Ram Jhula, Rishikesh
Location
Rishikesh
Distance
5 km from City Center
About Ram Jhula, Rishikesh
Ram Jhula, also called Sivananda Jhula, is a pedestrian suspension bridge across the Ganga in Rishikesh. It connects the Sivananda Ashram side with the Swarg Ashram side, where you will find the famous evening aarti, ghats, bookshops and cafes. For many travellers, it is the easiest way to experience the spiritual side of Rishikesh in a short time.
Ram Jhula at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Between Sivananda Ashram (Shivanand Nagar) and Swarg Ashram, Rishikesh |
| Type | Pedestrian suspension bridge over the Ganga |
| Built | Opened in the 1986 |
| Also called | Sivananda Jhula |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Time needed | 1 to 3 hours with the aarti |
What makes this area special
The bridge itself is a landmark, but the real draw is the Swarg Ashram side. Here the Parmarth Niketan ashram holds an evening Ganga aarti on its ghat, and the lanes nearby are lined with bookshops, handicraft stalls and vegetarian cafes. The other side has the Sivananda Ashram, a well-known centre for yoga and Vedanta. Walking across the bridge at sunset gives you wide views of the river and hills.
What to see
- Parmarth Niketan and its evening aarti.
- Geeta Bhawan and other large ashram complexes.
- Ganga ghats where you can sit and watch the river.
- Cafes and bookstores along the Swarg Ashram lanes.
- Yoga classes offered by many ashrams and studios.
- Beatles Ashram a short walk further up the east bank.
How to reach
From central Rishikesh, take an auto or e-rickshaw to Shivanand Nagar or Swarg Ashram. From Haridwar, the drive takes about an hour. Motor vehicles are not allowed on the bridge, but two-wheelers sometimes pass at certain times, so stay alert. Our Haridwar to Rishikesh taxi can drop you near the bridge.
Best time to visit
The evening is the best time, because of the aarti and the cooler air. Winter is the most comfortable season. In summer, the day is hot, so go close to sunset. Monsoon brings high water and fewer people on the ghats.
Tips
- Reach early for a good seat at the aarti.
- Remove footwear before entering the ghat area.
- Do not feed monkeys and keep food out of sight.
- Keep small change for offerings and snacks.
- Stay on the side of the bridge and give way to bikes if they pass.
- Wear modest clothing if you plan to visit ashrams.
Nearby places
Laxman Jhula is a few kilometres away. Beatles Ashram, Vashishta Gufa and Neelkanth Mahadev are also popular stops.
Plan your Rishikesh trip with Gokeys India
We offer pickups, hotels and sightseeing across Rishikesh. See the Rishikesh destination page, the Haridwar and Rishikesh two-day tour or our Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti package.
Related on Gokeys India
- Tour packages: Haridwar, Rishikesh and Neelkanth 2-day tour · Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Dhanaulti tour
- Read next: Rishikesh adventure activities · Hill stations near Rishikesh
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Ram Jhula and Laxman Jhula? Ram Jhula is closer to the centre and connects Sivananda Ashram with Swarg Ashram. Laxman Jhula is further upstream and links Tapovan with Jonk.
Is Ram Jhula open? It is generally open to pedestrians. Check the current status before you go.
Where is the evening aarti held? At Parmarth Niketan on the Swarg Ashram side.
Is there a fee? No.
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