery with deep snow, and weather can change quickly. You need good fitness and prior trekking experience to handle harsh conditions safely.
Trek with a reputable company, follow safety guidelines, and come prepared with proper winter equipment. Thousands complete this winter trek successfully every year with unforgettable experiences.
Temperature on Roopkund Trek varies by season and altitude. During winter from December to March, daytime temperatures range from 0 to 10 degrees Celsius at lower altitudes and drop to minus 5 degrees at higher sections. Nights are extremely cold with temperatures plunging to minus 15 to minus 20 degrees Celsius, especially near Roopkund Lake.
In spring and autumn from May to June and September to October, daytime temperatures are pleasant at 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. Nights remain cold at 0 to 5 degrees Celsius at higher campsites.
Always pack for freezing temperatures regardless of season. Wind chill at exposed sections makes it feel even colder than actual temperature readings