Roopkund Trek
A legendary high-altitude Himalayan trek to the mysterious Skeleton Lake, surrounded by dramatic ridgelines, alpine meadows, and towering peaks.
Overview & About
The Roopkund Trek is one of the most exhilarating and intriguing treks in Uttarakhand, famous for its “Skeleton Lake” where hundreds of human skeletons are found lying in the waters of Roopkund Lake. Hidden in the pristine wilderness of the Himalayas, this trek offers a unique blend of natural beauty and the mystery of history. The trail takes you through lush forests, beautiful meadows, and stark, snowy landscapes, all while offering views of towering Himalayan peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti.
The trek challenges you with steep ascents and high altitudes, but the reward is extraordinary — a lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and of course, the eerie sight of the skeletons that have fascinated trekkers and historians for decades. While the mystery of the lake still remains unsolved, Make My Hikes ensures a safe, well-organized journey that lets you fully enjoy this unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
- The mysterious Skeleton Lake with human skeletons submerged in ice-cold waters
- Stunning views of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti, and other Himalayan peaks
- Trek through dense oak forests, alpine meadows, and frozen landscapes
- Camp near Roopkund Lake and experience the serene beauty of the surroundings
- An adventure for history lovers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts
Best Time to Visit
The best time to embark on the Roopkund Trek is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are easily accessible. The monsoon season should be avoided due to slippery conditions, and the winter months can make the trek extremely challenging due to heavy snow.
Difficulty Level
Rated as Moderate to Difficult, this trek is best suited for experienced trekkers and those who are in good physical shape. The high altitude and the steep ascents make this a challenging trek, but the reward is worth every bit of effort. For beginners, it’s advisable to be well-prepared and train for this trek.
Travel Tips
- Acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness, take it slow during the first few days.
- Carry rainproof gear as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Respect local customs and the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas.
- Make sure to bring a good quality camera to capture the stunning views.
- Follow your Make My Hikes trek guide — they know the route well and ensure your safety.
- Stay hydrated, and rest frequently to ensure you have enough energy for the trek.
Starting Point
Dehradun → Lohajung / Wan region
Ending Point
Lohajung → Dehradun
Temperature Range
-5°C to 15°C depending on season and altitude
Total Trek Distance
~53 km
Trek Highlights
Visit the mysterious Roopkund “Skeleton Lake”
Witness stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti
Trek across the grand meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal
Walk through dense oak forests, ridgelines, and alpine campsites
Experience a perfect mix of natural beauty, altitude, and mystery
Ideal for trekkers seeking a more adventurous Himalayan route
Detailed Itinerary
Drive through scenic mountain roads, valleys, and river routes to reach Lohajung.
- Arrive at Lohajung by evening
- Check-in and relax
- Trek briefing and preparation
- Overnight stay
A beautiful trek through village trails, forests, and gradual ascents.
- Begin trek from Lohajung region
- Walk through forests and terraced paths
- Reach Didna village
- Overnight stay
Ascend through dense forest and emerge onto the vast meadow of Ali Bugyal.
- Scenic climb through oak forest
- Reach expansive alpine meadow
- Panoramic mountain views
- Overnight camping
A beautiful meadow and ridge walk through high-altitude terrain.
- Trek across rolling grasslands
- Cross ridges and alpine sections
- Reach Ghora Lotani campsite
- Overnight stay
A more demanding ascent leads to the famous glacial lake.
- Climb through rocky terrain
- Reach Roopkund area
- Witness the mysterious Skeleton Lake
- Overnight stay
Spend time exploring the high-altitude surroundings.
- Explore Roopkund Lake area
- Optional climb toward Junargali viewpoint if conditions permit
- Panoramic Himalayan views
- Overnight stay
Begin descending through alpine sections into the stunning meadows.
- Descend from high-altitude terrain
- Reach Bedni Bugyal
- Enjoy meadow campsite views
- Overnight stay
A long but scenic descent back to the base region.
- Descend through meadows and forest trail
- Reach Lohajung
- Evening rest and overnight stay
Return journey marking the end of the trek.
- Breakfast and departure
- Scenic drive back
- Trek concludes
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Transport: Dehradun ↔ Lohajung
- Accommodation in guesthouse, homestay, or camps on twin-sharing basis
- All meals during trek
- Trek equipment — tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, kitchen & dining setup, toilet tents, utensils, crampons if required
- Trek leader, guides, and support staff
- Forest permits and entry fees
- Basic medical kit, stretcher, and oxygen cylinder for emergencies
- Mules/porters for carrying central/common luggage
What's Excluded
- Meals during road journeys
- Insurance
- Any personal expenses
- Personal trekking gear
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Things to Carry
Gear on Rent
Shoes
Jacket
Trek pant
Poncho
Trek Pole
Head Torch
Photo Gallery
Booking & Refund Policy
| Cancellation Time | Refund |
|---|---|
| More than 30 days before departure | 90% refund |
| 15 to 30 days before departure | 70% refund |
| 7 to 14 days before departure | 50% refund |
| Less than 7 days before departure | No refund |
Select Your Departure
Choose your preferred batch and confirm availability before making payment.
Pay the Booking Amount
Pay 30% advance to confirm your seat. Balance should be cleared before departure.
Fill Trekker Form
Submit health, emergency contact, and fitness details shared after booking.
Receive Trek Briefing
You’ll receive meeting point, contact details, packing list, and final instructions before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roopkund trek suitable for beginners?
It is better suited for fit trekkers with some prior trekking experience.
What is the biggest highlight of this trek?
The mysterious Roopkund Lake, known as Skeleton Lake.
What is the best time to do this trek?
May to June and September to October are the best seasons.
Is this trek physically demanding?
Yes, due to altitude gain, long trekking days, and steep sections, strong fitness is recommended.
