Jakhu Ropeway in Shimla – A 5-Minute Ride That Feels Like Magic

When you think of Shimla, what comes to mind first? Colonial charm? Cool breezes? Snowy rooftops? For me, it’s always been that moment when I stepped into the Jakhu Ropeway cabin for the first time—heart racing a little, camera ready, eyes wide open. In just five minutes, I went from the crowded Ridge to a peaceful hilltop, with a sky-high view of the Queen of Hills in between.

That’s the magic of the Jakhu Temple Ropeway—it’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.

Let me take you through why this short ride might just be your favorite part of Shimla.

Located right near the bustling Ridge in the heart of Shimla, the Jakhu Ropeway is a cable car system that takes visitors up to Jakhu Hill, home to the famous Jakhu Temple. It’s a beautiful blend of natural scenery and spiritual calm.

But what’s truly remarkable? The journey itself.

The moment your gondola leaves the base station, you’re floating above rooftops, trees, and narrow hillside lanes. It’s calm, it’s quiet, and depending on the weather, sometimes a little misty, too. All around you is a rolling landscape of green hills and distant peaks.

In five minutes flat, you’re whisked away from the crowds and deposited near one of Shimla’s most iconic temples. No trekking. No waiting. Just pure hillside joy.

A top Jakhu Hill is a sacred site that attracts both pilgrims and tourists alike. Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is known not just for its spiritual value but also for its unforgettable statue.

Standing at 108 feet, the bright orange statue of Hanuman towers above the trees and is visible from many parts of the city. There’s something peaceful about sitting here for a while after your ride—watching the fog roll in, hearing bells ring softly in the distance, and simply soaking in the view.

If you’re visiting with your family, children will be amazed by the sheer height of the statue, and older folks will appreciate not having to make the steep walk up the hill, thanks to the ropeway.

Worried about the cost? It’s pretty reasonable for the experience you get.

• One-way ticket: ?300
• Round trip: ?500
• Children under 3 years: Free

You can easily grab your tickets at the ticket counter or, better yet, book them online to save time and skip the queue. For more details or to make a booking, check out the official site: Jakhu Ropeway Shimla.

I’ve been to Shimla multiple times, and every trip feels incomplete without a ride on this ropeway. Here’s why I always recommend it:

1. It saves time & energy.

The walk to Jakhu Temple can be steep and tiring, especially if you’re with kids or elders. The ropeway makes it effortless.

2. The view is unbelievable.

Floating above Shimla gives you a new perspective on the town. Whether it’s sunny, foggy, or snow-covered, it’s beautiful in every season.

3. It’s something different.

Shimla has plenty of old-world charm, but this is one of the more modern and exciting experiences you’ll find here.

The great thing about Shimla is that it’s gorgeous year-round. But your ropeway experience may vary a little based on the season:

• Summer (March to June): Clear views, pleasant weather
• Monsoon (July to August): Dramatic fog, lush surroundings—very dreamy!
• Autumn (Sept to Nov): Crisp air, golden landscapes
• Winter (Dec to Feb): Snow-capped rooftops and a silent white wonderland

I love the monsoon ride the most. The cable car gliding through fog feels like something out of a movie.

The ropeway base is just off The Ridge, near Christ Church. It’s walkable from most Shimla hotels or the Mall Road. If you’re staying far from the center, just take a cab or local transport to the Ridge Lift and walk up.

Once you reach the boarding point, the staff will guide you through the safety process, and you’ll be on your way in no time.

Absolutely. The Jakhu Ropeway is built and operated with modern technology. The cabins are enclosed and safe for all age groups. The operators run regular checks, and everything from boarding to riding feels professional and secure.

I’ve taken my parents, my niece, and even some elderly neighbors—everyone had a smooth, comfortable ride.

If you’re planning to visit the ropeway, try doing it early in the day. Once you’ve visited the temple, you’ll still have time to:

• Explore Mall Road
• Visit Christ Church
• Have lunch at a café with a view
• Stroll through the Lakkar Bazaar
• Catch the sunset back at The Ridge

The ropeway is a great starting point for a full day in Shimla.

The Jakhu Ropeway in Shimla is one of those rare experiences that everyone enjoys. It’s quick, affordable, scenic, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, the spiritual energy, or just the mountain air, this five-minute ride will give you a memory you’ll want to revisit every time you think of Himachal.

So next time you’re in Shimla, don’t just look up at Jakhu Hill—fly up to it.