Bajrang Setu

Bajrang Setu Rishikesh – The New Iconic Bridge Over the Ganga

Bajrang Setu, popularly known as Janki Setu, is one of the newest and most important infrastructure landmarks in Rishikesh. Built to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity across the Ganga, the bridge connects Tapovan with Swargashram–Ram Jhula area, offering both functional and scenic value.

The bridge has emerged as a vital alternative after the closure of the historic Lakshman Jhula, making it a lifeline for locals, pilgrims, and tourists.

Complete Travel Guide of Bajrang Setu with latest updates

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Tapovan, Rishikeshsame location as of old Laxman Jhula
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Bajrang Setu in Rishikesh

Why Bajrang Setu Was Built?

For decades, Lakshman Jhula and Ram Jhula handled most pedestrian and vehicular movement in Rishikesh. However, after Lakshman Jhula was declared unsafe and closed in 2019, the need for a modern, load-bearing bridge became urgent.

Bajrang Setu was constructed to:

  • Reduce traffic pressure on Ram Jhula
  • Provide a safe crossing for vehicles and pedestrians
  • Improve access to Tapovan and nearby ashrams
  • Support growing tourism and daily commuting needs

Architectural & Structural Features

  • Type: Modern reinforced concrete bridge
  • Traffic: Open to two-wheelers, cars, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles
  • Design: Wide carriageway with pedestrian pathways
  • Safety: Built to modern seismic and load standards
  • View: Offers panoramic views of the Ganga and surrounding hills

The bridge blends functionality with aesthetics, especially during sunrise and evening hours.

Features of Bajrang Setu

The new Bajrang Setu is designed as a modern suspension bridge with advanced features:

  • Glass deck: The highlight of the bridge will be its transparent glass deck, offering a thrilling experience to pedestrians.
  • FRP deck: Work on the fiber-reinforced polymer deck is underway.
  • Cost: The project is estimated at Rs 68 crore.
  • Lighting and security: Colourful lights and CCTV cameras will be installed to enhance safety and beauty.

Importance for Tourism in Rishikesh

Bajrang Setu is set to become Uttarakhand’s first modern glass suspension bridge, promising to give Rishikesh tourism a fresh identity. The bridge will offer visitors from India and abroad a unique experience, allowing them to enjoy breathtaking views of the Ganga while walking across a world-class architectural marvel.

Blending contemporary design with deep cultural significance, Bajrang Setu is poised to emerge as a new landmark and symbol of Rishikesh. Its inauguration marks the close of an iconic chapter with Lakshman Jhula and the beginning of a new era for the spiritual city. By seamlessly combining tradition with modern engineering, the bridge will benefit locals and tourists alike, further strengthening Uttarakhand’s standing as a global tourism destination.

Bajrang Setu plays a crucial role in enhancing the tourism experience by providing smoother access to major attractions such as:

  • Tapovan yoga schools
  • Cafés and river-view restaurants
  • Ashrams and ghats
  • Adventure sports hubs

Its opening has significantly improved movement for tourists exploring both sides of the river without long detours.

Best Time to Visit Bajrang Setu

  • Morning: Ideal for photography and peaceful walks
  • Evening: Popular for sunset views and Ganga vistas
  • Season: Septemner to June is best for comfortable weather

The bridge is accessible throughout the year.

Travel Tips

  • Visit early morning for crowd-free views
  • Follow traffic rules as it is a busy bridge
  • Avoid stopping vehicles on the bridge
  • Ideal spot for river photography, not selfies in traffic

Location of Bajrang Setu

Bajrang Setu is located in Tapovan, Rishikesh ( same location as of old Laxman Jhula).

Location & How to Reach Bajrang Setu

By Road: Easily accessible from Rishikesh town

By Rail: Nearest station – Rishikesh Railway Station (4 km)

By Air: Nearest airport – Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (22 km)

Local autos and taxis are readily available for Bajrang Setu.

FAQs About Bajrang Setu, Rishikesh

Q: Is Bajrang Setu the same as Janki Setu?
A: 
Yes, Bajrang Setu is also known as Janki Setu among locals.

Q: Is Bajrang Setu open for vehicles?
A: 
Yes, the bridge is open for two-wheelers, cars, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles.

Q: Why was Lakshman Jhula closed?
A: 
Lakshman Jhula was closed in 2019 after being declared structurally unsafe due to its age and excessive load.

Q: Is Bajrang Setu safe during monsoon?
A: 
Yes, Bajrang Setu is built with modern engineering standards and remains operational during the monsoon season, subject to weather advisories.

Q: Can tourists walk on Bajrang Setu?
A: 
Yes, pedestrian pathways are available, making the bridge popular for walking and photography.

Q: Does Bajrang Setu help decongest traffic?
A: 
Yes, the bridge has significantly reduced traffic congestion around the Ram Jhula and Tapovan areas.

Read How to Reach guide for Rishikesh.