China and US fund ambitious Ambuluwawa Cable Car Project

By Samanthi Weerasekera

China and the United States are jointly funding the ambitious Ambuluwawa Cable Car Project, which, once completed, will offer an unparalleled experience, with cable cars operating over a kilometer between two mountains without any support structures.

During a visit to the project site on Saturday (23), Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong said that this project is another symbol of the strengthening bond between Sri Lanka and China. “It is a pleasure to have a Chinese investor involved in such a project that further strengthens the bond between Sri Lanka and China,” the Ambassador said, reflecting on the significant international collaboration.

NDF Kandy District MP Anuradha Jayaratne, Chairman of the Ambuluwawa Board of Trustees, stated that the feasibility study for this project was first conducted 18 years ago. He credited the success of the project to the joint investments from China and the United States. “I would like to gratefully recall that it was possible to turn this dream into a reality because of the investors from China and America,” Jayaratne said.

He said that the first phase of the Ambuluwawa Cable Car Project, scheduled for completion later this year, is expected to provide a unique travel experience for visitors. Passengers will embark on a 600-meter cable car journey from the entrance gate of the Ambuluwawa Religious and Biodiversity Complex to the summit of Ambaluwawa Mountain. From there, a thrilling 1.2-kilometer ride will take them unsupported to the Ambuluwawa Tower, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Jayaratne noted that the second phase of the project will extend the cable car line to the Gampola Railway Station. This addition will provide a seamless connection for foreign tourists travelling by the Badulla train and those heading to Nuwara Eliya, allowing them to experience Sri Lanka’s first-ever cable car ride. The second phase will not only enhance tourism but is also expected to transform Gampola into a world-class tourist and commercial hub.