|
Region |
: Uttarakhand Himalayas |
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Duration |
: 7 days |
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Level |
: Moderate |
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Trekking distance |
: 55 Kms |
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Max Altitude |
: 5020 Meters |
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Pickup Point |
: Kathgodam |
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Best Season |
: June, September-October |
About Roopkund Lake
Known for its mysterious surrounding and astounding scenic beauty, Roopkund is a high altitude trek in the base of Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti. The maximum height of this trek is 5029 m which adds to the zeal of trekking experience. The trek lies in the Garhwal Himalayas of Chamoli district and offers magnificent views of mountains surrounded by rock- strewn glacier. This 9 days trek goes through moderate to difficult grades and satiates the trekking-obsession of beginners to high altitude experts. The lake at Roopkund is also known as a 'mystery lake' for the human skeletons and remains of horses that are found in huge numbers in the surrounding areas of the lake. These remains are believed to be of around 15th to 16th century when a strong hailstorm took away the lives of hundreds of helpless people who went there for pilgrimage.
Lohajung is the base of this well acclaimed trek which is easily accessible by motor from Rishikesh. Generally the trekking teams drive from Rishikesh to Loharjung witnessing the snow-packed mountains, valleys and rivers. The original trek starts from Lohajung and passes through the village of Didna. In between Loharjung to Didna, there is a small village called Kulling where the bubbling river Neel Ganga flows between Wan and Lohajung. From Kulling a steep ascent leads to Raun Bagad which is partly thick and densely dotted by the rhododendron oaks and pine forest. All along the walk the trekkers can hear the whistles of the thrushes and twittering of birds. Catch a glimpse of fork tailed Himalayan Magpie on the branches of Rhododendrons. On the lower levels of Neel Ganga River, Lammergeiers are found soaring over the valley. One can also see yellow throated marten.
The trail to Raun Bagad ends at an iron bridge from where the climb to Didina starts. From Didina the trail leads towards Bedni Bugyal which again passes through Ali Bugyal. The trail from Didina to Bedni Bugyal is a stiff climb at the beginning and through an easy walk in the middle it ascends towards the end. The undulating Alpine meadows at Ali Bugyal are considered to be among the best in the country which are located atop a ridge.
The trail from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal is carpeted with soft green grassland. Those who would like to camp on the Himalaya, Bedni is the ideal place. Witnessing the evening reflection of sunlight on Trishul Mountain peak is a memorable experience. From Bedni Bugyal one has to lead towards the meadows of Ghora Lotani where the vicinity is painted with the shades of olives and browns spread across all directions over the black terrain. Trekkers can witness abundant snow while reaching Bhagwabasa. Further one needs to head towards Roopkund from Bhagwabassa which is a 5 km ascent. There are series of switchbacks and a steep climb over the snow patched route but the stretch is not long and the hard snow is helpful to trek without being worried about the danger.
Roopkund Trek Highlights
- Explore the mystery of the Skeleton Lake, Roopkund, witness the years long buried human and animal bones in the snow
- Enjoy the breathtaking views of lofty Himalayan peaks like Nanda Ghunti, Chaukhamba & Trishul and Rudragaira
- Cherish the sprawling lush meadows of Bedni and Ali
- Get an opportunity to visit some of the remotest villages of Uttrakhand
- Enjoy the opportunity to camp under the open sky and amidst the stunning landscape
Best Time to Visit Roopkund Trek
Roopkund can be trekked between May and June and August and mid-October. The harsh climatic conditions only provide trekkers with a small window to trek between the 1st week of May to about the 1st week of July. June is the perfect time to witness the twin Bugyals /meadows of Ali and Bedni as by this time, the meadows are in their full spring. Trekking between the last week of August and the first week of October is another good trekking season in Roopkund. The sky remains clear and the weather is perfect for a hike.
Where is the Roopkund?
Roopkund is situated in a remote area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand State. It is an isolated place with no permanent human settlements in the vicinity, Roopkund is surrounded by glaciers and situated near the base of two Himalayan peaks Trishul, and Nanda Gunti. Despite of its increasing popularity, it generally remains inaccessible for six months in a year because of its high altitude and continuous snow.
How to Reach Roopkund?
By Air: Dehradun is the closest airport for reaching Karnaprayag. Scheduled flights operate to and from several major cities in India.
By Rail: The nearest rail head from Karnprayag would be Haridwar/Rishikesh. Haridwar is well-connected to major cities of India, whereas in Rishikesh the number of trains is comparatively less than Haridwar.
By Road: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun are well connected from Delhi. One can find taxis to Loharjung from these destinations. On an average, Loharjung is 210 kms from Rishikesh.
Roopkund Skeleton Lake Trek
Roopkund trek is in Uttarakhand. We all know that Roopkund trek is famous for its Skeleton Lake. The Lake is mysterious because more than five hundred skeletons of human are found at the edge of Skeleton Lake or Roopkund Lake.
It’s one of the best sites to trekking in Garhwal. Roopkund does not attract people in India but Trekker from abroad visit Roopkund each year.
The mystery of Roopkund remains a question for everyone. Some people believe that these skeletons are of heroes who had fought in the earlier times.
Along with the human, horses and other animal Skeletons are also present there.
In 1942 the skeletons were discovered the first time. It believes by the researcher that the death is caused by Landslide or Epidemic.
Later in 2004, a team of Indian and European scientist visited the area to get more information. The researchers say that the skeleton belongs to 12th to 15th century. They examine and realize the addition of that 500 skeleton another equal number skeleton are perished due to natural conditions.
Difficulty level : Roopkund Trek
The trek is moderately difficult and can be done by anyone having the appropriate endurance level. Beginners can also opt for the trek provided they have to prepare themselves physically and mentally simultaneously.
Highest Altitude : Roopkund Trek
One can attain a maximum altitude up to 16,499 feet subject to his endurance and other conditions such as climate, temperature and his experience level.
Duration : Roopkund Trek
The trek lasts for 7 days including the pickup and return. Picked up from the Dehradun the trekkers are taken back to the patarnachauni where they are driven back to the Dehradun. Everyday a trekker has to do trekking on an average of 5 hours subject to the weather conditions.
Seasons : Roopkund Trek
Each season has its own particular excellence, and focal points. In India, summer treks are prominent for much valid reasons. A late spring excursion, rest from searing days alongside frigid snowcapped lake are strong to be a convincing recommendation. No big surprise that Roopkund trek is accepted the most prevalent summer trek in India. If you are not enthused about these but rather get a kick out of the chance to climb on a similar trail over lavish greener glades (Bugyal are for sure best in Aug/Sep), blooms in post monsoon is the correct decision for you. So, the trip of the snowclad Roopkund in summer is an unexpected one in comparison to the first skeletal lake as found in post rainstorm. Quite is no disadvantage in any season (accepting you have a strong trekking community) and you may pick according to your own taste.
Average Temperature : Roopkund Trek
Temperature at Roopkund varies with time. In day it can range anywhere in between 13 to 18 degrees Celsius where at nights in could be as chilled as 0 to -8 degrees Celsius which is sufficient to give you an icy essence.
What makes this trek different?
The main attraction of this trek is the mystery behind the skeletons in the lake due to which it is also known as the ‘Skeleton Lake’. There has been many stories and theories behind this presence of the skeletons in the lake, but it was revealed that they are the remains of the people who faced a severe hail storm and died.
While you go for Roopkund trekking, you will feel a natural charm and mystery in the environment. The Kund is situated around 16,499 ft. above the sea level. There are many unknown facts about this trek, which will push you to go for this trek and some of them are mentioned below:
- If you are going for a trek for the first time, then this is the right choice for you. This trek is safe, adventurous, mysterious, and beautiful or we can say that it is a complete package.
- Obviously, everyone knows about the oak forests which are found above Wan, but do you know that these forests stretch for more than 3,000 feet.
- You can see Mount Trishul, which is the first 7,000 metre summit climbed by man, closest in front of you. Such a sight is unique in Himalayan Trails.
You will experience many such things which will compel you to return to Roopkund for another breathtaking experience of the trek.
