Frequently asked questions

How is the weather on the mountain?

For the current weather forecast please visit the Pilatus Live page. There you will find our webcams with live images.

Please be aware that the weather on the mountain can change at any time.

How much does a ticket for an ascent and descent cost?

The price varies depending on the route. On our price list you will find all prices listed by route.

Price List

Which travel passes are valid?

With the SBB General Abonnement or Half-Fare card, you get a 50% discount. Please note: municipality and SBB 1-day travelpasses are not valid.

Holders of following travel passes also receive a discount*: Eurail (50%), Interrail (50%), Swiss Travel Pass (50%) and Tell Pass (free).

*only applies to the lines Kriens/Alpnachstad - Pilatus Kulm - Kriens/Alpnachstad

How long does a trip to Pilatus take?

From Kriens it is about 40 minutes to Pilatus Kulm. Take the Panorama Gondolas from Kriens to Fräkmüntegg. Then, take the «Dragon Ride» cable car up to the summit.

From Alpnachstad the steepest cogwheel railway in the world will take you to the Pilatus Kulm in 30 minutes.

How often do the Panorama Gondolas depart in Kriens?

The Panorama Gondolas provide continuous service. The aerial cableway “Dragon Ride” departs every 15 minutes.

To the timetable

How long does it take to transfer from the boat station in Alpnachstad to the cogwheel railway?

The distance between the boat station and the cogwheel railway station is very short. A railway pass brings you directly to the valley station.

Is Pilatus wheelchair accessible?

The restaurants and various hotel rooms on the Pilatus Kulm are wheelchair accessible. As is the Panorama gallery. We are glad to help you prepare your trip. Please contact us at 041 329 11 11 for a reservation.

Can tickets be purchased online?

Yes, they can be bought here. They are also available at the valley stations in Kriens/Alpnachstad and at our shop in Lucerne. Tickets remain valid for five days so that you can comfortably plan your trip. 

What does Pilatus Kulm offer? What can you do there?

Pilatus Kulm is versatile. There are two restaurants, the restaurant Pilatus-Kulm with a wonderful panoramic terrace and the self-service restaurant Bellevue. In the Dragon Shop you will find great souvenirs and items adorned with the Pilatus dragon. The glazed Panorama gallery offers magnificent views. Moreover, the Pilatus Kulm boasts many beautiful lookout points.

Can I take a bike with me?

No. We don't transport bikes.

Can I take skis or snowboards with me?

If you're touring, yes. The skis and snowboards are transported (from Kriens to Fräkmüntegg) exclusively in the equipment carriers, using ski bags provided for this purpose. The transport inside the gondolas is prohibited.

Caution! Pilatus is not a freeride area. There are alpine dangers, especially weather changes, avalanches, rock falls and steep terrain. We would like to draw your attention to the fact that in the entire Pilatus area, including Pilatus Kulm, there are no marked downhill runs (slopes or downhill routes). Furthermore it is forbidden to use the official, marked sledding slopes from Fräkmüntegg to Kriens. Pilatus-Bahnen AG rejects any responsibility or liability for accidents or other incidents.

How much luggage can I take with me?

Hand luggage can be taken along free of charge, as long as it can be stored without disturbing the other passengers.

All other transport of material/goods must be announced in advance.

Consult our Customer Service if you have any further questions.
phone: +41 (0)41 329 11 11 or mail info@pilatus.ch