Roopkund Trek Difficulty level

Roopkund Trek is a high altitude challenge to a glacial lake called the roopkund lake situated at 4800 meters/ 15750 meters and further one km steep hike to Junar Gali summit at 5030 meters/ 16500 ft.The trek is moderate to difficult grade hence some amount of prior trekking experience and general fitness is required, as one requires rigour climbing different terrains of forests, meadows and rock strewn patches and gradually acclimatizing as one gains altitude.

The trek starts from the village Wan located in Chamoli district of Garhwal, Uttarakhand and the total trek is about 48 kms to the summit. The best months to undertake the trek are may, june and september to October when the region is less terraneous as at that altitude it is most likely covered with snow.
The climb can be a bit strenuous as one progresses up from Patar Nachunia towards Bhaguawasa and finally to the summit providing a panaoramic view of the snow capped Himalayan peaks, the most prominent being Nanda Ghunti and Trishul. Weather is always changing and unpredictable at that height, with cold breeze mostly as one crosses the highest Ganesha temple of Kalua Vinayak situated at 14500 meters, a 3 km walk from Patar Nachauni.

Appropriate clothing and trekking gears are a must. Initially the trek seems a bit challenging as one is still acclimatizing. The trail is mostly defined so the challenge is there however can be overcome with adequate preparation. There are sections of steep climbs specially the final stretch from the Roopkund lake to the Junar Gali summit. One has to pace accordingly and gradually and one will get accustomed to the trail and the increasing altitude.

The walk to the twin bugyals(meadows) of ali and bedni provide for spectacular views as one climbs from wan village towards camp site at patar nachauni . They are considered as Asia’s largest alpine meadows. Weather conditions can always be unpredictable at higher altitudes, strong wind and cold breeze will be there at the top.

Overall Roopkund Trek is a rewarding challenge with stunning views, 360 degree view of the Himalayan peaks , a sense of peace amidst nature. However it requires adequate preparation and physical fitness to complete the journey safely. The trek starts from and end at Rishikesh.