Bridges have long been symbols of architecture, engineering marvel, advancement and connection. However, lately these structures have been beautifying the landscape, offering picturesque sights and some of the most rejuvenating long drives. India has had a history with bridges and the recent ones have only elevated the level of marvel. Below are some of the most beautiful bridges that India boasts of and if you have not already been down these, get your car out and have that breezy long drive or a walk down these amazing structures in the country.
A drive along this cable-stayed bridge running over the Mahim Bay is a must now in every person visiting the financial capital of India. Opened to public in 2009, the eight-lane bridge connects the Western and Southern parts of Mumbai, Bandra and Worli. The bridge has reduced the travel time of an hour to just about 20 minutes. India's first such freeway over the open sea, the engineering marvel is not open to pedestrians and two-wheelers.
The visual synonymous of Kolkata since 1943, the Howrah bridge has been one of the most famous landmark of not just Kolkata but also India. Located on the Hooghly River, the iconic cantilever bridge is crossed over by thousands of pedestrians and vehicles each day. The British Era bridge made of steel has stood the tests of time.
Amid the emerald valleys, running over the Teesta River, is the beautiful Coronation Bridge in Siliguri in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Named after King George VI and Queen Elizabeth's coronation, the uniquely engineered bridge offers a breathtaking sight. The tiger statues at its ends, also give it the name of 'Bagh Pul' among the locals.
India's first sea bridge that opened in 1914 has continued to be a charm for travellers. Having served as the only connection between the Rameshwaram island and the mainland till 1988 when a road bridge was also constructed parallel to the rail bridge. Another highlight of the Pamban Railway bridge is that it opens up in the centre to let the ferries pass.
Nestled in the West Khasi Hills, the Jadukata bridge in Ranikor in Meghalaya stretches over the Kynshi River in between lush green forests, ensuring one of the most beautiful drives you can experience in the country.
Call it natural marvel or bio-engineering, the living root bridges in Meghalaya were grown from the aerial roots of rubber trees merged with the betel nut tree trunks that formed horizontal paths. Over the years these roots strengthened to form natural bridges withstanding rains and weight. Recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, Meghalaya's Living Root Bridges can be seen across the state, however, the double-decker root bridge in Cherrapunji and the single-decker root bridge in Shillong are the most famous.
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