Ever heard about the mysterious trek? Roopkund trek was one of the most popular treks before it closed its doors for trekkers forever. In the lap of the pristine Himalayan range and at an altitude of 5,029 meters, there sits the enchanting Roopkund Lake. The scenic beauty and the mysterious chill in the surroundings are something unique about this trek, therefore, let’s unfold some mysteries about Roopkund Lake together. 

RoopKund: The Lake Of Secrets

Roopkund is a high-altitude glacial lake in North India. It lies in the famous Trishul massif of Uttarakhand. The rough weather and the high altitude make the surrounding area uninhabitable.

Why are we calling it spooky and mysterious? It is because the lake is filled with hundreds of ancient human skeletons, some of which can be found at the edges of the lake. The skeletal remains at the bottom are visible when the snow melts.

Initial evidence suggests that a group of people died here in a violent hailstorm in the 9th century. However, later investigations found that the remains belong to three distinct groups that died in two independent events. Because of the remains, it is also called the skeleton lake.

Why Is the Roopkund Trek Banned?

In August 2018, the Honorable High Court of Uttarakhand announced the ban on the Roopkund trek. This broke many adventurous hearts and the trekking community was extremely disappointed. However, the reason of the High Court was extremely valid and in favour of the planet. The court favoured this decision because the biodiversity of the alpine meadows was compromised by such heavy human interference. Although the decision was wise and right, it still hurts us to know that most of us can never witness the magic of the enchanting Roopkund Lake.

What Are We Missing?

This is not to make you envious of those who visited the gorgeous place but to simply appreciate the beauty of it.

Hypothetically, if you could go for the trek, the trek begins at Lohajung base, a picturesque little village with views of snow-clad mountains, sprawling valleys and meandering rivers. The next stop after the trek begins at Didna. In between Lohrjung and Dinda, the trekkers would cross a small village called Kulling from where River Neel Ganga flows. This place is abundantly blessed with beauty and one could also spot many exotic birds. This short trail ends at a vintage iron bridge that provides some Instagram-worthy pictures.

From there, the climb of Didina begins that leads to the Bedni Bugyal, one of the major attractions of the Roopkund Trek, which again passes through Ali Bugyal. This trail begins with a steep start but gives you a long and soft stretch of green grassland.

Camping at Bedni Bugyal is another major highlight of the trek and those who have experienced it could vouch for it. As the sun sets behind the white mountains, the evening light reflects on the Trishul mountain peak which makes it an absolutely mesmerizing sight.

The trek then continues towards the meadows of Ghora Lotani before reaching Bhagwabasa. Roopkund from Bhagwabasa is a 5,000 ascent which is the final stop of the trek.

Parting Thoughts

Don’t be disheartened as India is home to countless other beautiful treks that can feed the nature lover in you. If you are among the lucky lot who had a chance of visiting this gem, do share your experience with us. Besides this, we have something else in store for you about this magnificent place! Ready? Here’s another traveller’s story: Let’s Go To Roopkund With Shubham Negi!!