Himachal Pradesh is set to undergo a major transformation to emerge as a tourism hub modeled on the lines of Switzerland, according to Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri. Speaking on the state government’s ambitious development plans, he said large-scale ropeway projects are being implemented to boost tourism, improve connectivity, and provide sustainable transport alternatives. These initiatives aim not only to strengthen religious tourism but also to stimulate the state economy and create employment opportunities, especially for the youth.
Among the major projects, the Deputy CM announced final approval for a 13.79 km ropeway project in Shimla, estimated at Rs. 1,734.70 crore. Set to be completed within four years, the ropeway will feature three lines, 14 sections, and 13 stations, connecting key locations such as the State Secretariat, hospitals, schools, the railway station, and the bus stand—greatly enhancing intra-city mobility.
Under the Smart City Mission, Shimla will also see the execution of 19 infrastructure projects worth Rs. 50 crore, along with three additional projects valued at Rs. 25 crore, all slated for completion by December 2026. These developments are expected to further modernize the capital city’s urban infrastructure.
To promote religious tourism, three major ropeway projects are currently under construction: the Baba Balaknath temple ropeway (Rs. 65 crore), Bijli Mahadev ropeway (Rs. 278.62 crore), and the Mata Chintpurni Temple ropeway (Rs. 76.50 crore). All three are targeted for completion by June 2027, and are expected to significantly improve access to key pilgrimage sites.
Highlighting a pioneering move toward rural connectivity, the Deputy CM noted the successful inauguration of India’s first rural ropeway—the Baglamukhi ropeway—in December 2024. Built at a cost of Rs. 53.89 crore, it has already served over 69,000 passengers. In addition to promoting rural tourism, the ropeway serves as a vital lifeline during natural disasters by aiding relief operations.
Further strengthening tourism infrastructure, work is progressing rapidly on the 1.20 km Dhalpur to Peej ropeway in Kullu, which is being developed at a cost of Rs. 80 crore and is expected to be completed by June 2027.
Looking ahead, a landmark proposal involves the construction of a 38 km long ropeway connecting Shimla to Parwanoo, with an estimated cost of Rs. 5,602.56 crore. This project, to be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode, is poised to set a national benchmark for large-scale ropeway systems and offer a reliable alternative to conventional transport.
Agnihotri emphasized that these ropeway initiatives will help reduce traffic congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and provide an eco-friendly mode of transport. Expressing confidence in the transformative potential of these projects, he said they would position Himachal Pradesh as a premier global tourism destination, while creating thousands of job opportunities for the local youth.
