The Roopkund Trek, commonly known as the Mystery Lake Trek, has seen a slew of adventurous trekkers given its remarkable and spectacular geographical and historical locations. It is considered to be located in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand state in India. This beautiful alpine trek starts from dense forests proceeds through meadows and heads into the snowline where the famous Roopkund Lake has skeletal remains at its east side. Given below is a detailed Roopkund trek guide that helps you cover each day of the trek with key points and obstacles. The single most important thing that can ensure success in the Roopkund trek for any amateur or experienced trekker is knowing the best time to visit Roopkund and its trekking essentials.
Roopkund Trek Itinerary
Here is the Roopkund trek itinerary according to Himalayan Daredevils:
DAY 1- Pickup from Kathgodam railway station – Drive to Lohajung village
Our driver will pick you up from Kathgodam Railway Station and drive you for the next 9/10 hours to Lohajung. Remember to eat breakfast and lunch during the journey. We’d also be transitioning through the Kumaon region and the valleys of the Shivalik mountain ranges. The road is quite scenic as it runs through beautiful spots with green forests, curves, and mountains in the distance. It is relatively cooler as we are going up and the weather will be cold and is also foggy sometimes. You will have your dinner and stay the night at either a hotel or a homestay.
Lohajung has Mt Nanda Ghunti in its backdrop which is usually the first sight you get as you start climbing. Coming back to the valley, it is an incredible Valley of Didina which has close to 12 to 15 villages and Lohajung is located in the center of those villages.
As villagers have it, the name hails from a legend that goddess Parvati fought a furious Lohasur demon at this very place. A resident of one of the villages has a small shop where winter jackets, hand gloves, caps, shoes, etc. are available for purchase if need be. Such a shop is not very trustworthy due to the fact that all necessary equipment for the trek in an area has to be brought beforehand.
Most parts of this village will also be able to get a mobile phone network. If one has a free day, it is possible to go trek up to Ajan Top. One who does so will find it now and then represented in a picture on the top of a hill.
DAY 2- Trek from Lohajung via Wan to Ghairoli Patal
Following your first meal of the morning, you head over to begin the trek to Wan. This is your first stop along the trek from Wan village, located an hour’s drive from the Lohajung base. One of the cemented pathways passes by resident houses and goes over hasty river streams. After approximately 45 minutes of your climb, the ancient marker of a cluster of several hundred-year-old cypress trees comes into view. It can accommodate four people encircling it! If you seek a more imaginative way to experience the tree, try hugging its trunk.
From this point, there are two paths to be seen. One leads up to the ridge directly in front. The second one is a deviation from the temple of Latu Devta. This is Latu Devta who is mostly regarded as the deity of the mountain people and brings protection to the ground. He is called upon the worshippers and devotees who are seeking further advancement upcourt at the temple during the Nanda Devi Jat Yatra. Strike the bell of the temple over here so that the trek can be safe and return to the footpath that leads to the ridge, Ranaka Dhar. The time taken to cover the distance from Wan to Ranaka Dhar is about 30 to 45 minutes. At these altitudes, the breathtaking sights of Lohajung, Wan, and the valley should not be missed! It is believed that the demon Lohasur was killed by Goddess Parvati in a place called Ranaka Dhar. This was also the place where their battle which was initiated from Lohajung was finally finished. The term Ranaka Dhar means blood that has been drained away in combat.
DAY 3- Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Ali Bugyal and Back to Ghairoli Patal
The trail in this section ascends steeply through the Oak and Rhododendron thickets. And then after 15 minutes of climbing over the stone steps, we reach a broad level ground. To the right is a navigable wide expanse called Ali Bugyal. There is a moment when the ascent continues for one and a half hours when the trees start to recede. There comes a point when the thickets of Oak and the Rhododendrons begin to disappear, and what stretches further back is the sight of the deepest green-colored rug that could be ever presented to someone. Welcome to Ali Bugyal. All the efforts put in are worth complimenting oneself as now there are almost no limitations to watching the breathtaking view of the meadows of Ali Bugyal.
You are standing on top of a wide ridge that extends in all four directions. There are patches of green grass on the mountains. After all this exhaustion is gone, now turn your head to see the breathtaking vistas of the undulating meadows of Ali Bugyal. People, behold the ridge which emanates in all directions – the mountain slopes cut into immense green grasslands. Below, pirouetting forwards from the east, weaving about the ridge and then graciously spilling over both sides, are low grey clouds. Herds of horses are seen grazing in countless numbers, tranquil. We will eventually return to Ghairoli Patal after visiting Ali Bugyal.
DAY4- Trek from Ghairoli Patal to Pathar Nachauni via Bedani Bugyal
On the fourth day, we will trek from Ghairoli Patal to Pathar Nachauni via the Bedani Bugyal. From the Bedni Bugyal, the trail to Pathar Nachauni goes in a slow easy arc. Out of Bedni, the trail can be seen emerging out of the mountain at an altitude of almost 3 kilometers before disappearing into a saddle. As soon as you cross the saddle while trekking, you get a glimpse of the other side of the ridge. The view is equally stunning but is however different. You also start seeing patches of winter snow on the flanks of the other side of the mountain for the first time in quite a while.
Pathar Nachauni and further Bhagwabhasa can be approached by the two following trails. A person can retrace today’s steps to the main trail left yesterday at the entrance of the dominated campsite zone (5-7 minutes backward).
DAY 5- Trek from Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak
After a nice breakfast, move further with a trek towards Bhagwabasa which has an elevation of 14,126 feet. This trek is a distance of about six kilometers and can be covered in around five to six hours. According to the legends of this place, Nanda the goddess cursed the dancers and turned them to stones. Patthar- stone Nachauni- dancers. Head to the opposite side and begin another trek towards Bhagwabhasa but this time the same route will also take you to Kalu Vinayak temple only this time you will have to gain another two kilometers of distance vertically of two hundred feet. This line is difficult again it is not a straight line rather it has curves so be careful because even one fumble can be the worst experience in your life. But in any case, the top of this hill most especially toward the height above sea level should be worth it due to all the hard work and stamina required to climb. Yes as it is reasonable there, oxygen is oxygen increases and wind has room to move around meaning there is less oxygen at this elevation, and when climbing up take decent pauses and water. Kalu Vinayak – The temple is constructed using stone in the traditional style but is designed uniquely and seems attractive. The atmosphere is spiritual there.
Follow the path that will take you to Bhagwabasa which is about a kilometer away from this place. The route is rocky, and there are several hard stones that are tough to be, take a break, and proceed to look for Bhagwabasa which, however, is a lonely place during the monsoons yet there are many flowering plants in this area. Put up your tents have dinner, and have a night at the camp.
DAY 6- Trek from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,756 feet), further to Junargali Top (16,156 feet)
As the climate is cold, first, hot tea or coffee will be consumed, and then breakfast will be packed to proceed towards Roopkund. But the white clouds are engulfing the mountains in a period of a few moments. The objective of the day is to ascend from 400m below to the Junargali Dhar Top which stands at an elevation of 5,029m above sea level. This lake exists at high altitudes. It is said that the remains of the people who used to walk over the land many centuries ago lie on the lake and therefore, it is referred to as the ‘Mystery Lake’. These skeletons are seen when the ice melts. One is fortunate enough to witness the skeletons along the perimeter of the lake. The place which is mentioned here will be a mesmerizing one as you climb up the Junargali and turn around to the Nanda Devi temple. This is a result of the fact that the peak is windy. For now, the peak of Junargali can give you a kind of satisfaction that no other peak would be able to give.
Proceed once more towards Pathar Nachauni by retracing your steps through the Bhagwabhasa. The descent will be more difficult because while going up the trail was already steep while this time, it gets even steeper. It becomes more thrilling, so take your time and get ready both physically and mentally for your trip. After a long day of trekking, you camp out and have your meal.
DAY 7- Trek from Patthar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni and Wan and back to Lohajung
While trekking in nature above Lohajung, one passes through thick forests with large trees. The local people have arranged puja at the famous temple of Latu Devta located in Wan village. You can also visit the temple or rest over here. As you walk down greenery in the form of trees will be seen around. Later cross over to the bank of the river Neel Ganga and then proceed towards Wan village, a quaint little mountain hamlet. From Wan, take a cab back to Lohajung. Take a rest in the guesthouse after dinner.
When you get to Lohajung, you have dinner and check in at a tourist guest house for the last time, looking back at the saddle of the remarkable stretch of the Himalayas in the northern part of India. Feelings of satisfaction are aroused thanks to the challenging few days of walking in the mountain regions and they are magnified further once the guesthouse ambiance, the facilities, and the surroundings are noticed during the check-in. All through the trekking period, this is a useful time to rest, share, and hear about other people’s useful practices and most importantly, enjoy appreciating what made the trek so exceptional. The last stretch of the trek, amidst the calm village located in the hills, takes care of the rest that is much needed before the end of the trek. It’s the last night in Lohajung that makes you want to see and hear everything about such a beautiful and peaceful region.
DAY 8- Drive from Lohajung village to Kathgodam Railway station
After viewing the incredible features of the Roopkund trek, you will proceed with a drive from Lohajung on the day that follows. One more journey that is both beautiful and relaxing is the one going to a place called Kathgodam, where quite many hills and forests can yet be viewed. When you arrive at Kathgodam, it is expected for you to arrive at the railway station between 6:30 pm and 7:00 pm. This concludes your trek and hence, you get a chance to take the train or continue with the unforgettable memory of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek
The best time to visit the Roopkund area is during May to June and then September to October after the rainfall season. These are the ideal periods for treks since the weather is warm and dry which offers clear views and can also be enjoyable during the trek. At this time, the entire region is in snow as May and June have been particularly favorable months to venture out as the landscape is thick with beautiful snowy views while September and October have frost on the peaks making a donation of breathtaking views to the cold weather. December- February would also be a suitable time for those with extreme experience who are unscathed by the weather and heavy snowfall. Moreover, trekkers avoid the months of December- February for the Roopkund trek to avoid extreme weather conditions. The rainy season (July-August) should be avoided because of the slippery trails and unpredictable weather.
Trekking Essentials for Roopkund Trek
Clothing & Layering: Difference in weather conditions requires the need for different clothing, a thermal base layer, a fleece, and the top is a waterproof jacket. Firstly, don’t forget to pack a good pair of gloves and a beanie, as well as a decent set of trekking pants to keep yourself warm.
Footwear: You will need a pair of sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support to prevent injuries, as well as to keep your feet dry while walking over rocky and rough terrain. Be sure to get them serious wear before the trek.
Hydration & Snacks: Water purification tablets should be used at the source of water to drink water safely. Energy bars, dried fruits, and other calorie-dense snacks may be useful for the trek. However, with Himalayan Daredevils food will be provided during the entire trek,
Key Highlights of the Roopkund Trek
Those who seek out the Roopkund Trek will be rewarded with perfect natural sceneries and wonderful captivating history. The key source of attraction is the Roopkund Lake, which is known for its skeleton remains that have astounded scientists for millennia. There are sparkling views of snow-bound mountains such as Trishul and Nanda Ghunti while trekking through thick coniferous woods, grassy alpine meadows, and rocky landscapes. The route also includes beautiful villages, green valleys, and extensive grasslands rich with wildflowers. Ascending to the Bedni Bugyal, considered one of the highest meadows in India, enhances the charm of the trek making it one of the best adventure enthusiasts.
Challenges and Tips for Trekking the Roopkund Trek
Roopkund Trek is not only physically very demanding but also mentally strengthening. To begin with, one of the primary challenges is the steep terrain. These include climbing over rocks, going through steep inclines, walking into valleys, and climbing up again. All these factors can be quite tiring and further prone to fatigue due to elevation. As the walk progresses, the height increases and so does the risk of trekkers feeling the effects of altitude sickness due to lack of adequate oxygen, thus exposing the importance of acclimatization during the trek.
The trekkers will experience up and down conditions and even storms while going up which is rather harsh since the altitude is quite different and this has an overall drastic then sudden effect on the trekker, the weather conditions are bad due to fluctuations in altitude. There are instances when one begins the trek in sunny weather, only for it to end in a sudden downpour or even snow. In this case, it requires proper preparation towards getting sufficient layering and waterproof clothing. Furthermore, river crossings as well as drizzle of heavy rains only make the give quite a promo which makes it worse as they are seen to increase the likelihood of incurring injuries during the trek.
These steps will help you make the most out of this trek:-
Physical Preparation: You will have to exercise regularly while walking on different terrains.
Pack Smart: Make sure that your gears are lightweight but robust. These must include, warm jackets, walking sticks, first aid kits, and even water filters.
Stay Hydrated and Rest: It is always essential to drink adequate amounts of water in order to improve oxygen supply within the body, and reduce fatigue by taking various short intervals or breaks.
Conclusion
The Roopkund Trek is an exciting adventure with nature and history for those willing to travel through rough and beautiful terrains. There are breathtaking sights all around from the famous Roopkund Lake to the beautiful meadows of Bedni Bugyal. Though the trek has many challenges like the steep climbs and altitude sickness, with some precautions, it can be a very enjoyable experience. Anyone in need of expert assistance can contact the Himalayan Daredevils as they provide professional trekking services that guarantee safety, comfort, and maximum satisfaction in the course of the breathtaking trek. Get started on Roopkund Trek with Himalayan Daredevils for an amazing experience!
