Varanasi Ropeway Ticket Price: The Varanasi Ropeway is one of India’s most awaited urban transport projects, set to change how pilgrims, tourists, and locals move through the narrow, crowded lanes of Kashi. From dramatically cutting travel time to offering stunning aerial views of temples and ghats, this cable car system is designed to blend heritage with modern mobility.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | ~3.75 km |
| Number of Stations | 5 |
| Travel Time | ~16 minutes |
| Expected Ticket Price | ₹100–₹150 |
| Current Status | Under construction |
| Expected Launch | Mid-2026 |
Current Status of the Varanasi Ropeway (December 2025 Update)
The Varanasi Ropeway is currently under construction and not yet operational. As of December 2025, trial activities and station development are in advanced stages. The project is expected to be commissioned by mid-2026, subject to safety certifications and final approvals.
Once launched, it will become India’s first urban public ropeway transport system, easing congestion between Varanasi Cantt Railway Station and the city’s most sacred zones near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
What Is the Varanasi Ropeway?
The Varanasi Ropeway (also called the Varanasi Cable Car Project) is a public transport system designed to carry passengers in enclosed gondolas above the city. It aims to:
- Reduce traffic congestion
- Improve last-mile connectivity
- Support eco-friendly, low-noise travel
- Enhance the pilgrimage and tourism experience
The ropeway is a key pillar of the Varanasi Smart City initiative.
Varanasi Ropeway Route & Stations
The ropeway will span approximately 3.75 km and connect five major stations:
1) Varanasi Cantt Railway Station (Start/End Point)
The primary boarding hub for tourists and commuters arriving by train.
2) Kashi Vidyapeeth (Bharat Mata Mandir)
Serves the university area and nearby residential neighborhoods.
3) Rath Yatra Junction
Located at a major traffic intersection, offering access to important roads and temples.
4) Girja Ghar Junction (Technical Station)
A non-passenger station used only for operations; boarding and exiting will not be allowed.
5) Godowlia Chowk (Start/End Point)
Situated close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashashwamedh Ghat, placing passengers right in the spiritual heart of the city.
Travel Time: Ropeway vs Road
One of the ropeway’s biggest advantages is speed:
- Road travel (Cantt → Godowlia): 45–50 minutes (often longer during peak hours)
- Ropeway travel: ~16 minutes (end to end)
This time saving will be especially valuable during festivals, weekends, and high pilgrimage seasons.
Varanasi Ropeway Ticket Price (Expected)
While the final fare structure will be announced closer to the launch, authorities have indicated a budget-friendly pricing model.
Expected ticket price:
- One-way fare: ₹100 – ₹150 per person
The pricing is designed to remain affordable for daily commuters while still offering premium convenience to tourists and pilgrims.
Ticket Price by Passenger Category (Expected)
Although official concessions are yet to be notified, the following are likely based on similar urban transport systems:
- General passengers: ₹100–₹150
- Local commuters: Possible discounted daily or monthly passes
- Students & senior citizens: Expected concession fares
- Children: Reduced fare or free travel below a certain age (to be announced)
How to Buy Varanasi Ropeway Tickets
Once operational, ticket booking is expected to be simple and largely digital:
- Ticket counters at ropeway stations
- Official ropeway or government mobile app
- Online booking portals
- QR-based or paperless digital tickets
Online booking may be encouraged during peak seasons to manage crowds efficiently.
Operating Timings & Gondola Frequency (Expected)
- Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Gondola frequency: Every 90 seconds
- Capacity: Thousands of passengers per hour (both directions)
Early mornings and evenings are likely to be the most popular for scenic views and comfortable weather.
Is the Varanasi Ropeway Worth the Ticket Price?
Yes—especially for pilgrims, senior citizens, and first-time visitors.
For a modest fare, the ropeway offers:
- Traffic-free travel
- Significant time savings
- Comfortable, safe cabins
- Panoramic views of ghats, temples, and old Varanasi
- Direct access to major religious landmarks
It’s not just transport—it’s a new way to experience Kashi.
Venue
FAQs
Is the Varanasi Ropeway operational right now?
No. As of December 2025, the Varanasi Ropeway is still under construction. Commercial operations are expected to begin by mid-2026, after trials and safety approvals.
What is the expected ticket price for the Varanasi Ropeway?
The expected one-way ticket price is around ₹100–₹150 per person. Final fares will be officially announced before launch.
How long will the ropeway journey take?
The full journey from Varanasi Cantt Railway Station to Godowlia Chowk is expected to take about 16 minutes, compared to 45–50 minutes by road.
How many stations does the Varanasi Ropeway have?
The ropeway will have five stations: Varanasi Cantt, Kashi Vidyapeeth, Rath Yatra, Girja Ghar (technical station), and Godowlia Chowk.
Can passengers board or exit at Girja Ghar station?
No. Girja Ghar is a technical station only, and passengers will not be allowed to board or exit there.
Will there be discounts for locals, students, or senior citizens?
Yes, concession fares and local passes are expected, but the exact details have not yet been officially announced.
How can I book Varanasi Ropeway tickets?
Once operational, tickets are expected to be available via station counters, official apps, and online booking platforms, with QR-based digital tickets.
What are the expected operating hours of the ropeway?
The ropeway is likely to operate daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with possible extensions during festivals and peak seasons.
Will the ropeway operate during major festivals?
Yes. The ropeway is expected to run during festivals like Dev Deepawali and Mahashivratri, with crowd-management measures in place.
Is the Varanasi Ropeway safe?
Yes. The system is being built with international safety standards, modern gondolas, and continuous monitoring to ensure passenger safety.
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