🚡 Pathala Ganga Ropeway: A Scenic Cable Car Ride to the Krishna River
Panoramic Nallamala Views | Gateway to Akka Mahadevi Caves | Srisailam, Telangana
Glide over the Nallamala forests to the sacred Krishna. The Pathala Ganga Ropeway is not just a mode of transport – it is an experience in itself. As the cable car descends from the Srisailam hilltop, you are treated to a bird’s‑eye view of the dense teak and bamboo forests, the rocky cliffs, and the sparkling backwaters of the Krishna River. The name “Pathala Ganga” refers to the belief that the Ganga (Ganges) flows underground to meet the Krishna here, making the riverbank particularly sacred for a holy dip before entering the Srisailam Temple.
The ropeway is the primary access point for pilgrims heading to Akka Mahadevi Caves (via motorboat) and for those wishing to perform rituals on the riverbank. The lower terminal at Pathala Ganga has changing rooms, a small temple, and boat booking counters. The ride is safe, comfortable, and suitable for all ages. The best time to ride is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the valley is at its most dramatic.
🚡 The Ropeway Experience – What to Expect
The ropeway operates from a station located near the Srisailam Temple parking area. The cable cars (gondolas) are enclosed and air‑conditioned, offering a smooth and comfortable ride. Each cabin can accommodate up to 6 persons. The ride takes about 5 minutes each way, but the queue may take longer during peak hours and festivals.
As you descend, you will see:
- Panoramic views of the Nallamala hill range
- The Krishna River backwaters sparkling below
- Dense teak and bamboo forests covering the hillsides
- The Pathala Ganga ghat with devotees taking a holy dip
- Boats docked at the jetty, ready for trips to Akka Mahadevi Caves
At the lower terminal, you can walk down to the riverbank (stone steps), take a bath, perform rituals, and then return via the ropeway. There are also small shops selling prasadam, snacks, and pooja items.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Location
Pathala Ganga Ropeway
Srisailam Temple Complex, Srisailam,
Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh – 518101
(Adjacent to Telangana border)
📞 Contact / Bookings
Srisailam Devasthanam / TSTDC
Phone: +91-70759 67370 (general)
Ropeway tickets available at the counter (no online booking)
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Best Season
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (daily)
Best Season: October – March (pleasant weather, clear views)
Avoid: Peak summer (April–June) and very crowded festival days (long queues).
Round Trip Fare: ₹100–150 per person (subject to revision).
⚠️ Note
Ropeway may close during high winds or thunderstorms. Check with the ticket counter before queuing.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary (Half‑Day Srisailam Ropeway + Boat Tour)
- 7:30 AM: Morning darshan at Srisailam Temple (less crowded).
- 9:00 AM: Head to ropeway station, buy tickets, queue for cable car.
- 9:20 AM – 9:30 AM: Cable car ride down to Pathala Ganga (5 min).
- 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Holy dip / rituals at the riverbank.
- 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Board motorboat to Akka Mahadevi Caves (≈1 hr 15 min each way). Explore the caves (Swayambhu Shiva Linga).
- 12:30 PM: Return to Pathala Ganga.
- 1:00 PM – 1:15 PM: Cable car ride back up to Srisailam.
- 1:30 PM: Lunch at Srisailam (prasadam or local restaurant).
- 2:30 PM: Optional visit to Phaladhara Panchadhara or Srisailam Dam viewpoint.
- 4:00 PM: Depart for Hyderabad.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🚗 How to Reach Pathala Ganga Ropeway
By Road: Srisailam is ≈220 km from Hyderabad (4–5 hours) via NH 765. Regular APSRTC buses and private taxis are available. The ropeway station is within the temple complex – park at the main parking area and walk to the station.
By Train: Nearest railway station is Markapur Road (MRK) ≈85 km. From there, take a bus or taxi to Srisailam.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈200 km).
Within Srisailam: The ropeway is walkable from the temple. Autos are also available.
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation at Srisailam
- TTD / Devasthanam Guest Houses: Ganga Sadan, Gouri Sadan, Kailasa Sadan (₹200–₹2000). Book via srisailadevasthanam.org.
- Private Hotels: Hotel Grand Akkamahadevi, Hotel Raghavendra Grand Inn, Haritha Hotel (TSTDC).
Food & Tips
- Vegetarian meals and prasadam available near the temple complex.
- At Pathala Ganga, there are small stalls selling snacks and tender coconut water.
- Carry water if you plan to wait in queues for the ropeway or boat.
📝 Travel Tips & Safety
⭐ Pro tip: The ropeway is less crowded on weekday mornings. If you plan to visit Akka Mahadevi Caves, book your boat ticket immediately after reaching Pathala Ganga – boats fill up quickly. The boat ride is not included in the ropeway ticket; you will need to pay separately (approx ₹400 per person round trip).
🕉️ Spiritual Significance – The Confluence of Ganga and Krishna
According to legend, the sacred Ganga (Ganges) flows underground from North India and merges with the Krishna River at this spot, making the waters especially purifying. Taking a holy dip at Pathala Ganga before entering the Srisailam Temple is considered highly meritorious. The ropeway provides easy access for elderly and mobility‑impaired pilgrims who would otherwise have to walk down a steep path of several hundred steps. The name “Pathala Ganga” means “underground Ganges,” and the site is mentioned in the Skanda Purana as one of the key tirthas (holy fords) in the Srisailam region.
🙏 Conclusion – A Must‑Do Experience at Srisailam
Whether you are a pilgrim eager to take a holy dip in the Krishna, a devotee heading to Akka Mahadevi Caves, or a traveller who simply wants to enjoy a spectacular cable car ride over the Nallamala hills, the Pathala Ganga Ropeway is an experience not to be missed. The panoramic views, the cool breeze, and the sense of gliding over the forest make it a highlight of any Srisailam visit. Plan your trip between October and March, start early, and enjoy the ride.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ropeway ticket price?
A: Approximately ₹100–150 per person round trip (subject to change). Children under 3 years often travel free.
Q: Is the ropeway safe for elderly people?
A: Yes, it is very safe. The cabins are enclosed and air‑conditioned. The ride is smooth and short.
Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Currently, tickets are only available at the ropeway counter. No online booking.
Q: What are the ropeway timings?
A: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Last ascent is usually around 6:30 PM.
Q: Is there a waiting time?
A: On weekends and festival days, queues can be 30–60 minutes. Weekday mornings are best.
Q: Can I take a stroller or wheelchair onto the ropeway?
A: Small foldable strollers are allowed. Wheelchairs can be accommodated with assistance.
📚 References & More Information
- Srisailam Devasthanam – Official Website
- Telangana Tourism – Srisailam / Nallamala Circuit
- Wikipedia – Srisailam
- Trawell – Pathala Ganga Ropeway Guide
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