The Roopkund Trek is one of Uttarakhand’s most dramatic high-altitude trekking adventures, taking you from the traditional Himalayan villages of Chamoli to the vast alpine meadows of Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, and onward to the legendary Roopkund Lake at approximately 5,029 m / 16,499 ft.

The journey begins at Lohajung and gradually climbs through dense oak forests, remote mountain villages and rolling meadows before entering the rugged high-altitude terrain around Bhagwabasa. Along the way, spectacular views of Trishul and Nanda Ghunti accompany the trail, while the changing landscape—from green forests to expansive bugyals and snow-covered mountain terrain—makes every stage of the trek distinctive.

The defining challenge comes on the summit day, when an early-morning ascent leads to the mysterious Roopkund Lake, traditionally associated with the legendary skeletal remains discovered around its shores. At more than 5,000 metres, the journey to the lake is demanding and requires good physical fitness, careful acclimatization and suitable high-altitude trekking experience.

After reaching Roopkund, the trail descends towards the magnificent Bedni Bugyal, providing a dramatic contrast between the rugged summit terrain and the expansive green alpine meadows. The final descent through forests and mountain villages completes this spectacular Himalayan circuit.

Trek at a Glance

Highlights

• 🏔️ Mysterious Roopkund Lake – Visit the famous high-altitude skeletal lake surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks
• 🌿 Vast Ali & Bedni Bugyal meadows – Trek across some of India’s most beautiful alpine grasslands
• ❄️ High-altitude Himalayan adventure – Experience glaciers, snowfields and rugged mountain terrain near Roopkund
• 🌄 Spectacular summit views – Stunning panoramas of Trishul, Nanda Ghunti & Chaukhamba peaks
• 🌲 Dense Himalayan forests – Walk through oak, rhododendron and pine forests filled with mountain wildlife
• 🏕️ Scenic alpine camping – Camp beside meadows, ridgelines and remote Himalayan landscapes
• 🐾 Himalayan wildlife & birds – Chance to spot Himalayan monal, blue sheep and mountain birdlife
• 📸 Photography paradise – Incredible opportunities for alpine meadow, mountain and landscape photography
• 🌌 Crystal-clear night skies – Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan stargazing from remote campsites
• 🚶 Challenging high-altitude trek – A rewarding combination of endurance, adventure and mountain exploration
• 🏞️ Beautiful ridge walks – Trek along panoramic ridgelines with dramatic valley & glacier views
• 🔥 One of Uttarakhand’s most iconic Himalayan treks – Famous for its mystery, alpine meadows and high-altitude scenery