If you’ve ever dreamed of standing beside a glacial lake with crystal-clear water that hides an ancient secret, Roopkund Lake in Uttarakhand should be on your bucket list. Located at a dizzying altitude of 5,029 meters (16,499 feet), Roopkund is one of India’s most fascinating high-altitude trekking destinations.
Why is it famous? Simple — it’s often referred to as Skeleton Lake due to the mysterious human remains found at the bottom. With spine-tingling legends, surreal Himalayan landscapes, and spiritual allure, Roopkund tourist places are an irresistible combo of adventure, mystery, and beauty.
📍 Where is Roopkund Located?
Roopkund lies in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, nestled deep in the lap of the Garhwal Himalayas. This hidden gem is surrounded by majestic peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, offering an unreal panoramic experience to trekkers and travelers.
🚗 How to Reach Roopkund?
Getting to Roopkund isn’t a straight road trip. It involves a combination of transport and trekking.
🛫 By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (~240 km from trek base).
- Take a cab or bus from Pantnagar to Lohajung, the trek’s starting point.
🚂 By Train:
- Nearest Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
- Regular taxis or shared jeeps from Kathgodam to Lohajung via Almora or Gwaldam.
🚌 By Road:
- Drive from Delhi – Haldwani – Lohajung (approx. 500 km).
- Roads are mostly motorable up to Lohajung.
🥾 The Roopkund Trek: Adventure at Every Step
The Roopkund Trek is regarded as one of the best treks in Uttarakhand. It’s not just about the lake, but also the experience of traversing through dense oak forests, lush meadows (Bugyals), and snow-covered paths.
✅ Quick Trek Info:
- Base Camp: Lohajung
- Total Trek Distance: 53–55 km (round trip)
- Duration: 6–8 days
- Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
- Altitude Gain: From 7,600 ft (Lohajung) to 16,499 ft (Roopkund)
🕰️ Best Time to Visit Roopkund Lake
Timing is crucial. Roopkund isn’t accessible year-round.
🗓️ Trekking Seasons:
- Summer Window: May to June
- Autumn Window: September to mid-October
❌ Avoid monsoons (July–August) due to landslides and slippery trails.
☃️ Winters are completely snowbound and Roopkund remains closed.
❄️ The Mysterious Skeleton Lake 🦴
So why is Roopkund called Skeleton Lake?
In 1942, British forest guards discovered hundreds of skeletons at the bottom of the frozen lake. Scientific studies later confirmed these were from the 9th century. It’s believed a group of pilgrims perished here due to a sudden hailstorm with cricket-ball-sized hailstones.
Even today, bones and skulls are visible when the lake melts during the summer — a haunting reminder of nature’s fury.
🌄 Places to See During Roopkund Trek
The trek isn’t just about the final lake. Along the route, you’ll witness some of the most picturesque tourist places in Uttarakhand.
🌸 Bedni Bugyal
A stunning alpine meadow where the air is pure and the stars shine brighter. Great campsite with views of Mount Trishul.
🌿 Ali Bugyal
Arguably the most beautiful section of the trek. This vast, lush green carpet is like a Himalayan golf course.
🏕️ Bhagwabasa
The last camping site before reaching Roopkund. It’s rugged, rocky, and often snow-laden.
⛰️ Junargali Pass
A high mountain ridge just above Roopkund Lake — often inaccessible due to snow but offers a 360-degree Himalayan panorama.
🌳 Flora and Fauna Around Roopkund
- Flora: Rhododendron forests, oak trees, alpine shrubs.
- Fauna: Himalayan Monal (Uttarakhand’s state bird), foxes, Bharal (blue sheep), and wild goats.
If you’re lucky and quiet, you might spot rare Himalayan wildlife on your way!
🧭 Trek Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Route | Altitude (ft) |
| Day 1 | Lohajung to Didna | 8,000 |
| Day 2 | Didna to Ali Bugyal | 11,500 |
| Day 3 | Ali Bugyal to Patar Nachauni | 12,700 |
| Day 4 | Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa | 14,100 |
| Day 5 | Roopkund & back to Patar Nachauni | 16,499 |
| Day 6 | Descend to Lohajung | 7,600 |
🏠 Where to Stay Near Roopkund
- Lohajung: Budget lodges and homestays.
- Trekking Route: You’ll be camping. Trekkers carry their own tents or book through tour operators.
- No hotels or resorts after Lohajung.
🥘 Local Food & Delicacies
Fuel your adventure with authentic Garhwali cuisine:
- Aloo ke Gutke – spicy potatoes
- Jhangora Kheer – sweet millet pudding
- Mandua Roti – nutritious flatbread made of finger millet
- Kafuli – a green leafy vegetable curry
Local villagers sometimes cook for trekkers at lower camps. It’s as organic as it gets! 🍃
🧳 Packing Tips for Roopkund Trip
Here’s what you must pack:
- Sturdy trekking shoes
- Warm layers (down jacket, thermal, gloves, woolen socks)
- Raincoat/Poncho
- Water bottles, hydration packs
- Trekking poles
- Personal medicines & first-aid
- Power bank & torch
- Trail snacks (dry fruits, energy bars)
🌍 Sustainable Travel to Roopkund
With tourism increasing in fragile Himalayan areas, it’s vital to respect nature:
- Carry your trash back.
- Avoid single-use plastics.
- Stay on the trail—don’t trample alpine flowers.
- Be respectful to local customs and communities.
🛑 Current Trekking Status of Roopkund
Due to increasing footfall and ecological damage, Uttarakhand High Court has restricted camping in alpine meadows like Bedni and Ali Bugyal. This has impacted the classic Roopkund route.
✅ Check with local authorities or trekking operators like Indiahikes, TTH, or local guides about updated permissions and itineraries.
✨ Conclusion: Why Roopkund is a Must-Visit in Uttarakhand
Roopkund isn’t just a trek. It’s a journey through time, mystery, and mountain majesty. From the eerie skeletons resting silently beneath the ice to the thunderous silence of high-altitude meadows, every step you take is a memory etched in awe.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature lover, or spiritual seeker—Roopkund Lake awaits you with open arms and ancient secrets.
🙋 FAQs about Roopkund Tourist Places
Q1. Is Roopkund trek open now?
As of recent updates, trekking is restricted beyond Bedni Bugyal. Always verify with licensed trekking agencies.
Q2. Are the skeletons in Roopkund real?
Yes! The skeletons date back over 1,000 years and were discovered by British officers in the 1940s.
Q3. Can beginners do the Roopkund Trek?
If you’re reasonably fit and train well in advance, yes. But it’s still considered a challenging trek due to the altitude and terrain.
Q4. Is camping allowed in Bedni Bugyal?
No, due to a court ban aimed at preserving the alpine meadows. Overnight stays now happen in nearby designated zones.
Q5. What is the temperature like at Roopkund?
Expect temperatures ranging from 15°C (day) to -5°C (night) in trekking months. It can drop even further near the summit.