7N /8D
Difficult
53 km
16,400 ft
12,900 + 5% GST
ADD ONS
Transport from Rishikesh to Rishikesh – 2000/p
Bag Offloading – 2100/p
Double Sharing – 1000/p (Complete trek)
ABOUT
The Roopkund Lake trek is a captivating journey through the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, India. At an altitude of around 16,400 feet, the lake itself holds a mysterious allure, with ancient skeletal remains found along its shores dating back centuries. The trek offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and dense forests, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region, including rare Himalayan fauna and flora. Read More
Key Highlights:
Mystery Lake:
Roopkund Lake, often dubbed the “Mystery Lake” or “Skeleton Lake,” is shrouded in enigma due to the discovery of human skeletal remains scattered around its shores. These ancient relics, dating back to the 9th century AD, have puzzled historians and scientists for decades, sparking numerous theories about their origin. The eerie presence of these skeletons adds a compelling and mysterious element to the trek, igniting curiosity and intrigue among adventurers.
Scenic Beauty:
The Roopkund trek is a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike, offering awe-inspiring vistas of towering snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows blanketed in vibrant hues of green, dense forests teeming with diverse flora, and sparkling alpine lakes reflecting the azure sky. Each step along the trek unveils breathtaking panoramas that evoke a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the pristine beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Flora and Fauna:
The region surrounding Roopkund is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with a rich variety of flora and fauna unique to the Himalayan ecosystem. Trekking through this wilderness, you may encounter rare Himalayan birds soaring through the skies, elusive mountain goats like the Himalayan tahr gracefully navigating rocky terrain, and shy musk deer camouflaged amidst dense foliage. The abundance of wildlife and vibrant plant life adds an element of discovery and excitement to the trekking experience.
High Altitude:
Ascending to the lofty heights of Roopkund involves traversing challenging terrain and navigating steep inclines, leading trekkers to altitudes where the air becomes thinner, and oxygen levels decrease. This high-altitude environment presents physical demands that require proper preparation, fitness, and acclimatization to mitigate the risk of altitude sickness. Trekking at such elevations necessitates a gradual ascent, allowing the body to adjust to the changing atmospheric conditions and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey to the summit.
Cultural Experience:
Beyond its natural wonders, the Roopkund trek offers a cultural immersion into the lives of the indigenous communities inhabiting the remote mountain villages along the route. Interactions with local villagers provide insight into their traditional way of life, characterized by close-knit communities, ancient customs, and a deep reverence for the surrounding natural environment. Sharing stories around the warmth of a campfire, partaking in local cuisine, and witnessing age-old rituals enrich the trekking experience, fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for the rich tapestry of Himalayan culture.
Footwear and Backpack
Trekking shoes with ankle support
Backpack with rain cover
Daypack with rain cover
Warm Layers and Clothing
Warm layers (Padded jackets )
3 layers for spring, summer, and monsoon treks (1 woolen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
4 layers for autumn treks (1 woolen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
5 layers for winter treks (1 pair of thermals, 1 woolen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)
Accessories
Sunglasses
Sun cap, preferably with flaps
Waterproof gloves
Balaclava
Woolen socks (2-3 pairs of Dry fit + 1 pair of Woollen)
Headlamp
Trekking pole
Rain jacket + pants / poncho
Toiletries:
Sunscreen
Moisturiser
Light towel
Lip balm or vaseline
Toilet paper (Wet wipes are strictly not allowed on our treks)
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Trash bags ( Carry out all your waste and leave no trace behind)
Here are some common medicines typically required or used during adventure trips. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before taking any medication:
– Antiseptic wipes or water syringe for wound cleaning
– Butterfly bandages for small cuts
– Cotton, elastic bandages, and sterile gauze pads for larger wounds
-Latex gloves for handling bleeding wounds
-Medication for diarrhea (upset stomach)
-Medication for cold, flu, fever, and headaches
-Painkillers
-Oral rehydration solution (ORS) pouches
-Quick pain relief spray for external use
-Any personal medication prescribed by your doctor
-Diamox or similar medication for high altitude sickness
-Bug repellent
-Nutritious energy bars and non-alcoholic drinks
• Stay is included on all days of the trek ( from Rishikesh to Rishikesh ). You will be staying in tents on a double sharing basis.
• Transport charges from Rishikesh to Rishikesh and return.
• All meals from dinner at Rishikesh on Day 1 to tea and coffee on Day 6 are included. Meals are simple, nutritious and vegetarian.
• All the trek equipment will be included like a sleeping bag, kitchen & dining tent, utensils, mattress, tent, toilet tent, and crampon (if needed).
• First aid medical kits, oxygen cylinder and stretcher.
• All fuel charges, toll taxes and needed forest entry fees along with permits.
• Mountaineering qualified and professional trek leader, guide, cook and support staff.
• GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
• Any emergency evacuation charges
• Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
• Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
• Mules or porters to carry personal luggage.
By Bus:
From Delhi, a regular bus service operates to Rishikesh. The main bus station in Delhi is ISBT Kashmere Gate, offering both AC and non-AC buses for the journey to Rishikesh.
By Train:
To reach Rishikesh from Delhi by train, you’ll first need to travel to Haridwar. From there, you can take a bus to Rishikesh, which is 35 km away. Haridwar serves as a major railway junction connecting Delhi to Rishikesh.
By Air:
The closest airport to reach Rishikesh by flight is Jolly Grant Airport, located approximately 25 km from the city. Regular flights from Delhi to Rishikesh are available. If you plan to arrive by flight, it’s advisable to schedule your arrival one day in advance.
The Valley of Flowers unlocks its gates at the onset of June, yet the optimal window for exploration spans from July to September, with the option to extend your visit until the closing days of September. However, the trek offers varied experiences throughout these peak months:
July:
The valley is cloaked in lush greenery, with the first blooms of flowers emerging.
The pinnacle of the flowering season blossoms post-mid-July, treating visitors to a vibrant array of colors.
Remnants of old snow bridges and melting patches of snow dot the landscape.
Rainfall intensifies following mid-July, through the valley remains relatively uncrowded during this period.
August:
The initial fortnight of August unveils a profusion of blossoms, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
While Govindghat experiences notable rainfall, higher elevations encounter milder precipitation.
Weekends witness a surge in visitors, leading to crowds, while weekdays offer a more serene trekking experience.
September:
By this month, the flowers begin to wither, yet the valley swells with the presence of pilgrims.
While the peak bloom season has passed, the valley retains its allure.
September sees an increase in foot traffic due to pilgrimages and other visitors.
Why Roopkund Heaven?
Roopkund Heaven ensures the safety and well-being of its trekkers through a comprehensive approach:
Experienced Guides: Our treks are led by experienced and certified guides who are familiar with the terrain, weather conditions, and emergency procedures. They provide guidance and support throughout the trek to ensure the safety of all participants. Read More
Medical Assistance: We carry a well-equipped medical kit and have trained staff members who are capable of providing basic first aid and managing minor medical emergencies. In case of more serious incidents, we have protocols in place for evacuation and medical assistance.
Acclimatization: We prioritize gradual acclimatization to high altitude to minimize the risk of altitude sickness. Our trek itineraries are designed with acclimatization days and gradual ascent to allow trekkers’ bodies to adjust to the altitude safely.
Weather Monitoring: We closely monitor weather conditions throughout the trek and make informed decisions regarding the safety of the group. In case of adverse weather conditions, we have contingency plans in place to ensure the safety of our trekkers.
Equipment and Gear: We provide essential trekking equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and trekking poles to ensure the comfort and safety of our trekkers. All equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
Communication: We maintain open communication with our trekkers before, during, and after the trek to address any concerns and provide updates on the trekking conditions. Our guides are accessible and approachable, allowing trekkers to voice any safety-related issues or questions.
The RH Support Team emphasizes that safety in mountain environments starts with thorough preparation at home. Comprehensive planning and preparation are essential for any mountain trek. The RH Support Team is readily accessible and committed to assisting you in better preparing for your trek with their expert knowledge and guidance.
Overall, safety is our top priority at Roopkund Heaven, and we are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable trekking experience for all our participants.
Departure Dates
4 May – OPEN
11 May – OPEN
18 May – OPEN
25 May -OPEN
1 June – OPEN
8 June – OPEN
15 June – OPEN
22 June – OPEN
29 June – OPEN
7 Sept – OPEN
14 Sept – OPEN
21 Sept – OPEN
28 Sept – OPEN
5 Oct – OPEN
12 Oct – OPEN
19 Oct – OPEN
26 Oct – OPEN
TREK ITINERARY
* Stay: Overnight stay at Guest house/Home stay in Lohajung * Meal: Dinner. * Altitude: Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft), Wan (8000 ft), Lohajung (7700 ft). * Distance: By Trek 13 km. By Road 13 km * Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx., By Road 1 hr * Trek Grade: Gradual Your journey would begin at Rishikesh, and upon arriving at Rishikesh, you would meet with the driver. Who would then drive you through the picturesque views of the Himalayan Mountains. The road will wind through the mountain until you start seeing the forest line. On the way, you will be mesmerized by the sight of the Garhwal Himalayas. The scenery will remain the same till you reach the first place, which is Devprayag. Here, you could stop and be spellbound at the sight of two rivers merging (sangam): Alaknanda and Bhagirathi. You could see the different colors of the river, as Alaknanda is mudy in color while Bhagirathi is greenish blue in color. Then the next place you would be crossing is Karnaprayag, which is one of the famous Panch Prayags. Finally, after driving for almost 8 hours, you would be amazed at the place you would be staying, as the place is surrounded by forest.
* Stay: Overnight stay at the homestay in Didna Village * Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner. * Altitude: Lohagunj (7700 ft), Didna Village (8100 ft). * Distance: By Road 5 km, By Trek 6 km * Time Taken: By Road 1 hr, By Trek 4-5 hrs approx. * Trek Grade: Gradual On the second day, you would begin your travel with a short drive, followed by a trek later. On the road, you will be seeing forests, and when you begin your trek, you will be seeing rhododendron trees after crossing Raun Bagad Bridge. Once you are close to Didna Village, you will see houses made of stone, which is an old tradition. Then you would spend the night at Didna Village after having a delicious dinner.
Stay: Overnight stay at Ali Bugyal in Camp
* Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.
* Altitude: Didna Village (8100 ft), Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft)
* Distance: 7 km.
* Time Taken: 4–5 – 5 hrs approx.
* Trek Grade: Gradual to Moderate
On Day 3, you will leave Didna behind and begin to walk through the stunning landscape of Tolpani Forest, which is dotted with old oak trees. On the way, you would be seeing local shepherds’ huts along with shepherds grazing their sheep, and as you started climbing, you would be seeing the forest of Birch. You will get to the Khobal top, where you will admire the peaks of Chaukhamba, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti. Once you catch a glimpse of the peaks, you will then walk further and start seeing Ali Bugyal, where green grasslands are spread across the hill. Walk through the meadows and enjoy the scenery around you till you reach the camping site of Abin Kharak, which is the highest point of the trek.
Stay: Overnight stay at Patar Nachauni in Camp
* Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.
* Altitude: Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft), Bedni Bugyal (12,300 ft).
* Distance: 4+4 km
* Time Taken: 6–7 hrs approx.
* Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Day 4 marks the day when you will walk through the Bedni Bugyal. From the top of Bedni Top, you will be close to Mount Nanda Ghunti, Trishul, and Mrigthuni. On the trail, you would pass through Bedni Kund and Nanda Devi Temple, which are very auspicious places. At the Bedni Kund, you could see the reflection of Mount Trishul, and you could also see flowers in the middle of the meadows. Doliadhar, which marks the end of Bedni Bugyal and the start of the tree line. Once you have enjoyed the scenic vistas at the top of Bedni Bugyal, from Bedni Bugyal, continue your descent towards Patar Nachauni, following the well-defined trail through meadows and forests. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as Himalayan birds and mountain goats that inhabit the area. Finally, arrive at Patar Nachauni, a scenic campsite nestled amidst towering mountains and lush meadows, where you can relax and unwind after a day of trekking.
* Stay: Overnight stay at Bhagwabasa in Camps
* Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.
* Altitude: Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft), Bedni Bugyal (12,300 ft).
* Distance: 4+4 km
* Time Taken: 6–7 hrs approx.
* Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
The trek route from Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa presents trekkers with a challenging yet exhilarating journey through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. Starting from the picturesque campsite of Patar Nachauni, nestled amidst lush meadows and towering peaks, the trail gradually ascends through alpine forests and open meadows towards the sacred Kalu Vinayak Temple. From there, the path steepens, leading trekkers through rocky terrain and moraine fields, with occasional patches of snow, as they gain altitude towards Bhagwabasa. The air becomes thinner, and the landscape transforms into a barren yet awe-inspiring wilderness, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, trekkers may encounter mountain wildlife such as Himalayan birds and ibex. After several hours of trekking, they finally reach Bhagwabasa, a high-altitude campsite situated at around 14,000 feet, where they can rest and recharge amidst the stunning beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
* Stay: Overnight stay at Bhagwabasa in Camps
* Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.
* Altitude: Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft), Bedni Bugyal (12,300 ft).
* Distance: 4+4 km
* Time Taken: 6–7 hrs approx.
* Trek Grade: Moderate to Difficult
And then day 5th, the day we were waiting for the most in this entire trek, Yes, waiting to see that mysterious “ Roopkund Lake”. The trek route from Bhagwabasa to Roopkund Lake and back to Patar Nachauni offers an unforgettable adventure through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. Departing from the high-altitude campsite of Bhagwabasa, trekkers embark on a challenging ascent towards the mystical Roopkund Lake, known for its enigmatic human skeletal remains dating back centuries. The trail winds through rocky terrain and moraine fields, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. As trekkers approach Roopkund Lake, the landscape becomes increasingly barren, with patches of snow and ice adding to the surreal ambiance of the surroundings. Upon reaching Roopkund Lake, trekkers are greeted by the crystal-clear waters of the lake and the eerie sight of ancient skeletons scattered along its shores. After exploring the lake and soaking in its mystique, trekkers retrace their steps back to Bhagwabasa, where they can rest and reflect on their journey amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
* Stay: Overnight stay at the Guest House/Homestay in Lohajung
* Meal: breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner.
* Altitude: Ali Bugyal (11,700 ft), Wan (8000 ft), Lohajung (7700 ft).
* Distance: By Trek 13 km. By Road 13 km
* Time Taken: By Trek 6–7 hrs approx., By Road 1 hr
* Trek Grade: Gradual
This is the last day of your trek; if you look carefully, you might recognize some walnut and pear trees. The trail goes downhill through the forest till you pass the Nile Ganga River by bridge. As you come close to Wan village, you will see thousands of years-old Cypress trees, which look amazing. From Wan Village, you will then begin your road trip towards Lohagunj, which takes just 1 hour. At Lohagunj, you will then be spending the night, this will be your last day of sleeping near the forest and mountains.
* Meal: Tea/ Coffee
* Altitude: Lohagunj (7700 ft), Rishikesh (1120 ft)
* Distance: 250 km
* Time Taken: 8–9 hrs approx.
* Trek Grade: By Road
On Day 6, you will be driving from Lohajung and back to Rishikesh on the same route you came by. If you are one of those people who are adventure seekers and like to be in nature in its most majestic state, this is the best trek for them.