Roopkund Lake

Roopkund Lake is a mysterious lake in the interiors of district Chamoli. The lake is rather shallow having a depth of about 2m with the edges covered with snow for most parts of the year. When the snow melts, human and equine skeleton remains can be seen, some of them with flesh attached. These remains have been preserved in the alpine conditions for centuries. It is believed that these are the remains of about 300 persons who died about 500-600 years ago. There are many theories about these findings but none are satisfying.

Hence the lake is known as the Mystery Lake. Some believe them to be those of General Zorawars soldiers who died here in a vain attempt to conquer Tibet, while others maintain that they are the skeletons of the zealous pilgrims, who went on the Raja Yatra to the base of Trishul. It is however one of the popular treks in Garhwal as it abounds on spectacular mountain scenery. The trek to Roopkund is very scenic and passes through the magnificent Bedni Bugyal. The trek goes through the outer periphery of the Nanda Devi national park and is one of the best treks to view the magnificent peaks of the Nanda Devi Park.