Shankaracharya Temple Ropeway Project Approved: A New Era of Pilgrimage Convenience in Srinagar

Published On: April 16, 2025

The Central Government has officially approved the construction of the Shankaracharya Temple ropeway project in Srinagar, aiming to boost religious tourism and provide easier access to one of the city’s most revered sites. This long-awaited infrastructure development will be executed under the Parvatmala Yojana, a central scheme by the Union Road Transport and Highways Ministry focused on connecting hilly and religious destinations across India, reported by Amar Ujala.

With a budget of ₹126 crore, the Shankaracharya Temple ropeway is part of a larger effort to modernize connectivity to spiritual landmarks, particularly in remote or elevated areas.

Shankaracharya Temple Ropeway: Key Highlights

Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Temple Height: Located at 1,000 feet
Existing Access: 244 steps to the sanctum sanctorum
New Access: Over 1 km long ropeway
Project Cost: ₹126 crore
Mode: Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
Completion Timeline: 1.5 years
Scheme: Parvatmala Yojana

Making Pilgrimage Easier for Devotees

Currently, devotees must climb 244 stairs to reach the Shankaracharya temple, which sits atop a hill with breathtaking views of Srinagar. While spiritually enriching, this climb can be challenging, especially for elderly pilgrims. The ropeway will provide a safe, scenic, and efficient alternative to reach the shrine with ease.

This 1-kilometer-long ropeway will not only serve locals and tourists but will also enhance accessibility for pilgrims from across India, especially during peak seasons and religious festivals.

Parvatmala Yojana: Transforming Mountain Travel

The ropeway is part of the broader Parvatmala Yojana, launched to strengthen connectivity in India’s hilly regions. The central government aims to modernize access to religious and tourist sites using eco-friendly and innovative transport systems like ropeways and cable cars.

Along with Shankaracharya, ropeway projects have been approved or tendered for the following locations:

Bijli Mahadev Temple – Himachal Pradesh
Doshi Hills – Haryana
Mahakaleshwar Temple – Madhya Pradesh
Sonprayag to Kedarnath – Uttarakhand
Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib – Uttarakhand
Kamakhya Temple – Assam
Tawang Monastery – Arunachal Pradesh
Ramtekgarh Temple – Maharashtra
Brahmagiri to Anjaneri – Maharashtra
Kathgodam to Hanumangarhi Temple – Uttarakhand

Strategic Importance of the Ropeway in Srinagar

The Shankaracharya Temple holds historical, spiritual, and cultural significance. Built by King Gopadatya in 371 BC, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest shrines in the region. It remains a major pilgrimage site and a key tourist attraction.

With ropeway access, the temple will witness increased footfall, benefiting not just pilgrims but also the local economy. Hotels, transport services, and small vendors in Srinagar are expected to see a rise in demand once the project is completed.

Timeline and Execution Model

The project will be executed on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis, ensuring a collaborative effort between the government and private entities. The Union Road Transport Ministry has already fast-tracked the tender process, showing its commitment to getting the project underway as soon as possible.

The targeted completion time is 18 months, which reflects the urgency and importance placed on this transformative development.

Temple Timings and Accessibility

The Shankaracharya Temple is open daily from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, attracting thousands of devotees, especially during important Hindu festivals. The addition of a ropeway will greatly enhance safety, comfort, and convenience, particularly for senior citizens, children, and tourists unaccustomed to high-altitude climbs.

The Shankaracharya Temple Ropeway Project is a significant step toward revitalizing spiritual tourism in Jammu & Kashmir. By combining modern technology with religious heritage, this ropeway will redefine how devotees experience one of Srinagar’s most iconic landmarks.

With central government support, fast-tracked execution, and a focus on accessibility, this initiative promises to create a more inclusive and enriching journey for all pilgrims. As the ropeway project unfolds, it will stand as a symbol of India’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing innovative infrastructure.