Ram Jhula in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
If you're spending any time in Rishikesh, you'll end up walking across Ram Jhula eventually. Suspended over the cold turquoise waters of the Ganges in Uttarakhand, this 450-foot iron bridge links Muni Ki Reti with the ashram area of Swargashram. It was built back in 1986, making it bigger and newer than Laxman Jhula down the river. Honestly, just standing on the bridge feeling the cool breeze off the water is one of those simple highlights when checking out places to visit in Rishikesh.
History of the Bridge
The bridge was built by the PWD along with help from Sivananda Ashram, named in honor of Lord Ram. Before it was built, people had to cross the fast-flowing Ganga in small wooden boats, which wasn't always safe. Today, pedestrians, sadhus, scooters, and a lot of pushy monkeys share the swaying bridge floor.
Famous Ashrams Near Ram Jhula
Once you cross over to the Swargashram side, you're right next to some of the most active spiritual spots in Rishikesh:
- Sivananda Ashram: Sitting right at the western end of the bridge. Founded in 1936 by Swami Sivananda, it's known for daily yoga classes and quiet meditation halls.
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram: A short walk down the riverbank. People come here from all over the world for the evening Ganga Aarti and the big marble Shiva statue on the water.
- Swargashram Area: The whole neighborhood is packed with old ashrams, vegetarian food stalls, tea shops, and booksellers.
- Geeta Bhawan: A huge complex near the river steps where all 700 verses of the Gita are carved directly into the walls.
- Triveni Ghat (2.5 km): The main bathing ghat located just a short auto ride down the main road.
Things to Do & Tips
Thing is, there's always something going on around the bridge. You can take a quick boat ride across the Ganges for a few rupees if you don't feel like walking. At dusk around 6:00 PM, head over to Parmarth Niketan for the evening Aarti. Also, watch your stuff — monkeys on the bridge will grab food, sunglasses, or water bottles right out of your hand if you're not paying attention.
How To Reach Ram Jhula
For transport details, check our full guide on how to reach Rishikesh in Uttarakhand.
By Air: Nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (DED) in Dehradun, about 21 km away. Taxis take roughly 40 minutes to reach Ram Jhula.
By Train: Nearest stations are Yoganagari Rishikesh (YNRK) and Rishikesh Railway Station (RKSH), about 3 km from the bridge.
By Road: Ram Jhula sits 3.5 km from ISBT Rishikesh Bus Stand. Buses run daily from Delhi and Haridwar. Auto-rickshaws drop you right at the bridge entrance.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Ram Jhula in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand is between September and May. Weather is cool, exploring ashrams on foot is easy, and you can find good deals on hotels in Rishikesh.
