If you’re planning a pilgrimage to Kedarnath - one of the most sacred temples in India - here’s great news: India is building its most expensive ropeway ever, connecting Sonprayag to Kedarnath and cutting the arduous journey from many hours down to just 36 minutes.

This project is expected to usher in a new era for tourism and pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, offering a safer and more comfortable experience for millions of devotees and international travelers.

The Kedarnath Temple in India. Source: Internet

The journey to Kedarnath is about to become easier than ever

Previously, to reach the Kedarnath temple, visitors had to travel from Sonprayag along a nearly 18 km mountain trail - a trek that usually took 8-9 hours on foot or required costly services such as horses, palanquins, or helicopters. This route was not only exhausting but also risky due to unpredictable weather and rugged terrain.

Now, with the 12.9 km Sonprayag - Kedarnath ropeway, you’ll reach the sacred summit in just 36 minutes. The project uses advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, ensuring smooth, safe rides that can withstand the strong mountain winds. With a capacity of 1,800 passengers per hour each way, the system is expected to serve about 3.2 million visitors per year - enough to handle the massive influx during pilgrimage season.

A national-scale project bringing multiple benefits to travelers

• Save time & energy - Just 36 minutes instead of an entire day climbing. Spend more time praying, resting, or exploring other holy sites in Uttarakhand.

• Safe & comfortable experience - Modern cabins operate reliably even in challenging mountain conditions.

• Promote sustainable tourism - Reduce congestion on the traditional trekking path and minimize landslide risks during peak seasons.

• Robust infrastructure investment - The ₹4,081 crore project follows a public-private partnership (PPP) model with the Adani Group. The government invests no capital but still receives 42% of the revenue, ensuring long-term operation and service quality.

This ropeway is also part of the “Parvatmala Pariyojana” - India’s nationwide plan to expand ropeway networks across mountainous regions, making travel more convenient for international tourists.

When can travelers experience it?

According to the plan, the Sonprayag - Kedarnath ropeway will be completed within six years of its groundbreaking. While waiting, visitors can still choose existing options such as helicopter services from Sonprayag or traditional trekking and pilgrimage packages.

However, the launch of this project clearly signals India’s strong commitment to modernizing infrastructure for international travelers - especially those seeking a less physically demanding pilgrimage experience.

International pilgrims in India. Source: Internet

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