Gondola rides aren’t just about getting from one place to another — in India, they’re a full-fledged experience. From snow-capped Himalayan peaks to sparkling lakes and sprawling tea estates, these rides offer breathtaking views and unforgettable memories.
Here are some of the most scenic cable car rides in India you should add to your travel bucket list:
1. Gulmarg’s Snowy Peaks (Jammu & Kashmir)
The Gulmarg Gondola is among the highest cable cars in the world, whisking visitors up the snow-clad slopes of the Himalayas. The ride operates in two phases — from Gulmarg to Kongdoori Station and then up to Apharwat Peak.
In winter, it becomes a paradise for skiers as the entire valley turns into a snowy wonderland. The views of towering peaks from the gondola are truly unmatched.
2. Nainital’s Serene Lake Views (Uttarakhand)
Nainital’s aerial ropeway offers travelers a short yet stunning ride from Mallital to Snow View Point, overlooking the emerald-green Naini Lake and surrounding hills.
Perfect for families, this gondola ride provides postcard-worthy photo opportunities and a peaceful escape amid Uttarakhand’s lush greenery.
3. Auli’s Majestic Mountain Vistas (Uttarakhand)
Auli is famous for its 4-kilometer-long ropeway, one of the longest in Asia, connecting Joshimath with Auli.
As the gondola glides above oak forests and snowy slopes, passengers are treated to sweeping views of the Himalayas, including the majestic Nanda Devi peak. It’s a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
4. Darjeeling’s Tea Garden Panorama (West Bengal)
Darjeeling’s Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car takes you over rolling tea estates and villages, offering a bird’s-eye view of the lush valleys below.
The ride runs between Singamari Base Station and Tukvar Tea Estate, giving travelers not just scenic vistas but also a glimpse of daily life in the tea gardens.
Whether you’re chasing snow adventures in Gulmarg, soaking up serene lake views in Nainital, or gliding above tea gardens in Darjeeling, these gondola rides turn travel into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
5. Gangtok’s Sky-High City Ride (Sikkim)
The Gangtok Ropeway is a major tourist draw, offering a thrilling aerial view of the vibrant hill town and its surrounding mountains.
Running from Deorali to Tashiling, this cable car ride lets travelers soak in panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range on clear days. It’s also one of the most easily accessible gondolas in India.
6. Solang Valley Adventure Ride (Himachal Pradesh)
Near Manali, the Solang Valley cable car is a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. The ride takes you above lush valleys and snow-dusted slopes, serving as a gateway to skiing, paragliding, and trekking activities.
Whether in summer or winter, the views of towering peaks and sprawling meadows make this ride unforgettable.
From Kashmir to the Northeast, India’s gondola rides capture the country’s diverse landscapes in the most thrilling way possible. So next time you plan a getaway, don’t just trek or drive — take to the skies!