NBWL Sanctions ₹450 Crore for Rishikesh to Neelkanth Ropeway Project

In a major boost to pilgrimage tourism and sustainable infrastructure in Uttarakhand, the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has approved the ₹450 crore ropeway project connecting Rishikesh to the sacred Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. Once completed, the ropeway will reduce the travel time from nearly two hours to just 15 minutes, offering immense relief to devotees and tourists.

The proposed 13 km Rishikesh–Neelkanth ropeway will traverse the forested hills of Pauri Garhwal, using eco-friendly technology to ensure safe, efficient transport while minimizing environmental impact and strictly adhering to wildlife conservation norms through eco-sensitive zones.

Four Stations Along the Divine Path

The Neelkanth Ropeway in Rishikesh will have four key stations:

The Neelkanth Ropeway Rishikesh project will be implemented through a 30-year public-private partnership, with the responsibility for execution assigned to the Uttarakhand Metro Rail, Urban Infrastructure and Building Construction Corporation Ltd., the same agency involved in the Dehradun Neo Metro project.

The Rishikesh–Neelkanth ropeway will ease pilgrim congestion, enhance safety, and improve access to the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, especially during Shravan and Maha Shivaratri. Beyond religious tourism, it will boost local employment, strengthen the regional economy, and promote sustainable Himalayan tourism, making it a landmark project combining faith, convenience, and eco-responsibility.