Roopkund is the mystery lake of the Himalaya – a glacial tarn at ~4,800 m in the Chamoli district high country, famous for the centuries-old human skeletons that surface at its edges when the snow melts. It is also the trek the state has deliberately tamed: overnight camping at the lake is banned — modern itineraries approach from Bhagwabasa as a day visit and descend the same day.
Quick facts
| Max altitude | ~4,800 m (lake) |
| Base | Lohajung (via Kathgodam–Deval) |
| Duration | 7–8 days ex-Kathgodam |
| Grade | Moderate–difficult (high altitude) |
| Best window | May–June, September–October |
The route in brief
Lohajung → Didna/Tolpani → Ali Bugyal → Bedni Bugyal (the state’s grandest meadows) → Patar Nachauni → Kalu Vinayak pass → Bhagwabasa → day trip to Roopkund and Junargali → retrace. Expect glaciated approach near the top and genuine altitude: this is a step up from the winter treks (prep notes).
Who it suits and practicalities
Trekkers with one high-altitude trek behind them. Season is narrow — monsoon makes the Bugyals dangerous and winter buries the route. Permits and forest rules apply; book with registered operators only, and respect the no-camping rule at the lake. Related: Brahmatal shares the Lohajung base; Chamoli district.
