Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh
Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh is the first suspension bridge in Uttar Pradesh (now in Uttarakhand). Lakshman Jhula is an iron suspension bridge over the holy river Ganga at Rishikesh. It connects two Garhwal Range districts with tensile strength and resilient load carriage capacity. Lakshman Jhula is 450 feet length connecting Tapovan is in Tehri Garhwal district, on the west bank of the river, while Jonk is in Pauri Garhwal district, on the east bank.
Lakshman Jhula also offers a panoramic view of river Ganga and Rishikesh city having number of temples.
The brother of the Lakshman Jhula bridge, the Ram Jhula is located just about 2 kilometers down the Ganges flow-stream. Lakshman jhula is about 15 KM away from Rishikesh city center and about 34 KM away from Haridwar.
Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh history
Lakshmana Jhula is believed to have been built by Lord Lakshmana to cross the river Ganga using his bow and arrow. It was a rope and wooden structure.
The present bridge was constructed by the British after the original bridge was washed away in a flood. It is interesting to note that the structure is still standing and strong. In the year of 1939 they were successful in erecting that structure.
As of November 5, 2020, the bridge is limited to pedestrian access and is set to be permanently closed while a replacement is built parallel to it.
Timings of Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh
It Opens for 24 hours. You can visit Laxman Jhula any time of the day and enjoy the pleasant view. Best time to view this is Early mornings or late nights where you can get very thrilling and divine experience in watching river ganga.
Ticket Price of Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh
There is No fees for people on Laxman Jhula.
Things to do in near Laxman Jhula
River Rafting
River rafting is one of the prime activities that ensure a lot of fun. There are many river rafting organizing authorities who organize river rafting while ensuring utmost safety.
Trekking
There are several organizations that organize trekking. You can do this and enjoy the fullest.
Hiking
Another exciting experience is hiking. But, make sure that you are guided by the authentic authority that organizes the hiking activity.
Tips to keep in mind
- International Yoga Festival held in March every year in Rishikesh. Plan Your trip accordingly.
- Always carry water bottle and medicines as it is convenient in your trip when needed.
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If you are traveling with kids, it is important to take special care of them as you will inevitably find crowds when you are there.
- Carry clothes according to weather, But please ensure to carry clothes as the weather sometimes unpredictable here and to avoid cold, carry some warm clothes with you.
- Here you can find various yoga centers and meditation ashrams. Make sure you check out them for a spiritually rewarding experience.
- Make sure to be a part of aarti which takes place in the evening on the banks of the Holy Ganga.
Best time to visit Lakshman Jhula Rishikesh
Rishikesh is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and on the banks of the river Ganga, the weather here is always suitable to visit throughout the year.
The best time to visit Laxman Jhula and take full advantage of its natural beauty and spiritual calm is between the months of February – May and August – October as it is the time when the city witnesses perfect and moderate weather to explore more.
Summers – summers are hot and dry and the temperature can soar up to 40 degrees Celsius.
Winters – The winters are comparatively more enjoyable and you can explore more.
Monsoon – Rains may hinder sightseeing and other sports like river rafting and roads can become slippery and dangerous for treks. So try to avoid the monsoon season.
How To Reach
By Air:- The nearest airport to the waterfalls is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. You can catch a bus or hire a taxi to reach the Laxman Jhula. It would take around an hour to cover this distance of 22 KM. A ride to Laxman Jhula from the airport will cost you around INR 1,500.
By Train:- Nearest Railway station is Rishikesh Railway Station. You should find a train stopping at this junction. You can get down here to fetch a bus, a local ferry or hire a taxi to reach your destination.
By Road:- Rishikesh Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand. The city roads are well connected with rickshaws and autos, helping you navigate the city and its surroundings without any hassle.
Nearby Points of Attraction
The Beatles Ashram
Beatles Ashram in Rishikesh Formerly known as Chaurasi Kutiya, Beatles Ashram is located east of the Ganges River in the foothills of the Himalayas, opposite the Muni ki Reti area of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The venue gained a lot of publicity and wider recognition after Liverpool’s Beatles stayed there in 1986. The band members practiced meditation at this place and composed many good songs.
Parmarth Niketan Ashram
Parmarth Niketan is one of the few ashrams left in India where children get Vedic education. This ashram is located in the district of Pauri. You must visit in the evening for Puja/Aarti- 5 PM in winter and 6 PM in summer. This ashram is open to all, every day of the week, but closes at 8:00 pm.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganga and it is the biggest Ghat of Rishikesh. It is believed that those who take a dip in the waters at this ghat wash away all sins and purify the soul and attain moksha, freedom from all sins; The water here has the power to purify them. Thousands of people take bath here every morning and evening and enjoy the Mahaarti being performed.
Ram Jhula
Ram Jhula is an iron suspension bridge located 3 km north of Rishikesh. It is built over the river Ganga to cross the river and is a landmark of this place. Ram Jhula has been recently built between Sivananda Ashram and Savargashram. The natural beauty of the area can be seen from the bridge, the sound of fresh air, and flowing water.
Patna Waterfall
This waterfall is Situated 7 KM away from Lakshman Jhula. Patna Waterfall is gushing freely in a small village in Rishikesh called Patna. You can explore a limestone cave which is situated right next to the waterfalls.
The Ganga Beach
Ganga Beach is a pleasant place to relax and unwind with family and friends. It is conveniently located on Laxman Jhula Road, which makes it highly accessible. The view of the sunset is spectacular at this beach and visitors can enjoy a variety of local food served at the beach.
New Laxman jhula Construction
New suspension bridge which is an alternative to the iconic Lakshman Jhula to be built across Ganga river in Rishikesh. It is a glass floor suspension bridge, the first of its kind in the country. Laxman Jhula was closed in 2020 for pedestrian for the safety reasons.
The total width of this new suspension bridge is eight meters, with two toughened glass floors, each of width 1.5 meters and a 2.5 meter asphalt road in between for light motor vehicles such as two-wheelers.
The toughened glass floor will be 3.5 inches thick and will be capable of bearing a load of more than 750 kg per square meter at a time.
The length of the bridge will be 132.3 meters and the structure will have seven feet high toughened glass railings on either side. It will be safe for traffic for at least 150 years.
62% Work is completed till April 2023 and its likely to be completed by July 2023.
NOTE:- In this article, we cover all the important details regarding Laxman Jhula like the best time to visit and Activities you can do in Laxman Jhula, Still If you have any other queries you can visit the gov official website of Uttarakhand Tourism. And If you want to know the best places to visit in Uttarakhand then visit our website uttarakhandeyes.com.
