Overview
Roopkund Trek begins from Lohajung and gradually climbs through oak and rhododendron forests, traditional Himalayan villages, and the vast alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal. The route then enters rugged high-altitude terrain, crossing Patar Nachauni and Bhagwabasa before reaching the glacial lake of Roopkund at over 16,000 feet.
Roopkund gained worldwide recognition after hundreds of ancient human skeletons were discovered around the lake. Scientific studies suggest they date back several centuries, adding to the mystery and mythology surrounding the region. Combined with panoramic views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba, and Neelkanth, the trek offers both natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Following restrictions introduced by the Uttarakhand High Court to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem, most commercial trekking operators no longer conduct the classic Roopkund Trek beyond Bedni Bugyal or Bhagwabasa. Today, many itineraries are modified or end before the lake. When government permissions are granted, the traditional expedition is generally operated as an 8-day trek. Trekkers should always verify the latest forest regulations before planning this trek.
Photos And Videos
Highlights
- Visit the legendary Skeleton Lake.
- Walk across Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal.
- Explore one of India's most mysterious archaeological sites.
- Spectacular views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
- Camp in high-altitude Himalayan meadows.
- Experience diverse landscapes from forests to glacial terrain.
- Visit the sacred Bedni Kund.
- Excellent combination of mythology and adventure.
- One of Uttarakhand's most iconic Himalayan routes.
- Challenging high-altitude expedition.
Trek Details
Seasons
Departure Cities
Terrain
Itinerary
- 1
Rishikesh to Lohajung
Drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung via Devprayag, Karnaprayag, and Gwaldam. Complete registrations and prepare for the trek at the base village.
- 2
Lohajung to Didna Village
Begin trekking through oak forests, descending to the Neel Ganga before climbing to Didna Village. The gradual ascent provides excellent acclimatization and beautiful valley views.
- 3
Didna Village to Ali Bugyal
Ascend above the tree line into the expansive meadows of Ali Bugyal. Camp amidst rolling grasslands with panoramic views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
- 4
Ali Bugyal – Bedni Bugyal – Patar Nachauni
Cross Bedni Bugyal, visit the sacred Bedni Kund, and continue to Patar Nachauni. The trail offers uninterrupted Himalayan views throughout the day.
- 5
Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa
Leave the meadows behind as the trail enters rocky alpine terrain. Reach Bhagwabasa, the final campsite before Roopkund, while enjoying close views of Trishul.
- 6
Bhagwabasa – Roopkund – Junargali (if conditions permit) – Patar Nachauni
Begin before sunrise for the steep climb to Roopkund Lake. Depending on weather, snow, and official permissions, continue towards Junargali before descending back to Patar Nachauni. This is the most demanding day of the trek.
- 7
Patar Nachauni to Lohajung
Descend through Bedni Bugyal, forests, and mountain trails back to Lohajung, completing the trekking section of the expedition.
- 8
Lohajung to Rishikesh
Drive back to Rishikesh after breakfast, marking the end of the Roopkund Trek.
Things to Carry
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