Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) vs Valley of Flowers
Pick Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) for
camping, adventure, a real challenge
Pick Valley of Flowers for
photography, first-timers, a spiritual journey, an easier walk, a smaller budget, fewer days
| Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) | Valley of Flowers | |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Uttarakhand, Lohajung, Chamoli | Uttarakhand, Ghangaria, Chamoli |
| Highest point | 5,029 m | 3,658 m |
| Difficulty | Difficult | Easy–moderate |
| Trek distance | about 53 km | about 38 km |
| Days on the ground | 8–9 | 6–7 |
| Best months | Jun, Sep | Jul, Aug |
| Snow likely | May, Jun, Oct | Rarely |
| Crowds in season | Moderate | Moderate |
| Daily spend | about ₹3,000 | about ₹2,500 |
| Gateway | Kathgodam | Dehradun / Rishikesh |
| With kids | Not advised | Possible |
| With seniors | Not advised | Possible |
| Permits | Forest permit; confirm current Nanda Devi Biosphere restrictions before booking. | Entry permit at the forest check post in Ghangaria; day visits only, no camping inside. |
Roopkund (Skeleton Lake): when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- ❄︎May
- ❄︎Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- ❄︎Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely
Valley of Flowers: when to go
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
BestPossibleNot recommended❄︎Snow likely