At over a mile long, the Dharamshala-Mcleod Ganj Ropeway offers both transport and a fun ride through this cultural mecca. Also known as the Dharamshala Skyway, you can access Mcleod Ganj in only 9 minutes instead of a more than 20-minute drive. Get to know this man-made wonder so that you can include it on your next vacation itinerary.
A Practical Yet Scenic Ride
This ropeway connects Mcleod Ganj to the main section of Dharamshala. Because many people stay in Dharamshala and travel to Mcleod Ganj, it makes practical sense to install a transport that moves up to 1,000 people per hour. As you ascend the mountainside, enjoy a valley view and a look at the hillside forest. Because there are windows throughout each gondola, you can take photos and stare at the landmarks from nearly every angle. Finally, end your ride in Mcleod Ganj, which is home to the Dalai Lama. At day's end, a quick ride back down the mountain gives you a chance to absorb everything you encountered previously.
Examining the Logistics
This skyway has a technical description; it's a mono-cable detachable gondola technological system. In short, a single rope strung across 10 towers allows multiple gondolas to move up and down the mountainside. At the base and peak, two stations support riders who hop on and off as needed.
With construction starting in 2018, this transport system relied on both public and private funds. So far, it's thrilled both locals and visitors alike. In the future, more ropeways might appear across India, which assists everyone with commutes and leisurely travel.
Improving the Environment
One of the main reasons to create this skyway was environmental improvement. Indeed, driving by car between Dharamshala and Mcleod Ganj is necessary for many locals. Add in tourist traffic, and the vehicles' fumes create poor air quality. By providing this alternative pathway, fewer cars take to the streets between these two destinations.
In addition, the skyway also improves the quality of life for many locals with a faster commute time. In response, locals can enjoy more personal time, which leads to a happier community than before. Overall, the environment as a whole improves drastically with this transport option.
What to Expect
These gondola designs are common around the world. A single arm connected to the gondola moves across a ropeway at a steady pace. Because the gondola hangs from a single point, there will be a slight, side-to-side motion. Ideally, remain sitting for the entire ride to avoid swinging the gondola.
Currently, a round-trip ride costs 500 rupees per person. Alternatively, choose a one-way ticket for only 300 rupees per person. As the ropeway gains popularity, there might be other ticket choices in the future. For example, locals might qualify for a discount to encourage them to use the ropeway instead of the roads.
With colorful gondolas dotting the ropeway's line, this transportation option continues to thrill both locals and visitors alike. Consider a round-trip journey when you want to see where the Dalai Lama resides. Overall, the ride and cultural experience are worth the time on your next vacation.
