Lakshman Jhula Crossing (Bridge) in Rishikesh
Moving from one side of the Ganges River in Rishikesh, on the other, is done through Jhula Lakshman surprising. This cable suspension iron bridge and close ties to the bustling streets of the city on the north side of urban expansion continues on the opposite side. For residents of this community of Edgewater, Lakshman Jhula colleague of a city divided by the most sacred rivers of India, which enables easy transportation of goods traded in the villages close to the stores. For tourists, the 450-meter span bridge has a magnificent view of the hillside and its picturesque surroundings.
Construction began in 1927 to replace a rope bridge washed away by floods in 1924. Now considered a landmark in Rishikesh, Lakshman Jhula was first greeted with great fanfare when it is completed in 1930 the first suspension bridge to carry vehicular traffic in Uttar Pradesh. Walking the bridge is not for the faint of heart, as it sways back and forth, even in calm weather days. Creaks and groans arise as the hilly road 6 feet wide spreads the weight of passing pedestrians, a motley crew of men and animals. Agile monkeys (let’s call them anything but shy) suspension cables climb in the hope of snatching food from passers-by while it is more likely with the unconscious pose for photos. Zip scooter soon playing an urgent warning about their horns do not give a second to jump clear of their path. Bikes struggle to stay upright, then the bridge throws the balance of the rider. And the occasional jeep send all rush to a spot against the ramps vibrant.
Navigating through a variety of traffic along the path Jhula Lakshman thin, well above the blue surface in the Ganges running, and India is a unique experience. Fortunately, some coffee shops are near the end of the bridge, where tourists can reward yourself with a drink and hours of fun watching the motley crew that cross the bridge every day.