Have you ever dreamed of flying over the majestic Himalayas and witnessing the beauty of Gangtok from a bird’s eye view? If yes, then you should not miss the Gangtok Ropeway, the exhilarating cable car ride that takes you on a breathtaking journey in the sky.
The Gangtok Ropeway is one of the most popular and unique attractions in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. It is a 1 km long ropeway that connects three stations: Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling. The ropeway ride lasts for about 15 minutes and offers spectacular views of the cityscape, the valleys, the rivers, and the snow-capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga range.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Gangtok Ropeway, such as its history, significance, timings, price, tips, views, attractions, and more. We will also recommend some other things to do in Gangtok that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple, a family, or a group, you will find something for everyone in this ultimate guide to enjoy the sky ride.
History and Significance of the Gangtok Ropeway
The Gangtok Ropeway was inaugurated in 2003 by the then Chief Minister of Sikkim, Pawan Kumar Chamling. The ropeway was built with the aim of boosting the tourism and development of Gangtok, as well as providing an alternative mode of transportation for the locals.
The Gangtok Ropeway is the first of its kind in Sikkim and the second in Northeast India. It is also one of the highest ropeways in Asia, with an elevation of 3500 meters above sea level. The ropeway has a capacity of 24 passengers per cabin and can carry up to 720 passengers per hour.
The Gangtok Ropeway is not only a fun and thrilling experience, but also a significant one. It showcases the rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty of Gangtok and Sikkim. It also provides a glimpse of the history and development of the city, as you can see the contrast between the old and new buildings, the traditional and modern lifestyles, and the rural and urban landscapes.
Timings, Price, and Tips for the Gangtok Ropeway
If you are planning to take the Gangtok Ropeway, here are some essential information and details that you need to know:
The Gangtok Ropeway operates from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm every day, except on Sundays and public holidays.
The ticket price for the Gangtok Ropeway is Rs. 120 per person for a round trip and Rs. 70 per person for a one-way trip. You can buy the tickets at any of the three stations. The tickets are valid for the same day only and are non-refundable and non-transferable.
The Gangtok Ropeway has a limited capacity and a high demand, so you may have to wait in a queue for your turn. The waiting time may vary depending on the season, the day, and the time of your visit. It is advisable to reach the station at least 30 minutes before your desired time slot.
The best time to visit the Gangtok Ropeway is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is clear and the views are stunning. You can also visit the ropeway during the spring season, from April to June, when the flowers are in full bloom and the valleys are green and lush.
Views and Attractions from the Gangtok Ropeway
One of the main reasons to take the Gangtok Ropeway is to enjoy the spectacular and panoramic views that it offers. From the cabin, you can see the entire city of Gangtok and its surroundings, as well as the majestic mountains and the serene valleys. You can also spot some of the main attractions and landmarks of Gangtok and Sikkim, such as:
1. The Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world and the highest peak in India. It is also the guardian deity of Sikkim and a sacred site for the Buddhists and the Hindus. The Kanchenjunga is visible from all the three stations of the ropeway, but the best view is from the Namnang station, which is the highest point of the ropeway. You can see the snow-capped peak of the
2. The Rumtek Monastery, the largest and the most important monastery in Sikkim and the seat of the Karmapa Lama, the head of the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The Rumtek Monastery is located on a hill opposite to the Gangtok city, and is visible from the Deorali station of the ropeway.
3. The MG Marg, the main street and the heart of Gangtok. It is a pedestrian-only zone that is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments. The MG Marg is also the venue for many festivals and events, such as the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival, the Gangtok Winter Carnival, and the New Year Celebration. The MG Marg is visible from the Tashiling station of the ropeway, which is the lowest point of the ropeway.
4. The Flower Exhibition Centre, a botanical garden that showcases the rich and diverse flora of Sikkim. It is located near the Tashiling station of the ropeway, and is visible from the cabin as you descend from the Namnang station. You can see the variety of flowers and plants, such as orchids, rhododendrons, roses, lilies, and more, that are arranged in beautiful patterns and designs.
Other Things to Do in Gangtok
The Gangtok Ropeway is not the only thing to do in Gangtok. There are many other activities and experiences that you can do in Gangtok, such as:
1. Trekking: Gangtok is a paradise for trekkers, as it offers many trails and routes that lead to some of the most scenic and adventurous destinations in Sikkim. You can trek to the Tsomgo Lake, the Nathula Pass, the Tashi View Point, the Banjhakri Falls, and more. You can also trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp, which is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the world.
2. Rafting: If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, you can try rafting on the Teesta River, which is the lifeline of Sikkim. The Teesta River offers some of the best rapids and currents for rafting in India, ranging from grade 1 to grade 4.
3. Shopping: If you are a shopaholic, you will love shopping in Gangtok, as it has a variety of shops, markets, and malls that sell everything from souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, accessories, books, electronics, and more.
4. Eating: If you are a foodie, you will love eating in Gangtok, as it has a variety of cuisines, restaurants, cafes, and street food that cater to every taste and budget. You can try the local delicacies of Sikkim, such as momos, thukpa, phagshapa, sel roti, chhurpi, and more. You can also try the Tibetan, Nepali, Chinese, Indian, and continental cuisines that are available in Gangtok.
5. Exploring: If you are a curious and adventurous traveller, you will love exploring Gangtok, as it has many attractions and places that will amaze and inspire you. You can visit the Enchey Monastery, which is a 200-year-old monastery that is dedicated to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Gangtok Ropeway is one of the best things to do in Gangtok, as it offers a thrilling and memorable experience in the sky. It is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Gangtok, as it showcases the beauty and charm of the city and the mountains. It is also a convenient and affordable way to see the main attractions and landmarks of Gangtok and Sikkim.
In this article, we have told you everything you need to know about Gangtok Ropeway, such as its history, significance, timings, price, tips, views, attractions, and more. We have also recommended some other things to do in Gangtok, such as trekking, rafting, shopping, eating, and exploring. We hope that this article has helped you plan your trip and enjoy your stay in Gangtok.
