the upcoming Kedarnath ropeway project is expected to dramatically reduce travel time for lakhs of devotees visiting one of India’s holiest shrines.
The proposed 12.9-kilometre ropeway, which will connect Sonprayag to Kedarnath, has reached a key milestone with the opening of financial bids under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.The project, conceived under a national ropeway development initiative, has attracted interest from major infrastructure players. The financial bidding process concluded recently, and sources indicate that one of the country’s leading infrastructure conglomerates has emerged as the top bidder. The final confirmation is expected to be shared with state authorities shortly by the central implementing agency.
Once completed, the ropeway is expected to cut the current 16-kilometre uphill trek—often taking 8 to 9 hours—to a swift 30–36 minute aerial journey. This would not only make the pilgrimage significantly easier for senior citizens and people with limited mobility but also improve overall safety in the high-altitude terrain.
The plan includes constructing the ropeway in two phases. The first phase will cover a 9.7 km stretch from Gaurikund to Kedarnath, while the second phase spans 3.3 km from Sonprayag to Gaurikund. A total of 22 towers are expected to support the structure, and the initial carrying capacity is projected at 1,800 passengers per hour in each direction. This may later expand to 3,500 passengers per hour.
The ropeway will employ modern tri-cable detachable gondola technology, designed to function efficiently in mountainous terrains with minimal ecological disruption. Aerial and underground surveys for the route have already been completed, paving the way for the final phase of approvals and groundwork.
Government sources note that the project is being executed with strict environmental and safety protocols in place, and the alignment was selected after extensive geological, ecological, and religious consultations. The ropeway is also expected to generate significant employment in the local economy, particularly in logistics, hospitality, and support services.This infrastructure upgrade is part of a broader national vision to improve access to remote pilgrimage destinations and promote sustainable tourism. Once operational, the Kedarnath ropeway will likely serve as a model for future high-altitude ropeway systems in the region.
High-Speed Ropeway to Link Kedarnath Soon