Photo spot in Rishikesh
Laxman Jhula
Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
A 1920s iron suspension footbridge over the Ganga, closed to everyone since 2022 after its cables were found unsafe — now seen from the bank, or from the Bajrang Setu bridge beside it.
Best time
Early morning, when the river is green and the bridges are quiet; late afternoon for warm light on the temple tower.
Best angle
Stand on the central deck of Bajrang Setu and take a photo across to the old Laxman Jhula with the Trayambakeshwar tower behind it.
Entry fee
Free
Opening hours
Closed to visitors since 2022 (unsafe cables)
Crowd level
High
Best outfit colors
Overview
Best time to visit Laxman Jhula
Early morning, when the river is green and the bridges are quiet; late afternoon for warm light on the temple tower. Crowds here are typically high. Arrive a little early to claim your angle and catch the softest light before the day tips over.
Poses & angles
Photo tips for Laxman Jhula
Stand on the central deck of Bajrang Setu and take a photo across to the old Laxman Jhula with the Trayambakeshwar tower behind it. Work a few of the pose ideas below, shoot wide for context and tight for detail, and give yourself a couple of extra minutes to get the frame right.
From the riverbank with the bridge behind you
From Bajrang Setu looking across
Outfit guide
What to wear at Laxman Jhula
For photos at Laxman Jhula, saffron, white and river green work beautifully — they stand out against the setting without fighting it. Pick one hero colour and keep the rest of the look calm so you stay the subject of the frame.
Best outfit colors for photos
Trending wear for this spot
Popular modern looks travellers are wearing across Rishikesh.
Traditional wear for this spot
Timeless, cultural looks that suit Laxman Jhula.
Eat nearby
Food near Laxman Jhula
Round out the visit with something to eat. Look for himalayan herbal chai nearby, or settle in at one of the 2 restaurants close by.
Special dishes to try
Restaurants & food places nearby
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Good to know
Local tips
Do not try to get onto the old Laxman Jhula; it has been closed since 2022 and barriers are in place.
Walk the free central deck of Bajrang Setu if you do not need the glass walkways.
Check whether the glass sections are open before paying, as they have been shut for repairs at times.
Climb the Trayambakeshwar Temple for the best view of both bridges from above.
Keep snacks and phones in a closed bag, as monkeys grab them on the bridge approaches.
Watch for two-wheelers on the central deck, which is shared with walkers.
Come early in the morning for clear light on the river and fewer people.
The old bridge
Laxman Jhula is the iron suspension bridge that made Rishikesh famous. It was completed in 1929 and opened in 1930, replacing an earlier bridge washed away in a 1924 flood. Legend says Lakshman crossed the Ganga here on a rope of jute, which gives the area its name. For almost a century it carried pilgrims, cows, scooters and backpackers across the river.
Closed since 2022
Engineers found the cables badly worn, and the bridge was closed to everyone in April 2022. You can no longer walk on it. It still stands, and its towers and cables make a good photo from the banks.
Bajrang Setu, the new crossing
Bajrang Setu, a cable suspension bridge built beside the old one, now carries people across at this spot. It has a central deck for walkers and two-wheelers and glass-floored walkways along both sides. The central deck is free and open all day. The glass walkways are a separate, ticketed section with set hours, and they have been closed at times for repairs, so check before you go.
Around the bridge
The thirteen-storey Trayambakeshwar Temple, often called Tera Manzil, stands at the eastern end. Its upper floors give views over both bridges. The lanes on both banks are full of shops selling shawls, beads, books and yoga clothes, and cafés with terraces over the river.
Getting there
The area is about 5 km upstream of the main Rishikesh market. Shared autos run along the Tapovan road. Parking is limited, so come by auto or on foot.
Questions
Laxman Jhula — FAQ
What is the best time to visit Laxman Jhula?
Early morning, when the river is green and the bridges are quiet; late afternoon for warm light on the temple tower. Stand on the central deck of Bajrang Setu and take a photo across to the old Laxman Jhula with the Trayambakeshwar tower behind it.
Is there an entry fee at Laxman Jhula?
Entry to Laxman Jhula is free.
What are the opening hours of Laxman Jhula?
Laxman Jhula is open closed to visitors since 2022 (unsafe cables).
What should I wear at Laxman Jhula?
Saffron, white and river green photograph especially well here. Explore the trending and traditional outfit ideas on this page for full looks.
How crowded does Laxman Jhula get?
Crowd levels are typically high. To miss the busiest window: early morning, when the river is green and the bridges are quiet; late afternoon for warm light on the temple tower.
What food should I try near Laxman Jhula?
Try himalayan herbal chai, available at nearby restaurants.
Why is Laxman Jhula closed?
An engineering study found its cables were badly worn. The bridge was closed to everyone in April 2022 and has been replaced by Bajrang Setu next to it.
What is Bajrang Setu?
A new cable suspension bridge beside Laxman Jhula with a central deck for walkers and two-wheelers and glass-floored side walkways. The central deck is free; the glass walkways are ticketed.
Will Laxman Jhula be demolished?
No firm decision on its future has been announced. It stands closed next to the new bridge, and you can photograph it from the banks.
Is the glass floor on Bajrang Setu safe?
It is built from layers of tempered glass and has staff on the walkways. Some panels cracked before the formal opening and were repaired, so follow any closures.