Gangtok Ropeway cable car ride
Gangtok Ropeway offers a short scenic cable car ride above the city of Gangtok, giving visitors panoramic views of the urban landscape, surrounding hills and (on clear days) the snow-capped Himalayan peaks including Kanchenjunga. The ride is ideal for families, photographers and travelers who want a quick high-altitude perspective of East Sikkim without a long trek.
Location
Deorali (lower station) to Tashiling / Rise Above Gangtok (upper station) - Gangtok Ropeway, Gangtok, India
Duration
10–15 minutes one-way; allow 20–40 minutes for round-trip including queuing and photo stops.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: March–May and September–November for clear skies and pleasant weather. Best times of day: early morning or late afternoon for the best light and clearer views of Kanchenjunga; avoid mid-day haze and heavy monsoon months (June–August).
Pricing
Typical fares (subject to change):
- Approx. INR 100–200 per person (one-way)
- Round-trip tickets or return fares are usually available for around INR 150–350
- Discounts may apply for children, seniors or groups; operators sometimes accept only cash at smaller counters — carry exact change and confirm current rates at the ticket counter or online.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Panoramic views of Gangtok city and surrounding ridgelines.
Chance to see Mt. Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks on clear days.
Aerial views of the Teesta valley and terraced slopes around Gangtok.
Short, accessible experience suitable for families and non-trekkers.
Great photo opportunities from the cabin and at lookout points at stations.
Itinerary
Arrive at the lower station (Deorali) and purchase tickets at the counter or use any available online booking. Expect a short queue during peak hours.
Carry ID if discounts are claimed; check opening hours and current fares.
Security check and boarding when called. Staff will assist with cabin assignments and entry.
Follow staff directions and stow bags as instructed. Keep valuables secure.
10–15 minute scenic ride up to the upper station with commentary or signboards at some points.
Keep windows clean for photos; avoid leaning out or placing hands near doors.
Disembark at the upper station for viewpoints, brief walking areas and photos.
Spend 10–20 minutes exploring viewpoints; refreshments may be available nearby.
Catch the cable car back to the lower station or proceed to nearby attractions in Gangtok.
Plan for peak return queues; allow extra time if you have onward travel.
Safety Requirements
Follow operator instructions and staff directions at all times.
Weight and passenger limits per cabin — children should be accompanied by an adult.
Cable car may close in high winds, heavy rain or low visibility — check weather before visiting.
No smoking, no leaning out of cabins and avoid bringing large/unstable luggage into the cabin.
If prone to motion sickness or acrophobia (fear of heights), take precautions (medication, travelling with a companion).
Tips
Book early in the morning for clearer views and smaller queues.
Carry a light jacket — it can be windy at higher elevation even on warm days.
Bring a camera or smartphone with a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots; keep lenses free of fingerprints on windows.
Carry small change or check for digital payment options; some counters may be cash-preferred.
If visiting during monsoon (June–August), call ahead as operations can be suspended.
Combine the ride with a short sightseeing loop of Gangtok (MG Marg, Flower Exhibition Centre, Enchey Monastery) for efficient use of time.
