MANDI: In the majestic hills of Mandi where the earth meets the sky and the rivers sing stories of centuries, a new marvel is turning heads and hearts — the Mata Baglamukhi Temple ropeway. Nestled above the serene Pandoh Dam, this ropeway has quickly become a symbol of hope not only for pilgrims but also for the future of tourism in this part of Himachal Pradesh.
State-of-the-art ropeway inaugurated on Dec 3
On December 3, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated this state-of-the-art ropeway, signalling the dawn of a new era for local tourism. With a lofty investment of Rs 53.89 crore, the ropeway spans 800 metres, linking the Mata Baglamukhi Temple directly to the bustling Chandigarh-Manali National Highway.
Before this modern marvel, the temple was a challenging 14-km drive away. Now, with the glide of a ropeway ride, pilgrims can reach the divine site in just four minutes.
This rapid connection is more than just a journey. It’s rather a gateway to opportunities. The ropeway promises to open doors to economic growth, boosting local businesses, providing employment and positioning Mandi as a prime destination for both pilgrims and adventure seekers alike.
Game-changer initiative for elderly pilgrims
The ropeway is not just a transport solution, but it’s a bridge between the past and the future. For elderly devotees like 84-year-old Ashwani Dhawan, it has made the pilgrimage to Mata Baglamukhi Temple possible for the first time.
“Earlier, it was difficult for people like me to visit the shrine due to the distance. The ropeway has made it so much easier,” says Dhawan, his eyes lighting up as he recalls his spiritual journey.
Upendra Vaidya, a local from Mandi, and Manoj Thakur from Sarkaghat, believe the initiative is a game-changer. “This is a wonderful step by the government. Not only will it make religious tourism easier, but it will also provide local employment. We hope to see more such developments across other sacred sites and tourist spots,” they suggest, confident that this project will be a model for others to follow.
Adventure, serenity in one ride
As passengers embark on their journey above the Pandoh Dam’s shimmering waters, the experience becomes one of awe. Monu and Sapna Thakur, locals who have already enjoyed the ride, describe it as a thrilling adventure. “It’s like flying in a helicopter,” they say, emphasising the unique perspective the ropeway offers.
“The panoramic views of the dam’s reservoir, the lush valleys and the distant snow-capped peaks are not just scenic, they are mesmerising, making the ride a bucket-list experience for tourists,” says a tour operator, Shyam Thakur.
The gondola-like ride offers a unique opportunity for travellers to embrace nature from a fresh vantage point, heightening the excitement and thrill. For many, it’s an experience that stays with them long after they leave.
Kush Vaidya, resident manager of the Ropeway and Rapid Transport System Development Corporation Limited, reveals that over 250 passengers are already using the ropeway daily. The service is not just affordable but also considerate of local residents. “For those living near the Mata Baglamukhi Temple, we have ensured a special rate, making it accessible to everyone,” he explains, highlighting the commitment to local welfare.
This project is groundbreaking in more ways than one. It is the first ropeway in the country funded under NABARD’s RIDF (Rural Infrastructure Development Fund), adhering to European (CEN) standards. The ropeway’s impressive speed of 6 metres per second and its capacity of 600 passengers per hour have set new benchmarks for transportation in mountainous regions.
Promising future for Mandi
As the ropeway ascends above the Pandoh Dam, it promises to elevate more than just the passengers’ spirits—it aims to elevate the region’s entire tourism ecosystem. This isn’t just a local attraction; it is drawing visitors from all over the country. With the temple, the newly developed Nature Park in Bakhli, and the ropeway experience itself, Mandi is poised to become a hub for religious tourism and adventure.
