Rishikesh’s Lakshman Jhula To Be Replaced By...: Iconic Glass Bridge Nears Completion — Similar Projects Across India

Last Updated:October 30, 2025, 08:47 IST

The new Bajrang Setu in Rishikesh is a striking glass suspension bridge that will replace the legendary Lakshman Jhula.

The bridge is expected to be ready by December 2025. (Photo Credits: Instagram)

Rishikesh in Uttarakhand is ready for a new chapter. Soon, Bajrang Setu, a stunning glass suspension bridge, will rise over the Ganga, transforming the way people see and experience the sacred river.

The project, over three years in the making, is coming up at the very spot where the iconic Lakshman Jhula was located. With time, the old bridge, a symbol of devotion and courage for nearly a century, had grown weak, leading to its closure. Now, work is underway on Bajrang Setu, which will be a stronger and safer bridge that will connect the two riverbanks.

A New Chapter Above The Ganga

Costing around Rs 60 crore, Bajrang Setu stretches 132 metres in length and 8 metres in width. It is being built using advanced materials designed to withstand heavy use. Its architectural towers are said to draw inspiration from the sacred Kedarnath Temple.

“The construction of Bajrang Setu has been largely completed. About 90 per cent of the work is done, and only the installation of glass on the pedestrian walkway remains," Praveen Karnwal, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department’s Narendra Nagar Division, said as quoted by NDTV.

One of the most eye-catching parts of the bridge will be its glass walkways, which are 1.5 metres wide on both sides and made of 66-mm-thick reinforced glass. Standing on them, visitors will be able to see the Ganga flowing right below their feet. The middle lane will allow two-wheelers to pass while pedestrians can walk safely on either side.

Tourism officials believe the bridge will soon become one of Rishikesh’s most photographed spots.

End Of An Era, Start Of Another

Lakshman Jhula, built in 1929, had long been an icon of faith. Mythology says Lord Lakshman once crossed the river using a jute rope, which inspired the bridge’s name. Over the years, it turned into a popular point for pilgrims and travellers from around the world.

But after decades of use and increasing crowds, engineers found the structure unsafe. Authorities decided to close it to traffic and begin work on a modern replacement. Construction on Bajrang Setu began in 2022 and is now close to completion. The bridge will likely be ready by December 2025 and open to the public in early 2026.

India’s Growing Fascination With Glass Bridges

Across the country, other regions also have similar attractions that offer majestic views while keeping safety in focus.

Glass Bridge Coming Up In Jabalpur

In Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, a cantilever-style glass bridge is taking shape in Bhedaghat. According to a report in Patrika, the bridge is being built at a cost of Rs 4.76 crore. It will be 18 metres long and about 2 metres wide. Once completed, tourists will be able to enjoy views of the Narmada River and the cliffs around it.

Along with the bridge, facilities such as a ticket counter, pathway, viewing point, canteen, and organised parking are also being developed. The report mentioned that all this work is expected to be completed by early 2026.

India’s Longest Skywalk In Visakhapatnam

Down south in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, the Kailasagiri Hills have become home to India’s longest skywalk. Rising 862 feet above the ground, this cantilever bridge offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. According to Architectural Digest, the bridge was built for around Rs 7 crore and has been load-tested with nearly twelve tonnes of weight. For safety, only 40 people can step onto the deck at a time, and charges are anywhere between Rs 250-350 per person.

New Glass Bridge Unveiled At Kerala’s Akkulam Tourist Village

Akkulam Tourist Village in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, recently opened its own glass bridge that is 50 metres long and 2 metres wide. It is made with three layers of laminated glass. Up to 20 visitors can walk on it at once and enjoy features like artificial fog, mist effects and dramatic lighting.

The tourist centre around the bridge also includes sky cycling, ziplining, a musical fountain, laser shows and an Indian Air Force Museum. Tickets are priced at Rs 200 for adults and Rs 150 for children.

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