Challenges & Rewards of the Roopkund Trekking.

 Challenges & Rewards of the Roopkund Trekking.

High-Altitude Himalayan ranges are known for Bugyals, Glaciers, brooks, adventurous sites, secrets buried under the land, magnificent towering mountains and flora and fauna with biodiversity. This is why, people from all parts of the country and abroad face the challenges and rewards of such trekking trails and sites. Roopkund trek is one of them to explore the mystries and challenges of trekking in the Himalayas. It is one of the best sites for trekking in Garhwal. Roopkund trek is a picturesque tourist destination in the Uttarakhand state of India. The trek takes you through beautiful valleys, brooms,  grasslands, forests, and culminates at the stunning Roopkund Lake which is also known as the Skeleton Lake or the Mystery Lake.In this blog I'll try to highlight the details of the trek, exploring its routes, the mesmerising landscapes, and the enigmatic history of the Roopkund Lake.

The Mysteries of Roopkund Lake

The Mysteries of Roopkund Lake

Roopkund is a high- altitude glacial lake with a depth of about three meters while the size of the kund varies seasonally, but it is seldom more than 40 meters in diameters. It is approximately 100 to 1500 square meters in area and is frozen in the winter. It is situated at an altitude of 5029 meters, (16500 feet), shrouded in mystery..It lies in the lap of Trishul Massif. Roopkund is widely known for the hundreds of human skeletons found at the edge of the lake. The human skeletal remains are seen at its bottom when the snow melts. The scientists and the forensic reports of Radio carbon dating and DNA analysis have since revealed that they might have been killed in a sudden and violent hailstorm in the date back to around 850 AD and belong to two distinct groups..

The local legend argue that the son in law of the king of Garhwal belonged to Kannoj came to his father in laws home with his wife and a troop of soldiers, During the stay, the set out for the journey of homkund the abode of goddess Maa Nanda Devi. On the way, the king was unaware of the ritual rules and over ruled the religious journey. It is sai that the king's men arrangedance party for the amusement of the king and queen at Patarnachania. So, the wrath of nature brought disaster in form of hailstones at the moment when they were en route to Roopkund. All the king' men lost their lives in the surroundings of Roopkund.Thus, the local legends predict the human skeletons belonged to them. These are the Mysteries of Roopkund Lake.

How to reach Lohajung, the Base Camp 

There are two routes for Roopkund lake. One coming from Dehradun via Karnaprayag- Nand prayag -Sutol - Bedni Bugyal to Roopkund, and the other route is the traditional route of Nanda Raj Jat Yatra from Nauti village of Chamoli via Nandkeshari- Deval - Lohajung -Bedni Bugyal to Roopkund.So most of the pilgrims or tourists follow the traditional route via Karnprayag- tharali-Nandkeshari-Deval route to Roopkund.

The Roopkund trek starts in the small village of Lohajung, situated at an altitude of 2300 meters. Lohajung serves as a base camp for the trek. It is connected by roads from major cities of India. Mostly people from other states prefer coming to Dehradun or Kathgodam by bus or train and then arrange further conveyance for Lohajung, the base camp for Roopkund.The journey from Kathgodam to Lohajung takes around 11- 12 hours and the same time from Dehradun enjoying breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and towering mountains.

Trekking Timetable from Lohajung to Roopkund

Roopkund Lake photograph

DAY-1:Lohajung to Didna Village

The trek from Lohajung, the base camp to Didna Village covers a distance of approximately 11 km. The trail winds through dense forests of oak and rhododendron, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna, Didna village is situated at an altitude of 2700 meters, We take overnight rest in the village.

Day-2: Didna Village to Ali Bugyal

The next day, early in the morning, the trek ascends towards Ali Bugyal, one of the largest high- altitude meadows in India, The route covers around 10 km, and goes an altitude of 3300 meters. Ali bugyal is a vast expanse of rolling Grasslands, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.The night is spent camping under the stars, amidst the tranquillity of the grasslands.

Day-3: Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani

Next day, early in the morning, we start our journey from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani at an altitude of 3,800 meters. This part of the trek covers around 6 km and takes trekkers through  more scenic meadows and patches of forest . Ghora Lotani offers panoramic views of Trishul and Nanda ghunti peaks, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Day-4: Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa

The trek from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa is one of the more challenging segments, as it involves ascending to an altitude of 4,300 meters. The route covers around 6 km and can be quite steep in in some  places. Bhagwabasa, a rocky and barren area serves as the base camp for the last ascent to Roopkund Lake. The caves are in large numbers here, having sufficient space to live in. You can see the old aged horses,mules and cattle left here for grazing and breathing their last.

Day-5: Bhagwabasa to Roopkund  and back to Bedni Bugyal

The final segment of the trek is hard and ascent is in vertical shape winding round way.It requires hydrant body, energy, and stamina to cover a distant of  about 6 km. Roopkund is located at an altitude of 5029 meters. Trekkers try to cover this distance early in the morning, before the bright sun. The weather is always uncertain here . The wind blows speedily. Its on a sort of ridge the wind comes from one valley and passes over the other. The shadow of Nandaghunti is seen into the lake in the morning, when the weather is pleasant. 

The sight of Roopkund Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and filled with ancient skeletons is both eerie and awesome-inspiring. After staying at Roopkund, having some photographs, the trekkers descend back to Bedni Bugyal, an amazing Bugyal at an altitude of 3,350 meters for an overnight stay.

Day-6: Bedni Bugyal to Lohajung via Wan Village

The last day of the trek leads to another route to Wan from Bedni Bugyal in the next morning pitching off our tents. The route involves a descent from Bedni Bugyal passing through the Gaila Patal, the lush green forest, As, you keep walking, the tree lines appear and a sharp descent would commence at the end of the meadow. The lush green forests consist of oak and rhododendron trees. As you keep descending further, you soon reach a clearing, signalling, that you have to descent a steep ridge  that leads you to the Neel Ganga River. The cool waves of the river will wash away all your exhaustion and leave your feeling refreshed. After a short climb from the river , you will reach the ridge known as "Run ki Chhore." that overlooks Wan Village for.The route offers a mix of forest paths, meadow crossings, and village trails providing a glimpse into the rural life of the region.

Wan Village is the last check point of our Roopkund Lake trek expedition. After, walking down a steep descent, we reach the road side area where we board a vehicle and drive to Lohajung. The trek concludes at Lohajung where you can relax and celebrate the successful completion of your journey. Since, the treks in Himalayan region  come with their ups and downs, we always keep a buffer day in hand to make sure the trek goes smooth.  Again, the road journey repeats the same route to next station, as per your scheduled programme to your homes.

Preparations for the Trekking with Essentials:

1- Physical fitness:

• while the trek to Roopkund Lake is considered hard and difficult, it's essential to be in good physical condition. Regular morning walk, jogging, breathing exercise, cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and stamina- gaining activities are recommended at least for three months before the trek.

2- Packing materials:

• Clothing: Layered clothing to accommodate varying temperature, including thermal wear, waterproof fleece jackets, and comfortable trekking lowers.
• Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots with good grip and ankle support
• Camping Gear: Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, light arrangements
• Personal Items: First-aid kit, water bottles, trekking poles, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. 
• Food and Snacks: High-energy snacks, dry fruits, and ready to eat meals.

3- Permits and Documentation:

• Ensure you have the necessary permits and documentation before embarking the trek.
• The permits are issued by the forest department and Documents are also referred to Tourism department.

4- Acclimatization:

• When you go from lower altitude to higher altitude you need to stay in Lohajung, and Didna Village to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid acute  mountain sickness.
• Drink sufficient water and liquid food
• Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the initial days.

Be Sincere to Environment

• Leave no trace in Himalayas. Trekking in the Bugyals,streams and brooms, comes with the responsibility of preserving its pristine environment.
•  Follow the rules and regulations given by you in written before Permission, which includes:

1- Waste Management

• Leave no trace, carry all non-biodegradable waste back to Wan Village,or Lohajung for proper disposal.
•  Avoid using single-use plastics.

2- Respect Wildlife:

• Never tease wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
• Do not feed animals or birds.

3- Avoid Campfires:

• Avoid making Campfires as it may cause forest fires.
• Use portable stoves for cooking.
• Mostly use dry fruits or ready to use meal.

4- Respect the Local Culture and Tradition:

• Always follow the marked trails, Don't make experiments in snow areas, The treks are invisible.
• Avoid damaging the fragile alpine ecosystem.
• Respect the local culture and traditions.

Flora and Fauna

flora and fauna / Roopkund Lake

The roopkund trek is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its rich biodiversity. The lower regions of the trek are characterized by dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron. As trekkers ascend, they encounter alpine meadows, known locally as "Bugyals." adorned with a variety of wildflowers. The region is also home to several species of birds, including the Himalayan Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand. Trekkers might also spot animals such as Himalayan tahr, musk deer, and the elusive snow leopard in the higher altitude. The surrounding forests house diverse tree species, including oak, deodar and pine when we slow down the trek at lower- altitude.The trekkers and tourists some time violate the forest rules and unknowingly damage the environment.

In August 2018, to protect the deterioting condition of certain trekking areas, the Uttarakhand Highcourt ordered a ban on camping overnight in bugyals, en route on the hills of Uttarakhand, Even, cooking, Camping, and drinking lake water were also banned. I, myself was a witness in 2014, Raj Jat Yatra the valuable medicinal plants en route were broken or rooted out.But now the ban is raised off. So, we should be a responsible trekker or a tourist. 

Best Time for The Trek.

The Roopkund Trek. is best under taken during the premonsoon months of May and June, and the post monsoon months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is relatively stable, and the trail is more accessible, In May and June, trekkers can enjoy the lush greenery and blooming rhododendrons, while September and October offer clearer skies and stunnies views of the snow- clad peaks.

Cultural Insights

The villages and regions around the Roopkund trek are rich in cultural heritage. Lohajung, Didna, and Wan are traditional Himalayan villages, where trekkers can experience the local lifestyle and hospitality The people of these villages follow age-old customs and traditions, and their lives are closely intertwined with nature. Trekkers have the opportunity to learn about the local cuisine, which includes dishes like "dal- bhat" (lentils and rice) and "aaloo ke gutke" (spiced potatoes). 

Conclusion:

The Roopkund trek is more than just a physical journey, it's an exploration of history, culture, and the raw beauty of nature. The trek offers an unforgettable experience, from the mysterious Roopkund Lake with its  ancient skeletons to the breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and the serenemeadows along the way.For those seeking adventure, and a deep connection with the natural world, the Roopkund trek is a must-do. As you embark on this journey, remember to respect the environment and the local culture and traditions. 

F.A.Q.

1-What is the mystery of Roopkund Lake?

2- Why was Roopkund Lake banned in August 2018 by order Hon High Court, Uttarakhand?

3- Is Roopkund Trek open now?

4- What are the stories about Roopkund Lake?

5-What is the Distance of Roopkund from Karnprayag?