The world-famous mystery lake situated high in the lap of Mt. Trishul, renowned for hundreds of ancient human skeletons visible in the glacial waters.
The Roopkund Trek in Chamoli district is one of the most enigmatic trails on Earth. Resting at an elevation of 4,778m beneath the colossal south-western walls of Mount Trishul, this glacial tarn became globally famous after a forest ranger discovered hundreds of preserved ancient human skeletons dating back to the 9th century AD.
Beyond its historical mystery, the trek is revered for its extraordinary visual grandeur. It traverses Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal — two of Asia's largest and most majestic high-altitude alpine meadows, where green velvet slopes roll gently toward snow-clad horizons.
Ascending past Ghora Lotani and Bhagwabasa (a surreal boulder field of black slate), the trail makes a steep early-morning snow climb to the lake itself and onwards to Junargali ridge (5,000m) for an intimate face-to-face confrontation with Trishul.
Trekkers are reminded to stay properly hydrated with a minimum of 3-4 liters of water daily. Uttarakhand forest regulations strictly forbid single-use plastics and campfires outside designated grounds. Always pack out non-biodegradable waste.
Along the ridgelines and summit ascents of Roopkund Trek, trekkers are treated to sweeping views of legendary Garhwal & Kumaon summits:
Drive through Almora, Kausani, and Gwaldam to the base village of Lohajung.
Descent to the Neel Ganga river followed by ascent to charming Didna village.
Climb through oak canopies to emerge into the infinite green ocean of Ali Bugyal.
Leisurely walk across rolling meadows with Trishul rising directly overhead.
Ascend past Kalu Vinayak temple into the rocky alpine landscape of Bhagwabasa.
Pre-dawn summit push to view the mystery lake and Junargali panorama. Return to Bedni Bugyal.
Descent through grand rhododendron groves of Wan.
Return drive to railway station.
Proper layering and alpine gear are critical for comfort and survival at high altitudes:
The trailhead for Roopkund Trek originates from Lohajung in Chamoli district (Garhwal region).
DNA testing shows the skeletons belong to a group of 9th-century pilgrims caught in a catastrophic hailstorm with cricket-ball-sized hail.
4,778 meters (15,675 feet), with the nearby Junargali ridge at 5,000m.
Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, two of the finest high-altitude alpine grasslands in Asia.
Trishul (7,120m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,309m) stand in staggering proximity.
Lohajung, reached easily from Kathgodam or Haridwar.
State court regulations periodically adjust meadow camping zones; eco-campsites are maintained at designated fringe grounds.