Discover Sonprayag To Gaurikund Distance, Taxi Timing & Route

Sonprayag To Gaurikund Distance- Sonprayag and Gaurikund are two important places. They are located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.  Sonprayag sits at a distance of around 5 km from Gaurikund and serves as the starting point of the trek to Kedarnath, one of the most revered shrines of Lord Shiva.

Sonprayag Parking

To travel from Sonprayag to Gaurikund, you can take a shared taxi or a private taxi. The distance between Sonprayag and Gaurikund is only 5 km. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes by taxi. You can easily find taxis at Sonprayag, which operate throughout the day.

Note: There is no Bus service between Sonprayag to Gaurikund but Local Jeeps are available all the time.

Sonprayag to Gaurikund Trail

• Alternatively, you can also walk from Sonprayag to Gaurikund, which is a scenic and peaceful trail. The distance is short, and the walk should take around 1 hour, depending on your pace.
• The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is approximately 16 km and takes around 5-7 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level.
• Sonprayag to Gaurikund taxi timing: Taxis + Jeeps  from Sonprayag to Gaurikund run from around 3 AM until 7 PM during peak season (May and June). During other months, the timing depends on the number of pilgrims and traffic conditions
• Sonprayag to  Gaurikund distance is 5 km by road and Sonprayag to Gaurikund taxi price is from 100 to 150 depends upon rush and demand.
• Distance from Sonprayag to Kedarnath is 21 km ( 5 km road journey and 16 km trekking path )

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Gaurikund Kedarnath

After the unfortunate incident at the Kedarnath temple in June 2013, the authorities have restricted the movement of vehicles beyond Sonprayag.

As a result, the Sonprayag to Gaurikund taxi fare is approximately INR 100-150 per person, and shared taxis are readily available for this route. The scenic journey takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Uttarakhand, and the shared taxi ride can be a fun and engaging experience as you share the ride with other pilgrims.

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Self-Drive Car

If you choose to drive your own vehicle, make sure it has good ground clearance because there are rocks strewn all over the route. A powerful engine will make life much easier. The government has made a new parking space at Sonprayag for all vehicles. The new parking is very spacious and safe to park vehicles. There are shared jeeps that operate between Sonprayag and Gaurikund.

Medical Facilities along the trail

If you’re planning a visit to Kedarnath, it will be good to book Doctors’ appointments in Sonprayag beforehand. The government-run Medical Center is in Sonprayag. All the pilgrims receive their medical fitness certificates here. You can also book ponies and palkis from here. They are available at reasonable rates, although the price fluctuates depending on  demand and when you want to travel to Kedarnath and how many people you’re traveling with.

Sonprayag: A Sacred Stop on the Way to Kedarnath

Sonprayag is a place of great religious importance, located on the pilgrimage route to Kedarnath Dham. The name ‘Prayag’ refers to a confluence of rivers, and Sonprayag is the meeting point of the holy rivers Basuki and Mandakini. Bathing at such sacred confluences is believed to cleanse the soul, and many Hindus consider it a step toward achieving Moksha (liberation).

Sonprayag also offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the lush Sonprayag valley, sitting at an altitude of 1,829 meters above sea level. Nearby, the Triyuginarayan Temple in Triyugi village is another notable pilgrimage site, adding to the spiritual significance of the region.

Location of Sonprayag

Sonprayag is located on the way to Kedarnath, between Guptkashi and Gaurikund.

Gaurikund: Gateway to Kedarnath

Gaurikund, located at an altitude of 1,982 meters, serves as the starting point for the 14-kilometer trek to the sacred Kedarnath Temple. It is not only a major stop for pilgrims on their way to Kedarnath but also a place with deep mythological significance.

The name “Gaurikund” is derived from Goddess Gauri (Parvati), the consort of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu legends, Gauri performed penance here to win Lord Shiva’s love and eventually marry him. Their wedding took place nearby, making the area spiritually significant for devotees.

Trekking to Kedarnath

The trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath is a challenging yet rewarding experience. Pilgrims pass through breathtaking landscapes of verdant forests, streams, and rugged mountains. For those who are not keen on trekking, there are options to hire ponies or palanquins.

Alternatively, the government-run helicopter service ‘Pawan Hans’ provides an aerial route to the temple, making the journey faster and more convenient.

Thermal Springs of Gaurikund

Gaurikund is also known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims often bathe in these thermal springs before beginning their trek to Kedarnath, as part of a purification ritual. The warmth of the springs offers a soothing contrast to the cold mountain air.

Nearby Attractions

• Triyuginarayan Temple: Located near Gaurikund, this ancient temple is said to be the wedding venue of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple is known for its eternal flame, which has been burning since their union.
• Gandhi Sarovar: A small lake near Kedarnath, offering serene views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Mountain Treks: The region around Kedarnath is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. The trekking trails lead through untouched forests and majestic mountains, providing opportunities for both adventure and spiritual seekers.

Accommodation Options in Gaurikund

Gaurikund provides various accommodation choices for travelers, including:

• Dharamshalas: Simple, budget-friendly lodging options.
• Guest Houses: Comfortable and affordable stays.
• Hotels: Ranging from economical to mid-range, focusing on cleanliness and quality service.

Many pilgrims prefer to stay in Gaurikund to begin their trek early in the morning. These accommodations are well-managed, ensuring a hygienic environment for a hassle-free stay.

Climate in Gaurikund

• • Summer (May to June): The weather is pleasant, with average temperatures around 17°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and temple visits.
  • Monsoon: Heavy rainfall can lead to landslides, making travel to Kedarnath unsafe. It’s advisable to avoid visiting during this season.
  • Winter: Due to heavy snowfall, the Kedarnath Temple is closed, and the area becomes inaccessible.

Conclusion

The journey from Sonprayag to Gaurikund offers a hassle-free and convenient experience, providing travelers with two excellent options: taking a taxi or opting for a leisurely walk. Both choices cater to different preferences and circumstances, ensuring a pleasant trip for all.

How to Reach Sonprayag

• By Road: Sonprayag is accessible via road, located between Rudraprayag and Gaurikund. Gaurikund is just 8 km away, and taxis or shared jeeps are available for this stretch. Buses from Rudraprayag also serve this route.
• By Train: The nearest railway stations to Sonprayag are Rishikesh (212 km) and Dehradun (251 km).
• By Air: The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, located 226 km from Sonprayag.

FAQ

• Q. Sonprayag to Gaurikund distance by walk
• Ans.  Sonprayag to Gaurikund distance by walk is  5 km
• Q. Gaurikund to Kedarnath route
• Ans. 16 km trekking route
• Q. Sonprayag to Gaurikund distance by bus
• Ans. There are no buses between Sonprayag and Gaurikund; only taxi and Jeeps run on this route.
• Q. Sonprayag to Gaurikund Taxi
• Ans. Taxi and jeeps are available
• Q. Sonprayag Parking Charges: INR 100
• Sonprayag to Badrinath taxi fare: 

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