Rishikesh has officially unveiled its newest iconic landmark, the Bajrang Setu India’s first glass-floored cable suspension bridge. Built across the holy Ganga River near the historic Lakshman Jhoola, this architectural marvel features transparent glass walkways that allow visitors to look straight down into the flowing river below.
The Uttarakhand government has approved the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the bridge, introducing an entry fee system and specific operational hours to manage crowd safety and maintenance.
Ticket Prices and Operating Hours for the Glass Skywalk
While the central portion of the bridge remains free to cross, visitors wishing to experience the glass footpaths will soon be subject to entry charges:
- Adult Ticket Fee: ₹100 per person for a 2-hour slot.
- Child Ticket Fee: ₹50 per child.
- Glass Skywalk Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Free Central Deck Access: The central concrete section of the bridge remains accessible 24/7 free of cost for pedestrians and light two-wheelers.
Revenue collected from entry tickets will cover the operational expenses of employing 48 dedicated staff members working in three shifts to manage crowd flow, safety checks, and visitor assistance.
What Makes Bajrang Setu Special?
Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹60 to ₹70 crore, Bajrang Setu replaces the aging Lakshman Jhoola and connects Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal with Jonk in Pauri Garhwal.
Key structural highlights include:
- Dimensions: Spans 132 meters in length and 8 meters in total width.
- Central Deck: Features a 5-meter-wide central steel and concrete pathway designed for two-wheelers and general foot traffic.
- Glass Footpaths: Flanked on both sides by transparent skywalks built using multiple layers of 12 mm-thick tempered glass engineered for high durability, weather resistance, and safety.
Safety, Security, and Visitor Regulations
To protect the glass panels and ensure a safe experience for tourists, the Public Works Department (PWD) of Narendra Nagar has put strict safety protocols in place:
- Regulated Footfall: The number of visitors on the glass skywalk at any given time will be controlled to prevent overcrowding.
- Dedicated Staffing: Security guards and maintenance crews will monitor the glass panels continuously throughout operating hours.
- Footwear & Object Guidelines: Visitors will be instructed to follow specific footwear guidelines to prevent scratching or damaging the toughened glass panels.
Essential Visitor Advice for Exploring Bajrang Setu
If you are planning to visit Rishikesh to experience the new Bajrang Setu glass skywalk, keep these travel tips in mind:
- Visit During Early Morning or Sunset: Head to the bridge between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM or near sunset for scenic lighting over the Ganga River and shorter wait times.
- Keep Tickets Handy: Retain your physical or digital entry receipt during your 2-hour slot, as security staff may perform spot checks along the glass sections.
- Explore Surrounding Attractions: Combine your visit with neighboring iconic spots, including Parmarth Niketan, Ram Jhula, and local evening Ganga Aarti ceremonies.
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