Sonprayag

Sonprayag is a small hamlet in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district, located 5 kilometres from Gaurikund, 25 kilometres from Kedarnath, and 72.7 kilometres from Rudraprayag. It is located at an elevation of 1829 metres. Sonprayag is a religious site located on the way to Kedarnath Dham.

Sonprayag is located at the confluence of two holy rivers, the Basuki and the Mandakini. People commonly believe that bathing in the river can wash away their sins. Sonprayag, surrounded by snowcapped peaks, attracts a large number of visitors. The snow peaks and river streams add a majestic charm to this tranquil setting. Triyuginarayan, said to be the marriage site of Lord Shiva and Parvati, is about 8 kilometres from Sonprayag.

Sonprayag – Starting Point of Kedarnath Yatra

Sonprayag is the base camp for Kedarnath Yatra as all Private and Commercial Bus, Taxi, Cars are not allowed to go further beyond Sonprayag. Pilgrims can park vehicles in Sonprayag Parking space and take shared taxi to reach Gaurikund for Kedarnath Yatra trek of 20 kms.

Gaurikund is 5 kms from Sonprayag and rotational shared taxi service is available from Sonprayag throughout the day during Chardham Yatra. Pilgrism can also take Heli Services to Kedarnath from Phata, Sersi and Guptkashi which falls before Sonprayag.

About Sonprayag History and Mythology

This is the combination of the Basuki and Mandakini rivers. This place has great religious significance due to the holy water of its rivers and is located on the way to Kedarnath. It is believed that the first step of Baikunth Dham is simply touching the water of Sonprayag. Kedarnath and Badrinath are located near Sonprayagh, which is one of the holiest places in Hindu culture and is also known as a small char Dham. Sonprayag is well-known for its spectacular view of the Himalayas. It’s a religious site. Sonprayag has a unique significance. The word “Prayag” means “combination.” It is a well-known location where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married.

Places to Visit in Sonprayag

The following are some popular places to visit in Sonprayag:

• Triyuginarayan Temple: The Triyuginarayan temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the village of Triyuginarayan, about 14 kilometres from Sonprayag. This temple is said to be the location of Shiva and Parvati’s wedding, which Lord Vishnu witnessed. It is a holy location that everyone should visit.
• Gandhi Sarovar: It is a lovely lake with crystal clear water. At Gandhi Sarovar, one can spend and enjoy their time. Gandhi Sarovar is located about 4 kilometres from Kedarnath in Sonprayag, Garhwal, at an elevation of 3,900 metres.
• Vasuki Tal: According to Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu bathed in this lake on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. As a result, it was given the name Vasuki Tal. Vasuki Tal also offers a breathtaking view of the Chaukhamba peaks. Tourists are drawn here by the scenic view of the Himalayan ranges and the tranquil lake. Aside from that, the areas surrounding Vasuki Tal are ideal for trekking. Vasuki Tal Lake is an 8-kilometer trek from Kedarnath.
• Gaurikund: Gaurikund is a temple in the Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 6502 metres. The temple was named after Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s wife, also known as Gauri, who performed penance involving yoga and meditation in order to win Lord Shiva’s heart. This temple retains its religious aspect for visitors to enjoy.

Sonprayag During Chardham Yatra

Sonprayag is the prime and main location for the Kedarnath temple and trek, where pilgrims can spend the night before beginning their Char Dham yatra to the Kedarnath temple. Sonprayag is the final roadhead to Kedarnath, from where pilgrims continue their journey to Kedarnath on shared taxi . Several areas have been preserved in order to preserve the beauty of nature and prevent extinction of flora and fauna.

Chardham Distance Chart from Sonprayag

Kedarnath Route from Sonprayag

From Sonprayag – Park Vehicle, Take Shared Taxi to Gaurikund (5 kms) – Start 20 kms Trek to Kedarnath from Gaurikund

Top 5 Places to Stay in Sonprayag

During the Char Dham Yatra, Sonprayag has few lodging options. The hotels, resorts, and guest houses in Sonprayag are listed below.

1) Dhariwal Hotel, Sonprayag:

One of the best budget hotels in Sitapur, Sonprayag is Hotel Dhariwal. It is on the way to the Kedarnath temple. You can get an hour-long overview of the stunning Mandakini Valley and Mountain Range.

Address: Sitapur, Sonprayag, Uttarakhand.

2) JPG Palace Hotel, Sonprayag:

Hotel JPG Palace is an excellent value for money in Sitapur, Sonprayag. It’s only 1km before the parking lot in Sonprayag. JPG Palace has one, two, three, and four-bed rooms. All rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. JPG Palace also provides dining and parking.

Address: Sitapur, Sonprayag, NH-109, Kedarnath Road

3) Kedar River Retreat, Sonprayag:

The Kedar River Retreat is one of the best Sonprayag Resorts/Hotels. Their rooms and suites face the river, providing guests with a one-of-a-kind and enchanting view. However, they guarantee that their staff will provide you with high-quality services while remaining friendly and professional.

Address: NH-107, Kedarnath Road, Sitapur, Sonprayag.

4) Narayan Valley Resort, Sonprayag:

The Narayan Valley Resort is located at an elevation of 2600 metres above sea level. The suite is designed in such a way that the natural beauty provides more peace of mind, and we also have a view from our room that you would never have imagined. All of our cottages, huts, and suites have been designed to provide guests with a high level of comfort and luxury.

Address: Triugi Narayan Sonprayag Rd, Sonprayag.

5) Shivalik Valley Resort, Sonprayag:

Shivalik Valley Resorts is one of the best Sonprayag resorts/hotels. The hillside hotel, which has a great view of the mountains and a vegetarian restaurant, has simple rooms. The resort provides excellent services. In addition to the luxury resort facilities and services.

Address: NH-58, Village-Sitapur, Sonprayag.

How to Reach Sonprayag

Sonprayag is well connected to most of Uttarakhand’s important towns and cities. Although Sonprayag is well connected by roads, there are no airports or railway stations. Many pilgrims visit Sonprayag for religious reasons between September to November because it is the starting point for the Kedarnath Temple Yatra. Sonprayag is best visited between September to November, and April to June. The weather is cold during the winter season. You can easily get here by taking public transportation or driving your own car.