Lakshman Jhula is a famous iron suspension bridge across the Ganga river. It is named after Lakshmana, brother of Lord Rama, who is believed to have crossed the river on jute ropes where the current bridge is located. The bridge connects two villages, namely Tapovan and Jonk, which are located on either side of the river. The current bridge was built in 1929 after the old bridge was washed away by the floods of 1924. The length of the bridge is 450 ft and it is surrounded by breathtaking nature.

Lakshman Jhula is located on the outskirts of the city and connects Tapovan, in Tehri Garhwal district with Jonk, in Pauri Garhwal district. There are many temples, ashrams, yoga schools, and hostels on both sides of the bridge.

Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula look identical in appearance and design, however, Lakshman Jhula is older and bit smaller in length compared to Ram Jhula. The bridge is always bustling with the movement of people, motorcycles, cows and sometimes monkeys. Tourists will be busy in taking selfies, photos, and videos.

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History of Lakshman Jhula

Legend is that Lord Rama’s younger brother Lakshmana crossed the Ganges on jute ropes in this place. To honor his name, a hanging bridge with 284 ft in length was built and named it Lakshman Jhula. However, it was washed away during floods in 1924. The current bridge, which is stronger and bigger than the previous one, was again constructed in 1929 and opened for public use in 1930. The length of the current bridge is around 450 feet.

Main Attraction

There are a lot of activities that happen around Lakshman Jhula. Temples around this bridge are Tera Manzil temple (Tryambakeshwar temple), Lakshman Temple etc. There are many Yoga and Meditation schools around this place. Also, there is a big market place, where one can buy all the religious and spiritual items like japa malas, stones, rudraksha, statues of deities.. You will also find many shops with woolen cloths, handicrafts items, books, music products etc. There are also crowded cafes and restaurants nearby thronged with Indian and foreign visitors.

How to reach Lakshman Jhula

Lakshman Jhula is located at a distance of 5 km from Rishikesh City and 28 km from Haridwar. One has to hire a taxi/auto to reach the place. The nearby railway stations are Rishikesh railway station (5 km) and Haridwar railway station (28 km). The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, which is 23 km from the location.