Roopkund

Roopkund is a glacial lake at 5,029 m beneath the Trishul massif, famous for 9th-century skeletal remains believed killed by a violent hailstorm (DNA-tested and dated). The route through Ali Bugyal (3,676 m) and Bedni Bugyal (3,354 m) is unsurpassed in Garhwal for alpine meadow beauty. The combination of ancient mystery, meadow grandeur, and summit drama makes Roopkund a bucket-list Indian trek.

Places to See
• Roopkund Lake (5,029 m, skeletal remains visible when ice melts)
• Ali Bugyal (3,676 m, sweeping high-altitude meadow with peak views)
• Bedni Bugyal (3,354 m, vast meadow, Trishul and Nanda Ghunti backdrop)
• Bhagwabasa Camp (4,180 m, final high camp)
• Junargali Ridge (4,800 m, optional extension)
• Views of Trishul (7,120 m) and Nanda Ghunti (6,309 m)

Best Time
May–June (ice-edged lake, wildflowers on bugyals). September–October (post-monsoon clarity, stable trail — the best window). 7–9 days full circuit. Avoid July–August.

How to Reach
Road: Rishikesh → Karnaprayag → Tharali → Lohajung (250 km, ~8 hrs). Lohajung (2,440 m) is the trek start.

Things to Do
• Trek through Ali and Bedni Bugyals
• View skeletal remains at Roopkund Lake
• Camp at Bhagwabasa under Himalayan skies
• Summit Junargali ridge
• Wildlife watching on upper meadows

Tips
Certified guide and porters from Lohajung are non-negotiable above 4,000 m. Extra acclimatisation night at Bedni Bugyal strongly recommended. Do not touch the skeletons — legally protected. Carry -10°C sleeping bag and microspike traction devices. Register at the Forest Office in Lohajung before departure.

The best time to visit Roopkund depends on the experience you seek.