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Roopkund Trek
Region
Kathgodam
Duration
8 Days
Max Altitude
15,697 Ft.
Trekking
51 KM
Grade
Moderate
Overview
The Roopkund Trek is a captivating journey through the Himalayan ranges of Uttarakhand, famed for its scenic trails, dense forests, vast meadows, and the legendary Roopkund Lake, also known as the ‘Mystery Lake.’ The trek is steeped in intrigue due to the hundreds of ancient human skeletons discovered at the glacial lake, thought to be remnants of a centuries-old event. This six-day adventure begins from Kathgodam and covers challenging yet picturesque routes, traversing from verdant oak forests to high-altitude meadows and snow-laden paths, all the way to the surreal Roopkund Lake. Along the way, trekkers witness the breathtaking beauty of alpine meadows like Ali and Bedni Bugyal, and the divine view from Kalu Vinayak, making it a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and mystery.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kathgodam to Lohajung
- Altitude: 7,662 ft.
- Travel: Drive 210 km (approx. 10 hours)
- Accommodation: Guest house
Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village
- Altitude Gain: 7,662 to 8,045 ft.
- Distance: 6.5 km trek
- Accommodation: Homestay
Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal
- Altitude Gain: 8,045 to 11,320 ft.
- Distance: 10.5 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Pathar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani
- Altitude Gain: 11,320 to 12,818 ft.
- Distance: 7 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
Day 5: Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak
- Altitude Gain: 12,818 to 14,117 ft.
- Distance: 4 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Pathar Nachauni
- Altitude Gain: 14,117 to 15,755 ft. (Roopkund Lake)
- Distance: 10 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
Day 7: Pathar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni Bugyal
- Altitude: 12,818 ft. to 7,662 ft.
- Distance: 12 km trek
- Accommodation: Guest house
Day 8: Lohajung to Kathgodam
- Travel: Drive 210 km (approx. 10 hours)
Day 1: Kathgodam to Lohajung
- Altitude: 7,662 ft.
- Travel: Drive 210 km (approx. 10 hours)
- Accommodation: Guest house
- Route Highlights: Depart from Kathgodam at 6:00 am from the railway station parking. The scenic drive takes you through Bheem Tal, Almora, Kausani, Gwaldam, and Dewal before reaching Lohajung. The route offers picturesque views of lush valleys and mountains. Lohajung has basic amenities and a local market with mobile network access.
Day 2: Lohajung to Didna Village
- Altitude Gain: 7,662 to 8,045 ft.
- Distance: 6.5 km trek
- Accommodation: Homestay
- Trail Highlights: The trek begins with a gradual descent to the Ruan Bagad Bridge (4.5 km), where trekkers can refill water bottles from the Neel Ganga River. After crossing the bridge, a steep 2 km ascent leads to Didna Village, known for its serene atmosphere. Expect to reach Didna by lunchtime and enjoy a quiet evening in a traditional village setting. Network availability is limited.
Day 3: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal
- Altitude Gain: 8,045 to 11,320 ft.
- Distance: 10.5 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
- Trail Highlights: Start early as the trail ascends steeply through oak and rhododendron forests for the first half. The dense forest gives way to the expansive alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal, where the terrain becomes a gradual ascent. Reach Ali Bugyal by late afternoon; it is essential to carry enough water and ORS. The meadow provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Day 4: Ali Bugyal to Pathar Nachauni via Bedni Bugyal and Ghora Lotani
- Altitude Gain: 11,320 to 12,818 ft.
- Distance: 7 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
- Trail Highlights: This day is relatively easy. The trail from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal is a gradual 2 km ascent. From Bedni Bugyal, continue on a 4 km ascent to Ghora Lotani, a scenic acclimatization spot. The final stretch involves a 1 km gradual descent to reach Pathar Nachauni. Arrive by lunchtime and dress warmly, as the altitude can trigger symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Day 5: Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak
- Altitude Gain: 12,818 to 14,117 ft.
- Distance: 4 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
- Trail Highlights: The first part of the trail is a gradual ascent, leading to the steep climb towards Kalu Vinayak Temple. This temple is a revered site known for its panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail then descends gradually for 1.5 km to Bhagwabasa, which may be covered in snow during May and June or rocky in September and October. Reach the campsite by lunchtime and rest in preparation for the final ascent.
Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and back to Pathar Nachauni
- Altitude Gain: 14,117 to 15,755 ft. (Roopkund Lake)
- Distance: 10 km trek
- Accommodation: Tent
- Trail Highlights: Begin the trek by 4:00 am to witness the sunrise over the snow-clad mountains. The trail is steep and often snow-covered, leading to the mysterious Roopkund Lake. After spending time exploring and absorbing the historical and natural beauty of the lake, retrace your steps back to Pathar Nachauni. This is the most challenging day of the trek, but the views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti make it worthwhile.
Day 7: Pathar Nachauni to Lohajung via Bedni Bugyal
- Altitude: 12,818 ft. to 7,662 ft.
- Distance: 12 km trek
- Accommodation: Guest house
- Trail Highlights: Descend through the familiar route of Bedni Bugyal, enjoying the last glimpses of the high-altitude meadows. Continue trekking down to Wan and drive back to Lohajung. Celebrate the completion of your trek with a warm meal and rest.
Day 8: Lohajung to Kathgodam
- Travel: Drive 210 km (approx. 10 hours)
- Highlights: Depart early for the return journey to Kathgodam, retracing the scenic mountain route. Reflect on the trek’s memories as you pass through the vibrant landscapes one last time.
Things to Carry
Backpack with rain cover | (50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack with rain cover | 20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water Bottle / Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Small size tiffin/lunch box | 1 Nos |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electoral/ors |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry) | 1 Full & 2 Half sleeves |
Fleece T-shirt | 1 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece jacket | 1 Nos |
Windproof Jacket | 1 Nos |
Down feather / Hollow jacket | 1 Nos |
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower) | 1 Pair |
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry) | 2 Nos |
Wind stopper / Fleece Pant | 1 Nos |
Waterproof gloves | 1 Pair |
Fleece / woollen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant | 1 Nos |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Sun Cap | 1 Nos |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. |
Buff | 1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen |
Sunglasses | UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle, good grip) |
Floaters / flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woollen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Micro spikes | 1 Pair (We will provide when required) |
Inclusion & Exclusion
- Meals during the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges. Included only upto amount charged for Indian Nationals
- Tents, Sleeping bags, mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Trek guide, cook, helpers, porters & mules for carrying common luggage
- Services of a Certified Trek Leader
- Meals during road journeys
- Carriage of Personal Bags during the trek
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any expense of personal nature
- Any expense not specified in the inclusion list.
FAQ's
The best time is May to June and September to October, when the weather is clear and the trail is either snow-covered or rocky.
While not mandatory, prior experience in high-altitude treks is beneficial due to the challenging terrain and altitude.
It is a moderate to difficult trek, requiring good physical fitness due to steep ascents, high altitude, and variable trail conditions.
Essential items include a sturdy trekking backpack, warm clothing, waterproof gear, trekking poles, and sufficient water and ORS.
Network availability is limited after Lohajung, with some connectivity in Didna Village but generally no signal in higher altitudes.