What is the best time to go on Roopkund Trekking?

The best time when you can enjoy the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek is around the months of May, June, September and October. While May and June experience summers and are considered to be offering the best climatic conditions, the months of September and October on the other hand let you enjoy a pinch of cooler climate without any harsh weather conditions.If you are wishing to go for a trek here without feeling too cold then we would recommend going during the best summer months and if you are all in for the cooler climatic conditions then September and October are preferable.

What is the difficulty level of Roopkund Lake Trek?

The difficulty level of the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek ranges between moderate to highly difficult. Covering a distance of around 53 KM, this trek needs you to have proper knowledge of the activity and a perfect physical condition.To prepare for the trek, you can start a month early to build calf muscles by riding a bicycle or just running for a minimum of 30 minutes.

What is the mystery and story behind Roopkund Lake?

Roopkund (locally known as Mystery and Skeletons Lake) is a high altitude glacial lake in the Uttarakhand state of India. It lies in the lap of Trishul massif and is famous for the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. This area is uninhabited in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 5,029 metres (16,499 feet). Surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains, the lake is a popular trekking destination. A shallow lake, having a depth of about two metres, Roopkund has attracted attention because of the human skeletal remains that are visible at its bottom when the snow melts.Researchers have concluded that the skeletons are the remains of people killed in a sudden, violent hailstorm in the 9th century. Because of the human remains, the lake has been called Skeleton Lake in recent times.

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Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek, Uttarakhand

4.5 / 5(498 Reviews)

8D/7N

Kathgodam

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Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek Highlights

Roopkund Lake is a mystic beauty, you can actually see the human skeletons in the water and on the banks of the lake.
Marvel at the stunning views of Roopkund Glacier, Trishul, Nandaghungti, and Choukhamba peaks.
Gigantic mountains, mysterious lake and Himalayan vegetation is sure to make your journey all the more interesting.
Surrounded by snow clad mountains the path is drenched in snow & laden with forest covers and verdant meadows

Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek Overview

About the Roopkund Trek-

The Roopkund trek is an invigorating expedition from the high altitude region of Loharjung, in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand at 16499 ft. The trail for the trek that leads to the frozen Roopkund Lake also overlaps with the religious pilgrimage of Nanda Devi thus making this experience of trekking in Uttarakhand, an overall mix of culture and adventure. Going by legends, the ‘Mystery Lake’ is immersed and circled by hundreds of skeletons which is the major attraction of this trek.

At the top of the mysterious lake of Roopkund, witness, and marvel at the stunning views of Roopkund Glacier, Trishul, Nandaghungti, and Choukhamba peaks. Roopkund trail cuts through dense thickets and surpasses through the varied landscape of gushing waters and streams as well as charming lakes and vast expanse of lush grasslands.

Quick Facts:

Duration: 8D/7N

Maximum Altitude: 16,499 ft.

Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult

Total Trek Distance: 53 km

Temperature: May – June: day 15°C to 20° C and night 7°C to -2°C Sept-Oct: Day- 15°C to 10°C and night 5°C to -5°C

Best Time To Travel: May- June & September- October

Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station

Base Camp: Lohajung Base Camp

ATM: Last ATM is in Kathgodam

Start point/Endpoint: Kathgodam

How to reach Kathgodam:

By Air: The nearest airport to Kathgodam is the Pantnagar Airport located at a distance of 32kms from Kathgodam. The airport is connected with Delhi by 4 round flights per week. Taxis are easily available from the Airport to Kathgodam.

By Train: From Delhi take the Ranikhet Express (5014) Dep. Delhi at 10:40 pm arrival Kathgodam at 5:30 am (Overnight Journey)

or the Uttar sampark Kranti (5035) Dep. Delhi at 4:00 pm arrival Kathgodam at 10:40 pm (6 hrs. 40min. Journey)

From Dehardun take the Doon Express (4120) Dep. Dehardun at 10:30 pm arrival Kathgodam at 7:10 pm (8hrs. journey)

By Road: Buses to Kathgodam are easily available from ISBT Anand Vihar, Delhi. Regular buses ply from ISBT Delhi Anand Vihar station to Kathgodam. Buses that go to Nainital stops at Haldwani which is a twin town of Kathgodham (8 hrs. Journey).

Roopkund Trekking Inclusions:

1. Accommodation – Guest House stay on 1st and 5th night. You will be staying in tents for 3 nights of the trek (3 people/tent). The room/tent is separate for the male and female participants.

2. Meals – (Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner). We provide simple, nutritious vegetarian food on all days of the trek

3. Camping charges – All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.

4. Trekking equipment – High-quality tents and sleeping bags in all the camps. Sleeping bags can withstand temperatures as low as -10 ºC.

5. Safety equipment – First aid kit, oxygen cylinders, oximeter, etc. will be with guide/trek leader and at the campsite as well to deal with emergencies.

6. Expert trek Leaders – All our trek leaders are at least qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering and first aid course.

7. Expert Trek support team – The mountain staff on this trek consists of certified guides, cooks, helpers, and porters.

Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek Itinerary

Begin your trek to Roopkund with a voyage to Didina Village through the iron bridge of Raun Bagad built over the Neel Ganga River.
There are two routes to trail to this bridge.
The first option is the route that is a moderate trek going downhill and cutting through a variety of lush thickets till Raun Bagad.
The other option is taking the route through Wan from where the village of Kulling is only 6km away followed by a steep climb to Raun Bagad.
From the two routes, the former is more picturesque with regard to the forested region that you come across while the latter is easier to traverse.
Once you arrive at the iron bridge, climb uphill for about an hour and a half to reach Didina village.

This day’s trek also involves an option between two routes.
The first route takes you through the hamlet of Tolpani inhabited by shepherds and stands at about 1000ft only 3km away from Didina.
From here, ascend towards Tolkaan in the north crossing verdant meadows and mountains laden with oak forests.
Take a sharp left to get to Ali Bugyal in the south surpassing a gorgeous ridge and forest on the way.
The other route is a direct ascend from Didina to Ali Bugyal without surpassing Tolpani but will involve climbing up steep slopes and will take about two and a half hours to traverse.
It is advised to reach Ali Bugyal before afternoon in order to marvel at the remarkable views.
The highlight of this day is the snow climb to Chang Ma surpassing beautiful terrains.
You may even opt to relax at Ali Bugyal instead of trekking to Chang Ma.
Set up your camps here and retire for the night in your tents.

This day’s trek will entail climbing from an altitude of 12,500ft to 14,500ft.
This high altitude trek commences early in the morning so as to reach Bhawabasa early.
Surpass the mountain of Kalu Vinayak through windy and steep terrains which need to be traversed slowly and carefully.
After about one and a half hours, arrive at Kalu Vinayak from where you can head off to Bhagwabasa through a gradually descending route comprising of snow-laden regions for about 2km.

The day starts off with a trekking journey from Bedni Bugyal to Wan through simple pathways laden with forest covers and verdant meadows.
You can even marvel at the Trishul Peak if the weather favours you as you head back to Wan.
Descend through Rhododendron forests and steep routes across the Neel Ganga River; the entire journey till here will take around 6-6.5 hours.
From Neel Ganga, scale for about half an hour to the ridge right above Wan from where you can take a road trip to Loharjung.

Select Package Options

Roopkund Trek

8 Days, 7 Nights

USD 305.84

USD 178.89

Per Adult

Price Includes

Stay
Stay at Guesthouse/ Campsites/ Homestays on dual or triple sharing basis
Meals
All Meals during the trek are included in the package.
Activities
Trekking and camping
Guide
Qualified, experienced professional trek leader, guide and supporting staff.
Permits
All trekking permits and forest camping charges are included.

Exclusions

Transfers
Transportation from Kathgodam to Lohajung and return can be availed at an extra cost.

More Details about Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek

Know Before You Go for Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek

Climatic conditions in the high altitudes vary from the plains; take adequate time to get acclimatized to high altitudes.
The management reserves all the right to modify the trek during any emergencies or natural calamities.
Consult a physician before undertaking the trek. Carry basic medications and a first-aid kit during the trek.
It is recommended to carry enough warm clothes and the right kind of shoes for the trek.
Pay heed to the trek guides and instructors in order to enjoy a safe and sound trek
Avoid consumption of alcohol or any other intoxicants during the trek.
The trek takes place through an eco-friendly zone; do not encourage littering the local sites or campsites. Travelers littering may be fined.
Do not encourage trekking during the night unless it is a part of the itinerary and a guide is with you; this might lead to unforeseen mishaps.
Avoid using plastic bags and maintain the ecological balance of the destinations.
Guidelines issued by the State-Government are to be followed. Social distancing to be maintained. Frequent hand sanitization and use of mask is recommended.
Professional guide(s) are available to ensure high safety and more information and personal attention which are necessary to appreciate a trek.
Any personal expenses, items of personal nature, meals not mentioned, etc. will not be in part of the package.
Carry dry snacks/food from home (you will save a lot of money). Carry water bottles with you, so that you can refill.
Keep your luggage minimum; the more you carry, the more you hassle.
Please carry a valid ID proof.
The exact location of the the starting point of the trek will be shared post booking.

Things To Carry for Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek

Caps
Woollen cap, socks, mittens & scarf
Warm clothes
Hiking shoes
Thermal inners
Water bottle
Fleece jackets and thermals
Back pack (50-60l)
Toilet paper & wipes

Tour Difficulty for Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek

Starting from USD 305.84

USD 178.89per Adult

41% Off

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All Reviews

03 Jul, 2017

Excellent

Piyush Gupta

Roopkunda, one of the most mysterious and surprising trek each and everyday a different surprise waiting for you on next turn. I have done this trek on May 2017. That trek contains everything from nature forest, meadows, snow, rain and hailstorm too. Trek begins from the day you land on Kathgodam. Its a 10 hrs long and beautiful journey passing via beautiful hill stations of Uttrakhand. Once you cover that part you reach WAN/Lohanjung, a small peaceful village where you will forget all your tiredness of 10 hrs long journey. You will meet your guide here and from next day the real adventure begins. Day 1: WAN - Ran bugad - Didina 4-5 hrs trekking - easy trek with gradual uphill and downhill through dense mountain forest. Campsite at Didina is amazing. We reach there by mid 2 PM and then enjoyed rest of the day here. Day 2: Didina - Ali bugyal - Bedini Begyal, 4-6 hrs, moderate day, very steep ascent in some part, most of the part is via dense forest, you need lots of stamina and water in first half, in later part you will trek on asia's largest green meadow with amazing view of snow capped mountains. When we reach Bedini it starts raining very hard for 2-3 hrs. It was thrilling as temperature is freezing during rain, 10C Day 3: Bedini - patharnachuni - easiest day. Trekking on almost a flat track and downhill. I enjoyed a lot on that day, singing, photography, everything we did during this part. No difficulties at all apart from height gain. So you need to be relax. It took 4 hrs to complete. Day 4: Patharnachuni - Kalu vinayak -Bhaguwabasa, One of the tough day. Trekking on Mud and snow at a very low temperature. Here we got really tested with our stamina and fear of height. Till Kalu vinayak its a difficult part as it was on mud and snow mixed slippery narrow and rough trek (steep climb) On kalu vinayak we felt relax and enjoyed Ganesha's arti. After kalu vinayak, till campsite trekking was on fresh snow, comparatively easy (descent only) but trek was narrow so you need to be very careful while stepping. When we reach baguwabasa it starts raining or I can say hailstorm which lasts for 3 hours. Out campsite got completely covered in snow. I haven't seen that much snow in my life. Once hailstorm stops, we came out from tents and started playing on snow, you will fall in love with this campsite. However you will feel headache here, fortunately we didn't face this for a long time. Only precaution drink as much water as you can and cover your self with woolen temp is 0C and below here. Day 5: Bhaguwabasa - Roopkunda- Bhaguwabasa - Patharnachuni - Bedini Summit day, for which we were awaiting for a long time, a very long day almost 10 hrs of trekking. Started very early at 4 AM on that day our guide provided us crampon to wear on shoes as it was slippery and soft snow on trek. Crampon helped us a lot, without that it was almost impossible to trek from bhaguwabasa to ropkunda it took 3 hrs most difficult part of trek as it was on narrowest edge of mountain covered with snow, very sharm turn where you have to be very very careful, without guide it is pretty difficult on some turns I thought to moving back but our guide motivate us and finally we were able to complete. I was speechless when I saw roop kunda, lost in its beauty and peace for 10 mins and was senseless, I wasn't that much excited and emotional when India won world cup, finally all the efforts were paid a beautiful result. we enjoyed there for 30 mins and then started back to reach Bedin. We covered maximum distance and reach Bedini in late afternoon at Bedini we were welcome with a massive hailstorm which turn the entire green meadow in white layer it starts raining from patharnachuni, raincoat is must here. Day 6: Final day: Bedini - Neel ganga - Wan - steep descent via forest and then 2 km gradual ascent - easy day, lots of walking, enjoyed a lot during forest pass you can hear birds singing. Once you finish downhill part you will reach Neel ganga river, we had a break and rest in neel ganga river water. Freezing cold but relaxing. After that gradual climb for 2 km and then 1 km downhill to reach WAN. Best part of entire trek: Quick weather changes and maggie at every point. Must carry: raincoat, woolen and drink lots of water About me: I am 31 year old guy with normal physique, not a regular gym guy with normal stamina, but I must say that you should practice lots of walking and running before hitting this trek, it was my first trek and I enjoyed this a lot.

+10

04 Jul, 2017

Excellent

Nikhil Murali

Our first trek was exciting. It was Roopkund. One of the best treks in India. Thanks thrillophilia for suggesting us. Trek was organised in a very professional way and thoroughly enjoyed out trek all 6 days. Now this is becoming addictive. Planning for rupin pass soon with Thrillophilia again.

16 Mar, 2020

Excellent

Jagdish Gandhi

What a beautiful place! I still can’t forget about the picturesque mountains. Also, the snow was so neat and even weather was in our favour. I think my trek was successful because of Thrillophilia only. The service is superb and the supporting staff is really helpful. Without the guidance of those skilled instructors, I think, my trip to the Skeleton Lake trek wouldn’t have been possible.

25 Sep, 2015

Good

Satish Talwar

This lake is damn-damn spooky! Especially while trekking if you come across the scattered skeletons - its is indeed a terrifying scene but then that's the fun about this trek. The trekking was great, loved the entire experience. The trek got a little challenging at times but yeah I finally managed to complete the trek.

18 Sep, 2015

Good

Sushma Ahuja

Well, there is always such hidden places in Uttarakhand that makes it all the more interesting for me. I loved the entire trekking experience- Roopkund is one place that will give you pleasures and happiness as well as thrills of terror as not everyday you come across so many scattered skeletons.

03 Dec, 2015

Excellent

Balaaditya Malik

Adventure at its finest. We had a blast and we wish to do this again! Good guides and good place for a fun and short trek!

03 Dec, 2015

Excellent

Avani Ahuja

This trekking session was way too much fun and the place is so lovely! The skeleton lake is scary but amazing and we had a blast clicking many photos whilst we were here.

05 Jan, 2016

Good

Suresh Patil

I and my friend had an amazing trek in Roopkund the trek comprises of trails cutting through dense thickets, surpassing the gushing waters of brooks and streams as well as charming lakes had an awesome experience. thanks to the guides and the tour operators.

07 May, 2015

Excellent

Shelly Yadav

I have no idea that such a beautiful place exists in India too. The mesmerizing beauty along with the calm serenity of the environment can send chills down ur spine. U have to see it for yourself guys.

07 May, 2015

Excellent

Ankita Mohan

Amazing place…Had fun with all my buddies, guess we will come back Roopkund.

Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek Policies

The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking.

In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.

Alternatively, the customer may choose to cancel their booking before confirmation and a full refund will be processed.

The applicable refund amount will be processed within 10 business days.

All applicable refunds will be done in the traveler's Thrillophilia wallet as Thrillcash.

If cancellation are made 30 days before the date of travel then 25.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
If cancellation are made 15 days to 30 days before the date of travel then 50.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
If cancellation are made 0 days to 15 days before the date of travel then 100.0% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees
In the event of unforeseen weather conditions, union issues, government restrictions, or any other circumstances beyond human control, certain trips or activities may be cancelled. In such cases, alternate feasible options will be provided. However, a cash refund will not be available.

100.0% of total tour cost will have to be paid 0 days before the date of booking

Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek FAQs

What is the best time to go on Roopkund Trekking?

The best time when you can enjoy the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek is around the months of May, June, September and October. While May and June experience summers and are considered to be offering the best climatic conditions, the months of September and October on the other hand let you enjoy a pinch of cooler climate without any harsh weather conditions.

If you are wishing to go for a trek here without feeling too cold then we would recommend going during the best summer months and if you are all in for the cooler climatic conditions then September and October are preferable.
What is the difficulty level of Roopkund Lake Trek?

The difficulty level of the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek ranges between moderate to highly difficult. Covering a distance of around 53 KM, this trek needs you to have proper knowledge of the activity and a perfect physical condition.

To prepare for the trek, you can start a month early to build calf muscles by riding a bicycle or just running for a minimum of 30 minutes.
What is the mystery and story behind Roopkund Lake?

Roopkund (locally known as Mystery and Skeletons Lake) is a high altitude glacial lake in the Uttarakhand state of India. It lies in the lap of Trishul massif and is famous for the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. This area is uninhabited in the Himalayas, at an altitude of 5,029 metres (16,499 feet).

Surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains, the lake is a popular trekking destination. A shallow lake, having a depth of about two metres, Roopkund has attracted attention because of the human skeletal remains that are visible at its bottom when the snow melts.

Researchers have concluded that the skeletons are the remains of people killed in a sudden, violent hailstorm in the 9th century. Because of the human remains, the lake has been called Skeleton Lake in recent times.

How much does the Skeleton lake trek cost?

The Skeleton Lake trek can cost INR 8,890. This cost would include a stay at guesthouses and campsites, vegetarian dishes, sleeping bags, mattress, medical kits, oxygen cylinder, etc. Additional charges might be included if you wish to hire a porter or extra amenities.

However, make sure you buy wardrobe essentials, trekking shoes, water bottles, etc. If you wish to buy your own food then the approximate cost will increase. Also, the travel cost will be additionally charged when reaching Lohajung.

Which type of shoes should I carry for Roopkund Trekking?

Good quality and sturdy trekking shoes that cover your ankles. Refrain from using sport shoes for your own safety and the trails are uneven and tricky hence requiring good grip trekking shoes.

If you are buying new shoes for your trek, please remember to use them for at least a month before you commence your holiday.

What is the level of fitness expected from the participants for the Roopkund Trekking?

You need to be in good physical condition before the start of the trek. You should be able to jog 4.5 kms in 30 minutes to make your lungs strong to bear the high altitudes. Minimum age for this trek is 12 years.

Where does Skeleton lake trek start?

The Skeleton Lake Trek begins from the base village of Loharjung. To reach the base village, travel via road from Kathgodam to Loharjung. The pathway is draped in a blanket lush green scenery of oak trees and high peak mountains.

After reaching the starting point i.e. Loharjung, trek to the Didina village. Beginning from Loharjung Base Camp, the trek reaches Roopkund Lake and heads back to the base camp via Bedni Bugyal.

How can I reach Skeleton lake?

To reach the Skeleton Lake of Roopkund, begin the trek from Loharjung Base Camp and head to Didina village. On this day, head to Ali Bugyal and set up your camp at this heavenly beauty. Next day will take you to Ghora Lotani from Ali Bugyal.

On this day, hike to the steep terrains of Bhagwabasa from 12500 ft to 14500 ft. Next day, you’ll reach the Skeleton lake after hiking for almost three hours from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund.

How long is the skeleton lake trek of Roopkund?

The Skeleton Lake Trek is 8 days long. The trek begins from Loharjung and heads to the Didina village, Ali Bugyal, Ghora Lotani, Bhagwabasa, Roopkund, and ends at Loharjung. To reach the lake, every day includes 1 to 3 hours long trek amidst snow-capped mountains and high altitudes.

The Skeleton Lake of Roopkund is situated at an altitude of 15700 ft and it will require at least 8 days to complete the trek.

Is it safe to do Skeleton lake trek?

The Skeleton Lake trek has a moderate difficulty level. It is safe to hike at this peak with proper preparations and precautions. Sturdy trekking shoes, snow boots, and trekking poles are some of the necessary things to carry.

Also, the instructors will ensure safe and sound trekking, pay heed to the instructions provided by them. Apart from preparations, the excursion also includes medical kits, oxygen cylinder, and supporting staff.

How is the Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek experience?

The mysterious lake of Roopkund is cradled in the laps of Mt. Trishul and perches at a dizzying altitude of nearly 16,500 ft.! Draped in a blanket of mystery and myth, the lake is home to skeletal remains of countless humans and animals, which are clearly visible when the snow has melted away. This has earned it the name ‘Skeleton Lake Trek’. The trail to Roopkund originates from the base village of Lohajung, and winds through mesmerising forests of oak adorned with vibrant rhododendrons.

One of the highlights of the Skeleton Lake trek is that it takes you through the twin meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal, which are two of the highest alpine meadows in Asia. The locals generally bring their herds to Bedni Bugyal for grazing. Bedni Bugyal makes for an ideal campsite, and unfolds breathtaking views of the neighbouring Nanda Ghunti and Chaukhambha, though the magnificent Mount Trishul rises above all others to render you truly speechless. To add to the veil of myth, there are various stories that revolve around the trek.

Every campsite has a backstory which the locals will gladly share with you. The trek from Bhagwabasa, the last campsite, to Roopkund starts very early in the morning, with millions of stars playing chaperone. Although a bit daunting towards the end, the reward more than compensates for the exertion, and everything else pales against the splendour and glory of Roopkund Lake. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, you can also trek further up to the ridge of Junargali, from where Mount Trishul seems only a touch away! The beauty and glamour of this trek is virtually unequalled, making it one of the most unmissable treks in the Himalayas, and every trekker’s dream! The awe-inspiring thrill of Roopkund will leave you with memories of a lifetime.