Roopkund Trek

Your journey into the Himalayas begins with two convenient approach options.

Option 1: From Kathgodam/Haldwani (~210–230 km, 8–10 hrs)
This route passes through the scenic Kumaon region via Almora, Kausani, Gwaldam, and Dewal. Expect beautiful views of terraced fields, pine forests, and panoramic Himalayan peaks, especially near Kausani where the Trishul massif often dominates the skyline.

Option 2: From Rishikesh/Haridwar (~260–280 km, 10–12 hrs)
This route follows the Garhwal region through Karnaprayag and Tharali, with dramatic river valleys, deep gorges, and winding mountain roads leading into quieter interiors.

Both routes converge toward Wan — a peaceful Himalayan village surrounded by dense forests and mountain views. You stay overnight in a comfortable homestay or lodge, allowing you to acclimatise and ease into the mountain environment.

The trek begins from Wan village, passing through the sacred Latu Devta Temple, an important cultural landmark of the region. Just beyond, you encounter one of the largest ancient banyan trees, its massive roots and canopy creating a mystical setting.

The trail descends through dense forest to the Neel Ganga river, where you cross a wooden bridge over its clear, rushing waters. From here, the climb begins gradually through forests of oak, rhododendron, and maple. The forest is rich with birdlife and filtered sunlight, creating a calm and immersive trekking experience.

By afternoon, you reach Ghairoli Patal — a quiet forest clearing surrounded by towering oak trees. From this day onwards, accommodation will be in tents.

The day begins with a steady ascent through dense forests, gradually thinning as you gain altitude. Soon, the trail opens up above the tree line, revealing the vast alpine meadows of Ali and Bedni Bugyal.

These meadows stretch endlessly like a green ocean, with uninterrupted views of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti dominating the horizon. A short detour takes you to Bedni Kund, a sacred alpine lake reflecting the surrounding peaks on clear days.

As you move ahead, the terrain becomes more rugged and exposed. The lush meadows slowly transition into high-altitude terrain as you climb toward Patar Nachauni. The campsite sits above the meadows, offering sweeping views, colder winds, and a sense of entering the higher Himalayan zone.

Today’s climb is shorter but steeper as you move deeper into high altitude terrain. The trail ascends toward Kalu Vinayak, a stone shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha perched on a high ridge.

The ascent involves rocky switchbacks, and with every step, the views become more dramatic. Peaks like Trishul appear closer, while vast valleys stretch below.

After reaching the ridge, the trail descends slightly over loose moraine to Bhagwabasa — your final campsite before Roopkund. The landscape here is barren and stark, with strong winds and freezing temperatures. Nights are extremely cold, often dropping below zero.

The summit day begins early, usually around 3–4 AM. The trail climbs steeply over snow, scree, and rocky sections under headlamp light. As you gain altitude, the air becomes thinner and the surroundings more dramatic.

You reach Roopkund Lake, a glacial lake set inside a high-altitude crater, known for the ancient human skeletons visible around its edges when snow melts.

From here, the climb toward Junargali Top is attempted only if conditions permit. Though not far in distance, the route is steep and can be dangerous during early season due to hard snow and ice, making it often inaccessible.

After spending some time at Roopkund, you descend carefully back to Bhagwabasa and continue further down to Patar Nachauni for a more comfortable overnight stay.

The descent begins through open alpine meadows, retracing your steps across Bedni Bugyal. The morning light casts long shadows across the grasslands, and the expansive views feel even more striking on the way down.

Gradually, you re-enter the forest zone as the trail drops below the tree line. The environment shifts from exposed high-altitude terrain to dense oak and rhododendron forests, bringing back the sounds and scents of the forest.

By afternoon, you reach the peaceful campsite of Ghairoli Patal, surrounded by tall oak trees.

The final day of trekking is a gentle descent through the forest. You retrace the trail past Neel Ganga, crossing the familiar wooden bridge before gradually climbing back toward Wan.

As you approach the village, the forest opens up to reveal traditional homes and terraced fields. The trek concludes at Wan, where you can relax and reflect on the journey through one of the most scenic high-altitude trails in the Himalayas.

Begin your return journey from Wan. Depending on your onward plans, you can drive back toward Kathgodam/Haldwani or Rishikesh/Haridwar, retracing the scenic mountain roads with lasting memories of the trek.