Rishikesh’s iconic Lakshman Jhula is set to be replaced by Bajrang Setu, a modern glass suspension bridge opening in early 2026 for tourists and devotees.

The old Lakshman Jhula will be replaced by the contemporary glass suspension bridge over the Ganga, known as Bajrang Setu, when it opens in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. The bridge is expected to be more robust, secure, and aesthetically pleasing, with glass walkways and bike and pedestrian lanes. When it opens to the public in early 2026, tourism officials said they anticipate it becoming one of the most photographed destinations in Rishikesh.

Bajrang Setu: An updated substitute

The location of the famous Lakshman Jhula is now the location of Bajrang Setu. Built in 1929, the historic bridge apparently deteriorated over time and was shut down for safety reasons. According to reports, the new bridge would cost approximately Rs 60 crore and measure 132 meters in length and 8 meters in width. It will be built using cutting-edge materials to withstand heavy traffic.

According to reports, the bridge’s architectural towers were modeled after the revered Kedarnath Temple. Its 1.5-meter-wide glass pathways, which are composed of reinforced glass that is 66 mm thick, would purportedly let tourists watch the Ganga flowing beneath them. Two-wheelers are reportedly going to be able to use the central lane, while pedestrians can safely walk on either side.

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Lakshman Jhula has long been a representation of bravery and faith, drawing pilgrims and tourists from all over the world, according to reports. According to myth, the bridge’s name was inspired by Lord Lakshman’s famous jute rope crossing of the Ganga. Bajrang Setu is reportedly scheduled to open to the public in early 2026 after construction is projected to be finished by December 2025.

The expanding glass bridge trend

According to studies, glass bridges that provide stunning vistas while being secure are becoming more and more popular in India.

• In Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh, a cantilever-style glass bridge that is 18 meters long and 2 meters wide is apparently being built for Rs 4.76 crore. The project is anticipated to be finished by early 2026 and apparently includes a ticket booth, viewing area, canteen, and parking.
• Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh: The longest skywalk in India is said to be 862 feet high and is located in the Kailasagiri Hills. The bridge was constructed for about Rs 7 crore, tested for loads of up to 12 tonnes, and only accommodates 40 people at a time, according to Architectural Digest. It is said to cost between Rs 250 and Rs 350 each person to enter.
• In Kerala’s Akkulam Tourist Village, a 50-meter-long glass bridge made of three layers of laminated glass is said to have just opened. The bridge has stunning lighting, fog, and mist effects, and it is said to be able to accommodate 20 people at once. According to reports, the tourist center also features laser shows, a musical fountain, sky cycling, ziplining, and an Indian Air Force Museum. Adult tickets are said to cost Rs 200, while children’s tickets cost Rs 150.