Mountain Hikers

Roopkund Trek (2026-27): The Ultimate Skeleton Lake Expedition

Roopkund Trek (2026-27): The Ultimate Skeleton Lake Expedition

8 Days

Brief Info

  • 15,750 feet
  • Moderate
  • Uttarakhand
  • Rishikesh
  • 55 kms (Round trip)
  • Lohajung
  • Camps / Guest House
  • Rishikesh
  • Veg Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • May - June (Spring) Sep - Oct (Autumn)
  • Included

The Mysterious Roopkund Trek | The Skeleton Lake Trek

If trekking is your passion and you are looking for a new challenge, Roopkund Trek is your perfect destination. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, it is one of the most sought-after trekking destinations.

In 2018, supreme court completely prohibited overnight camping in high altitude bugyals (Ali Bedni Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal) due to which the Roopkund Trek closed but in 2026, After 8 long years, the restrictions are removed by Supreme Court and Roopkund is now accessible again.

The Roopkund Trek comprises of dense forests, streams, picturesque views of the snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and glacier lakes. The thrill of adventure builds as you climb from 8000 ft to 16000 ft in 8 days.

Roopkund is one of the most beautiful and mysterious lakes in the world. For years, people have been fascinated by its beauty. Located at the base of two Himalayan peaks, Trishul and Nanadaghunti, at an altitude of 16000 ft, it provides a majestic view of the Himalayas. With every step, you’ll witness the changing landscape, from vibrant greenery to icy wilderness.

Roopkund captivates with its raw beauty, spiritual aura, and unforgettable experience of walking through the clouds towards a timeless wonder.

Roopkund Trek

The Roopkund Trek begins in dense rhododendron and oak forest and leads you to Ali and Bedni Bugyal, India’s most beautiful high-altitude meadows. Beyond the meadows, the trail continues through alpine stretches until you reach Roopkund.

Prior trekking experience is a plus, but not necessary. Roopkund Trek is moderately challenging and demands a certain amount of physical fitness. But there’s nothing to fret about as you are in the hands of expert instructors who ensure you feel comfortable in every situation. 

Are you ready to push your limits, witness breathtaking beauty, and uncover one of the Himalayas’ most mysterious wonders? The Roopkund Trek is calling your name.

Roopkund Trek Reopening 2026: Supreme Court Verdict & New Rules

In 2018, Supreme Court restricted overnight camping and trails in high altitude Bedni Bugyals to protect fragile ecosystems. The three major court orders of 2018 are:

  • Limit of 200 people visitors at one time.
  • Complete ban on overnight camping in high-altitude.
  • A proposal to consider these bugyals as National Parks.

Since, The multi-day Roopkund Trek strictly requires overnight camping at Bedni Bugyal but in 2018 due to supreme court orders the overnight camping prohibited hence the route closed so as Roopkund.

But in 2026, the court removed these restrictions of overnight camping, 200 people visitors cap and the proposal of converting these bugyals into National Parks. Hence, Roopkund Trek is now reopened in 2026, after 8 years of waiting.

Best Time for Roopkund Trek (Autumn vs. Spring)

Autumn (September – October): Golden Meadows & Clearest Mountain views.

  • Weather & Trail: Post-monsoon winds sweep the atmosphere clean, providing dry, crisp air, stable weather windows, and the lowest chance of trail rain. Daytime trail temperatures stay between 10°C to 15°C, while nights at Bhagwabasa become freezing, frequently dropping to -5°C to -10°C.
  • Scenery: The vast alpine expanses of Ali and Bedni Bugyals shift from monsoon green to shades of golden-brown. Visibility peaks during this window, offering unobstructed, long-range views of Mt. Trishul (7,120 m), Nanda Ghunti (6,309 m), and Chaukhamba.
  • Lake Experience: Because most high-altitude snow melts off the lakebed by late September, the glacial waters remain unfrozen, making the ancient skeletal remains clearly visible along the lake’s edges.

Spring / Early Summer (May – June): Blooming Trails & High-Altitude Snow

  • Weather & Trail: Days are mild and pleasant, averaging 12°C to 18°C across the lower forest stretches. The weather remains suitable for high-altitude trekking, though late afternoons can occasionally bring sudden mountain showers or gusty winds.
  • Scenery: The trail passes through rhododendron and mixed oak woodlands between Didna and Lohajung, covered in deep scarlet and pink blossoms throughout May. As you emerge above the tree line, the twin bugyals are carpets of emerald green.
  • Lake Experience: This window is tailored for snow lovers. Deep snow fields typically blanket the trail from Pathar Nachauni and Kalu Vinayak up through Bhagwabasa, with Roopkund Lake itself sitting partially frozen and surrounded by amphitheater-like snowfields.

How to Reach Lohajung Base Camp ?

The trek starts from Lohajung base camp in Chamoli district. Reach Rishikesh or Dehradun by train or flight, followed by a scenic 210 km mountain drive via Devprayag and Karnaprayag to Lohajung. If you’ve booked the complete Roopkund Trek Package (Rishikesh – Rishikesh) with Mountain Hikers then transportation to and from Rishikesh will also be provided in the Package.

Ongoing Batches for Roopkund Trek 2026

We’ve limited batches along with limited slots available for Roopkund Trek, secure your slots to avoid last minute rush.

September 2026

  • Batch 1: Sept 7, 2026
  • Batch 2: Sept 14, 2026
  • Batch 3: Sept 22, 2026
  • Batch 4: Sept 28, 2026

October 2026

  • Batch 5: Oct 2, 2026
  • Batch 6: Oct 9, 2026

Highlights of Roopkund Trek

  • The 55-kilometer Roopkund Trek starting from Lohagunj takes you on an adventurous journey through the Himalayas, covering places like Bedni Bugyal, Wan, and Dedni. It also offers a scenic view of the Gharwal Himalayan Peaks.
  • You will reach an altitude of 16,499 ft over 8 days, passing through oaks and blooming rhododendrons. You might even get to spot the Yellow Himalayan Magpie as it approaches Roopkund Lake.
  • Get picturesque views of Nanda Devi, the second-highest peak in India. Share your experience with fellow trekkers and interact with locals to get insight into their lives. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (vegetarian) are included in the package.
  • Roopkund Trek challenges your limits, helping you develop teamwork, leadership, and survival skills as you navigate through terrain, unpredictable weather, and team dynamics in the wilderness.
  • The Roopkund Trek is moderately difficult, making it ideal for both beginners and intermediate trekkers. The well-defined trail, along with gradual ascents, ensures that trekkers with basic levels of fitness can complete the trek successfully.
  • From starry skies and campfire stories to breathtaking views and shared struggles, every step of the Roopkund Trek creates lasting memories and lifelong friendships with fellow adventurers.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Roopkund Trek (2026-27): The Ultimate Skeleton Lake Expedition
18% Off
From ₹19000 ₹15500
/ Adult

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