Nature · Gangtok

Ropeway ride from Deorali to Tashiling

A short cable-car ride across the steep face of Gangtok, from Deorali near the Tibetology institute to Tashiling beside the Secretariat. Under 10 minutes each way, it shows how the capital is stacked on its ridge, with the Kangchenjunga range on clear days.

Gangtok1,650M

Photo: Rudolph.A.furtado · CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Gangtok's ropeway opened on 24 December 2003. It runs for about 1 km between three stations: Deorali at the bottom, close to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Namnang in the middle, and Tashiling at the top, next to the Secretariat at roughly 1,890 m. Each car carries up to 24 people, and the ride takes a few minutes in each direction.

The point is the view. From the glass cabin you look straight down on the tin roofs, terraces and switchback roads of the town, and across the Ranikhola valley to Rumtek ridge. On a clear morning between October and March the Kangchenjunga range shows on the horizon. In the monsoon you may ride straight into cloud.

Queues build from late morning in peak season (May–June and October), so go when the ticket counter opens. Most people ride up and back from Deorali, but you can also ride one way and walk down through the Secretariat area towards MG Marg. Operations stop in high winds and for maintenance; check current status before you travel.

Good for

familiesfirst-timersseniorsphotographers

Questions travellers ask

Before you book

How much does the Gangtok ropeway cost?

Expect about ₹110–150 per adult for a return ride and less for small children; very young children often ride free. Fares are revised from time to time, so check current status before you travel. Tickets are sold at the Deorali and Tashiling stations, in cash or by UPI.

Is the Gangtok ropeway safe for seniors and children?

Yes. The cabins are enclosed, the ride is short and smooth, and staff manage boarding at each station. The main challenge is the steps and queue at the stations rather than the ride itself. People with a strong fear of heights may find the glass cabin uncomfortable.

Does the ropeway run in the monsoon?

It usually runs in the monsoon but stops in high winds, heavy storms or for maintenance. Views are often hidden by cloud between June and September. If the ride is a priority, plan it for your first clear morning, and keep a backup morning in your Gangtok days.

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