Most Popular Cable Car Rides (Ropeways) in Nepal
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Nepal is not just a paradise for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts; it’s also home to some breathtaking cable car rides that offer a unique perspective of its stunning landscapes. Imagine gliding high above lush valleys, glimmering rivers, and majestic mountains, all while soaking in panoramic views that seem straight out of a postcard. If you’re a traveler yearning for a mix of thrill and tranquility, a cable car ride in Nepal is an experience you won’t want to miss!
1. Chandragiri Cable Car
Chandragiri Hill offers another stunning viewpoint of the Himalayas and the Kathmandu Valley. If you’re looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu, the Chandragiri Cable Car is your ticket to tranquility. Just a 30-minute drive from the city, this cable car takes you up to Chandragiri Hill, offering mesmerizing views of the entire Kathmandu Valley and, on a clear day, the majestic peaks of the Annapurna and Langtang ranges. The ride lasts about 10 minutes, but the views are worth every second! Once at the top, you can enjoy a leisurely hike, have a meal at one of the restaurants, or simply soak in the breathtaking panorama.
| Cable Car Start Point | Thankot |
| Cable Car End Point | Chandragiri Hills |
| Cable Car Length | 2551 meters |
| Total no. of Towers | 20 |
| Total no. of Gondolas | 38 |
| Cabin Capacity | 8 |
| Total Duration | 10 minutes (approx) |
| Height | 2,551 meters from sea level |
| Operational hours | 8 AM – 9 PM |
2. Manakamana Cable Car
For a spiritual experience intertwined with adventure, the Manakamana Cable Car is a must-try. This 9-minute ride takes you from Kurintar to the revered Manakamana Temple, dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati. The journey provides stunning views of the Trishuli River and the surrounding hills. Legend has it that this temple fulfills the wishes of its devotees, making the cable car ride a pilgrimage of sorts. Be sure to explore the temple and savor some local snacks from the nearby stalls.
| Passengers | One way Fair (Per Person) | Round Trip Fair (Per Person) |
| Adult | NRP 450 | NRP 770 |
| Child (3 Feet+) | NRP 270 | NRP 460 |
| Student | NRP 340 | NRP 575 |
| Senior Citizens (60+) | NRP 340 | NRP 540 |
| Differently Abled | NRP 225 | NRP 385 |
| Indian Adult | INR 400 | INR 670 |
| Indian Child | INR 240 | INR 400 |
| Foreigners | USD 11 | USD 20 |
| Child Foreigner | USD 8 | USD 15 |
3. Kalinchowk Cable Car
The Kalinchowk Cable Car is a stunning aerial lift located in Dolakha District, about 150 kilometers from Kathmandu. This remarkable cable car ride takes you to the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple, perched at an elevation of 3,842 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges, including the Langtang and Gaurishankar peaks. The Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple in Dolakha, Nepal, is a well-known Hindu shrine. Most people go to the place in the winter to enjoy the snow as well as the beautiful scenery and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
| Cable Car Start Point | Kuri Bazar |
| Cable Car End Point | Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple |
| Cable Car Length | 950 meters |
| Total no. of Gondolas | 4 |
| Cabin Capacity | 8 |
| Total Duration | 6 minutes (approx) |
| Height | 3755 meters from sea level |
| Operational hours | 5 AM – 4 PM |
4. Annapurna Cable Car
The Annapurna Cable Car, located near the picturesque town of Pokhara, is an exciting new addition to Nepal’s scenic attractions. This cable car ride offers travelers breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range, including the iconic Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare peaks. From Sadibagar, on the shore of the Phewa Lake, visitors can travel 2.2 kilometers in nine minutes by cable car to Sarangkot Hill. Numerous activities, including a giant swing ride, a zipline, and the Sarangkot Viewpoint, are available at the summit.
| Cable Car Start Point | Phewa Lake |
| Cable Car End Point | Sedibagar, Sarangkot |
| Cable Car Length | 2200 meters |
| Total no. of Gondolas | 18 |
| Cabin Capacity | 8 |
| Total Duration | 10 minutes (approx) |
| Height | 1600 meters from sea level |
| Operational hours | 9 AM – 6 PM |
5. Lumbini Cable Car
The Lumbini Cable Car is a recently developed attraction in in the city of Butwal, Rupandehi district. The proximity of Butwal to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is well recognized. This cable car offers visitors a unique perspective of the sacred area, gliding above lush gardens, historical sites, and serene landscapes. The 6,000-person daily capacity monocable detachable system cable car runs from Bamghat in Butwal to Basantapur, Palpa.
| Cable Car Start Point | Balaghat, Butwal |
| Cable Car End Point | Basantapur,Palpa |
| Cable Car Length | 2600 meters |
| Total no. of Towers | 9 |
| Total no. of Gondolas | 25 |
| Cabin Capacity | 8 |
| Duration | 10 minutes (approx) |
| Height | 940 meters from sea level |
| Operational hours | 9 AM – 5 PM |
Practical Information for Travelers
Best Time to Visit
The best time to enjoy these cable car rides is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is clear, and the views are unobstructed. During these times, you’ll have the chance to see the magnificent snow-capped peaks without the haze of the monsoon season.
Accessibility
Most cable cars are easily accessible from major cities. Public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are readily available. If you’re looking for a more convenient option, consider hiring a private vehicle.
What to Bring
- Camera: You’ll want to capture those breathtaking views!
- Warm Clothing: It can get chilly at higher altitudes, even in warmer months.
- Snacks & Water: While some rides have facilities at the top, it’s always good to be prepared.
- Cash: Some sites may only accept cash, so it’s wise to have some local currency on hand.
Final Thoughts
Cable car rides in Nepal are not just a mode of transport; they are an experience that adds a whole new dimension to your travels. Whether you’re gliding above the lush landscapes of Langtang, exploring spiritual sites like Manakamana, or simply soaking in the serene views from Chandragiri, these rides offer a unique and memorable way to experience Nepal’s natural beauty.
So, buckle up and get ready to soar above the clouds, where the only limits are the heights you dare to reach! Your adventure awaits in the skies of Nepal!
