Namaste fellow Local Guides around the Globe
!
I recently had the absolutely thrilling (and, I’ll admit, slightly nerve-wracking!) experience of riding the Guwahati Ropeway, and I just had to share it with you all. If you’re in Guwahati, this is one experience you shouldn’t miss!
I had booked a two-way ticket, wanting to soak in the views from both perspectives, and, was it worth it.
The journey takes you hovering over the mighty, expansive Brahmaputra River. Seeing this legendary river from that height was truly majestic. The sheer vastness of the water, the bustling city on one side, and the serene greenery on the other – it was a visual treat.
For me, it was a mix of awe and a tiny bit of fear! As someone who doesn’t know how to swim, being suspended so high above such a massive body of water definitely got my heart pumping. But the incredible panorama quickly overshadowed any nervousness.
The experience was genuinely awesome; the gentle sway of the cable car, the cool breeze, and the unparalleled views of Umananda Island and the surrounding landscape made it unforgettable.
Key Details for Your Trip:
- Crossing the Mighty River: The ropeway stretches approximately 1.8 to 2 kilometers across the Brahmaputra, making it one of India’s longest river ropeways! It gives you a real sense of the river’s width.
- Getting There:
- Guwahati Side (South Bank): The main terminal is located at Kachari, near Nehru Park in Panbazar. You can easily reach here by auto-rickshaw, cab, or local buses that stop at Kachari.
- North Guwahati Side (North Bank): The other terminal is situated near the Dol Govinda Temple.
- Accessibility: accessibility I was pleased to see that the terminals are designed to be accessible, including for those using
wheelchairs. Staff also seem available to offer assistance if needed.
- Important Points to Note & Tips:
- Timings: The ropeway generally operates from around 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (though ticket counters might close a bit earlier). Do note there’s usually a lunch break (around 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM). It’s also typically closed on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month, so plan accordingly!
- Tickets: You can purchase tickets directly at the counters at either terminal. A two-way ticket is economical (₹200 for adults). If you buy a two-way ticket, be mindful that it might have a return time limit (often around 3 hours).
- Best Time to Ride: Early mornings or late afternoons are great to avoid heavy crowds and to catch softer light for photos. A sunset view from the ropeway would be spectacular! Always a good idea to check the weather for clear skies.
- Ride Duration: Each way takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Be Early: Especially on weekends and holidays, it can get crowded. Reaching a bit early can save you waiting time.
The entire operation seemed smooth and well-managed, and the feeling of gliding silently above the river is something quite unique. It offers a completely different perspective of Guwahati and the lifeblood of Assam, the Brahmaputra.
A Little River Fact: Did you know that the Brahmaputra is considered one of the few masculine rivers in India? Most rivers in India are personified as female. Comment below: Can you guess the name of one other major Indian river that is also considered masculine? let’s see if you guess the same!
If you’ve been on the Guwahati Ropeway, share your experiences and any additional tips too!
Happy Guiding!