The Roopkund Trek is one of the most popular high-altitude treks in India, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in the Himalayas. It is best known for the mysterious Roopkund Lake, also called the Skeleton Lake, due to the hundreds of ancient human skeletons found at its bottom, believed to date back to the 9th century.

The trek typically starts from Lohajung and takes you through dense oak and rhododendron forests, alpine meadows like Bedni Bugyal, and stunning views of peaks like Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. It reaches an altitude of around 15,700 feet (4,800 meters).

The Roopkund Trek is moderately to highly challenging, with steep ascents and unpredictable weather, especially as you near the lake. It is ideal for experienced trekkers and offers a mix of natural beauty, mystery, and adventure.

One of the defining features of Koraput is its tribal population, with communities such as the Paraja, Bonda, Gadaba, and Kondh living in harmony with nature. These tribes have preserved their unique customs, languages, music, dance, and traditional practices for generations. The tribal markets, or haats, are a vibrant aspect of local life and attract researchers and tourists alike.

Koraput is also known for the Jagannath Temple located in the heart of the town, which is unique because it allows people of all castes and religions to enter—a reflection of the area's inclusive traditions. The temple is a significant spiritual centre for the locals.

Agriculture is the main occupation in Koraput, with crops like rice, ragi, maize, and coffee grown here. Notably, Koraput has been recognised for its organic coffee cultivation, which has gained both national and international acclaim.

The region is rich in natural resources and houses major industrial projects like the NALCO alumina refinery at Damanjodi and the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) unit at Sunabeda, both of which contribute significantly to the district’s economy.

Tourist attractions in and around Koraput include:

• Gupteswar Cave Temple
• Duduma Waterfalls
• Deomali Hill (the highest peak in Odisha)
• Tribal Museum, which offers a glimpse into tribal life

Overall, Koraput is a unique.

Surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages, Tirthan Valley offers a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and cultural richness. It is an ideal destination for trekking, trout fishing, birdwatching, and nature walks. Popular treks like the Serolsar Lake trek and the trek to Jalori Pass attract hikers of all levels.

The valley is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Its peaceful environment, combined with traditional Himachali hospitality, makes it a preferred retreat for those seeking to disconnect from fast-paced urban life and immerse themselves in nature. Whether you're looking for solitude, adventure, or a cultural experience, Tirthan Valley offers a truly enriching and rejuvenating escape.