Laxman Jhula

Laxman Jhula is the suspension bridge that most people picture when they think of Rishikesh — a narrow iron crossing suspended high above the Ganga, connecting the town to Jonk village on the far bank. Local legend holds that Lakshmana, brother of Lord Rama, crossed the river here on a rope of jute, which is where the bridge takes its name.

The bridge itself is only open to pedestrians and two-wheelers, and crossing it on foot — with the river rushing green-blue beneath the iron lattice and prayer flags snapping overhead — is one of the simplest, most memorable things to do in town. The area around it has grown into one of Rishikesh's liveliest stretches: cafés, German bakeries, yoga shops and budget guesthouses cluster along both banks, spilling into the neighbouring Tapovan area on the hillside above.

Note for visitors: the original 1930 iron bridge was closed to general traffic some years back after structural concerns, so check locally on which crossing is currently open before planning a visit — but the area, ghats and views remain very much worth the trip either way.