The Kailasagiri Ropeway is one of the most iconic and thrilling attractions in Visakhapatnam, offering visitors an exhilarating aerial journey combined with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Bengal. Located at the base of Kailasagiri Hill near Appu Ghar junction on the beach, this cable car system was the first of its kind in Andhra Pradesh when it was inaugurated on May 5, 2004, and remains a must-experience adventure for tourists and locals alike
Technical Marvel and Engineering Achievement
The Kailasagiri Ropeway is a 375-meter-long cable car system that spans from the foothill near the beach to the top of Kailasagiri, situated at an altitude of 360 feet (173 meters) above sea level. Built by Kolkata-based Conveyor Ropeway Services Pvt. Ltd on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) basis at a cost of Rs. 3 crores, the ropeway features 8 fiberglass cabins, each with a seating capacity of 6 people. Suspended between 4 to 10 meters above ground, the journey takes approximately 3-4 minutes to reach the hilltop
360-Degree Aerial Experience
What makes the Kailasagiri Ropeway exceptionally special is its transparent fiberglass cabins that provide unobstructed 360-degree views during both the ascending and descending journey. Passengers can marvel at the stunning vistas of the sparkling Bay of Bengal on one side, lush green hills and tropical vegetation on the other, and the sprawling cityscape of Visakhapatnam below. This unique aerial perspective makes the ropeway experience both thrilling and visually captivating.
Features and Attractions at the Summit
Once reaching the top via the ropeway, visitors discover a world of attractions on the hilltop:
40-Feet Shiva-Parvati Statue: A magnificent white statue depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in divine union, symbolizing the spiritual essence of Kailasagiri ("the abode of Shiva").
Floral Clock: One of India's largest floral clocks with a 10-foot diameter, beautifully landscaped with colorful flowers and plants, creating a mesmerizing botanical masterpiece.
Titanic Viewpoint: A scenic viewing platform offering dramatic views of the coastline and sea, named for its resemblance to the famous ship.
Shanku Chakra Naama: A 20-foot-tall statue representing Lord Vishnu's sacred conch shell and discus, symbolizing spiritual serenity and divine protection.
Multiple Viewpoints: Seven picturesque viewpoints strategically located around the hilltop, each offering unique perspectives of Visakhapatnam's natural and urban landscape
Adventure Activities at Kailasagiri
The hilltop park serves as a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering:
Paragliding: Excellent gliding facilities attracting paragliding enthusiasts from across India
Toy Train Ride: A popular attraction for children, offering a circular tour of the park
Horse Riding: Traditional horse rides available for visitors seeking a unique experience
Jungle Trails: Scenic pathways through forested areas for nature walks and exploration
Shanti Ashram: A peaceful meditation center ideal for spiritual reflection and relaxation.
Practical Information for Visitors
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee and Charges:
Park Entry: Rs. 5
Ropeway (Two-way): Rs. 90 (Adults), Rs. 55 (Children)
Ropeway One-way: Rs. 28
Toy Train: Rs. 40-50 (Adults), Rs. 30 (Children)
Parking: Two-wheeler (Rs. 20), Four-wheeler (Rs. 50-100), Mini Bus (Rs. 150)
Maintenance Day: 19th of every month
Location: Near Appu Ghar junction, close to Ramakrishna Beach
Distance from City: Approximately 10 km from Visakhapatnam Railway Station and 8 km from Dwaraka Bus Station.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months to visit Kailasagiri Ropeway are October to March, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is excellent, ensuring maximum enjoyment of the aerial views. The park receives an average of approximately 300,000 Indian and foreign tourists annually
Environmental Commitment
VMRDA has declared Kailasagiri as a plastic-free zone to protect the environment, making it an eco-conscious tourist destination. The 380-acre hilltop park is covered with lush tropical flora and trees, contributing to Visakhapatnam's green landscape
Why Choose the Ropeway Route?
While Kailasagiri can be accessed by road and walking trails, the ropeway offers a unique, efficient, and thrilling alternative that completes the journey in under 4 minutes. The transparent cabins eliminate any sense of enclosed space, maximizing the visual experience and creating an unforgettable memory for every visitor. It remains a favorite filming location for Bollywood and regional cinema due to its stunning scenic beauty and elevated vantage point
