Bengaluru, India, 13 July 2026: Karnataka Ropeway Projects are set to gain momentum after Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George directed the Tourism Department to expedite the implementation of 13 proposed ropeway projects across the state. The projects, planned under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, aim to improve access to religious, heritage and eco-tourism destinations while promoting sustainable and environment-friendly mobility.
Chairing a review meeting with senior Tourism Department officials, the Minister stressed the importance of obtaining all statutory approvals before floating project tenders to avoid delays during implementation.
Karnataka Ropeway Projects to Fast-Track Tourism Infrastructure
During the review meeting, K.J. George instructed officials to accelerate approvals from the Forest Department, Environment Department and other statutory authorities before initiating the tendering process.
He noted that several proposed ropeway developments had remained in the planning stage for years and emphasised that timely clearances would help ensure smooth project execution.
The initiative forms part of Karnataka’s broader strategy to strengthen tourism infrastructure and improve visitor access to key attractions across the state.
Feasibility Studies Underway for All Projects
The feasibility studies for all Karnataka Ropeway Projects have been assigned to Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES).
According to the Tourism Department:
- Feasibility studies have been commissioned for all 13 projects.
- Reports for eight projects have already been completed.
- Remaining studies are progressing.
The Minister also reviewed the proposed Mullayanagiri Ropeway Project, where feasibility work has been delayed because of pending statutory permissions.
Several Projects Reach Advanced Planning Stage
Officials informed the Minister that preliminary feasibility studies have already been completed for several important tourism destinations, including:
- Gokak Falls (Belagavi)
- Mylara Lingeshwara Temple (Yadgir)
- Anjanadri Hill (Koppal)
- Devaragudda Malatesha Temple (Haveri)
The proposed Gokak Ropeway Project has also received approval from the Finance Department, marking an important step towards implementation.
Ropeways to Improve Tourist Connectivity
The proposed Karnataka Ropeway Projects are intended to improve accessibility to destinations that currently require steep climbs or lengthy road journeys.
The projects are expected to:
- Improve visitor accessibility
- Promote sustainable transport
- Support eco-tourism
- Boost pilgrimage tourism
- Enhance visitor experiences
- Encourage local economic development
The state government believes modern ropeway infrastructure can make tourism destinations more accessible while minimising environmental impact.
Thirteen Destinations Identified
The Tourism Department has shortlisted the following destinations for ropeway development:
- Madhugiri Fort (Tumakuru)
- Mallalli Falls (Kodagu)
- Anjanadri Hill (Koppal)
- Ballari Fort (Ballari)
- Nrupatunga Hill (Dharwad)
- Yadgir Fort (Yadgir)
- Mylara Lingeshwara Temple (Yadgir)
- Holalamma Temple (Gadag)
- Kalakaleshwara Temple (Gadag)
- Saundatti Yellamma Temple (Belagavi)
- Devaragudda Malatesha Temple (Haveri)
- Gokak Falls (Belagavi)
- Mullayanagiri Peak (Chikkamagaluru)
These destinations represent a mix of religious, heritage, adventure and eco-tourism attractions spread across Karnataka.
PPP Model to Drive Development
The ropeway projects will be implemented through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, enabling collaboration between the government and private investors.
The PPP approach is expected to:
- Accelerate project delivery
- Attract private investment
- Improve operational efficiency
- Enhance long-term maintenance
- Support sustainable tourism infrastructure
The initiative aligns with Karnataka’s efforts to strengthen tourism while creating new opportunities for regional economic growth.
Key Highlights
- Karnataka plans ropeway projects at 13 tourist destinations.
- Projects to be implemented under the PPP model.
- K.J. George directs officials to expedite approvals.
- RITES conducting feasibility studies.
- Eight feasibility reports already completed.
- Gokak Ropeway receives Finance Department approval.
- Projects to improve access to heritage, religious and eco-tourism sites.
- Focus on sustainable and environment-friendly mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many ropeway projects are planned?
The Karnataka government has proposed 13 ropeway projects across the state.
Who will prepare the feasibility studies?
The studies have been entrusted to Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES).
How will the projects be implemented?
The ropeways will be developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Why are the ropeway projects important?
They aim to improve access to major tourist attractions, promote eco-friendly transport and strengthen Karnataka’s tourism infrastructure.
Which destinations are included?
Destinations include Mullayanagiri, Gokak Falls, Madhugiri Fort, Anjanadri Hill, Ballari Fort, Mallalli Falls and several important temple and heritage sites.
Conclusion
The proposed Karnataka Ropeway Projects represent a major step towards enhancing tourism infrastructure across the state. By improving connectivity to religious, heritage and eco-tourism destinations through sustainable transport solutions, Karnataka aims to create safer, faster and more convenient travel experiences for visitors while encouraging regional tourism growth and investment.
