Last Updated: March 2026
Roopkund trek is one of those Himalayan adventures that has captured the imagination of trekkers across India for years. A glacial lake sitting at 15,750 Ft (4,800 m) in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, surrounded by human skeletons dating back over a thousand years. The mystery, the altitude, the bugyals, and the views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti make Roopkund one of India’s most talked about treks. However, before you start packing your bags, there is a very important update you need to know about.
As of 2026, the Roopkund trek is not directly banned, but overnight camping on alpine meadows (bugyals) in Uttarakhand is prohibited by the Uttarakhand High Court (Petition No. 123/2014, August 2018). Since the Roopkund trail passes through Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal where camping is essential, the trek is effectively impossible to complete legally. Most reputed trek operators like Indiahikes and Trek The Himalayas have stopped running this trek. Some smaller operators still claim to offer it, but I suggest you exercise caution and verify their permits before booking.
That said, Roopkund remains a fascinating topic, and this guide covers everything you need to know, from the complete itinerary to how to reach Lohajung, the mystery of the skeletons, preparation tips, and alternative treks you can do instead. In case the ban is lifted in the future, this guide will help you plan your trek 🙂 …
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Is Roopkund and Why Is It Famous?
Roopkund, translating to “beautiful pond” in the local dialect, is a high-altitude glacial lake nestled deep in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The lake sits at an altitude of approximately 15,750 Ft (4,800 m) in the lap of the Trishul massif. What makes it truly unique is the presence of hundreds of human skeletal remains scattered around its shores. These bones are visible when the snow melts every summer, earning it the name “Skeleton Lake” or “Mystery Lake.”
A landmark 2019 study published in Nature Communications revealed something extraordinary. Genome-wide ancient DNA analysis of 38 skeletons showed that the remains belong to three distinct groups. A group of 23 individuals had South Asian ancestry and dated to approximately 800 CE. Another 14 individuals had ancestry typical of the eastern Mediterranean region and dated to roughly 1800 CE. One individual showed Southeast Asian-related ancestry. So the skeletons were deposited across multiple events spanning over a thousand years, not in a single catastrophe as previously believed.
The cause of death remains debated. No weapons or signs of combat have been found. Many skulls show fractures consistent with blunt-force trauma, likely from large hailstones during a severe storm on the exposed ridge above the lake. The local legend speaks of King Jasdhaval, his pregnant wife, servants, and a dance troupe who angered the goddess Nanda Devi during a pilgrimage. According to the legend, the goddess sent a devastating hailstorm that killed the entire party. Whether legend or science, the mystery keeps pulling trekkers toward Roopkund.
Is Roopkund Trek Open or Banned in 2026?
This is the most important question right now, and you need a clear answer. The Roopkund trek itself is not explicitly banned by name. However, the Uttarakhand High Court order of August 2018 prohibits overnight camping on alpine meadows (bugyals) across the state. The Roopkund trail passes through Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, two of the most famous alpine meadows in India, and camping at these locations is an unavoidable part of the 6-day trek. Without camping at these meadows, completing the trek is not possible.
The ban was imposed due to severe environmental damage caused by years of unregulated trekking activity. Garbage dumping, deforestation for firewood, and excessive foot traffic were destroying the delicate alpine ecosystem. Keep in mind that bugyals are extremely fragile grasslands that take decades to recover once damaged.
As of March 2026, most reputed operators have stopped running the Roopkund trek. You might find smaller or lesser-known operators advertising Roopkund packages online, but I would strongly suggest verifying whether they have proper forest department permits before committing your money. Trekking without valid permits in a restricted area can lead to legal trouble and hefty fines.
For the latest updates on whether the ban has been relaxed, you can check the Uttarakhand Tourism official website or contact the Chamoli district forest office directly. Also check our article on how the camping ban affects trips to Roopkund and Dayara Bugyal for more context.
What Is the Complete Roopkund Trek Itinerary?
The classic Roopkund trek covers about 53 km over 6 trekking days, plus one day each for travel to and from Lohajung. Here is the standard day-by-day breakdown that operators used before the camping ban. This itinerary remains the reference for anyone planning the trek in the future.
Day 1: Arrive at Lohajung (7,700 Ft / 2,350 m)
Lohajung is the small village serving as the trailhead. The drive from Kathgodam or Rishikesh takes 10-12 hours through winding mountain roads. Rest here, explore the village, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Several homestays and guesthouses are available for Rs 500-1,200 per night.
Day 2: Lohajung to Didina/Tolpani (8,300 Ft / 2,530 m), 11 km
The trail begins with a visit to a beautifully rugged temple before plunging into a valley of dense forest. The path curves alongside the Neel Gunga river, weaving through sunlight-dappled oak and rhododendron forests. You reach the village of Didina, where a homestay and chai stall offer a welcome lunch break. From Didina, continue through the forest to reach Tolpani. This campsite is strikingly lush, with everything green and vegetative, and a small summer shepherd hut tucked among the stalks.
Day 3: Tolpani to Bedni Bugyal (11,700 Ft / 3,566 m), 6 km
This is the day the landscape transforms completely. The forest trail abruptly opens up at Ali Bugyal, one of India’s most famous alpine meadows. This rolling carpet of neon green grass seems to extend infinitely, with grazing livestock and wildflowers dotting the landscape throughout. Look to the east and the snow-covered faces of Nanda Ghunti and Trishul will humble you. The trail continues past a Maggi point up to Bedni Bugyal, your second high-altitude meadow and campsite for the night, where several Trishul-facing temples can be found.
Day 4: Bedni Bugyal to Patar Nachauni (12,700 Ft / 3,870 m), 6 km
The first climb of the day rewards you with something almost pass-like, a section just a few winding kilometers above Bedni Bugyal that opens up the entire valley. From this vantage point, trekkers look like ants, and you can see the trail etched into the mountainside stretching toward Patar Nachauni in the distance. The terrain begins to change here, becoming rockier and more exposed as you gain altitude.
Day 5: Patar Nachauni to Bhagwabasa (14,200 Ft / 4,328 m), 4 km
The highlight of this day is Kalua Vinayak, a heavily decorated temple that sits among spectacular views of Kedarnath, Chaukhamba, Neelkantha, Trishul, and Nanda Ghunti. The initial climb is steep but the visual reward is enormous. At 14,200 Ft, your 4 km trek for the day brings you to Bhagwabasa, the official base camp for the Roopkund summit push. This is where you prepare mentally and physically for the predawn climb.
Day 6: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund (15,750 Ft / 4,800 m) and descent to Bedni Bugyal, 16 km
The summit push begins around 2:00 AM. The icy, rocky switchbacks up to the lake present a 6 km arduous climb, often requiring crampons. The reason for the night start is to avoid sunlight melting the surface ice, which creates dangerously slippery conditions. The reward is priceless. Roopkund Lake stands before you at 15,750 Ft, with skeletal remains scattered in the snow and nestled at the bottom of the lake.
But the true grand finale lies 250 feet higher. Junargali, the crown jewel of the Roopkund trek, is a symbolic iron gate between valleys with a golden bell hanging from its apex among the glittering white peaks. If weather permits, this is the moment that makes the entire trek worthwhile. The day ends with a long 10 km descent back to Bedni Bugyal.
Day 7: Bedni Bugyal to Wan Village, 11 km, then jeep to Lohajung
The descent takes you through the meadows one last time before dropping into the charming village of Wan. Take time to chat with the locals, who may invite you for a cup of chai, and explore the ancient temples hidden beneath towering pine trees. From Wan, you can arrange a jeep to Lohajung or directly to Kathgodam.
How to Reach Lohajung for the Roopkund Trek?
Lohajung is the base village for the Roopkund trek, sitting at 7,700 Ft in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. Here is how you can reach Lohajung from Delhi and other major cities.
Via Kathgodam (Most Popular Route): Take an overnight bus or train from Delhi to Kathgodam. Buses from Delhi Anand Vihar ISBT cost Rs 500-1,000 depending on the type, and the journey takes about 8 hours. From Kathgodam, shared taxis to Lohajung are available in the morning (7 AM to 8 AM window) for about Rs 800 per person. The drive from Kathgodam to Lohajung is approximately 216 km and takes 8-10 hours through winding mountain roads via Almora, Gwaldam, and Dewal.
Via Rishikesh/Haridwar: You can also approach from the Garhwal side via Rishikesh, Karanprayag, and Tharali. This route is about 260 km from Rishikesh and takes 10-12 hours. Direct buses from Delhi to Mundoli (near Lohajung) depart from Anand Vihar at 9:15 PM, but this is a very long and tiring journey of about 20 hours.
Keep in mind: Lohajung has no ATM and no petrol pump. Carry sufficient cash and ensure your vehicle has a full tank before reaching Dewal (the last town with basic facilities). Mobile network coverage is limited, with BSNL being the most reliable option.
How Difficult Is the Roopkund Trek?
The Roopkund trek falls in the moderate to difficult category. The total trekking distance is about 53 km over 6 days, with a maximum altitude of 15,750 Ft (4,800 m). The summit day requires a predawn start at 2 AM and involves climbing on icy, rocky terrain that often needs crampons.
Since the trail reaches close to 5,000 meters, there is a real risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). I strongly recommend that you have prior high-altitude trekking experience, preferably to at least 10,000 Ft (3,000 m), before attempting Roopkund. If you want to understand AMS better and how to prevent it, check out our detailed guide on how to prevent AMS in high-altitude treks.
In terms of physical fitness, you should be able to run 5 km in 25-30 minutes or walk continuously for 10 km without feeling exhausted. Start your preparation at least 2 months before the trek with a mix of cardio (running, cycling, swimming) and strength training (squats, lunges, core exercises). The summit day is the toughest, with steep climbs in darkness on icy surfaces, so leg strength and cardiovascular endurance are non-negotiable.
When Is the Best Time to Do the Roopkund Trek?
Roopkund has two main trekking seasons. May to June and September to October. Each season offers a completely different experience.
In May and June, the bugyals are at their greenest, wildflowers bloom across Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, and you will find snow primarily at the Roopkund summit and beyond. The weather is generally stable, and this is considered the best window for first-time trekkers.
September and October transform the trail into a winter wonderland with more abundant snow at lower altitudes. The post-monsoon clarity means crisper mountain views, but temperatures drop significantly and the trek becomes harder. The bugyals take on golden-brown autumn colors during this window.
Outside these months, the trails are largely deserted. Local villagers who run chai stalls and homestays along the route pack up for the off-season. July and August should be strictly avoided due to heavy monsoon rainfall, landslides, and extremely poor visibility.
How Much Does the Roopkund Trek Cost?
Here is a budget breakdown to help you plan. Keep in mind that these are approximate costs as of 2025 data, and the trek itself is currently restricted.
Trek Operator Package (Lohajung to Lohajung, 6-7 days): Rs 12,000 to Rs 16,000 per person. This typically includes camping, meals on the trek, guide, permits, and basic equipment.
All-Inclusive Package (Rishikesh/Delhi to Rishikesh/Delhi, 8-9 days): Rs 18,000 to Rs 24,000 per person. Includes transport from Rishikesh/Delhi, the full trek, and return travel.
Transport to Lohajung (if arranging independently): Delhi to Kathgodam bus Rs 500-1,000 + Kathgodam to Lohajung shared taxi Rs 800 per person. For a private taxi from Kathgodam, expect Rs 5,000-6,000.
Accommodation in Lohajung: Homestays and guesthouses Rs 500-1,200 per night, with meals (thali) costing Rs 150-300 per person.
What Should You Pack for the Roopkund Trek?
Packing right can make or break your high-altitude trekking experience. The temperature at Bhagwabasa and Roopkund can drop to -5 to -10 degrees Celsius, especially during the predawn summit push. Here are the essentials.
Clothing: 3 layers (thermal base layer, fleece mid-layer, waterproof outer shell), warm trekking pants, rain jacket, warm cap, sun cap, gloves (both thin liner and thick insulated), balaclava for summit night, 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic socks.
Footwear: Sturdy waterproof trekking shoes with ankle support (avoid sports shoes), gaiters for snow sections, camp sandals for evening rest. For detailed recommendations, check our guide on best trekking shoes under Rs 5,000.
Gear: 40-50 liter backpack, trekking poles (highly recommended), headlamp with extra batteries (essential for summit night), sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen SPF 50+, water bottle and water purification tablets, personal first-aid kit with Diamox (for AMS prevention, consult your doctor first).
For a comprehensive checklist, I have covered this topic in detail in our article on 12 must-have things to carry on hiking or trekking trips.
What Are the Best Alternative Treks to Roopkund?
Since the Roopkund trek is currently restricted, here are some excellent alternatives that offer similar experiences in the Uttarakhand and Himachal Himalayas.
Brahmatal Trek (12,250 Ft): Also starting from Lohajung, this 6-day winter trek passes through some of the same forests and offers stunning views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. The Brahmatal lake at the summit is a frozen alpine beauty. This is currently one of the best alternatives since it starts from the same base village.
Valley of Flowers Trek (14,100 Ft): A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the same Chamoli district, this trek is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. The valley explodes with hundreds of species of wildflowers from July to September. Check our detailed guide on the Valley of Flowers trek for complete planning information.
Hampta Pass Trek (14,100 Ft): Located in Himachal Pradesh near Manali, this 5-day trek takes you from lush green Kullu Valley to the barren landscape of Lahaul Valley. It is a fantastic moderate-difficulty trek with incredible diversity. Read our Hampta Pass trek guide for the complete itinerary and costs.
Tungnath and Chandrashila Trek (13,000 Ft): A shorter 2-3 day trek in the Garhwal Himalayas that offers panoramic views of major Himalayan peaks. Tungnath is the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila summit provides 360-degree views. This is one of the best easy treks in Uttarakhand for beginners.
Kedarnath Trek (11,755 Ft): While primarily a pilgrimage, the Kedarnath trek offers stunning mountain views and a deeply spiritual experience. The trail from Gaurikund is well maintained. Check our complete Kedarnath travel guide for detailed planning.
Gaumukh Trek (13,200 Ft): The trek to the source of the Ganges (Bhagirathi River) in Gangotri National Park. At 18 km one way from Gangotri, this is a beautiful moderate trek with the chance to see the Gomukh glacier up close. Read our Gaumukh travel guide and step-by-step Gaumukh trek guide for complete details.
Important Safety Tips for High-Altitude Trekking
Whether you are doing Roopkund (when it reopens) or any of the alternative treks mentioned above, these safety tips apply universally for trekking above 10,000 Ft.
AMS Prevention: Gain altitude gradually. Never ascend more than 1,000 Ft per day above 10,000 Ft. Stay hydrated (3-4 liters of water daily), avoid alcohol and sleeping pills, and watch for symptoms like persistent headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately. There is no shame in turning back. Please take a sensible call for yourself and your loved ones.
Weather Preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly at high altitudes. Always carry a rain jacket and warm layers even on clear mornings. Check the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast before and during your trek.
Travel Insurance: Get a policy that specifically covers high-altitude trekking and emergency helicopter evacuation. This is not optional for treks above 12,000 Ft.
Leave No Trace: Carry all your garbage back with you. Do not litter on the trail, at campsites, or near water sources. The bugyals are already damaged from years of unregulated tourism, which is exactly why the camping ban exists. Be part of the solution. If you want to learn more about responsible trekking practices, check our guide on responsible travel in the Himalayas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Roopkund trek banned in 2026?
The Roopkund trek is not banned by name, but overnight camping on alpine meadows (bugyals) in Uttarakhand is prohibited by a High Court order since August 2018. Since the Roopkund trail requires camping at Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, the trek is effectively not possible to complete legally as of 2026. Most major trek operators have stopped offering this trek.
What is the difficulty level of Roopkund trek?
Roopkund is rated moderate to difficult. The total distance is about 53 km over 6 trekking days, reaching a maximum altitude of 15,750 Ft (4,800 m). Prior trekking experience to at least 10,000 Ft and good cardiovascular fitness are strongly recommended.
How much does the Roopkund trek cost?
A standard Lohajung-to-Lohajung package costs Rs 12,000-16,000 per person. All-inclusive packages from Delhi or Rishikesh range from Rs 18,000-24,000 per person, including transport, meals, camping, guide, and permits. Independent transport to Lohajung adds about Rs 1,300-2,000 per person.
What is the mystery behind Roopkund skeleton lake?
Roopkund contains the skeletal remains of approximately 300 individuals. A 2019 DNA study published in Nature Communications revealed three distinct groups: 23 South Asian individuals dating to 800 CE, 14 Mediterranean individuals dating to 1800 CE, and one Southeast Asian individual. Most likely they died from blunt-force trauma to the skull, possibly from severe hailstorms on the exposed ridge.
What is the best time to do the Roopkund trek?
The best months are May-June and September-October. May-June offers green bugyals, wildflowers, and snow only at the summit. September-October brings more snow, crisper views, and golden autumn colors, but colder temperatures. Avoid July-August (monsoon) and November-April (extreme winter).
How to reach Lohajung from Delhi?
The most common route is Delhi to Kathgodam by overnight bus or train (8 hours, Rs 500-1,000), then Kathgodam to Lohajung by shared taxi (8-10 hours, Rs 800 per person). The total journey from Delhi takes about 18-20 hours. An alternative route is via Rishikesh and Karanprayag.
Are there any alternative treks similar to Roopkund?
Yes, excellent alternatives include Brahmatal Trek (same base village, winter trek), Valley of Flowers Trek (UNESCO site, same district), Hampta Pass Trek (Himachal, similar difficulty), Tungnath-Chandrashila (shorter, great for beginners), and Gaumukh Trek (source of Ganges, similar altitude). All of these treks are currently open and operational.
Do I need a permit for the Roopkund trek?
Yes, forest department permits are mandatory for the Roopkund trek. These are typically arranged by the trek operator as part of the package. You will need valid ID proof and a medical fitness certificate. Independent trekking is not allowed. Given the current camping ban, obtaining these permits is extremely difficult.
I hope this guide gives you a thorough understanding of the Roopkund trek, from its fascinating mystery to the practical realities of planning it in 2026. While the trek is currently restricted, the Himalayas are full of incredible alternatives that I have linked above. In case the camping ban is lifted in the future, this guide will serve as your complete planning resource.
If you have any questions or want help planning an alternative trek in Uttarakhand or Himachal Pradesh, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Also, if you know someone planning a trek to Roopkund, please share this article with them so they have the latest information on the camping ban. For more trekking guides and travel updates, check out the DwD Community and the DoW Travel Calendar from the main menu 🙂 …
