Located in the lap of the Trishul massif in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Roopkund Lake has long been a subject of interest due to its geographical and historical mysteries. Known commonly as the 'Skeleton Lake', Roopkund is a high-altitude glacial lake situated at an elevation of approximately 5,029 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level. Surrounded by rock-strewn glaciers and snow-clad mountains, the lake is frozen for most of the year.
The history of tourism at Roopkund can be traced back to its discovery in 1942 by a British forest guard. The presence of human skeletal remains at the edge of the lake, visible when the snow melts, piqued the curiosity of not only historians and anthropologists but also adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. Scientific studies have revealed that these remains date back to around the 9th century AD.
Initially, the area did not see much tourism activity due to its remote location and challenging trek. However, over the years, as trekking and adventure sports gained popularity, Roopkund Trek became a coveted destination for trekkers around the world. The trek is known not just for the mysterious lake but also for the scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Himalayas one encounters along the route.
In recent years, responsible and eco-friendly tourism has become the latest trend in this region. With an increase in environmental awareness, tour operators and local authorities have started emphasizing the importance of conserving the delicate ecosystem of the Himalayas. The focus has shifted to sustainable trekking practices, minimizing waste, and educating visitors about the importance of leaving no trace.
Moreover, the government and several NGOs are working towards the preservation of local culture and traditions by promoting community-based tourism, which benefits the local population economically and socially. Tourist regulations have also been introduced to control the number of visitors to avoid over-tourism, which could potentially harm the environment and the integrity of the lake area.
Another emerging trend is the celebration of local festivals and events where visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and lifestyle of the native population. This has boosted the cultural tourism aspect alongside adventure tourism.
To visit Roopkund Lake, one has to undertake the Roopkund Trek, which is not an easy feat. The trek typically starts from Lohajung or Wan village and takes around 5-7 days to complete. The best time to visit Roopkund is from May to June before the monsoon and from September to October after the monsoon season. Trekkers are required to be in good physical health and properly acclimatized to the high altitude conditions.
Important Notice: Due to the recent environmental concerns and reports of littering by trekkers, the Government of Uttarakhand has imposed certain restrictions on trekking to Roopkund Lake. Visitors are advised to check the latest guidelines and obtain necessary permits before planning their trek.
Roopkund Lake remains a mysterious and enchanting destination for tourists from all around the world. As tourism continues to evolve, it is crucial that each visitor respects and contributes to the conservation efforts to ensure that Roopkund can be enjoyed by future generations without compromising its natural beauty and historical significance.
