Ram Jhula

Ram Jhula is an amazing iron suspension bridge constructed at Muni Ki Reti on the banks of river Ganges in Rishikesh. This iron suspension bridge was built in the year 1986 for the local population and pilgrims who would come from all over the country and even overseas to explore the holy city of Rishikesh. The bridge is very popular amongst the tourists and pilgrims who are able to witness some remarkable natural views from the bridge. The Ram Jhula is actually situated 3 kms north of Rishikesh on the banks of Ganges. There are some popular Hindu ashrams along with enlightened religious centers such as Swargashram and Gita Bhawan located here.

Ram Jhula is also considered a connecting bridge that links Gita Bhawan, Swargashram and other adjoining temples and shrines with the popular Sivananda Ashram. Although, identical in design, the bridge is actually larger than Lakshman Jhula, which is located within close proximity to Ram Jhula. The bridge is considered a prominent landmark in the city of Rishikesh. Pilgrims and tourists get fascinated when they see this remarkable iron suspension bridge built at the picturesque Muni Ki Reti on the Ganges. The natural scenic surroundings tend to enhance the overall view of this attractive bridge.

Geography

The Ram Jhula is 450 feet long and built 59 feet above the Ganges River. It is an impressive suspended iron bridge and does not have any pillars. The bridge is considered an architectural wonder as it does not have any supporting pillars. Ram Jhula was built by the government public works department in the 1980s with the monetary assistance given from Sivananda Ashram Life Society. The Ram Jhula is also referred to as Shivanand Jhula. Moreover, Sivananda Ashram, which is located very close to Ram Jhula, is the most preferred and visited ashram in and around Ram Jhula. The Sivananda Ashram is very popular for sacred yoga teachings and people from across the country and overseas come and explores the healing and meditational teachings of yoga. Ram Jhula also connects the Muni Ki Reti to the famous Swarg Ashram. This serene Swarg Ashram region also houses the popular Parmarth Niketan Narayan Temple and Gita Bhawan as well. Furthermore, Ram Jhula has Swarg Ashram Parmarth and Gita Bhawan on one direction and Shivanand Ashram, Yog Niketan and Madhuban Ashram on the other side. The marvelous presence of all these sacred places tends to enhance the overall beauty and aura of Ram Jhula to a great level.

Ram Jhula has a busy marketplace on both the sides. Visitors can get artifacts, gems, semi-precious stones, clothes, knickknacks, puja items, Rudraksha, idols, tapes and CDs. There are also outlets for religious products, Ayurvedic medicines, Nehru jackets, caps, salwar kameez, kurtas, sarees, bangles, and jewelry items on the narrow lanes. Visitors can also purchase simple and ornamented Ganesh idols, gems, sacred beads, Nataraja statues, paintings and sculptures of almost every god and goddess in the Hindu religion. There are some quality restaurants and eating joints located in and around Ram Jhula such as Madras Café and Chotiwala along with many sweet shops as well.

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