Kamakhya Ropeway Project to Boost Assam’s Religious Tourism

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that the proposed Kamakhya Ropeway project will play a transformative role in strengthening religious tourism while easing access for lakhs of devotees visiting the revered Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati. The project is aimed at improving connectivity, reducing congestion, and enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.

₹213-Crore Project Gets Sanction

In a post on X, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the ₹213-crore Kamakhya Ropeway project has already been sanctioned and construction will begin soon. The ropeway will provide a seamless alternative mode of transport between the hilltop shrine and the Guwahati railway station, significantly cutting down travel time and dependence on narrow, congested hill roads.

Improved Access to a Major Shakti Peeth

Located atop Nilachal Hill overlooking the Brahmaputra river, the Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peeths in India. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, the temple draws millions of devotees every year, especially during the annual Ambubachi Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the Northeast. Rising footfall has increasingly strained existing road infrastructure, making improved connectivity a priority.

Tourism and Economic Significance

Beyond its religious importance, Kamakhya is a key driver of tourism in Assam. The shrine acts as a gateway for visitors exploring Guwahati, Brahmaputra river tourism, and destinations such as Kaziranga. Officials noted that the ropeway will offer a safe, eco-friendly and efficient transport option, particularly benefiting senior citizens and tourists, while enhancing Assam’s appeal as a spiritual and cultural destination.

Important Facts for Exams

• Kamakhya Temple is one of the major Shakti Peeths in India.
• The ropeway project has a sanctioned cost of ₹213 crore.
• Nilachal Hill overlooks the Brahmaputra river in Guwahati.
• Ambubachi Mela is a major annual religious event in Assam.

Aligning with Assam’s Spiritual Tourism Vision

The ropeway project aligns with the Assam government’s broader strategy to strengthen spiritual tourism infrastructure and position the state as a major religious and cultural hub in the Northeast. Once operational, it is expected to decongest traffic, improve accessibility to the shrine, and further elevate Kamakhya’s status as a premier pilgrimage destination in the region.