8 Best Ropeways in India – A Must Visit

Riding on a ropeway or a gondola has always been a fascinating experience for me. The views witnessed are incredible. In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of a place. I never miss the gondola rides if I happen to visit any tourist destination; where there is an opportunity to experience such a ride. In this article, I want to share the best ropeways in India; offering a unique and exciting feeling over the mountains, rivers, forests and waterfalls.

Gulmarg Gondola in Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir, the Paradise on Earth, is bestowed with Nature's enigmatic aura. Snow-capped mountains entice the heart and soul of travel enthusiasts. Riding on a ropeway and experiencing its stunning charm is heavenly. The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the spectacular ropeways in India; gifting the opportunity to witness the exotic beauty of this wonderland.

It is the highest cable car in Asia and second highest in the world. The ride covers a total stretch of 2.5 km. The first stage is from Gulmarg resort to Kongdori valley. The second stage is from Kongdori valley to Apparwath. The total elapsed time of the entire journey is approximately 20 minutes at an altitude of 4200 meters.

Solang Valley Cable Ride in Himachal Pradesh

Majestic mountains, gorgeous valleys, pristine hamlets, deep gorges and lush greenery adorn the lands of Himachal Pradesh. Swaying and floating atop them is an experience to nourish and treasure. The Solang valley cable ride is one of the stunning ropeways in India. The valley itself is remarkably embellished with the magnificent views of Mother Nature.

The cable ride initiates from the valley and terminates at Mount Phatru; ascending to an altitude of about 3200 meter. You cannot stop gazing at the breathtaking views of the panoramic landscape; encircled with the gushing streams and the majestic mountain peaks.

Auli Cable Car Ride in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, the Land of Gods and a Haven of Beauty, entices tourists from all over India and abroad. The glittering lakes, the serene plains, the dense forests and the looming mountains are its treasures. The Auli cable car ride is one of the exceptional ropeways in India.

The cable car is India's longest and Asia's second longest one. It traverses an approximate distance of 4 km; the elapsed travel time being 20 minutes. The ride starts from Joshimath and ends at Auli. The best part of the ride is the splendid views of the gigantic Himalayan ranges. One can see the Nanda Devi peak from the ride.

Darjeeling Ropeway in west bengal

The Queen of the Hills, Darjeeling, is an astounding hill station in the state of West Bengal. It is close to my heart too as I belong to this state. The terraced sloping tea gardens, the misty clouds, the lush green valleys, and the snow-capped mountains entangle the wonderland. Such is its charisma that you feel like returning to this place over and over again. You can imagine what an awesome experience it will be, traversing over this dreamland in a ropeway.

I had a similar feeling the moment I boarded on to it, one of the finest ropeways in India. The ropeway is an old one, ascending at a towering altitude of 7000 feet. The ride originates from Singamari and ends at Singla Bazaar.

Malampuzha Udan Khatola in Kerala

Kerala, God's own country, has a plethora of astonishing sightseeing spots at its store. The fascinating golden beaches, the enticing backwaters, the vast tea and coffee plantations, and its wildlife sanctuaries attract thousands and thousands of nature lovers every year. The Malampuzha Udan Khatola in Kerala brings all into one table. It is one of the scenic ropeways in India.

The word Udan Khatola is the colloquial representation of a Cable car. The ride lasts for 20 minutes approximately over the Malampuzha dam. You can watch the scintillating views of the sprinkling fountains, vibrant flower gardens and the stunning greenery.

Rajgir Ropeway in Bihar

Rajgir is a beautiful picturesque city of Bihar in the eastern part of India. Its natural beauty is immense. The place has a lot of historical and religious significance. Old ancient temples and stupas are located at hilltops. Accessing them via hiking or cable car is a different experience altogether. The Rajgir ropeway provides a unique opportunity to ascend the mountain slopes to reach the Vishwashanti Stupa.

Accommodating only one person, the ropeway is a splendid experience. It is one of the oldest ropeways in India. The stupa is located atop Ratnagiri Hills at a height of 1000 meters; the total travelling time being only 7 mins.

Gangtok Ropeway in Sikkim

Sikkim is indeed a heaven in disguise. Snow-capped mountains, enchanting landscape, the glaciers and the pristine meadows are captivating. A bird's eye view of this dazzling landscape is a memorable experience. If you really want to witness it you must avail the Gangtok Ropeway.

The ride initiated from the market of Deorali and halts at 2 locations. One is at Namnang and other is at Tashiling. It reaches a height of almost 3500 meters, travelling a distance of 1 km. You will be mesmerized to watch the ravishing Mt Kanchenjunga and its adjacent picturesque surroundings.

Mahakali Ropeway in Gujarat

The state of Gujarat is popular for its auspicious temples and the majestic view of the Arabian Sea. One of the famous tourist destinations is the Mahakali Temple. It is considered extremely pious and divine by the devotees. Pilgrims from various parts of the state and India arrive to seek blessings and offer their prayers. The temple is located at a hilltop on the Pavagadh hills.

The Mahakali Ropeway is assessed by most to reach the temple. It stretches for a length of 1 km, traversing across the lush green hill slopes and mountain forests.

Well there are more ropeways in India which are a great tourist attraction. You must embark of them and soak into the beauty of nature.