The Shri Malanggad Funicular in Maharashtra is the longest funicular railway in India, making it easier to reach a historic hilltop shrine, which used to take two hours to reach, only a matter of minutes. Introduced in January 2026, the 1.2 km engineering marvel caters to pilgrims and tourists who come to Haji Malang Dargah.
The Shri Malanggad Funicular Railway is the longest in India, 1.2 km long, linking the foot of the hill with the summit shrine and fort.
Opened January 18, 2026, by local MLA Kisan Kathore, and replacing a traditional 2,600 step pilgrimage, it turns into a fast 7-10 minute ride, with crowds attending the annual Urs festival. This wonder does not only enhance access but also brings to the fore Maharashtra tourism infrastructure push.
Ancient Fort to Modern Lifeline
The Malanggad hill dates back to the 7th century as a fortified place of Yadava kings, and then transformed into a holy Sufi place with the Haji Malang Dargah, which is a tribute to a saint who lived in the 13th century.
It was initially suggested in 2004-2007 as the funicular scheme to alleviate pilgrim sufferings, and was built in 2012 by Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) on a Build-Operation-Transfer (BOT) basis.
Environmental clearances and technical hiccups caused delays, but it was opened in 2026 during celebrations.
The railway measures 1,174-1,200 meters and is steeply inclined with two cable-linked coaches with a counterbalancing capacity of 90-120 passengers. It ascends approximately 800 meters in the vertical direction, with the help of 24-meter-high piers and being equipped with auto-braking systems on five safety layers.
It is managed by 1,200 passengers per hour and it is powered by electricity with minimal effects to the environment.
Daily Runs, Fares, and Tips
The funicular operates from 8 AM to 8 PM daily with departures every 5 minutes and costs ₹150 per person round trip and 75 per person round trip (children), but it has plenty of parking spots at 20-50 per vehicle.
The closest station is Kalyan Junction (15-17 km), and there are shuttles or taxis; during peak Urs season, free rides and longer hours are offered. After the ride, visitors have a view of the summit, the dargah, and the remnants of the fort.
Construction Challenges
Construction through rocky geography required a lot of cutting and 24 meters piers which were done by Supreme Infrastructure India Ltd under PWD supervision.
Significant challenges were Forest Department and Ministry of Environment eco-sensitive zone clearances and seismic and wind-resistant designs. The project followed BOT timelines regardless of monsoons and permissions, but at millions of costs, providing utility to the pop ulation.
The funicular has boosted tourism, benefiting the elderly and families and bringing in local income in the form of employment and vendors. It towers above shorter Indian ones such as Jivdani Mata (Virar, c. 0.5 km) and Saptashrungi (Nashik), in comparison to abandoned parts of Kangra Valley. It is environmentally friendly and encourages sustainable use of heritage sites.
