From Gulmarg To Gangtok: 10 Ropeways That Redefine Scenic Travel In India
Ropeways in India are more than just a mode of transport; they’re gateways to breathtaking aerial views of snow‑clad peaks, lush valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and forests. Hop into a cable car and glide above landscapes that would otherwise take hours of trekking to reach. Here are 10 of the most spectacular ropeways across the country.
Yangang, Sikkim: Stretching 3.5 km, the Yangang ropeway in South Sikkim connects Dhapper to Bhaleydhunga, the highest point on the ridge. What once required a gruelling 4-5 hour trek can now be reached in just 10 minutes. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers, nearby towns like Yangang and Ravangla, and on clear days, the mighty Kanchenjunga and Pandim peaks.
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir: The Gulmarg Gondola is Asia’s highest operating cable car, soaring to 4,200 m. It runs from Gulmarg resort to Kongdori valley, and then onward to Apharwat Peak. With snow‑covered mountains and forests all around, the ride feels like stepping into a winter wonderland.
Manali, Himachal Pradesh: From Solang Valley to Mt. Phatru, this 10‑minute ropeway ride is short but unforgettable. Just 15 km from Manali town, the cable car offers breathtaking Himalayan vistas that will leave you spellbound within minutes.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand: The Gun Hill ropeway is one of Mussoorie’s most popular attractions. Starting from The Mall, it takes you to a viewpoint offering a 360‑degree panorama of the Himalayas. Sunset rides are especially magical, with Bandarpunch peak visible on clear evenings.
Gangtok, Sikkim: This 1 km ropeway begins at Deorali market and stops at Namnang and Tashiling stations. The highlight is the uninterrupted view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, framed by Gangtok’s colourful rooftops and misty skies.
Udaipur, Rajasthan: The Mansapurna Karni Mata Ropeway connects Deendayal Upadhyay Park to the Karni Mata Temple atop Machhala Hill. Along the way, you’ll see Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Sajjangarh Fort, and the City Palace, all set against the Aravalli hills.
Auli, Uttarakhand: At 3,010 m above sea level, the Auli ropeway links the ski resort town to Joshimath, the winter seat of Badrinath. Combine skiing or paragliding with this cable car ride for a full day of Himalayan adventure.
Nalanda, Bihar: The Rajgir Ropeway is unique, each traveller gets a single‑seater cable car. It ascends Ratnagiri Hill, ending at the 40 m tall Vishwashanthi Stupa. The ride offers serene views of lush greenery and a peaceful finale at the hilltop.
Darjeeling, West Bengal: The Rangeet Valley Cable Car runs from Singamari to Singla Bazaar at 2,133 m. Below, you’ll see rolling hills, waterfalls, streams, and Darjeeling’s famous tea gardens stretching endlessly.
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: The Jakhu Ropeway is a six‑minute ride to Jakhu Temple, believed to be the oldest Hanuman temple in India. Along with snow‑covered hills, you’ll spot the towering 108 ft statue of Hanuman at over 2,000 m altitude.
