Ropeway in Darjeeling
Discover Ropeway in Darjeeling
If you are looking for a unique and thrilling way to explore the scenic beauty of Darjeeling, then
you should not miss the ropeway or the cable car ride. The ropeway in Darjeeling is the first
cable car system in India, and it offers a spectacular view of the Himalayan range, the tea
gardens, the valleys, and the town. In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know
about the ropeway in Darjeeling, including the history, the route, the timings, the cost, the tips,
and the attractions.
History of the Ropeway in Darjeeling
The ropeway in Darjeeling was started in 1968, initially set up to cater to the tea gardens at the
valleys below, which did not have easy access. It was also a popular tourist attraction, as it gave
a bird’s eye view of the town and its surroundings. The ropeway consisted of 16 cable cars,
each having a capacity of six persons. The ropeway operated smoothly until 2003 when a tragic
accident occurred, killing four tourists and injuring 11 others. The ropeway was closed for safety
reasons and remained so for almost nine years. It was reopened in 2012, after thorough
renovation and upgrading. The new ropeway has 18 cable cars, each having a capacity of four
persons. The ropeway is now operated by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation
(WBFDC).
Route of the Ropeway in Darjeeling
The ropeway in Darjeeling covers a distance of 5 km, from Singamari to Tukvar. The Singamari
station is located at an altitude of about 7,000 ft, and it is about 3 km away from the Chowk
Bazaar, the main market center of Darjeeling. You can get a cab or a shared jeep from Chowk
Bazaar to reach Singamari in about 15 minutes. The Tukvar station is located at an altitude of
about 5,000 ft, near the Tukvar tea garden, one of the oldest tea estates in Darjeeling.
The ropeway ride takes about 45 minutes, offering a panoramic view of the valley around the river
Little Rangeet. You can see the lush green tea gardens, flowing rivers, forests, waterfalls, and
the snow-capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga and the Everest. You can also see landmarks of
the town, such as the Clock Tower, the Batasia Loop, the Ghoom Monastery, and the Toy Train.
Timings and Cost of the Ropeway in Darjeeling
The ropeway in Darjeeling operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM every day except Thursday,
when it is closed for maintenance. Tickets are available at the Singamari station, issued on a
first-come, first-served basis. The cost of the ticket is INR 200 per person for a round trip and
INR 100 per person for a one-way trip. You can also book your tickets online through the
WBFDC website. Online booking is available for a minimum of two persons and a maximum of
four persons. You can also choose your preferred time slot for the ride. Online booking is
advisable, saving you the hassle of waiting in long queues at the station.
Tips and Safety for the Ropeway in Darjeeling
The ropeway in Darjeeling is a safe and fun activity, as long as you follow some basic tips and
safety measures. Here are some of them:
The ropeway ride is subject to weather conditions and may be canceled or postponed in case of
rain, fog, or strong winds. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip and call the
station to confirm the availability of the ride.
The ropeway ride is not suitable for people who have a fear of heights, or who suffer from
vertigo, motion sickness, or heart problems. Consult your doctor before taking the ride and
inform the staff if you have any medical issues.
The ropeway ride has a weight limit of 250 kg per cable car and a height limit of 6 ft. Do not
exceed these limits, or you may face difficulty in boarding or exiting the cable car.
The ropeway ride has a luggage limit of 10 kg per person. Do not carry heavy or bulky items, or
you may have to leave them at the station. You can carry a camera or a phone with you, but
make sure they are securely attached to you or the harness. Do not drop or throw anything from
the cable car, as it may hurt someone or damage something on the ground.
The ropeway ride has a time limit of 45 minutes, and you have to return to the Singamari station
by the last cable car. Do not miss the last cable car, or you may have to take a taxi or a bus from
Tukvar to Darjeeling, which may cost you extra money and time.
The ropeway ride is a shared ride, and you may have to share the cable car with other
passengers. Be courteous and respectful to your fellow riders and do not cause any
inconvenience or disturbance to them.
The ropeway ride is a scenic experience, and you should enjoy the views and the experience.
Do not panic or scream, listen to the staff, and follow their instructions. If you feel uncomfortable
or sick, inform the staff immediately.
Attractions near the Ropeway in Darjeeling
The ropeway in Darjeeling is not just a ride but also a gateway to some of the attractions near
the stations. Here are some of the things that you can do near the ropeway in Darjeeling:
Visit the Tea Estates: You can visit the Tukvar tea estate, one of the oldest and largest tea
estates in Darjeeling. Take a guided tour of the tea factory, and see how the tea leaves are
processed after being plucked from the gardens. Taste and buy some of the finest Darjeeling
tea from the factory outlet.
Take a Trek through the Tea Gardens: Take a light trek through the beautiful green tea gardens
with well-laid paths. See the local women plucking tea leaves, and enjoy the views of the valley
and the mountains. Spot some wildlife, such as birds, butterflies, and monkeys, in the gardens.
Enjoy a Picnic at the Jamuney Ground: Enjoy a picnic at the Jamuney ground, a picturesque
place with a stream and a bridge. Relax and unwind in the natural surroundings, and enjoy
some snacks and drinks from the local stalls. Play some games, such as badminton, cricket, or
frisbee, at the ground.
Explore the Singla Bazar: Explore the Singla Bazar, a small market town at the bank of the
Ramman river. See the local life and culture, and buy some souvenirs and handicrafts from the
shops. Try some of the local delicacies, such as momos, thukpa, and sel roti, from the eateries.
The ropeway in Darjeeling is a must-do activity for anyone who visits the town. It is a great way
to experience the panoramic views that Darjeeling is famous for and to explore some of the
attractions near the stations. So, what are you waiting for? Book your rop
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Things To Do In Darjeeling
Explore More About Darjeeling
By Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), which is approximately 40 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Darjeeling.
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in Siliguri, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Darjeeling.
By Road:
- From Bagdogra (Airport): Taxis and cabs are readily available at Bagdogra Airport. You can also book a pre-paid taxi or opt for shared cabs.
- From New Jalpaiguri (NJP): Taxis and shared cabs are available at NJP for the journey to Darjeeling.
- Self-Drive: You can rent a car and drive to Darjeeling from nearby cities. The roads are generally well-maintained.
By Bus:
- Public Buses: Regular state-run and private buses operate from Siliguri (close to NJP and Bagdogra) to Darjeeling. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.
- Private Taxis and Cabs: You can hire a private taxi or cab to travel from Siliguri to Darjeeling.
By Toy Train: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular way to reach Darjeeling. It starts from Siliguri and takes a scenic route up to Darjeeling. The toy train ride is a unique and memorable experience.
By Helicopter: There are helicopter services available from Bagdogra to Darjeeling, providing a quicker and more scenic mode of transport.
Darjeeling is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are:
Spring (March to May):
Weather:
Spring brings pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C during the day. The tea gardens are lush and in full bloom, creating a vibrant landscape.
Autumn (October to November):
Weather:
Autumn offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures between 10°C to 20°C during the day. This season provides excellent visibility for enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.
You just need to choose your Package and come to Bagdogra rest will be handled by Etripto.in.
If you are coming through Train then you need to reach NJP (New Jalpaiguri Railway Station).If you are coming through flight then you can come to Bagdogra Airport.
You want to visit then September to June will be the proper time to visit Darjeeling.If you want to avoid high cost then don’t come in holiday dates.
You can explore Darjeeling Zoo, Ropeway,Tea Garden,Himalayan Mountaineer Institute and Tigerhills.
To visit Darjeeling 4 Days 3 Nights is the best plan in which you can explore Zoo,Tea Garden,Mountaineer Institute, Lamahata and Tinchuly.
Darjeeling is 85 Km away from Njp and it takes 6 hours to reach Darjeeling.
In Darjeeling you wont get snow rather you can get snow in Sikkim.
- Darjeeling is known as the “Champagne of Teas” due to its unique and exquisite flavor profile.
- The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest functioning steam engines in the world.
- Darjeeling is home to the highest tea estate in the world, the Thurbo Tea Estate, situated at an elevation of about 6,800 feet.
- The region’s climate and altitude contribute to the distinctive taste and aroma of Darjeeling tea, which is prized by tea connoisseurs globally.
- Darjeeling has breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas, making it a popular destination for tourists and trekkers.
- The Darjeeling Peace Pagoda, built by Japanese monks, is one of the 30 Peace Pagodas around the world and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling is dedicated to the conservation of endangered Himalayan species like the red panda and snow leopard.
- Darjeeling’s diverse cultural heritage is reflected in its population, which includes a blend of Nepali, Tibetan, Bhutia, and Bengali communities.
- The Darjeeling Ropeway, one of the oldest cable cars in India, provides stunning aerial views of the valley and the Himalayan peaks.
- Tenzing Norgay, one of the first two men to reach Mount Everest’s summit in 1953, was born and raised in Darjeeling.