Top 10 Must Visit Bridges In India
India has a diverse array of landscapes, ranging from majestic mountains to serene rivers and bustling cities. Amidst this rich tapestry, there are several remarkable bridges that have become tourist attractions in their own right, offering breathtaking views and amazing experiences. These top 10 bridges in India offer not only functional connectivity but also serve as picturesque tourist spots. From soaring cable-stayed structures to historical architectural wonders, here are the top 10 bridges in India that showcase stunning beauty and provide unforgettable vistas. So, venture out and explore these incredible bridges that showcase the beauty and diversity of India’s landscapes.
1. Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link, also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is an iconic infrastructure project that spans across the Arabian Sea connecting the neighborhoods of Bandra and Worli in Mumbai, India. It is an engineering marvel. It spans a total length of approximately 5.6 Km, with the cable-stayed portion extending over the sea for about 4.7 Km. The bridge has eight lanes, four in each direction, which provide ample space for vehicular traffic. It also includes a central corridor for emergency vehicles. Its elegant design and stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the Mumbai skyline have made it a favourite spot for photography enthusiasts. The sea link’s illuminated cables and pylons create a mesmerizing sight at night, further enhancing its visual appeal. To use the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, vehicles have to pay a toll fee.
2.Howrah Bridge, Kolkata
The Howrah Bridge, officially known as the Rabindra Setu, is a prominent landmark and an engineering marvel located in Kolkata. Spanning over the Hooghly River, the bridge is a vital transportation link connecting the city of Kolkata with its neighbouring industrial and residential areas. The construction of the Howrah Bridge commenced in 1936 and was completed in 1942, replacing the pontoon bridge that previously existed at the same location. The bridge was named after the city of Howrah, situated on the river’s western bank. It was later renamed Rabindra Setu in honour of the renowned poet and Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. The bridge stands on two massive pillars, each measuring 27.1m in height, and stretches across a length of approximately 705 m.
3.Pamban Bridge, Tamil Nadu
The Pamban Bridge, also known as the Pamban Rail Bridge or Indira Gandhi Bridge, is a remarkable railway bridge located in Tamil Nadu, India. It connects the town of Mandapam on the mainland with the pilgrimage island of Rameswaram in the Gulf of Mannar. Construction of the Pamban Bridge began in 1911 and was completed in 1914. The Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge, characterized by its unique and innovative design. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the turquoise-blue waters of the Palk Strait and the surrounding natural beauty. Travelling on the Pamban Bridge provides a mesmerizing experience, with the rhythmic sound of the train wheels on the tracks and the gentle breeze from the ocean. It has become a popular tourist attraction.
4.Dhola- Sadiya Bridge
It is the longest river bridge in India. The Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, officially known as Bhupen Hazarika Bridge, is a beam bridge in India, connecting the northeastern states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The bridge spans the Lohit River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra, connecting the village of Dhola in the south to the village of Sadiya to the north, both in the Tinsukia district of Assam and providing convenient access to Arunachal Pradesh, whose border lies a short distance from Sadiya. The bridge is the first permanent road connection between northern Assam and eastern Arunachal Pradesh. The project cost around ₹1,000 crore and construction took over five years to complete. The bridge was inaugurated in 2017.
5.Chicham Bridge, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
The Chicham Bridge, located in the picturesque Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a remarkable engineering marvel that connects two remote villages, Chicham and Kibber. The construction of the Chicham Bridge began in 2015 and was completed in 2017. The bridge was built to replace a traditional ropeway system that was used by the villagers for centuries to cross the deep gorge that separates Chicham and Kibber. Crossing the Chicham Bridge is an exhilarating experience. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, snow-capped peaks, and the Parilungbi Gorge below. The bridge has become an attraction in itself, attracting visitors who come to admire its engineering prowess and soak in the beauty of the Spiti Valley.
6.Godavari Arch Bridge, Andhra Pradesh
Construction of the Godavari Arch Bridge began in 1991 and was completed in 1997. Spanning across the mighty Godavari River, it connects the town of Kovvur in West Godavari district with the city of Rajahmundry in East Godavari district. The Godavari Arch Bridge is one of the longest and highest railway bridges in Asia. It stretches approximately 4.7 Km. It serves as a vital link for trains travelling between Chennai and Kolkata, two major cities on the east coast of India. Crossing the Godavari Arch Bridge offers breathtaking views of the Godavari River and the surrounding lush green landscape. It stands as an impressive structure, both in terms of its architectural design and its contribution to the connectivity and development of the area.
7.Vembanad Rail Bridge, Kerala
It is the Second longest railway bridge in India. This bridge connects Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. The construction of the bridge started in June 2007 and was completed on 31 March 2010.80% of the bridge is constructed over water. A total of 11700 tonnes of reinforced steel, 58000 tonnes of cement, 99000 cubic meter of metal aggregates, 73500 cubic meters of sand, 127000 cubic meters of concrete work, and 154308 cubic metre of earthwork went into this project. The bridge comprises 231 girders, each weighing 220 tonnes. The bridge has 132 spans consisting of 33 spans of 20 m and 99 spans of 40 m which are made of PSC girders and cater to electric traction.
8.Bogibeel Bridge
The Bogibeel Bridge, located in the northeastern state of Assam, India, is a significant engineering feat and an iconic landmark in the region. Spanning the mighty Brahmaputra River, the bridge connects the towns of Dibrugarh and Dhemaji. Construction of the Bogibeel Bridge began in 2002 and was completed in 2018. The Bogibeel Bridge is the longest rail-road bridge in India, stretching approximately 4.94 Km. It is a double-deck bridge, with the upper deck dedicated to railway tracks and the lower deck for road traffic. The bridge’s design includes special features to withstand seismic activity, as the region is prone to earthquakes. It is equipped with anti-collision devices and lighting systems to ensure safety and visibility during all weather conditions.
9.Vidyasagar Setu, Kolkata
The Vidyasagar Setu Bridge, commonly known as the Second Hooghly Bridge, is an architectural marvel located in Kolkata. Construction of the Vidyasagar Setu Bridge began in 1978 and was completed in 1992. The project was a collaborative effort between the Indian Ministry of Shipping, the Kolkata Port Trust, and the Indian Railways. The bridge was built to ease the traffic congestion on the Howrah Bridge and provide an additional means of crossing the river. The bridge is named after Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, a prominent social reformer, philosopher, and educator from Bengal. The Vidyasagar Setu Bridge has undergone several renovations and maintenance over the years to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
10.Coronation Bridge
The Coronation Bridge, also known as Sevoke Bridge, is an iconic landmark located in the state of West Bengal, India. It spans the Teesta River and connects the towns of Salugara and Kalimpong with the city of Siliguri. The bridge holds historical significance and serves as a vital transportation link for the region. Construction of the Coronation Bridge began in 1937 and was completed in 1941. It was named in commemoration of the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. The Coronation Bridge is a magnificent steel arch bridge, stretching approximately 698 m in length. It serves as a major thoroughfare for tourists visiting the popular hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong, as well as for local commuters.
