Roopkund Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. Famous for its mysterious skeletal remains, it attracts trekkers and adventure lovers from all over the country. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Roopkund Lake, including travel modes and trekking details.

The route to Roopkund Lake is popular among trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. You will learn about the nearest transport hubs, trekking starting points, and practical advice to plan your trip confidently and safely.

Getting from Major Cities to Roopkund Lake – Main Options

Train

Train travel is suitable for reaching the nearest railheads before starting your journey to Roopkund Lake. It is popular for budget travelers and those who prefer scenic train routes in Uttarakhand.

• The nearest major railway station is Kathgodam, approximately 230 km from Roopkund Lake, well connected to Delhi and other northern cities by regular trains.

• From Kathgodam, you can take a taxi or bus to the base town of Lohajung, which is the starting point for the Roopkund trek, covering about 150 km by road.

• Train fares from Delhi to Kathgodam range from INR 300 to INR 900 depending on class, with journey times between 6 to 8 hours.

• Trains can be crowded during peak trekking season (May to June), so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to landslides on rail routes, so plan accordingly if traveling between July and September.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to reach the trek base from nearby towns. They are favored by budget travelers and those who want to experience local transport.

• From Kathgodam or Rishikesh, regular state-run and private buses operate to Lohajung, the last motorable point before the trek, covering about 150 km in 6 to 8 hours.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 200 to INR 500, with varying comfort levels; deluxe buses are less frequent but more comfortable.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so arriving early at the bus stand or booking tickets in advance is recommended.

• Road conditions on NH109 and connecting mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so expect slower travel times especially during monsoon season.

• Local buses may not operate late in the evening, so plan your arrival at Lohajung before dusk to avoid last-mile travel issues.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving yourself or hiring a taxi offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families. It is popular among travelers who want to explore Uttarakhand at their own pace.

• The drive from Delhi to Lohajung via NH9 and NH109 covers around 500 km and takes approximately 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• From Lohajung, private taxis can take you to the trek starting point at Wan village, about 3 km away, as vehicles are not allowed beyond this point.

• Expect tolls on national highways and some mountain toll plazas; keep cash handy as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

• During monsoon, landslides can block roads, so check local weather and road status before starting your drive.

• Parking is limited at Lohajung and Wan; arrange parking with your hotel or taxi operator to avoid inconvenience.

Flight

The nearest airports provide quick access to Uttarakhand but require additional road travel to reach Roopkund Lake. Flights are best for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest airport, approximately 230 km from Lohajung, with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities.

• From Dehradun airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Lohajung; the road journey takes around 8 to 10 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on season and booking time, ranging from INR 2,000 to INR 6,000 one way from Delhi.

• Pre-book taxis or buses in advance from Dehradun to ensure timely connections, especially during peak trekking season.

• Weather conditions like fog in winter can delay flights, so keep buffer time in your itinerary.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers to Roopkund Lake, helping you organize your journey smoothly from arrival to trek start.

• Book your train or flight tickets to Kathgodam or Dehradun well in advance to secure seats during the trekking season.

• From your arrival point, arrange a taxi or bus to Lohajung, the last motorable village before the trek; this ensures you reach the trek base comfortably.

• Stay overnight in Lohajung to acclimatize and prepare for the trek; local guesthouses offer basic but clean accommodation.

• Start your trek early from Wan village, carrying necessary permits and supplies; early starts help avoid afternoon weather changes common in the mountains.

• Hire a local guide or porter if unfamiliar with mountain trekking; they provide safety and local knowledge essential for this challenging route.

• Carry sufficient water, snacks, and warm clothing, as shops are limited on the trail; staying hydrated and warm is crucial at high altitudes.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid ID and trekking permits, as forest and local authorities regulate access to Roopkund Lake for safety and conservation.

• Drink only bottled or purified water during the trek to avoid waterborne illnesses common in mountain areas.

• Book transportation and accommodation early during peak months (May to June) to avoid last-minute price hikes and unavailability.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted app-based cabs like Ola or Uber in cities to avoid overcharging and ensure safer travel.

• Pack light but include essentials like rain gear, sturdy trekking shoes, and a first-aid kit to handle sudden weather changes and minor injuries.

• Be cautious of altitude sickness symptoms; ascend slowly and rest adequately to adjust to the high elevation of over 4,000 meters.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Roopkund Lake is during the summer months when the weather is clear and the trail is accessible. Winter months are harsh and not suitable for trekking.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains and landslides, making the trek dangerous and roads unreliable. Planning your trip outside of July to September is advisable.

• Avoid peak festival periods like Diwali and Holi when transport and accommodation are crowded and expensive.

• Summer months from mid-May to early June offer stable weather and blooming alpine meadows, ideal for trekking.

• Start your trek early in the morning to avoid afternoon rains and thunderstorms common in the mountains during summer.

• Winter months from December to February bring heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, making the trek inaccessible for most travelers.

Arrival at Roopkund Lake & What to Expect

Reaching Roopkund Lake involves a multi-day trek through rugged mountain terrain. The lake itself is a remote and serene spot surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine forests.

Local transport ends at Wan village, where the trek begins. You will find basic guesthouses and guides offering services here. At the lake, there are no facilities, so be prepared to carry your supplies and pack out all waste.

After the trek, return to Lohajung where you can find buses and taxis to nearby towns. It is advisable to pre-book your return transport to avoid waiting times. In Lohajung and nearby towns, you will find simple hotels and homestays catering to trekkers.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Roopkund Lake is to combine train or flight travel to Uttarakhand with road transport to Lohajung, followed by a well-planned trek starting from Wan village. This approach balances comfort, cost, and adventure.

Planning your journey with advance bookings, awareness of seasonal conditions, and proper acclimatization will help you enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique experience of Roopkund Lake safely. With this guide, you can confidently prepare for your trip and make the most of your adventure in the Himalayas.