Nestled at 4,800 meters in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, Roopkund Lake is one of India's most fascinating high-altitude wonders. Known as the "Skeleton Lake," its icy waters hold over 500 ancient human skeletons dating back to 850 AD, visible along its shores when the snow melts. Surrounded by the majestic Trishul massif near popular hill stations like Nainital (217 km away), this mysterious site attracts adventurers and scientists alike, all drawn to unravel its chilling secrets.
Discovered in 1942 by ranger H.K. Madhwal, the skeletons sparked global curiosity. Research by Indian and European teams in 2004 revealed the victims included diverse groups - some tall, some short - wearing jewelry and possibly related to each other. Scientists now believe a sudden, violent hailstorm (with cricket ball-sized hail) caused their deaths in the exposed Himalayan terrain. The icy conditions preserved the remains for centuries, though their purpose in the mountains - pilgrimage, trade, or settlement - remains debated. Some theories connect them to the Nanda Devi Raj Jat festival held every 12 years.
Starting from Lohajung village, the "Skeleton Lake Trek" winds through breathtaking Himalayan landscapes - lush Bugyal meadows, conifer forests, and the Pindar River valley. Trekkers pass grazing lands, ancient temples, and cascading waterfalls while camping under starry skies. Highlights include Bedni Bugyal's autumn festivals and panoramic views of Trishul and Nandghungti peaks. Though beautiful, the weather remains unpredictable year-round, demanding proper preparation for this challenging high-altitude adventure.
Beyond its macabre skeletons, Roopkund offers pure Himalayan magic. The lake's ice-covered surface sparkles against stark mountain backdrops, while surrounding alpine meadows burst with wildflowers in summer. It's a photographer's paradise and trekker's dream, combining natural beauty with historical intrigue. The journey also connects travelers with Garhwali culture through remote villages and age-old pilgrimage traditions.
Ideal for experienced trekkers, the 4-6 day Roopkund expedition requires proper acclimatization and gear for changing conditions. While summer (May-June) offers clearer trails, autumn (September-October) showcases vibrant local festivals. Partnering with reputable guides ensures safe passage through rocky glaciers and high passes. Whether you're drawn by history, adventure, or stunning landscapes, Roopkund promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience that lingers long after you've left its mysterious shores.
Drive Distance: 210 km | Drive Duration: 10 hours | Pick-up Point: Kathgodam Railway Station Parking | Pick-up Time: 6:00 AM | Basecamp Location: Lohajung | Altitude: 7,662 ft
Transport will be arranged at 6:00 AM. You will reach Lohajung by evening. Stay in a guest house. Local markets and network are available.
Trek Distance: 6.5 km | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude Gain: 7,662 ft to 8,045 ft
Reach Didna Village before lunch. Stay in a village homestay. No local market, but network is available.
Trek Distance: 10.5 km | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Altitude Gain: 8,045 ft to 11,320 ft
Trek Distance: 7 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude Gain: 11,320 ft to 12,818 ft
Easiest day of the trek. Reach Patar Nachauni before lunch.
Trek Distance: 4 km | Trek Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude Gain: 12,818 ft to 14,117 ft
Note: Snow in May-June; rocky trail in Sep-Oct.
Trek Distance: 10 km | Trek Duration: 8-9 hours | Altitude Gain: 14,117 ft to 15,755 ft
Most challenging day. Start trek by 4:00 AM.
Note: Skeletons visible in Aug-Oct; snow in May-June.
Trek Distance: 15 km | Trek Duration: 7-8 hours | Altitude Loss: 12,818 ft to 7,662 ft
Drive Distance: 210 km | Drive Duration: 10 hours | Drop-off Time: 6:00 PM
Note: Stop at Kausani for herbal tea/souvenirs.
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack (with rain cover) | 50–60L with padded straps |
| Daypack (with rain cover) | 20–30L (if off-loading backpack) |
| Trekking Poles / Walking Stick | 1 |
| Water Bottle | 2 thermos flasks (1L each) |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte |
| Item | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry collared T-shirt | 2–3 | 2–3 (Full sleeves) |
| Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves) | 2 | 2–3 |
| Fleece Jacket | 2 | 2 |
| Down Jacket | 1 (available on rent) | 1 (available on rent) |
| Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom) | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Quick-dry Trek Pants | 2–3 pairs | 2–3 pairs |
| Waterproof Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Woollen Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants | 1 | 1 |
| Lightweight Quick-dry Towel | 1 | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Head Torch | 1 |
| Sun Cap | 1 |
| Woollen Cap | 1 |
| Balaclava | 1 |
| Buff / Neck Gaiter | 1 |
| Sunglasses | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Shoes (High ankle) | 1 pair |
| Flip-flops | 1 pair |
| Cotton Socks | 2-3 pairs |
| Woollen Socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 pair |
| Microspikes | 1 pair |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | 1 |
| Toilet Paper | 1 roll |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 |
| Lip Balm | 1 |
| Light Towel | 1 |
| Moisturizer | 1 |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30-40) | 1 |
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pain Reliever | 1 strip |
| Motion Sickness Medicine | 1 strip |
| Fever/Headache Medicine | 1 strip |
| Allergy Medicine | 1 strip |
| Diarrhoea Medicine | 1 strip |
| Cream/Spray for Sprains | 1 |
| Antiseptic Cream | 1 |
| ORS | 1-2 packets |
| Band-aids | 5-6 |
| Cotton | 1 small roll |
| Gauze | 2 pieces |
| Scissors | 1 |
| Tweezers | 1 |
| Elastic Bandage | 1 |
| Diamox 125/250 mg | 1 strip |
| Diamox 500 mg | 4-5 pills |
| Nifedipine 20 mg | 1 strip |
| Dexamethasone (4 mg) | 1 strip |
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