Roopkund Trek

Overview

Roopkund Trek

Known for its mysterious surrounding and astounding scenic beauty, Roopkund is a high altitude trek in the base of Trishul Peak and Nanda Ghunti. The maximum height of this trek is 5029 m which adds to the zeal of trekking experience. The trek lies in the Garhwal Himalayas of Chamoli district and offers magnificent views of mountains surrounded by rock- strewn glacier. This 9 days trek goes through moderate to difficult grades and satiates the trekking-obsession of beginners to high altitude experts. The lake at Roopkund is also known as a 'mystery lake' for the human skeletons and remains of horses that are found in huge numbers in the surrounding areas of the lake. These remains are believed to be of around 15th to 16th century when a strong hailstorm took away the lives of hundreds of helpless people who went there for pilgrimage.

Lohajung is the base of this well acclaimed trekking which is easily accessible by motor from Rishikesh. Generally the trekking teams drive from Rishikesh to Lohajung witnessing the snow-packed mountains, valleys and rivers. The original trek starts from Lohajung and passes through the village of Didna. In between Lohajung to Didna, there is a small village called Kulling where the bubbling river Neel Ganga flows between Wan and Lohajung. From Kulling a steep ascent leads to Raun Bagad which is partly thick and densely dotted by the rhododendron oaks and pine forest. All along the walk the trekkers can hear the whistles of the thrushes and twittering of birds. Catch a glimpse of fork tailed Himalayan Magpie on the branches of Rhododendrons. On the lower levels of Neel Ganga River, Lammergeiers are found soaring over the valley. One can also see yellow throated marten.

The trail to Raun Bagad ends at an iron bridge from where the climb to Didina starts. From Didina the trail leads towards Bedni Bugyal which again passes through Ali Bugyal. The trail from Didina to Bedni Bugyal is a stiff climb at the beginning and through an easy walk in the middle it ascends towards the end. The undulating Alpine meadows at Ali Bugyal are considered to be among the best in the country which are located atop a ridge.

The trail from Ali Bugyal to Bedni Bugyal is carpeted with soft green grassland. Those who would like to camp on the Himalaya, Bedni is the ideal place. Witnessing the evening reflection of sunlight on Trishul Mountain peak is a memorable experience. From Bedni Bugyal one has to lead towards the meadows of Ghora Lotani where the vicinity is painted with the shades of olives and browns spread across all directions over the black terrain. Trekkers can witness abundant snow while reaching Bhagwabasa. Further one needs to head towards Roopkund from Bhagwabassa which is a 5 km ascent. There are series of switchbacks and a steep climb over the snow patched route but the stretch is not long and the hard snow is helpful to trek without being worried about the danger.