A Tale of Myth, Mystery, and Mesmerizing Beauty.
The Roopkund Trek, famously known as the trail to the mysterious "Skeleton Lake," is one of Uttarakhand's most iconic and thrilling high-altitude Himalayan adventures. Nestled deep in the scenic Garhwal region of Chamoli, this trail takes trekkers through lush oak forests and expansive alpine meadows like Ali and Bedni Bugyal, leading to the intriguing high-altitude lake at 15,750 feet where ancient human skeletons lie preserved in glacial ice. Perfect for seasoned adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and nature photographers alike, the trek delivers an unforgettable close-up panorama of majestic Himalayan giants, including Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, making it an extraordinary mountain expedition for those craving mystery and epic landscapes.
The Roopkund Trek is widely considered a bucket-list Himalayan adventure because it offers an unbeatable mix of intriguing mystery, rich mythological folklore, and unmatched high-altitude landscapes.
The Roopkund Trek is renowned for its sheer raw wilderness and dramatic topographical contrasts, making it one of the most enthralling expeditions in the Garhwal Himalayas. The trail begins in the dense, enchanting forests of Wan and Didna before opening up to the vast, windswept grasslands of Ali and Bedni Bugyal. As you climb higher toward Bhagwabasa and the glacial lake, the lush meadows give way to rugged rock, snow, and ice, creating a profound feeling of remote mountain isolation. Sacred shrines along the route and the hauntingly beautiful glacial basin carry a deep spiritual and historic charm. Whether witnessing the first rays of sunlight illuminate the sheer wall of Mount Trishul or standing by the mystery-laden shores of the lake, Roopkund captivates trekkers with its untouched beauty, suspenseful lore, and timeless Himalayan grandeur.
Whether you are coming from Rishikesh or from Kathgodam, there will be a long drive to reach the base village of Roopkund trek - Lohajung. Lohajung is a lively mountain town in Chamoli district. The majestic view of Mt. Nanda Ghunti during sunrise and sunset will be forever etched in your mind. You can go for a stroll in the village market to quickly restock your necessary personal items or rent trek gear.
We will start around 8:30-9:00 am, so stay prepared with your rucksack, water, and small snacks to munch on the trail. After 1.5 hours of walking, you will reach Kulling, a picturesque mountain village 6 km ahead of Lohajung. After Neel Ganga, the road ahead will start getting moderately steep until you reach Didna village.
Today you will gain more altitude as you trek on a steep trail up toward Ali Bugyal, located on a mountain top. In clear weather, get ready to spot famous peaks like Mt. Trishul and Mrighthuni. After reaching the campsite, retire to your tent, rest, and visit the nearby temple at Bedni Kund.
Today's walk will be a bit strenuous with a slow, continuous ascent passing through Patar Nachauni. After trekking, you will reach today's picturesque campsite, Ghora Lotani. Rest well as the altitude gain puts stress on your legs.
The adventure starts early morning as the trail grows steeper. Be aware of signs of AMS (like headache or bloated stomach) and inform your trek lead immediately. From Kalu Vinayak temple, a grand view of Roopkund will instill fresh energy to push for the final stretch.
The star highlight of the trek occurs today! Starting around 4:00 am, you will reach the mysterious Roopkund Lake, where nearly 500 preserved ancient skeletons will take your breath away. After spending time catching your breath and absorbing the scenery, retrace your steps back to Bedni Bugyal via Bhagwabasa.
On the final trekking day, retrace your way back down to Lohajung. Pass through Gahroli Patal via a zig-zag strenuous forest trail, continuing towards Neel Ganga. After nearly 10 hours of walking and rest stops, reaching Lohajung village will feel like pure bliss.
Wake up leisurely on your final day. Bid adieu to the mountains and prepare for the long drive back to your destination, whether returning toward Rishikesh or Kathgodam.
Rishikesh or Kathgodam serves as the primary assembly and starting point for the Roopkund Trek. Participants are required to reach the designated pickup location on their own. Our trek team will coordinate the pickup to transport you to Lohajung, the base village for the trek.
The nearest airport for Rishikesh is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~20 km away). For Kathgodam, Pantnagar Airport (~34 km away) is the closest. Taxis and cabs are easily available from both airports to reach the respective pickup points.
Yog Nagari Rishikesh / Haridwar Junction and Kathgodam Railway Station are well connected by direct trains to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Overnight trains are the most convenient option.
Regular Volvo, Deluxe, and State Transport buses run frequently overnight from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) and Chandigarh to both Rishikesh and Kathgodam.
Snow-covered trails, dense forests, alpine campsites and breathtaking summit views.
Real stories from our trekkers — sharing their unforgettable journeys and experiences with Trekaura.
This trek was amazing. They taught me natural ways to deal with climate and wildlife. Our leader is an expert in wild life.
Had a wonderful experience with Trekaura. Hospitality, food and travelling was all top notch. Highly recommended!
Beautiful but tough trek. Guides were helpful and always there. Food was fresh and hot. Amazing experience overall.
Beautiful but tough trek. Guides were helpful and always there. Food was fresh and hot. Amazing experience overall.