OVERVIEW
Roopkund, which translates to “beautiful pond” in English, draws tourists from around the world and travelers from all over India with its beauty and mythology.
Roopkund is a high-altitude glacial lake that is tucked away in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalayas.
The 54km journey takes six hiking days, plus one on either side for jeep conveyance back to connecting points, and passes through some of the most varied and beautiful surroundings that Himalayan hiking has to offer.
HOW TO REACH
This hike begins in Kathgodam, a tiny settlement in Uttarakhand’s Nainital area. There are only two routes to reach this lovely covert village, and they are both accessible via roads and railways. The Pantnagar Airport is the closest airport, and the only ways to get to Kathgodam are by car or train. The Kathgodam Railway Station is connected to all major cities by regular trains thanks to well-connected rail systems. In addition, there are private and public bus services that run from Nainital, Rishikesh, and Delhi, among other places.
ITINERARY
Drive from Kathgodam to Loharjung on Day 1.
Trek from Loharjung to Didina on Day 2.
Trek from Didina Village to Ali Bugyal on day three.
Trek from Ali Bugyal to Ghora Lotani on day four.
Trek from Ghora Lotani to Bhagwabasa on day five.
Day 6: Roopkund Lake (5020 m) Trek from Bhagwabasa to Bedni Bugyal.
Day 7: Drive from Wan to Loharjung after trekking from Bedni Bugyal to Wan.
Drive from Loharjung to Kathgodam on day eight.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Roopkund Lake:
A lake at a higher altitude in Uttarakhand, is also known as the “Mystery Lake.” It has a mysterious past because skeletons of humans and horses thought to traced . This lake is hidden away inside the vast scenery of mountains, glaciers, and skeleton ruins.
Bhagwabasa :
The area at Bhagwabasa is obviously remote, with stone walls lining the trail on both sides. Even though these huts are completely ruined, they yet provide a fantastic perspective amid the foggy backdrops.
Ghora Lotani:
The name “Ghora Lotani,” which means “Horse Return” in Sanskrit, comes from the fact that horses must turn around and return because the trekking route continues past this point but is unsuitable to them. Misty clouds surround the picturesque hilltops while barren fields and stones mask the region’s growth.
Kathgodam:
This picturesque hamlet serves as the last railhead for the Kumaon Ranges, which are part of the Himalayas. Here, the River Gaula and its dam provide for an excellent picnic destination. Additionally, it is close to the renowned romantic paradises of the Bhimtal Lake and Corbett Falls.
Ali Bugyal:
Ali Bugyal provides a beautiful view with foggy breezes and vibrant delights. The region is frequently used for horse and cow grazing, and the Trishul Peak and Mrigthuni Peak provide a stunning backdrop.
Loharjung:
It is a little community situated on a mountainside, offers a magnificent view of the Nilganga basins.
TREK SPECIFICS
- Winters can be particularly unpleasant since temperatures often drop below freezing. The Himalayas are considered to be nature’s best-kept secret, and last of winter months is seen to be a good time to visit due to the pleasant, mild winds.
- You can travel from here to Loharjung, which will serve as your base camp for this trekking excursion, over charmingly winding small roads. This tiny town is situated on a hilltop and provides a charming view of the Nilganga valley.
- The villages In Uttarakhand are largely blessed with temples that are the pride of the locals.You can learn about the traditions and customs that are strictly observed in this community by studying its culture.
- The locals have accepted variety and are consequently very welcoming to travelers. They will ensure that your adventure is full of special moments thanks to their empathy and respect for tourists.
- There will be entry fees at specific checkpoints, trek permits, and mandatory forest camping fees throughout the region for the duration of the trek.
- Please include identity documents, such as your driver’s license or voter identification card, a passport-sized photo, a medical certificate attesting to your fitness for the trek, and a disclaimer certificate attesting to your voluntary participation in the trek.
- Hydrate two days prior to your hike; to prevent dehydration, you must raise your hydration levels.
- At the end of the trek, you can develop blisters. Wearing two layers of socks can help you prevent blisters.
- Make sure you have a sufficient number of plastic waterproof bags on hand in case you need to carry your camera or a cell phone to keep them secure.
- Once you start hiking with the group as a whole, attempt to find your natural hiking pace.
