The Girnar Ropeway (also known as Udan Khatola Girnar) is Asia’s longest ropeway, located on Mount Girnar in Junagadh district, Gujarat, India. This aerial cable car system provides easy access to the sacred Ambaji Temple (dedicated to Goddess Ambika) atop the mountain, making pilgrimage accessible for elderly visitors, families, and those unable to climb the steep steps. Mount Girnar is an ancient pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Jains, featuring numerous temples, including Jain tirths like the Neminath Temple.
Key Facts and Technical Details
- Length: 2,320 meters (approximately 2.3 km) — the longest ropeway in Asia.
- Elevation Gain: Reaches about 900 meters, equivalent to skipping around 5,000 steps (out of the total 9,999–10,000 steps to the summit).
- Ride Duration: 7–10 minutes one way.
- System: Mono-cable gondola detachable lifts (cable cars) with cabins holding 7–8 passengers each.
- Towers: 9 supporting towers; the tallest is 66 meters high, located around the 1,000th step.
- Capacity: Up to 800–1,000 passengers per hour; around 8,000 per day.
- Cost of Construction: ₹130 crore.
- Operator: Usha Breco Limited (under the brand Udan Khatola).
The ropeway starts from Girnar Taleti (base) and ends near the Ambaji Temple. From there, visitors can explore nearby Jain temples or continue climbing to higher points like Dattatreya Paduka.
History and Background
- Proposal: First proposed in 1983 by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL).
- Delays: Faced litigation from palanquin bearers (doli carriers) concerned about livelihoods (resolved with compensation), environmental concerns (risk to endangered long-billed vultures), and clearances from the National Board for Wildlife (2011) and Ministry of Environment (2016).
- Construction Start: September 2018.
- Inauguration: October 24, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi (virtually due to COVID-19).
- Significance: Built within the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, it has boosted tourism while preserving the site’s religious importance. Mount Girnar is believed to house 33 crore deities and hosts major festivals like Maha Shivratri and Girnar Lili Parikrama.
Ticket Prices and Booking (as of Dec’ 2025)
- Round Trip (Two-Way): ₹699/- (including GST)
- One-Way: ₹400 (including GST)
- Children (5–10 years): ₹350 (including GST)
- Official Booking: Through the Udan Khatola website (udankhatola.com). Book in advance, especially on weekends/festivals, as slots fill quickly.
- Tips: Online booking is recommended. Facilities include air-conditioned waiting halls, food courts, restrooms, and security checks.
Timings and Best Time to Visit
- Operating Hours: Generally 7:00 AM to 4:00–5:00 PM (may vary; confirm on official site).
- Best Season: November to February (cool weather for views and further trekking). Avoid monsoons due to potential closures.
- Closures: May halt due to strong winds or maintenance (e.g., reported in early 2025).
The ride offers stunning panoramic views of Junagadh city, forests, dams, and the ancient temples clustered on the mountain peaks.
Travel Tips
- How to Reach: Junagadh is well-connected by road/rail from Ahmedabad or Rajkot. Base is near Bhavnath Taleti.
- What to Expect: Smooth, quiet ride with breathtaking scenery. No plastic bottles allowed in some cases.
- Beyond the Ropeway: From Ambaji Temple, climb further for Jain temples (e.g., Neminath) or Dattatreya shrine.
- Accessibility: Great for seniors and kids; wheelchairs available.
- Recent Updates (2025): Occasional halts for weather; high visitor numbers (millions annually across Gujarat ropeways).
This ropeway has transformed access to one of Gujarat’s most sacred sites, blending modern convenience with ancient spirituality. For the latest details, check the official Udan Khatola site. Safe travels!
