The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a new ropeway project to connect Sonprayag to Kedarnath in Uttarakhand. The ropeway will be 12.9 kilometers long and will cost about ₹4,081.28 crore to build. Once completed, it will reduce the travel time from 8-9 hours to just 36 minutes, making the Kedarnath journey much easier for pilgrims.
This ropeway will use advanced Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, which can carry 1,800 people per hour in each direction. In a day, it will be able to transport up to 18,000 pilgrims. This will provide a safer, faster, and more comfortable travel option while protecting the delicate Himalayan environment.
Kedarnath Temple is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas and is located 3,583 meters above sea level in Rudraprayag district. Every year, about 2 million devotees visit the temple during its six to seven-month open period. At present, pilgrims have to walk 16 kilometers uphill from Gaurikund or use ponies, palanquins, or helicopters. The ropeway will offer an all-weather connection, making it easier for senior citizens and people with disabilities to visit the temple.
This project is part of the National Ropeways Development Programme – Parvatmala Pariyojana. It will be built under a public-private partnership model, creating many jobs during and after construction. The ropeway is also expected to boost local tourism, including hotels, restaurants, and handicrafts, helping the region grow economically.
