The sacred journey to Kedarnath Dham, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, is set to become faster and more accessible. In a major infrastructure push, the Adani Group is constructing a 12.9 km ropeway from Sonprayag to Kedarnath, slashing the time of the current trek from nearly nine hours to just 36 minutes. This development aims to modernize pilgrim access and stimulate regional development in Uttarakhand’s high-altitude terrain.
Project Highlights
Shorter, Safer Journey
- Currently, pilgrims must trek over 16 km through steep and often hazardous Himalayan paths.
- The upcoming ropeway system will significantly reduce both time and physical strain, particularly benefiting elderly devotees and those with health concerns.
- Once operational, the ropeway will cut travel time to just 36 minutes, making the journey not only quicker but also far safer.
Cost and Capacity
- The ropeway project will cost ₹4,081 crore and is designed to carry 1,800 passengers per hour per direction.
- This large capacity ensures it can accommodate the lakhs of pilgrims who visit the shrine every year, especially during the Char Dham Yatra season.
Advanced Technology
- Using Tri-cable Detachable Gondola (3S) technology, the ropeway will offer greater stability in high-altitude weather conditions and smoother transport.
- This advanced system is well-suited for Uttarakhand’s challenging terrain.
Implementation Model and Timeline
- The project is being built under the National Ropeways Development Programme—Parvatmala Pariyojana, which promotes aerial transport in mountainous areas.
- It follows a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
- Adani Enterprises Ltd (AEL) received the official Letter of Award in September 2025.
- The ropeway will be constructed over six years, after which Adani will operate it for 29 years, sharing revenue with the government.
- Notably, this model allows the government to earn without direct financial investment.
Regional Impact
Tourism and Economy Boost
- With improved access, the Kedarnath region is expected to witness a rise in tourism, leading to new job opportunities in hospitality, retail, and logistics.
- Ancillary sectors, including transport and local crafts, will also benefit from increased pilgrim flow.
Local Employment and Connectivity
- The project is expected to generate employment both during construction and in long-term operations.
- Local people may be trained and hired for technical and service roles, promoting regional skill development.
Environmental and Social Considerations
- Building such a large infrastructure project in the ecologically sensitive Himalayas comes with challenges.
- Environmental clearances, minimal disruption to forest cover, and protection of local biodiversity will be critical.
- Moreover, the project must ensure that traditional livelihood sources, such as mule services and porters, are not adversely affected without alternatives.
Key Facts to Remember
- Distance: 12.9 km
- Cost: ₹4,081 crore
- Technology: 3S (Tri-cable Detachable Gondola)
- Time Saved: From 9 hours to 36 minutes
- Scheme: Parvatmala Pariyojana
- Capacity: 1,800 passengers/hour/direction
- Model: PPP; 6 years to build, 29 years operation by Adani