Discover Sonprayag to Kedarnath distance Route Km, time & pony booking

Embarking on the spiritual and physically demanding journey to the revered Kedarnath Temple is a dream for countless devotees. The last leg of the yatra, beginning from Sonprayag, is where the final ascent to the ‘Abode of Lord Shiva’ truly starts.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Sonprayag to Kedarnath distance, the official trek route, estimated travel time, and crucial information on Kedarnath pony booking for a smooth pilgrimage.

Sonprayag to Kedarnath Distance and Route Breakdown

While motor vehicles halt at Sonprayag, the actual trek begins a little further up, at Gaurikund. It’s essential to understand the two-part journey:

The total road and trekking distance from Sonprayag to Kedarnath is approximately 21-24 km.

The Trekking Route from Gaurikund

The Kedarnath trek route is well-paved, but involves a steep ascent. The entire trail is dotted with facilities like rest stops, small eateries, and medical posts. Key milestones on the Kedarnath trek route are:

1. Gaurikund to Jungle Chatti: ~4 km
2. Jungle Chatti to Bheembali: ~3 km
3. Bheembali to Lincholi: ~4 km
4. Lincholi to Kedarnath Base Camp: ~4 km
5. Kedarnath Base Camp to Temple: ~1 km (Final Walk)

 Estimated Kedarnath Trek Time

The Kedarnath trek time varies significantly based on your fitness level, mode of transport, and the time you take for breaks.

• On Foot: For a physically fit individual, the 16-18 km trek typically takes 6 to 8 hours one way. For those taking a slower pace or with moderate fitness, it can extend to 10 hours or more.
• By Pony: Traveling by pony is faster and reduces strain. The journey usually takes around 5 to 7 hours.
• By Palki/Dandi (Palanquin): This option is generally quicker and takes around 5 to 6 hours.

The trek is only permitted between 4:00 AM and 1:30 PM. Starting early from Gaurikund is crucial to reach Kedarnath before evening, as movement is restricted for safety reasons.

Kedarnath Pony Booking: Rates and Essential Tips

For pilgrims unable to complete the rigorous trek on foot, pony (mule), palki (doli), or kandi (basket) services are available. This is a crucial element of the yatra planning.

How to Book a Pony from Sonprayag/Gaurikund:

1. Booking Location: The official, pre-paid booking counters are located at Sonprayag and Gaurikund.
2. Timing: The counter typically opens early, around 5:00 AM. Arriving well before this time is highly recommended, especially during peak season (May/June), as slots fill up quickly.
3. Authentication: Always book from the authorized government counter to ensure official rates and to receive a valid license/slip for your journey. Avoid unauthorized booking agents.

Approximate 2024 Pony/Palki Rates (for reference):

Note: These rates are illustrative and subject to change by th

Sonprayag to Gaurikund Taxi Fare

• After securing the license and booking a pony, travel from Sonprayag to Gaurikund by local vehicle (Rs. 100 per person).
• The new route to Kedarnath is about 16 km, featuring jungle, slopes, bridges, fog, rain, rivers, waterfalls, and snow. It took us 5 hours to reach Kedarnath, followed by a 1 km walk to the temple, where we arrived at 1:00 pm.
  • • After a 2-hour wait in the queue, we had a good Darshan and began our return journey.

Sonprayag

Sonprayag is a religiously significant spot on the way to Kedarnath Dham. It is located at the confluence of the Basuki and Mandakini rivers, with ‘Prayag’ meaning confluence. Bathing at Prayags is considered holy in Hinduism, and it is believed to help attain ‘Moksha’.

Sonprayag offers stunning views of snow-covered mountains and the lush green Sonprayag valley. It is situated at an elevation of 1,829 meters above sea level. Nearby is the famous Triyuginarayan (Trijuginarayan) Temple in Triyugi village.

Location of Sonprayag: Sonprayag is located near Kedarnath, between Guptkashi and Gaurikund.

How to Reach Sonprayag:

• Sonprayag lies between Rudraprayag and Gaurikund on the way to Kedarnath. It is 8 km from Gaurikund, accessible by taxi, shared jeep, or bus from Rudraprayag.
• The nearest railway stations are Dehradun (251 km) and Rishikesh (212 km). The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun (226 km).

Gaurikund Kedarnath

Pony Booking Tips:

Our adventure began in Sonprayag, the gateway to Kedarnath. Our plan was to secure pony rides, but due to the busy season, affordable accommodations were scarce. Instead, we opted to stay in Sitapur for the night. Setting the alarm for 2 a.m., we were ready to head to Sonprayag to arrange our pony ride.

Ideal Starting Time from Gaurikund:

For the most enriching experience, start your journey from Gaurikund early in the morning. If you’re planning to stay overnight, ensure you reach Sonprayag by evening, as travel to Gaurikund after 9:00 p.m. is not permitted in many cases.

Getting a Pony:

• • • Booking a pony from Sonprayag starts at 5 a.m. However, it’s not guaranteed that you’ll get one even if you arrive early, as prior bookings by license holders can fill up the slots.
    • Negotiating with a license holder might be necessary to secure a pony.
    • If you’re up for an earlier start, consider booking from Gaurikund, but remember that travel from Sonprayag to Gaurikund is restricted after 9:00 p.m in some cases.

FAQ

• • • Sonprayag Locker Room: Yes Available
    • Sonprayag Car Parking Charges: INR 100 t0 INR  500
    • Distance from Sonprayag to Gaurikund; 5 km by road
    • Sonprayag to Gaurikund Taxi Timing: 5 am
    • Sonprayag Parking: Yes Available
    • Sonprayag to Kedarnath distance: 21 km