Gaumukh & Tapovan vs Roopkund (Skeleton Lake)
Pick Gaumukh & Tapovan for
a spiritual journey, photography, an easier walk, fewer days
Pick Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) for
camping, a real challenge
| Gaumukh & Tapovan | Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Gangotri, Uttarkashi | Uttarakhand, Lohajung, Chamoli |
| Highest point | 4,460 m | 5,029 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Difficult |
| Trek distance | about 36 km | about 53 km |
| Days on the ground | 6–7 | 8–9 |
| Best months | May, Jun, Sep, Oct | Jun, Sep |
| Snow likely | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | May, Jun, Oct |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹2,800 | about ₹3,000 |
| Gateway | Dehradun | Kathgodam |
| With kids | Not advised | Not advised |
| With seniors | Not advised | Not advised |
| Permits | Gangotri National Park permit; daily entry cap — book in advance. | Forest permit; confirm current Nanda Devi Biosphere restrictions before booking. |
Gaumukh & Tapovan: when to go
- ❄︎Jan
- ❄︎Feb
- ❄︎Mar
- ❄︎Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Roopkund (Skeleton Lake): when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- ❄︎May
- ❄︎Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- ❄︎Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely