Roopkund, often called the Skeleton Lake, sits in the Garhwal Himalayas at 5,029 metres. During summer, snow melts to reveal hundreds of skeletal remains believed to be pilgrims caught in a hailstorm around 800 AD.
Trek Overview
- Distance: approximately 53 km round trip from Lohajung
- Duration: 8 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Best Season: May to June and September to October
- Maximum Altitude: 5,029 m
Itinerary Summary
Day 1-2: Acclimatise at Lohajung (2,350 m). Day 3: Trek to Didna village through oak forests. Day 4: Trek to Ali Bugyal, one of Asia largest high-altitude meadows. Day 5: Advance to Bhagwabasa camp (4,100 m). Day 6: Summit push to Roopkund. Day 7-8: Return to Lohajung via Wan village.
Essential Gear
Layered clothing, trekking poles, crampons for the final push, a minus-10 degree sleeping bag, and high-SPF sunscreen are all non-negotiable.