Name: Rishikesh
Rating: 4.5

Lakshman Jhula, Rishikesh Overview

The Lakshman Jhula is a famous hanging bridge across the river Ganga that connects two villages, Tapovan in the Tehri Garhwal district and Jonk in the Pauri Garhwal district. Located in the town Rishikesh in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, the entire bridge is made up of iron, is 450 feet long and is situated at the height of 70 feet from the river. Sadly, it has been closed permanently owing to the risk to the safety and security. A new glass bridge is set to come up adjacent to Lakshman Jhula. However, it is still used by pedestrians but bikes are strictly not allowed.

The Lakshman Jhula is well-known amongst tourists because it is believed that Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, had crossed the river Ganga at this same site.

The construction of the bridge was completed in the year 1929, and presently, the Lakshman Jhula acts as an adjoining bridge across the river, along with the old route to the sacred shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. Grand temples and famous markets have sprung up in the vicinity, and the entire area is now a particularly renowned attraction in entire Rishikesh.

Important places around the Lakshman Jhula include the Terah Manzil temple, the Lakshman temple, and the Ram Jhula and the entire area resonates with the sounds of the enchanting mantras and shlokas from the temple.

History of Lakshman Jhula

As per mythological tales, it is believed that at one point in time, Lord Lakshman, brother of Lord Rama, crossed the river Ganga at the same spot where the present bridge is now constructed. Legend has it that Lord Lakshman crossed the river using just two ropes. To honour this brave act of Lord Lakshman, a 284 feet long hanging rope bridge was built and came to be known as the 'Lakshman Jhula'.

Until 1889, this particular bridge was used to cross the river. Unfortunately, the bridge was washed away in the floods of October 1924. Following this, the eroded jute bridge was replaced by an iron bridge along the same path in 1939. The name of the bridge was not changed, and now the iron Lakshman Jhula stands majestically across the river Ganga.

Things To Do at Lakshman Jhula

If you happen to visit Rishikesh, absolutely do not forget to cross the Lakshman Jhula. On either side of the bridge, you will see markets, where you can buy a variety of things including wooden goods, Rudraksha, idols of Gods and Goddesses, holy books, gems, local jewellery, clothes, semi-precious stones and other knick-knacks. These local markets are also noted for their excellent street food.

Attractions Near Lakshman Jhula

A visit to the Lakshman Jhula is best enjoyed when coupled with visits to the nearby attractions and temples. The famous 13-storeyed temple- the Trayambakeshwar Temple is located very close to the Lakshman Jhula. Another thirteen-storey temple, called the Terah Manzil, is also situated near to the Lakshman Jhula. The top floor of magnificent temple provides a beautiful view of the nearby surroundings. According to locals, the Lakshman Temple, around the Jhula with Risha Kund, is where Lord Rama and Lord Lakshman took a bath in after killing the demon Ravana to wash away their sins. This temple too is a must visit. Other prominent temples in proximity to the Lakshman Jhula include the Sachha Akhileswar Mahadev Temple and the Sri Raghunath Ji's Temple.

How To Reach Lakshman Jhula

The Lakshman Jhula is located on the way to the Trayambakeshwar Temple, 12 kilometres away from the Inter State Bus Terminal in Adarsh Gram, Rishikesh. You can reach here by taking an auto from almost anywhere in the entire town.

Rishikesh Packages

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Lakshman Jhula Reviews

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Soumita Ghosh

on Lakshman Jhula 4 years ago

Stay safe on the suspension bridge located seventy meters above the river flowing below as it swings from side to side while you are walking. The bridge as well as the roads around tend to get crowde (Read More)d owing to the two-wheelers, buffaloes, cows and oxen. The surroundings get dirty due to the aforementioned animals. Nowadays, the pedestrians pollute the place too. The bridge is not very wide, but in spite of it, people stop in between to click pictures, feed monkeys, buy trinkets and so on. These make it even more crowded. You will find several food joints here, although the cuisine consists only of vegetarian food. Alcohol is strictly prohibited.