A network of magnificent Hanging Bridges in India seamlessly connects towns, cities, and villages across the diverse landscape. Among these architectural wonders, certain bridges have become sought-after tourist destinations, drawing visitors with their distinctive designs and captivating panoramic views. Hanging Bridges in India offer a greater adrenaline rush than paragliding, zip-lining, or skydiving. In various parts of the country, you’ll find lengthy and occasionally shaky hanging bridges suspended over water bodies or weaving through dense forests. Explore these 20 fear-inducing yet undeniably beautiful Hanging Bridges in India that promise an unforgettable adventure.
The Howrah Bridge, a cantilevered steel suspension bridge, connects Howrah to Kolkata. Completed in 1943, it is a unique engineering feat made of high-tensile steel and rivets. The bridge follows a truss design, consisting of horizontal beams connected by diagonal and vertical elements. It is technically a suspension bridge, with suspended spans on either side of a centrally anchored span. The bridge’s nighttime illumination is a captivating aspect, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The Howrah Bridge is not only a critical transportation link but also an architectural masterpiece reflecting Kolkata’s resilience and grandeur.
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link, also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is a cable-stayed bridge in Mumbai, India, connecting the neighbourhoods of Bandra and Worli. The bridge is built using reinforced concrete and steel, ensuring stability and strength. Bandra-Worli Sea Link features two iconic towers supporting cables, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. The bridge is illuminated during the night with LED lights, making it a prominent part of Mumbai’s night skyline.
The Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge with a unique lifting section that allows ships and ferries to pass through. Spanning the Palk Strait, it connects Rameswaram on Pamban Island to mainland India. The bridge’s lifting mechanism allows it to serve both road and marine traffic. The bridge is an integral part of the region’s cultural and religious landscape, connecting the mainland to a sacred destination.
The Godavari Arch Bridge, a unique bridge in South India, is a bow-string girder structure that spans the Godavari River. Made from concrete, it features paired arches supported by 28 piers, mirroring an inverted parabolic form. As India’s third-longest road-rail bridge over a water body, it enhances connectivity and engineering feats.
A picturesque hanging bridge in the Upper Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, spanning the Dri River, offers breathtaking views but also presents an intimidating challenge for those daring enough to traverse its narrow path.
The Sway Bridge at Thenmala in Kerala is a captivating marvel that adds a unique dimension to the natural beauty of the region. Suspended gracefully, it offers a thrilling experience as it gently sways, providing panoramic views of the surrounding lush greenery. This bridge, harmoniously integrated into the scenic landscape of Thenmala, invites visitors to embark on an enchanting journey, creating a memorable intersection of engineering and nature in the heart of Kerala.
Spanning the majestic Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh, the bridge linking the villages of Kibithu and Kahoo is not only a stunning architectural marvel but also a source of exhilaration for those who traverse it on foot or by vehicle. Its captivating design adds to the visual allure, while the experience of crossing it provides a thrilling blend of excitement and awe, making it a memorable journey between the two scenic villages.
The Lakkundi Hanging Bridge in Karnataka is a popular tourist attraction, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience for those brave enough to traverse its graceful suspension over a river while also enjoying the scenic beauty of Karnataka’s landscape.
The Hanging Bridge in Along, made of ropes and bamboo, is a captivating walkway connecting tribal communities and providing easy access to the region’s hilly terrain. It spans over 60–70 metres and offers a breathtaking view of vibrant fish dancing in the river below. The bridge also serves as a gateway to engaging activities like fishing and angling, connecting visitors to the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area.
Vidyasagar Setu, also known as the Second Hooghly Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It follows a modern cable-stayed design, with cables anchored to towers and a central span supported by two 127.62-metre-high pylons. The bridge is constructed using steel and reinforced concrete, ensuring strength and durability. The bridge features two massive pylons housing cables supporting the central span, adding aesthetic appeal.
The Gandhi Bridge, gracefully arcing over the Siang River in the mesmerising landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, stands as a testament to architectural and natural beauty. Connecting not just two banks but cultures and stories, this bridge serves as both a symbolic and practical link.
Loleygaon, a charming hamlet in Darjeeling’s scenic landscapes, offers a serene escape from city life. With dense forests and panoramic Himalayan views, it provides a perfect retreat for those seeking solace and natural splendour.
Walong, cradled in the pristine landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, is a place of serene beauty and historical significance. This remote town nestles near the borders of India and China, with breathtaking vistas and lush greenery. Steeped in history, Walong is known for its wartime contributions during the 1962 India-China conflict, adding a layer of valour to its natural charm.
The hanging bridge over the Hathi River in Coorg, Karnataka, is an engineering marvel that adds adventure to the serene landscapes. Suspended above the river, it connects different shores and offers a unique, immersive experience. The scenic beauty of the Hathi River and its surroundings unfolds on this picturesque journey.
The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are an extraordinary form of organic architecture. The indigenous Khasi people built the bridge using the aerial roots of the Ficus elastica tree. This simple and sustainable design, requiring patient cultivation of living plant materials, is visually striking and resilient, adapting to the dense Meghalayan forests. These functional living structures showcase the ingenuity and coexistence of local communities with their lush surroundings.
Ram Jhula is a hanging bridge in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, that spans the Ganges River. Made of iron and steel cables, it elegantly suspends over the water. The bridge’s design blends functionality and spirituality, offering a peaceful atmosphere for pedestrians. Lined with temples and ashrams, it serves as a symbolic link between the spiritual and earthly realms. Its simplicity and purposeful design make it a serene pathway for visitors to experience Uttarakhand’s spiritual landscape.
The Coronation Bridge, also known as the Sevoke Bridge, is a historic bridge in West Bengal, India, connecting Sevoke with Kalimpong and Darjeeling. Its distinctive design features steel spans, with pillars and trusses supporting them. At the same time, the decorative elements add to its aesthetic appeal. Constructed primarily using steel, the bridge’s robust structure withstands the forces exerted by the Teesta River. The bridge offers panoramic views of the Teesta River and surrounding hills, enhancing the overall experience for those crossing.
The Mahatma Gandhi Setu is a cantilever bridge in Bihar, India, spanning the Ganges River. It is a significant transportation link between the northern and southern parts of Bihar, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services. Built using reinforced concrete, it is one of the longest river bridges in the world.
The Bogibeel Bridge, located in Assam, India, is a double-decked rail and road bridge that spans the Brahmaputra River. It is the longest of its kind in India and is constructed using high-strength steel. The bridge, which spans approximately 4.94 kilometres, is a significant infrastructure project that enhances connectivity in the northeastern region of India. It connects the Dibrugarh and Dhemaji districts in Assam.
The Jadukata Bridge, a cantilever structure in the West Khasi hills, is a remarkable architectural marvel located near the Indo-Bangladesh border, showcasing engineering ingenuity and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings, extending horizontally into the landscape.
Hanging Bridges in India are ideal for spanning long distances and providing aesthetic appeal to the surrounding landscape. They have minimal environmental impact and can be rapidly constructed, allowing for faster completion. However, Hanging Bridges in India can be expensive to design and construct due to the use of high-strength steel cables and significant maintenance costs.
Hanging bridges are also vulnerable to strong winds, especially in areas prone to cyclones or typhoons. They have limited load capacity, along with factors influencing it like heavy traffic or railway tracks. Construction is technically challenging and requires skilled engineering, making it not the most straightforward option in all geographical and geological settings. The experience can send shivers down your spine and make your feet feel like ice, creating an exhilarating challenge to conquer.
Content writing and research by Ar. Priyanshi Shah
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