Roopkund, a high-altitude glacial lake situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, is a favored destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at an altitude of approximately 5,029 meters (16,499 feet), this trek is renowned not just for its challenging trails but also for the mysterious skeletal remains found near the lake, earning it the moniker “Skeleton Lake.”
The Mystery of Skeleton Lake
Roopkund is famously known for the human skeletal remains that are scattered around its periphery. Discovered in 1942, these skeletons have been a subject of intrigue and study. Initial speculations suggested that they belonged to a group of Japanese soldiers from World War II. However, subsequent studies revealed that the remains date back to the 9th century, belonging to pilgrims who were caught in a severe hailstorm, leading to their demise. The skeletal remains, visible when the snow melts, add an eerie allure to the trek.
Best Time to Trek
The ideal time to embark on the Roopkund trek is during the pre-monsoon (May to June) and post-monsoon (September to October) seasons. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, and the trails are accessible. The meadows are in full bloom, and the clear skies offer unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks.
Preparation and Considerations
The Roopkund trek is classified as a moderate to difficult trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes. Trekkers should be well-prepared with appropriate gear, including warm clothing, trekking shoes, and essentials like water, food, and medical supplies. It’s advisable to undertake this trek with the guidance of experienced trekking agencies to ensure safety and proper acclimatization.
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8
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Lohajung
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15696m
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53km
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Moderate to difficult
Some important information to Roopkund Treks.
Please bring your ID, 1 Photo for the Disclaimer and Declaration Form, your Medical Certificate.
High Altitude : Please do the check up by your Doctor before. He has to give to you personal the needful medicine. You has to train your body with sport, like jogging in advance. Never I or my guides will bring you under any pressure on tour. To walk slowly is important NOT to get AMS. Your body need time for the altitude adaptation, because of lack of oxygen.If you feel not well, please inform your guide immediate – that he can do each help for you.
Weather : Can change in the mountains by the day from sun – rain to snowfall. For me and my guides your security is important. Please accept if we do not finish your tour (with a big group) to higher places. If you are a very small group we can talk also about an extra day for that reason in advance.
Bring by yourself for this “high altitude” trek: Light and warm clothe – 2 x warm underwear, (the camps in high altitude are very cold, when the sun is gone and in the night) .Good trekking shoes with a good sole, you has to feel well by walking on different terrain, your feet has to be dry although because of rain or snow. A light raincoat, Anorak (wind and waterproof). Down Jacket, all your personal needful things like towel, soap – bathroom things – isolation water-bottle,Sunglasses – crème and cap, woollen cap and scarf, also warm gloves, torch. Camp Sandal (sleeper),extra polythene bags for wet clothes and a whistle, toilet paper, extra batteries for your camera, dry fruits, chocolate.
Bring also a small backpack extra in which you carry by yourself while trekking some personal things only, like: water-bottle, (do not use plastic water bottle) raincoat and so on.
Both backpacks has to have a raincover.
Enjoy this high altitude trek with NO heavy backpack.Feel free by walking and see all the interesting things on this wonderful way through forest, on Bugyals, on saddles and between high mountains.( the way is the destination ! )
