Skeleton Lake, also known as Roopkund Lake, is a glacial lake located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. The lake is situated at an altitude of 5,029 meters (16,499 feet) above sea level in the Himalayas.

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Skeleton Lake gets its name from the hundreds of human skeletons that have been found in and around the lake. The skeletons are believed to be from the 9th century and are thought to be the remains of a group of pilgrims who died in a sudden and violent hailstorm. The skeletons have been remarkably well preserved due to the cold, dry climate of the region.

In recent years, the lake and its surrounding area have become a popular destination for trekkers and hikers. The area is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and its unique cultural heritage. However, due to the delicate ecosystem of the region, visitors are required to obtain special permits to visit Skeleton Lake.

The history of Skeleton Lake, also known as Roopkund Lake, is shrouded in mystery. The lake, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, was discovered in the 1940s by a British forest ranger who stumbled upon the lake while on a patrol mission. He discovered the hundreds of human skeletons scattered around the lake’s edge, and their origin and cause of death have been the subject of much speculation.

It is believed that the skeletons date back to the 9th century and are the remains of a group of pilgrims who were on a journey to a nearby temple. The pilgrims are thought to have been caught in a sudden and violent hailstorm that led to their deaths. The hailstones were said to be as large as cricket balls, and many of the skeletons show evidence of severe head injuries.

skeleton lake

skeleton lake

The skeletons were initially thought to be the remains of soldiers from a World War II-era conflict, but carbon dating conducted in the 1960s revealed that the skeletons were much older. In recent years, DNA testing has been conducted on some of the remains, and it has been determined that the individuals were from a variety of regions, including India, Iran, and Greece. It is believed that the group may have been a diverse group of traders, merchants, and pilgrims traveling along the ancient Silk Road.

 

The area around Skeleton Lake is also believed to have been a major trade route in ancient times, and there is evidence of several other trade routes that intersect in the region. The lake and its surrounding area have become a popular destination for trekkers and hikers, but due to the delicate ecosystem of the region, visitors are required to obtain special permits to visit the lake.