Uttarakhand is set to enhance access to one of its most revered pilgrimage sites with the development of a ropeway to Kunjapuri Temple in Tehri district, in collaboration with Swiss ropeway company Bartholet Maschinenbau AG.
The move is aimed at promoting spiritual tourism while preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. The state government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Switzerland-based firm on 28 May to construct a ropeway connecting Tapovan in Rishikesh to the hilltop Kunjapuri Temple, located at an altitude of over 1,600 metres. The project will follow a public-private partnership (PPP) model using the design-build-finance-operate-transfer (DBFOT) approach. According to officials, Bartholet will prepare the detailed project report (DPR) at its own expense, conducting thorough techno-economic and environmental assessments. The proposal was reportedly approved by a high-level committee after a rigorous evaluation process. The ropeway aims to provide pilgrims with safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable access to the temple, significantly reducing the strain on local road networks and minimising vehicular pressure on the ecologically sensitive terrain. It is also expected to cut travel time considerably, making the journey more convenient for visitors.
Kunjapuri Temple, one of the 13 Shaktipeethas in Uttarakhand, offers sweeping views of the Garhwal Himalayan range and attracts thousands of devotees annually. The improved accessibility is expected to support the state’s vision of boosting religious tourism while maintaining ecological balance. Officials highlighted that the new infrastructure aligns with Uttarakhand’s long-term strategy to develop low-impact, pilgrim-friendly transport alternatives. With the backing of an international partner known for its expertise in mountain ropeway systems, the project is expected to meet global standards in safety and sustainability. The MoU marks a significant step in Uttarakhand’s broader infrastructure push, combining heritage conservation with modern transport solutions. It is also expected to attract private investment, showcasing the potential of public-private collaboration in improving access to remote spiritual destinations.
Once operational, the ropeway is likely to become a major draw for both domestic and international tourists, positioning Kunjapuri Temple as a more accessible and eco-conscious destination in the Himalayas.
