Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand – Roopkund, often referred to as the “Mystery Lake,” is a glacial lake located at an altitude of approximately 16,500 feet in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Roopkund lake is famous for the hundreds of ancient human skeletons found at its edge, which are believed to date back to the 9th century. The Roopkund trek Uttarakhand takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. The Roopkund trek in Uttarakhand is a captivating adventure that combines the thrill of high-altitude trekking with the allure of historical mystery. Known for its stunning landscapes and the enigmatic Roopkund Lake, this trek offers an unforgettable experience for trekkers of all levels. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of the Roopkund trek, including its route, best time to visit, trekking packages, and more.
Roopkund Trek: Base Camp at Lohajung
The Roopkund trek typically starts from the small village of Lohajung, which serves as the base camp. The nearest railway station to Lohajung is Kathgodam which is well connected by road. The village offers basic amenities and is the perfect place to acclimatize before starting the trek.
Roopkund Trek Day 1: Lohajung to Didna Village
The first day of the Roopkund trek takes you from Lohajung to Didna Village. The trail begins with a descent to the Neel Ganga River, followed by a steep ascent through dense oak and rhododendron forests. Didna Village, located at an altitude of around 8,200 feet, is a quaint hamlet that offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the local people.
Roopkund Trek Day 2: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal
On the second day, the trek continues from Didna Village to Ali Bugyal, one of the largest high-altitude meadows in India. The trail is a mix of steep climbs and gradual ascents, passing through lush forests and open meadows. Ali Bugyal, situated at an altitude of approximately 11,500 feet, offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and is an ideal spot for camping.
Roopkund Trek Day 3: Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani
The third day involves trekking from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani. The trail takes you through rolling meadows and offers stunning views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. Ghora Lotani, located at an altitude of around 12,500 feet, is a picturesque campsite that provides a perfect vantage point to admire the beauty of the Himalayas.
Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand Day 4: Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa
The fourth day of trek is one of the most challenging parts of the trek, as you make your way from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa. The trail involves a steep ascent and can be quite demanding, especially with the increasing altitude. Bhagwabasa, situated at an altitude of approximately 14,100 feet, is the last campsite before the final push to Roopkund Lake.
Roopkund Trek Day 5: Bhagwabasa to Lake and Back to Patar Nachauni
The fifth day is the highlight of the trek, as you make your way to Roopkund Lake. Trekkers start early in the morning to reach the lake before the weather turns unfavourable. The trail is steep and covered in snow, making it a challenging climb. Upon reaching Roopkund Lake, you are greeted with the sight of the mysterious skeletons and the stunning backdrop of the Trishul massif. After spending some time at the roopkund lake, trekkers descend back to Patar Nachauni for the night.
Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand Day 6: Patar Nachauni to Bedni Bugyal
The sixth day involves trekking from Patar Nachauni to Bedni Bugyal, another beautiful high-altitude meadow. The trail offers a mix of ascents and descents, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Bedni Bugyal, located at an altitude of around 11,500 feet, is known for its lush green meadows and is a popular camping spot.
Roopkund Trek Day 7: Bedni Bugyal to Lohajung via Wan
The final day of the trek takes you from Bedni Bugyal back to Lohajung via the village of Wan. The trail involves a descent through dense forests and offers a chance to explore the local flora and fauna. Upon reaching Lohajung, trekkers can relax and celebrate the completion of the trek.
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Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand – Distance and Height
The total distance of the trek is approximately 53 kilometers, and it takes about 7 to 8 days to complete. The highest point of the trek is Roopkund Lake, which is situated at an altitude of around 16,500 feet. The trek is considered moderate to difficult, and it requires a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitude.
Best Time for Roopkund Trek
The best time for the trek is during the pre-monsoon (May to June) and post-monsoon (September to October) seasons. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, and the trail is accessible. The pre-monsoon season offers abundant snow on the trail, while the post-monsoon season provides clear skies and excellent visibility of the surrounding peaks. It is advisable to avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides.
Roopkund Trek Uttarakhand Route
The Roopkund trek route is well-defined and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and snow-covered ridges. The main stops along the route are:
- Lohajung: The base camp for the trek.
- Didna Village: A traditional hamlet offering a glimpse into local life.
- Ali Bugyal: One of the largest high-altitude meadows in India.
- Ghora Lotani: A picturesque campsite with stunning views.
- Bhagwabasa: The last campsite before the final ascent to Roopkund Lake.
- Roopkund Lake: The highlight of the trek, known for its mysterious skeletons.
- Patar Nachauni: A campsite on the descent from Roopkund Lake.
- Bedni Bugyal: Another beautiful high-altitude meadow.
- Wan: A village on the way back to Lohajung.
Roopkund Trekking Packages
There are several trekking companies that offer Roopkund trekking packages, which typically include accommodation, meals, trekking permits, guide fees, and camping equipment. The cost of the Roopkund trek package varies depending on the services included and the duration of the trek. On average, the cost ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 20,000 per person. Some packages may also offer transportation from Kathgodam to Lohajung and back.
Preparing for the Roopkund Trek
While the Roopkund trek is considered moderate to difficult, proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the trek:
- Physical Fitness: Engage in regular cardio exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises to build stamina and endurance.
- Gear and Clothing: Invest in good quality trekking gear, including waterproof trekking shoes, warm clothing, gloves, and a sturdy backpack. Layering is key to staying warm in the cold weather.
- Acclimatization: Spend a day or two at the base camp to acclimatize to the altitude. This helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a more enjoyable trekking experience.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and carry energy bars, nuts, and dry fruits to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
- Safety Measures: Follow the instructions of your trek leader and stay with the group. Carry a basic first aid kit and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.
The Roopkund trek in Uttarakhand is a journey that offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and historical intrigue. Every step of the trek is filled with wonder and excitement from the lush forests of Lohajung to the mysterious Roopkund Lake. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a beginner, the Roopkund trek promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, lace up your trekking shoes, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime in the heart of the Himalayas.