Roopkund Trek in the Indian Himalayas offers an unrivalled combination of natural beauty and mysticism. Renowned for its Skeleton Lake, Roopkund is set among centuries-old human remains that create an eerie ambience during your trek. Trekkers can enjoy dense forests, bubbling rivers, and vast meadows of alpine Bedni Bugyal, along with breathtaking panoramic views that include Trishul and Nanda Ghunti mountains. As your journey continues and the terrain becomes difficult and snow-covered, culminating in an exhausting yet exhilarating ascent to an incomprehensible glacial lake. Roopkund Lake is often known as the Mystery Lake due to its remoteness. Situated at an astounding altitude of 16,499 feet above sea level within Chamoli district in Uttarakhand, Roopkund is a glacial lake known for the mysterious human bones floating within its waters when snow melts away, adding another element of mystery for visitors trekking to Roopkund.On your trek, you’ll encounter lush green meadows known as “Bugyals,” snow-covered mountain peaks, and lush forest areas. Marvel at stunning images from Mt Trishul and Mt Nanda Ghunti as you pass Roopkund lake – one of the best-known trekking locations within the Garhwal region and beloved among people from across the globe.
Mystery of Skeleton Lake
Roopkund stands out among Himalayan trekking routes due to its breathtaking view, an intimate frozen lake filled with hundreds of human bones that was discovered during World War II in 1944 and is thought to date back as far as the 9th Century CE; their precise reason for its discovery remains disputed. The most widely held hypothesis suggests that pilgrims were caught up in a hailstorm and perished, their remains lying frozen within glaciers for hundreds of years after. Additionally, DNA tests have confirmed their origins from all corners of the earth, adding even further intrigue and mystery. Positioned at the head of Roopkund Lake and surrounded by majestic peaks and ancient bones, being at its end can both captivate and chill you to your core.
Trekking Route
Lohajung marks the starting point for this trek, offering beautiful landscapes and rich diversity to explore. Navigating its windy, curvy roads, gradually ascending elevation, will be challenging but will undoubtedly provide you with a rewarding sense of achievement and fulfilment. After walking about six kilometres through the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Kulling will appear. Beautifully landscaped with fields and houses abounding with concrete paths dividing each sector of the township, Kulling boasts an exquisite town centre complete with a small concrete plain that runs throughout. As you approach Didna village and cross Neel Ganga valley, a moderately steep roadway encased by lush forest full of rhododendron and oak will lead to Dodna village, located 8000 feet up the mountainside.
