Ram Jhula Rishikesh

Ram Jhula is one of Rishikesh’s most iconic landmarks – a 750-foot long iron suspension bridge standing 450 feet above the sacred Ganges River. Built in 1986, it serves both as a vital connector between important spiritual centers and as a beloved tourist attraction offering panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills, the holy river, and the city’s many temples and ashrams.

Often referred to as Shivananda Jhula by locals, Ram Jhula connects the renowned Swarg Ashram and Sivananda Ashram, making it an important crossing point for spiritual seekers, locals, and travelers alike.

Visitor Experience

• The emerald-green Ganges flowing beneath
• White sandy beaches along the riverbanks
• Numerous ashrams and temples dotting both shores
• Distant snow-capped Himalayan peaks (on clear days)
• Religious ceremonies and activities along the ghats

The bridge is pedestrian-only, though you’ll occasionally need to navigate around wandering cows or monkeys that frequent the area. Photographers will find plenty of perfect spots for memorable shots, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates a magical atmosphere.

Spiritual Significance

Ram Jhula lies at the heart of Rishikesh’s spiritual landscape. The bridge connects several important centers of yoga and meditation:

• Sivananda Ashram: Founded by Swami Sivananda, this ashram offers yoga courses and spiritual retreats.
• Parmarth Niketan Ashram: One of the largest ashrams in Rishikesh, famous for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
• Gita Bhawan: A sanctuary dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita with over 1,000 rooms for pilgrims.
• Yog Niketan: A traditional ashram focusing on authentic yoga practices.

The area around Ram Jhula is considered particularly conducive to meditation and spiritual practices due to its serene environment and sacred associations.

Practical Information

How to Reach Ram Jhula

• Auto-rickshaw: 15-20 minutes (approximately ₹100-150)
• Shared tuk-tuk: 20-25 minutes (approximately ₹30-50 per person)
• Walking: 30-40 minutes along the main road

• Auto-rickshaw: 25-30 minutes (approximately ₹200-250)
• Local bus: 35-40 minutes (approximately ₹20)

• Taxi: 45-60 minutes (approximately ₹1,200-1,500)
• Airport shuttle to Rishikesh + auto-rickshaw (approximately ₹800 total)

Best Time to Visit

Ram Jhula can be visited throughout the year, but different seasons offer distinct experiences:

• Pleasant temperatures (15-25°C)
• Clear views of the Himalayas
• Ideal for outdoor activities
• Busier with tourists and pilgrims

• Warmer temperatures (25-38°C)
• Lower water levels in the Ganges
• Less crowded
• Good for river beach activities

• Monsoon season with occasional heavy rainfall
• Dramatic views of the swollen Ganges
• Lush green surroundings
• Some activities may be restricted during heavy rains

Visitor Guidelines

• The bridge is open 24 hours but best visited during daylight
• No entry fee required
• Photography is permitted
• Be cautious of monkeys that may grab loose items
• Maintain respectful behavior as this is a spiritually significant area
• Dress modestly out of respect for local customs
• Avoid feeding animals on or around the bridge

Activities Around Ram Jhula

1. Riverside Activities:
   • White water rafting adventures
   • Riverside yoga sessions
   • Camping on the beaches (seasonal)
   • Swimming in designated areas
2. Spiritual Experiences:
   • Attend evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at nearby ghats
   • Participate in meditation sessions at neighboring ashrams
   • Join yoga classes for all experience levels
   • Visit temples around the bridge
3. Nearby Attractions:
   • The Ganga Beach: Relax on the white sandy shores
   • The Beatles Ashram: Explore the abandoned ashram where the famous band once stayed
   • Lakshman Temple: Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama’s brother
   • Patna Waterfalls: Trek to these beautiful cascades (5 km from Ram Jhula)
   • Neelkanth Mahadev Temple: An important Shiva temple in the nearby hills

Where to Stay

• Aloha On Ganges (riverfront property with stunning views)
• The Nirvana Palace (upscale amenities with traditional architecture)
• Grand Haveli Resort and Spa (blending luxury with spiritual ambiance)

• Sanskriti Vedic Retreat (comfortable rooms with cultural experiences)
• Yog Niketan by Sanskriti (yoga-focused accommodation)

• Several ashrams offer simple accommodations for spiritual seekers
• Guesthouses and hostels along the riverside
• Budget hotels in the commercial areas nearby

Dining Options

• Rooftop cafes with river views
• Healthy, organic vegetarian restaurants
• Traditional Indian cuisine
• International options catering to tourists
• Street food stalls (exercise caution with hygiene)

Travel Tips

• Carry water and sun protection when crossing the bridge during daytime
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the area around Ram Jhula is best explored on foot
• Be prepared for the bridge’s gentle swaying motion if you’re sensitive to motion
• Keep valuables secure, especially when the bridge is crowded
• The best photographs can be taken from nearby ghats rather than on the bridge itself
• Consider visiting both at sunrise and sunset for different perspectives

Explore Ram Jhula with Our Tour Packages

• Golden Triangle Tour with Yoga
• Rishikesh package for 4 days
• Rajaji national park safari packages

Additional Tour Options

• Chardham Yatra Packages from Bangalore
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Ranikhet Tour Packages
• Jim Corbett Packages
• Haridwar Tour Packages
• Almora Tour Packages
• Kausani Tour Packages
• Dehradun Tour Packages
• Valley of Flowers Tour Packages
• Uttarkashi Tour Packages