# Roopkund Trek > Roopkund Trek is a 7-day moderate–difficult trek in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, reaching 4,800 m (15,750 ft). It covers about 47 km on foot and starts and ends at Lohajung. Best time: May to June and September to October. Trekkaro price: ₹16,500 per person + 5% GST, with free trekking gear (Decathlon shoes, -10°C jacket and poles). Next batch: 10 Oct 2026 (34 upcoming batches). Source: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/roopkund-trek (Trekkaro Adventures Pvt. Ltd.). Prices, dates and seats change often: always confirm on the trek page. ## Key facts - **Duration:** 7 days - **Difficulty:** Moderate–Difficult - **Highest point:** 4,800 m / 15,750 ft - **Trekking distance:** 47 km - **Region:** Chamoli, Uttarakhand - **Start / end:** Lohajung - **Best time:** May to June and September to October - **Temperature:** In summer (May-June)- Daytime temperature: 13°C to 18°C and Night time temperature: 0°C to 7°C. In winter (September- October)- Daytime temperature: 3°C to 9°C and Night time temperature: -3°C to -1°C - **Price:** ₹16,500 per person + 5% GST (was ₹22,000) - **Free trekking gear:** Included (Decathlon shoes, -10 C jacket, trekking poles; gaiters and microspikes when needed) - **Next batch:** 10 Oct 2026 (34 upcoming) ## Overview Most treks build towards a view. Roopkund builds towards a question. At 4,800 m, beneath Mt Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, lies a small glacial lake where hundreds of ancient human skeletons were discovered – a find that has fed legend and scientific curiosity alike. To stand at its edge, you climb for days: through oak and rhododendron forest, across two great Himalayan meadows, past a black stone shrine on a windswept ridge, and finally over rock and snow in the dark before dawn. The Roopkund trek is a journey through a remarkable range of Himalayan landscapes. It follows the Neel Ganga through dense forest to the Ranka Dhar ridge, opens onto the vast meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal with Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m) filling the sky, passes the sacred lake of Bedni Kund and the ridge-top shrine of Kalu Vinayak, and climbs through boulder fields and glacial moraine to Roopkund Lake itself, with an optional push to Junargali at 4,880 m (16,000 ft) above it. The trek lies in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, in the Garhwal Himalayas. It covers about 47 km on foot over seven days, beginning at Wan village, a short drive from the base camp of Lohajung (2,316 m), and returning to Lohajung at the end. The route climbs through camps at Ghairoli Patal (3,205 m), Pathar Nachauni (3,870 m) and Bhagwabasa (4,300 m) before the summit push to the lake at 4,800 m (15,750 ft). Roopkund is famously known as the “Skeleton Lake”, and the trek to it is graded moderate to difficult – a serious high-altitude route. In our experience, few treks in the Himalayas combine meadow, rock, faith and mystery so completely within a single week. ### The Skeleton Lake – What Makes the Roopkund Trek Unmissable Roopkund is one of the very few treks we know that ends at a genuine historical puzzle. Hundreds of ancient human skeletons were discovered at the bottom of this glacial lake, and their story has given rise to both legend and scientific study. The lake itself is modest in size for most of the year, growing during the monsoon as melting glaciers feed into it, and it sits amid rock, moraine and snow beneath the Himalayan giants. It is not the size of the lake that stays with you. It is the place: the altitude, the bare high ground around the water, and the knowledge of what was found here. Reaching it is the hardest and most thrilling day of the trek. You wake at Bhagwabasa in the cold before dawn and set off around 4 or 5 AM, early enough to avoid the strong afternoon winds and the worst of the sun. The trail climbs steeply over rocky terrain, glacial moraine and occasional patches of snow, and the thin air turns every few steps into a decision. You stop, breathe, and go on. Then comes the final steep climb, the ground eases, and the lake is in front of you, with Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and the Chaukhamba ranges standing all around. You stand at 4,800 m beside the water that drew you here. If you still have the legs, Junargali rises about 80 m higher for a wider panorama of the surrounding peaks. Then the long return: back down through Bhagwabasa and on to Pathar Nachauni, a descent of about 930 m that completes a 12 km, nine-hour day. People come to Roopkund for different reasons – some to see the lake and its mystery for themselves, others to lose themselves in the wilderness, and many simply for the sense of wonder and divinity these mountains carry. In our experience, the lake answers each of those reasons in its own way. ### The Landscape Itself Roopkund changes almost completely from one day to the next. The first trek day climbs from Wan through dense oak and rhododendron forest, alive with birdsong, following the lively Neel Ganga across wooden bridges and rising to the Ranka Dhar ridge for one of the first wide Himalayan views of the trek. Camp is at Ghairoli Patal, a peaceful forest clearing surrounded by tall deodars. The next morning the trees fall away and the trail opens into the rolling grasslands of Ali Bugyal (3,350 m) and then Bedni Bugyal (3,550 m) – two meadows we count among the most beautiful in the Himalayas, where herds of horses and sheep graze freely, Bedni is dotted with wildflowers in season, and Trishul and Nanda Ghunti rise across the sky. A short detour leads to Bedni Kund (3,600 m), a small sacred lake with deep mythological roots, used for rituals during the Nanda Devi Raj Jat festival. Beyond Bedni, the mountain shows its harder face. The green gives way to alpine scrub and rocky slopes, the air grows thinner and colder, and camp at Pathar Nachauni is a stark, windswept site beneath towering ridges. From here a steep zig-zag climb of about 2 km leads up a rocky ridge to Kalu Vinayak at 4,200 m, a black stone shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, with 360° views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth. It is a place to pause, for breath and for a quiet moment of reverence, before the trail drops gently over boulders to Bhagwabasa at 4,300 m – a camp of loose rock and snow patches, cold and windy in the evening, and full of anticipation as the last stop before the lake. ### Who Is This Trek For? The Roopkund trek is graded moderate to difficult, and we will be frank: this is not a first trek. We recommend it for fit trekkers with prior trekking experience – ideally at least one previous Himalayan trek – who are ready to go well above 4,000 m. Trek days run from about 4 to 12 km and 4 to 9 hours. The first trek day from Wan is 6 km in 4–5 hours, and the meadow day to Pathar Nachauni is 9 km in 6–7 hours. The day from Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa is only 4 km, but its steep climb at altitude takes 4–5 hours and frequent halts. The hard day is the summit: a 4–5 AM start, about 480 m of climbing to 4,800 m on rocky, sometimes slippery ground with snow patches, an optional 80 m more to Junargali, and a descent of about 930 m to Pathar Nachauni – roughly 12 km and 9 hours in thin air. Good cardiovascular stamina and leg strength are essential, and we recommend at least eight weeks of preparation. The trek is not recommended for children under 12 or for elderly people with health issues. Season: May to June and September to October. ### Key Highlights of the Roopkund Trek - **Roopkund Lake at 4,800 m (15,750 ft)** – the glacial “Skeleton Lake”, where hundreds of ancient human skeletons were discovered - **Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal** – vast alpine meadows at 3,350 m and 3,550 m, with grazing horses and sheep and wildflowers in season - **Close views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti** – Mt Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m) dominate the skyline from the meadows upward - **Bedni Kund** – a small sacred lake at 3,600 m, used for rituals during the Nanda Devi Raj Jat festival - **Kalu Vinayak temple** – a black stone shrine to Lord Ganesha at 4,200 m, with 360° views that include Chaukhamba and Neelkanth - **Optional climb to Junargali** – 4,880 m (16,000 ft), the highest point you can reach on the trek - **The Neel Ganga and the Ranka Dhar ridge** – wooden bridges, oak and rhododendron forest, and the first wide Himalayan views - **Forest to moraine in one week** – deodar clearings, open grassland, rocky ridges, boulder fields and glacial moraine on a single trail ### Best Time to Do the Roopkund Trek The Roopkund trek runs in two short windows each year: May to June, and September to October. Both lead to the same lake and the same high camps, but they feel quite different on the ground – one a spring–summer season of blooming rhododendrons and lingering snow, the other a colder season of clear skies and more snow near the lake. #### May to June – Spring–Summer Season (Rhododendrons and Snow Patches) This is the warmer of the two windows. The rhododendrons are in bloom, trekking conditions are pleasant, and the upper trail still carries patches of snow. Bhagwabasa in particular is often snow-covered early in the season, with snow lying among the loose rock of the camp. The days are mild enough to enjoy long stops in the meadows of Ali and Bedni, and the nights, though cold, stay around or above freezing. For trekkers who want comfortable conditions with a touch of snow on the high ground, this is a rewarding season. - **Temperatures:** Day: 13°C to 18°C | Night: 0°C to 7°C - **Trail conditions:** Pleasant trekking conditions, with patches of snow on the upper trail and around Bhagwabasa early in the season. - **Best for:** Blooming rhododendrons, milder days and nights, and a first taste of snow at altitude. #### September to October – Autumn Season (Clear Skies and Colder Nights) September and October bring clear skies and wide, open mountain views, with Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and the Chaukhamba ranges standing sharp above the meadows and the high ridges. It is noticeably colder, with daytime temperatures in single figures and nights below freezing, and there is more snow near the lake. For trekkers who want the clearest views of the Himalayan giants and are ready for real cold, this is, in our view, the more dramatic of the two windows. - **Temperatures:** Day: 3°C to 9°C | Night: -3°C to -1°C - **Trail conditions:** Clear skies, more snow near the lake, cold nights at the high camps. - **Best for:** Clear mountain views, crisp light and a colder, snowier approach to the lake. #### Trekkaro Recommendation For milder conditions and blooming rhododendrons, book a May to June batch. For clear skies, sharper views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti, and more snow around the lake, choose September to October, and expect colder nights at every camp. Whichever window you pick, give yourself the full eight weeks of preparation; the lake is worth arriving strong. ## Itinerary ### Day 1: Rishikesh to Lohajung **Route Details:** **Drive: Rishikesh → Lohajung (260 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 2,316 m (7,600 ft) | Stay: Guesthouse / homestay (triple or quad sharing)** Day 1 is a long day on the road. Leave Rishikesh by about 6:30 AM and you reach Lohajung by evening without rushing. Trekkaro arranges shared transport from Jumping Heights, Tapovan and Rishikesh at an additional cost. The hill road runs through Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Gauchar, Karnaprayag, Tharali and Dewal, past forest, river valleys and remote Garhwal villages with terraced fields. On the way you pass Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag, three of the Panch Prayags, the holy river confluences on the Alaknanda. We recommend a halt at Devprayag, where the Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi meet to form the Ganga. Lohajung, at 2,316 m, is the base village for Roopkund, Brahmatal and Ali Bedni Bugyal. You stay in a guesthouse or homestay, with dinner in the evening. The few small shops here stock only basics, so bring everything you need. Dewal is the last reliable ATM, and Lohajung the last place with a stable mobile signal. What to Expect: - Early start from Rishikesh (around 6:30 AM) to reach Lohajung by evening - Drive past Devprayag, Rudraprayag and Karnaprayag, three of the Panch Prayags - Halt at Devprayag, the confluence of the Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi - Last reliable ATM at Dewal; last stable mobile network at Lohajung - Dinner at Lohajung; carry your trekking essentials, as local shops are small - Overnight: Lohajung guesthouse / homestay (2,316 m / 7,600 ft) ### Day 2: Lohajung to Wan, then Trek to Ghairoli Patal **Route Details:** **Drive: Lohajung → Wan (15 km, ~1 hr) | Altitude: 2,440 m → 3,205 m (10,515 ft) | Distance: 6 km | Duration: 4–5 hrs | Terrain: steady climb to Ranka Dhar, then oak and rhododendron forest along the Neel Ganga | Stay: Tents at Ghairoli Patal** A short drive of about an hour takes you from Lohajung to Wan, the starting point of the trek. From here you walk. The day gains about 767 m (2,515 ft) over 6 km, so the climb is steady rather than steep. Start at an easy pace. Your body is meeting real altitude for the first time on this trek, and the first hour sets the tone for the rest of the week. The first couple of kilometres climb steadily to Ranka Dhar, the ridge above Wan village. It gives you one of the first wide Himalayan views of the trek and a good place for a short breather. The trail then runs on through dense oak and rhododendron forest, full of diverse flora and fauna, and follows the lively Neel Ganga River, which you cross on wooden bridges. The river is the natural rest stop of the day. Take a short break here for photos and water, then keep going before you cool down. Beyond the river the forest closes in again and the steady climb continues. Walk in short, even steps and take regular sips of water rather than long stops. If you notice a headache, nausea or dizziness at any point, tell your trek leader early. By late afternoon you reach Ghairoli Patal at 3,205 m, a forest clearing ringed by tall deodars. It is a quiet, peaceful campsite, and your first night in tents. Sleeping here lets your body adjust before the meadows and higher camps that follow. What to Expect: - 15 km drive from Lohajung to Wan, about an hour - Steady climb to Ranka Dhar ridge, one of the first wide Himalayan views of the trek - Oak and rhododendron forest along the Neel Ganga, with wooden bridge crossings - About 767 m (2,515 ft) of gain over 6 km – start slow and keep sipping water - Ghairoli Patal: a forest clearing ringed by tall deodars, your first camp - Overnight: Tents at Ghairoli Patal (3,205 m / 10,515 ft) ### Day 3: Ghairoli Patal to Pathar Nachauni via Ali and Bedni Bugyal **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,205 m → 3,870 m (12,700 ft) | Distance: 9 km | Duration: 6–7 hrs | Terrain: gradual forest ascent, rolling alpine meadows, then alpine scrub and rocky slopes | Stay: Tents at Pathar Nachauni** Today the forest gives way to the great meadows. The trail starts with a gradual ascent out of the clearing at Ghairoli Patal and soon opens into rolling grassland. A steady climb brings you onto Ali Bugyal at 3,350 m (11,000 ft), where the meadow runs wide in every direction under an open sky. Herds of horses and sheep graze freely here. This is one of the most scenic stretches of the whole trek, so give yourself a few minutes to take it in. From Ali Bugyal the trail climbs gradually to Bedni Bugyal at 3,550 m (11,650 ft), another broad meadow, dotted with wildflowers in season. On clear days Mt Trishul (7,120 m / 23,360 ft) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m / 20,700 ft) fill the skyline. A short detour takes you to Bedni Kund at 3,600 m (11,800 ft), a small sacred lake used for rituals during the Nanda Devi Raj Jat festival. We recommend the detour; it is short, and the lake is one of the quiet highlights of the trek. After Bedni the character of the walk changes. The lush grass gives way to alpine scrub and rocky slopes, and the air turns thinner and colder. This last section is where the length of the day shows. Slow down, keep your breathing steady and drink water often. Pathar Nachauni is your first campsite above 3,800 m (12,000 ft), and a measured pace now helps your body acclimatise. You reach Pathar Nachauni at 3,870 m by late afternoon. It is a stark, open campsite below steep ridges and is often buffeted by mountain winds. Put on a warm layer as soon as you stop walking, and keep it on through the evening. What to Expect: - Gradual climb out of the forest onto Ali Bugyal (3,350 m), with horses and sheep grazing - Bedni Bugyal (3,550 m): open meadow with wildflowers in season - Views of Mt Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m) on clear days - Short detour to Bedni Kund (3,600 m), the sacred lake of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat - Landscape shift from meadow to rocky alpine slopes above Bedni - Overnight: Tents at Pathar Nachauni (3,870 m / 12,700 ft) ### Day 4: Pathar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa via Kalu Vinayak **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,870 m → 4,300 m (14,100 ft) | Distance: 4 km | Duration: 4–5 hrs | Terrain: steep zig-zag climb up a rocky ridge, then boulders and rocky slopes | Stay: Tents at Bhagwabasa** On paper today looks easy: 4 km and about 430 m (1,400 ft) of gain. In practice it is one of the most challenging sections of the Roopkund trek, because the climb is steep and the air at this height is thin. Allow 4 to 5 hours and treat the day as a lesson in patience. The trail starts climbing the moment you leave Pathar Nachauni, in tight zig-zags up a rocky ridge. Trekkers often take frequent halts on this stretch to catch their breath, and that is the right way to walk it. Move slowly, breathe deeply and rest before you run out of breath, not after. After about 2 km of steady climbing you reach Kalu Vinayak at 4,200 m (13,800 ft), a black stone shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, set on the rocky ridge. Kalu Vinayak is the viewpoint of the day. Trishul (7,120 m), Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m), Chaukhamba and Neelkanth stand around you in a full circle. Many trekkers pause here for more than rest, for a quiet moment at the shrine before the summit approach. From the temple the trail runs over boulders and rocky slopes and levels out towards Bhagwabasa. The grassy meadows are behind you now; this is rocky alpine country with sparse vegetation. Bhagwabasa at 4,300 m is a stark camp of boulder fields, loose rock and snow patches, and it is often snow-covered early in the season. Evenings here are cold and windy, so layer up as soon as you arrive. It is the last camp before Roopkund Lake, and there is a quiet sense of anticipation in camp. Tomorrow starts around 4 to 5 AM, so rest well tonight. What to Expect: - Short but steep: 4 km and about 430 m (1,400 ft) of gain at high altitude - Zig-zag climb up a rocky ridge from Pathar Nachauni – frequent short halts help - Kalu Vinayak (4,200 m): black stone Ganesha shrine with views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth - Rocky, sparse alpine terrain from the temple to camp - Bhagwabasa: boulder fields and snow patches, cold and windy in the evening - Overnight: Tents at Bhagwabasa (4,300 m / 14,100 ft) ### Day 5: Summit Day - Bhagwabasa to Roopkund and Junargali, back to Pathar Nachauni **Route Details:** **Altitude: 4,300 m → 4,800 m (15,750 ft) → 3,870 m (12,700 ft) | Optional: Junargali 4,880 m (16,000 ft) | Distance: 12 km | Duration: ~9 hrs | Terrain: steep rocky ascent with glacial moraine and snow patches, return on the same route | Stay: Tents at Pathar Nachauni** This is the day the trek is built around, and the hardest. Leave Bhagwabasa very early, around 4 to 5 AM. The early start keeps you ahead of the strong afternoon winds, cuts your sun exposure and gives you time at the lake without hurrying. Start in your warm layers, with water and energy snacks where you can reach them. The climb is steep and crosses rocky terrain, glacial moraine and occasional snow patches. Use your trekking poles for stability, keep your steps short and stay close to the person ahead. Micro spikes, gaiters and ropes are part of the team’s equipment for the snow sections. After 2 to 3 hours of steady climbing you reach Roopkund at 4,800 m, a small glacial lake ringed by high peaks and famous for the ancient human skeletal remains in its waters. For most of the year it stays small; it grows during the monsoon as glacier melt feeds it. Take your time at the lake to look around and take photographs. If you still have energy, the optional side trek to Junargali at 4,880 m (16,000 ft) adds about 80 m (250 ft) of climbing and opens a wider view of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti and the glacier-fed valleys around you. The descent follows the same route. You stop at Bhagwabasa for rest and lunch, then continue down to Pathar Nachauni, a total descent of about 930 m (3,050 ft). Your legs feel this part. Keep eating, keep drinking and use your poles on every steep step. You reach camp tired, but the lower altitude at Pathar Nachauni helps you recover overnight. What to Expect: - Very early start (around 4–5 AM) to avoid the strong afternoon winds - 2–3 hour steep climb over rock, moraine and snow patches to Roopkund (4,800 m) - Roopkund Lake: a small glacial lake famous for its ancient skeletal remains - Optional side trek to Junargali (4,880 m / 16,000 ft) for a wider view of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti - Rest and lunch at Bhagwabasa on the way down; about 930 m (3,050 ft) of descent in all - Overnight: Tents at Pathar Nachauni (3,870 m / 12,700 ft) ### Day 6: Pathar Nachauni to Wan via Bedni Bugyal, Drive to Lohajung **Route Details:** **Altitude: 3,870 m → 2,440 m (8,000 ft) | Distance: 16 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs | Terrain: meadow descent, rocky paths and ridges, then forest trail | Drive: Wan → Lohajung (15 km, ~1 hr) | Stay: Guesthouse / hotel at Lohajung** Today is the longest day by distance, and almost all of it is downhill. You lose about 1,430 m (4,700 ft) over 16 km between Pathar Nachauni and Wan. Downhill is easier on the lungs but hard on the knees, so use your trekking poles from the first step and keep your pace controlled rather than fast. The descent begins gradually and brings you back across the meadows of Bedni Bugyal at 3,550 m. Take a break here. It is your last chance to see Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m) across open meadow, along with the valleys and glaciers around them. We recommend taking your final photographs here rather than hurrying on towards Wan. Below the meadows the trail runs down rocky paths and along ridges before it enters forest. The vegetation grows denser as you lose height, and the shade of the trees returns after days in open country. Keep your steps short on the steeper sections and take small breaks to rest your knees. By late afternoon you walk into Wan village at 2,440 m, where the trek on foot ends. From Wan a short drive of about an hour brings you to Lohajung. You stay in a guesthouse or hotel on triple or quad sharing. After the nights in tents, a roof and a proper bed feel like a reward. Relax, enjoy the local hospitality and look back on the trek over dinner. What to Expect: - Long descent: 16 km and about 1,430 m (4,700 ft) of height loss - Last views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti from Bedni Bugyal (3,550 m) - Rocky paths, ridges and forest trail, with vegetation thickening as you descend - Trekking poles strongly recommended to protect your knees - Walk ends at Wan (2,440 m / 8,000 ft), then a 1-hour drive to Lohajung - Overnight: Lohajung guesthouse / hotel (2,316 m / 7,600 ft) ### Day 7: Lohajung to Rishikesh **Route Details:** **Drive: Lohajung → Rishikesh (260 km, 10–11 hrs) | Altitude: 2,316 m → 340 m (1,115 ft) | End: Rishikesh by evening** The last day is a long drive back to the plains. The road retraces the route you came up on, through Dewal, Tharali, Karnaprayag, Gauchar, Rudraprayag, Srinagar and Devprayag. It runs past valleys, riverbanks and mountain towns, and you descend about 1,976 m (6,485 ft) over the day. Trekkaro arranges a shared taxi from Lohajung at an additional cost. We recommend a short halt at Devprayag to see the confluence of the Bhagirathi and the Alaknanda, where the two rivers merge to form the Ganga. If you passed it in a hurry on Day 1, this is your second chance. You reach Rishikesh by evening, and your Roopkund trek ends there. Meals during the drive are not part of the trek, so carry snacks or plan a roadside stop. Keep a margin before any onward train, bus or flight; this is a full 10 to 11 hours on the road. What to Expect: - 260 km drive, 10–11 hours, back to Rishikesh - Route via Dewal, Tharali, Karnaprayag, Gauchar, Rudraprayag and Srinagar - Short halt at Devprayag, where the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda form the Ganga - Shared taxi from Lohajung arranged by Trekkaro at an additional cost - Meals on the drive are your own - Trek ends at Rishikesh (340 m / 1,115 ft) by evening ## Inclusions 1. Free Trekking Gear (FTG) – A Budget-Saving Game Changer! Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear (FTG) initiative lets you save 100% on gear purchases and rentals — ideal for budget-conscious trekkers!Get access to premium-quality gear, including: - Quechua Trek 100 Shoes (worth ₹6,999) - Quechua SH100 Jacket (-10°C) (worth ₹3,299) - Trekking pole and more – no rental fee (₹3,000 refundable deposit + ₹200 washing charge)! 2. Comfortable Accommodation - Day 1 to Day 6: Full-service camping with large mess tents, tables, and 3-person tents during the trek. - Lohajung Stay: Guesthouse, camp, or homestay on a triple/quad sharing basis. 3. Nutritious Meals - All meals included from Day 1 dinner to Day 6 dinner - Freshly prepared, simple vegetarian food - Tea, coffee, soups, and snacks are served regularly during the trek 4. Camping & Permit Charges - All necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees included 5. Certified Trek Leaders & Guides - Experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides - Ensuring both safety and local expertise 6. Premium Trekking Equipment Provided - All technical equipment required during the trek is included: - High-quality tents, sleeping bags - Ice axes, micro spikes, gaiters, ropes, and more 7. Safety First – Emergency Support at Every Camp - First-aid kit, medical support, and oxygen cylinders - Stretchers are available at each campsite for emergency evacuation ## Exclusions 1. Food During Transit - Meals during travel to and from the base camp (Lohajung) are not included. You’ll need to arrange your food while in transit. 2. Transport – Basecamp Transfers - Shared taxis from Rishikesh to Lohajung and back are omitted. It can be arranged at an additional cost of ₹6,500 per vehicle (one-way, 6-seater), payable directly to the driver. - We help arrange shared cabs for the group; the fare is paid directly to the driver and split among trekkers 3. Backpack Offloading Charges If you choose not to carry your backpack: - ₹2,800 + 5% GST for the full trek - Max weight: 9 kg - No suitcases, trolleys, or duffel bags allowed - Charges may be higher for last-minute offloading requests made at Lohajung 4. Single Tent Occupancy Do you prefer your tent or travelling as a couple? - ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the entire trek - Ideal for solo trekkers seeking privacy or couples sharing a tent - Spacious enough for 1 or 2 people to stay comfortably 5. Anything Not Mentioned Under Inclusions - If it’s not specifically listed under the “What’s Included” section, it’s not part of the package. Please plan accordingly and ask in advance if you’re unsure. - **Travel insurance:** mandatory and not included. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. ## ATM and mobile network Important Pre-Trek Information **• Last ATM – Dewal**Dewal is the last reliable ATM stop before you reach Lohajung (the basecamp). Withdraw sufficient cash here, as ATMs beyond this point are either unavailable or unreliable. **• Mobile Network – Lohajung**Lohajung is the last point where you can expect a stable mobile signal. Finish all important calls here and inform your family about limited connectivity during the trek. Beyond Lohajung, mobile networks are patchy to non-existent. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where is the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek is in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, and starts from Lohajung (2,316 m / 7,600 ft), about 260 km and 10–11 hours by road from Rishikesh. The trail begins at Wan village, a 15 km, one-hour drive from Lohajung. From Wan the route climbs through forest to the Ali and Bedni Bugyal meadows, then over rocky ground via Kalu Vinayak to Roopkund Lake at 4,800 m (15,750 ft). ### How many days is the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek takes 7 days from Rishikesh to Rishikesh, with 5 trekking days covering about 47 km. - **Day 1 and Day 7:** drive between Rishikesh and Lohajung (260 km, 10–11 hours) - **Days 2–6:** trekking, 4–16 km a day - **Summit day:** Day 5, about 12 km and 9 hours to Roopkund and back to Pathar Nachauni - **Longest distance:** Day 6, a 16 km descent to Wan in 5–6 hours ### What is the altitude of the Roopkund trek? The highest point of the Roopkund trek is Roopkund Lake at 4,800 m (15,750 ft), with an optional climb to Junargali at 4,880 m (16,000 ft). The highest camp is Bhagwabasa at 4,300 m (14,100 ft). - **Wan (trailhead):** 2,440 m / 8,000 ft - **Ghairoli Patal camp:** 3,205 m / 10,515 ft - **Pathar Nachauni camp:** 3,870 m / 12,700 ft - **Bhagwabasa camp:** 4,300 m / 14,100 ft ### How difficult is the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek is graded Moderate–Difficult because of the high altitude, steep rocky climbs and long days. It climbs from 2,440 m to 4,800 m in four trekking days. - **Day 4:** a short but steep zig-zag climb of about 430 m up a rocky ridge to Bhagwabasa - **Summit day:** a 2–3 hour steep climb over rock, moraine and snow patches, about 9 hours in all - **Day 6:** a long 16 km descent with about 1,430 m of height loss ### Is the Roopkund trek good for beginners? The Roopkund trek is not ideal for first-time trekkers: it is graded Moderate–Difficult, reaches 4,800 m and has steep, rocky and sometimes slippery sections. Prior trekking experience is recommended. If you are new to trekking, do a short trek at moderate altitude first to prepare for Roopkund. ### What fitness level do I need for the Roopkund trek? For the Roopkund trek you need moderate to good fitness, with the stamina to walk 4–9 hours a day over steep, rocky ground at high altitude. Cardiovascular endurance and leg strength matter most. - **Cardio:** running, cycling or swimming - **Strength:** squats, lunges and other leg exercises - **Endurance:** practise multi-hour hikes with a loaded backpack - **Altitude:** if possible, do a short trek at moderate altitude beforehand ### What is the best time for the Roopkund trek? The best time for the Roopkund trek is May–June and September–October, when the weather is relatively stable and the trail is clear of heavy snow. Avoid trekking after October, when heavy snowfall, strong winds and extreme cold make the trail dangerous. - **May–June:** days of 13–18°C and nights of 0–7°C - **September–October:** colder, with days of 3–9°C and nights of -3°C to -1°C ### Is there snow on the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek runs when the trail is clear of heavy snow, but you can still meet snow patches at Bhagwabasa and on the final climb to the lake, especially early or late in the season. Any snow near the lake also reflects strong sunlight. Gaiters and microspikes are provided free with Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear when the trail needs them. ### How cold does it get on the Roopkund trek? On the Roopkund trek, May–June days are 13–18°C with nights of 0–7°C, while September–October days are 3–9°C with nights of -3°C to -1°C. Bhagwabasa camp (4,300 m) is cold and windy in the evening in both seasons. - **Layers:** 4 warm layers, including thermals and 2 fleece or woollen layers - **Outer jacket:** a padded -10°C jacket is part of the Free Trekking Gear - **Summit day:** a balaclava or buff and waterproof gloves for the cold wind ### Which mountains and lakes can you see on the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek gives views of Trishul (7,120 m), Nanda Ghunti (6,310 m), Chaukhamba and Neelkanth, and passes two lakes, Bedni Kund and Roopkund itself. The widest view comes from the optional climb to Junargali (4,880 m). - **Roopkund Lake (4,800 m):** a small glacial lake known for its ancient skeletal remains - **Bedni Kund (3,600 m):** the sacred lake of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat - **Kalu Vinayak (4,200 m):** views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth - **Ranka Dhar ridge:** one of the first wide Himalayan views, on Day 2 ### What is the terrain like on the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek moves from oak and rhododendron forest to rolling alpine meadows, then to rocky, boulder-strewn slopes and glacial moraine near the lake. The upper sections can be slippery, with snow patches. - **Forest:** oak and rhododendron along the Neel Ganga, with wooden bridge crossings - **Meadows:** Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal - **Rocky ridge:** a steep zig-zag climb from Pathar Nachauni to Kalu Vinayak - **Summit approach:** rock, moraine and snow patches below Roopkund ### Is there a risk of altitude sickness on the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek carries a real risk of altitude sickness, as it reaches 4,800 m and has a camp at 4,300 m. The altitude gain is gradual but significant, so acclimatisation and a slow pace are essential. - **Symptoms:** headache, nausea or dizziness; tell your guide at once - **Safety kit:** first-aid kit, medical support and oxygen cylinders at every camp - **Evacuation:** stretchers are kept at each campsite ### How do you acclimatise on the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek itinerary builds in acclimatisation: the first night on the trail is at Ghairoli Patal (3,205 m), and you sleep at 3,870 m and 4,300 m before the summit. After summit day you descend to sleep lower, at Pathar Nachauni. - **Pace:** walk slowly and take short breaks - **Hydration:** drink plenty of water and carry ORS - **Avoid:** alcohol and heavy meals at high altitude - **If unwell:** rest or descend, as advised by your guide ### What is the minimum age for the Roopkund trek? The minimum age for the Roopkund trek is 12 years, because of the high altitude and strenuous terrain. Trekkers under 18 must come with a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit. Trekkers above 60 are welcome if they are fit and in good cardiovascular health; along with the medical certificate signed by a doctor that every trekker brings, we recommend an ECG or TMT report. ### How do I reach the Roopkund trek base camp? To reach the Roopkund trek, travel to Rishikesh; the cab to Lohajung leaves Jumping Heights, Tapovan (Rishikesh) at 06:30 AM for the 260 km, 10–11 hour drive. Reach Rishikesh the day before. - **By air:** Jolly Grant Airport (DED), Dehradun, about 20–25 km and 45 minutes from Rishikesh - **By train:** Haridwar Junction, about 25–30 km from Rishikesh, is far better connected than Yog Nagari Rishikesh - **By bus:** buses from Delhi ISBT Kashmere Gate reach Rishikesh in about 6–7 hours - **Return:** the cab leaves Lohajung at 06:30 AM on Day 7 and reaches Rishikesh by about 06:00 PM ### Is transport from Rishikesh included in the Roopkund trek? No, transport between Rishikesh and Lohajung is not included in the Roopkund trek fee. Trekkaro arranges a shared cab at an additional cost of about ₹6,500 one way per 5–6 seat vehicle, split among trekkers and paid directly to the driver. - **Onward:** 06:30 AM from Jumping Heights, Tapovan, Rishikesh on Day 1 - **Return:** 06:30 AM from Lohajung on Day 7, reaching Rishikesh by about 06:00 PM - **Trailhead drive:** the 15 km, one-hour drive between Lohajung and Wan on Days 2 and 6 is part of the itinerary ### Where do we stay on the Roopkund trek? On the Roopkund trek you stay two nights at Lohajung in a guesthouse, homestay or hotel, and four nights in 3-person tents at high-altitude camps with large mess tents. Tents and sleeping bags are included, and Lohajung rooms are on a triple or quad sharing basis. - **Day 1 and Day 6:** Lohajung (2,316 m) - **Day 2:** Ghairoli Patal (3,205 m), a forest clearing ringed by tall deodars - **Day 3 and Day 5:** Pathar Nachauni (3,870 m) - **Day 4:** Bhagwabasa (4,300 m) - **Single tent:** ₹2,000 + 5% GST per tent for the whole trek ### Who leads the Roopkund trek? The Roopkund trek is led by experienced trek leaders supported by local certified mountain guides, combining safety with local knowledge of the route. Follow their instructions on weather changes, snow and rockfall areas. - **Safety support:** first-aid kit, medical support and oxygen cylinders at every camp - **Technical gear:** ice axes, microspikes, gaiters and ropes are included ### Can I join the Roopkund trek as a solo trekker or a woman travelling alone? Yes, solo trekkers, including women travelling alone, can join a Roopkund group trek, but trekking Roopkund entirely on your own is not recommended because of the high altitude and remote sections. A group trek gives you a trek leader, local guides and logistics support. - **Single tent:** ₹2,000 + 5% GST for the whole trek if you want privacy - **Support:** medical support and oxygen cylinders at every camp ### What food is served on the Roopkund trek? All meals on the Roopkund trek are included from Day 1 dinner to Day 6 dinner: simple, freshly prepared vegetarian food. Tea, coffee, soups and snacks are served regularly. - **On the trail:** packed lunches, so bring a reusable lunch box - **Not included:** meals on the drive between Rishikesh and Lohajung - **Snacks:** carry energy bars, dry fruits and chocolate ### How much drinking water should I carry on the Roopkund trek? On the Roopkund trek, carry two 1-litre water bottles and keep sipping through the day, as good hydration helps at altitude. Make one bottle insulated for the cold summit day. Carry a few ORS or electrolyte sachets to add to your water at high altitude. ### Is Free Trekking Gear included in the Roopkund trek? Yes, the Roopkund trek includes Trekkaro’s Free Trekking Gear, so you do not need to buy or rent shoes or a jacket. One refundable deposit of ₹3,000 plus a ₹200 washing charge covers the whole kit. - **Shoes:** trekking shoes worth ₹6,999 - **Jacket:** padded jacket rated to -10°C, worth ₹3,299 - **Trekking poles:** help on the steep Pathar Nachauni to Roopkund section and on the way down - **Snow gear:** gaiters and microspikes when the trail needs them ### Can I offload my backpack on the Roopkund trek? Yes, backpack offloading on the Roopkund trek costs ₹2,800 + 5% GST for the full trek. Book it in advance, as last-minute requests made at Lohajung may cost more. - **Weight limit:** 9 kg - **Bag type:** no suitcases, trolleys or duffel bags - **Day pack:** carry a 20–30 L day pack for water, snacks and layers ### Is there a doctor or medical support on the Roopkund trek? Medical support on the Roopkund trek is available at every camp, with a first-aid kit and oxygen cylinders, and stretchers are kept at each campsite for emergency evacuation. Trek leaders and local certified guides manage safety on the trail. - **Medical certificate:** signed by a registered doctor, required before the trek - **Insurance:** mandatory, covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation - **Your kit:** carry your regular and prescribed medicines plus basic first aid ### What documents do I need for the Roopkund trek? For the Roopkund trek you need an original government photo ID with a photocopy, a medical certificate signed by a registered doctor and a copy of your travel insurance policy. - **ID:** passport, Aadhaar, driving licence or voter ID - **Insurance:** mandatory and not included; it must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation ### Do I need a permit for the Roopkund trek? Yes, the Roopkund trek needs permits, and all necessary trekking permits and forest camping fees are included in the trek fee. Carry your original government photo ID and a photocopy. Keep your documents dry in a ziploc or plastic bag. ### Is there mobile network and an ATM on the Roopkund trek? On the Roopkund trek, Dewal is the last reliable ATM and Lohajung is the last point with a stable mobile signal. Beyond Lohajung the network is patchy to non-existent. - **Cash:** withdraw enough at Dewal for your share of the cab, offloading if needed and small expenses - **Shops:** Lohajung has only small shops, so carry your trekking essentials - **Power bank:** bring one fully charged ### Why is Roopkund Lake famous? Roopkund Lake, at 4,800 m (15,750 ft), is a small glacial lake famous for the ancient skeletal remains found there. You reach it on Day 5 of the Roopkund trek after a 2–3 hour steep climb from Bhagwabasa. The lake lies among rock and glacial moraine, with snow patches common around it. ### What is summit day like on the Roopkund trek? Summit day on the Roopkund trek (Day 5) starts very early, around 4–5 AM, to avoid strong afternoon winds, and covers about 12 km in 9 hours. You climb from Bhagwabasa (4,300 m) to Roopkund (4,800 m), then descend to sleep at Pathar Nachauni (3,870 m). - **Climb:** 2–3 hours, steep, over rock, moraine and snow patches - **Optional:** side trek to Junargali (4,880 m) for a wider view of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti - **Descent:** rest and lunch at Bhagwabasa, with about 930 m of descent in all ### What are Kalu Vinayak and Bedni Kund on the Roopkund trek? Kalu Vinayak (4,200 m) is a black stone Ganesha shrine on the Day 4 climb of the Roopkund trek, with views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba and Neelkanth. Bedni Kund (3,600 m) is the sacred lake of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, reached by a short detour on Day 3. Above Bedni the landscape changes from meadow to rocky alpine slopes, and Kalu Vinayak sits above the steep zig-zag ridge from Pathar Nachauni. ### What should I pack for the Roopkund trek? For the Roopkund trek, pack a 50–60 L backpack with 4 warm layers, rain protection and strong sun protection; shoes, jacket, poles and snow gear come with the Free Trekking Gear. - **Clothing:** thermals, 2 fleece or woollen layers, 2 trek pants, 3 quick-dry T-shirts and a rain jacket - **Cold gear:** woollen cap, balaclava or buff, fleece gloves and waterproof gloves - **Accessories:** UV sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm - **Essentials:** headlamp, two 1 L bottles, lunch box, power bank, medicines and cash --- Book or ask questions: https://www.trekkaro.com/trek/roopkund-trek · WhatsApp +91 80576 54321