Kathmandu, Nepal - Construction of the Chisapani-Rajkanda cable car, the first of its kind in Sudurpashchim Province, is progressing steadily, with developers targeting operation by late 2026. The project, led by Jalpadevi Cable Car Company, is being viewed as a major step toward strengthening tourism infrastructure and regional economic development.
Work on the project began in Poush 2082 (December 2025-January 2026), and the base infrastructure has already been completed. Installation of support pillars is currently underway, with 3 out of the planned 14 pillars installed so far. The project will include 34 gondolas once completed.
Project operator Suryabahadur Thapa stated that the cable car could come into operation by Asar (June-July 2026), though delays due to his medical treatment in India and the election period have pushed the timeline from its earlier target of Baisakh (April-May 2026). According to him, technical experts from Italy are currently on-site, assisting with installation using ropeway systems.
Beyond the cable car infrastructure, parallel development works are ongoing in Rajkanda, including the construction of the Malika Devi Temple, access roads, a ticketing facility, and hospitality services. Around 50 percent of the temple construction has been completed, with stone-paved pathways being developed to enhance accessibility and visitor experience. The involvement of multiple contractors has contributed to the project’s relatively fast pace.
The project spans approximately 20 bighas of land, with investment led by Chandra Dhakal, Chairman of IME Group and President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, who holds a 75 percent stake. The remaining 25 percent is owned by Thapa, a businessman from Lamki, Kailali. The estimated project cost stands at around NPR 5 billion, though developers indicate that costs may increase.
Despite being promoted as Sudurpashchim’s first cable car, the reported length of 31 meters appears unusually short for a commercial cable car system, suggesting either a preliminary phase or a possible discrepancy in reported figures. Further technical clarification may be required.
Local stakeholders are optimistic about the project’s long-term impact. The cable car is expected to improve access to the historic Dhulikot Palace in Mohanyal Rural Municipality–7 and attract domestic as well as international tourists. Local entrepreneur Khem Khatri expressed confidence that tourism-driven businesses, including hotels, will see significant growth once operations begin.
At present, Rajkanda faces challenges related to drinking water and electricity supply. However, local residents and project developers believe that infrastructure improvements linked to the cable car will help address these issues. Thapa emphasized that the project represents a private-sector-led initiative with no direct government investment, while still contributing to broader regional development.
The foundation stone for the project was laid in Baisakh 2082 by Arzu Rana Deuba. Developers have also indicated plans to invite Yogi Adityanath for the official inauguration following the completion of the Malika Temple.
As Nepal continues to prioritize tourism as a key driver of economic growth, projects like the Chisapani-Rajkanda cable car highlight the increasing role of private investment in expanding infrastructure in underdeveloped regions. If completed as planned, the project could serve as a catalyst for socio-economic transformation in Sudurpashchim.
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