Siddhartha Cable Car resumes operation

By Our Correspondent 

Siddarthanagar, Aug. 7: The Siddhartha Cable Car, which was kept out of service for the past one month, has resumed operation following a system upgrade and infrastructure expansion. 

The cable car connects Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City–1 in Rupandehi district with the historic Nuwakot Fort located in Tinau Rural Municipality–1, Palpa.

Rajendra Singh Gurung, Chairperson of the company, said that the cable car has resumed operation following system transformation, electrification of access roads, construction of wooden pergolas in the garden, lighting installations, and upgrade in restaurant buildings and toilet facilities. 

Company manager Nar Bahadur Karki said that the system has now been upgraded to a tyre haulage system, resulting in increased speed and smoother travel.

The cable car spans two kilometres and features 25 gondolas each accommodating eight passengers. The bottom station is located at 300 metres above sea level, while the top station is at 800 metres.

The Siddhartha Cable Car is considered a significant religious and touristic attraction, linking Lumbini (the birthplace of Lord Buddha), the historic Nuwakot Fort, and surrounding educational sites. Both the bottom and top stations feature representations of the seven lotus flowers symbolising the seven steps of Lord Buddha.

Managing Director Prabhu Lal Adhikari expressed confidence that the region will see significant tourism development upon completion of all infrastructure works. He said that electrification of the access roads on both sides has been completed and lighting installations are due in the coming days, which will enhance the appeal of the cable car journey. 

Adhikari added that several other infrastructure projects are still in progress, and once completed, they are expected to boost tourism in the region. 

The Nuwakot Fort, associated with the Sen dynasty, holds archaeological and strategic significance dating back to ancient times. It is also linked to the Anglo-Nepal War, which adds to its national historical importance.