Inchathotty Suspension Bridge — Attraction in Kerala

Inchathotty Suspension Bridge, situated near Neriamangalam in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, is the longest hanging (suspension) bridge in the state. Spanning an impressive length of 183 meters and having a width of approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters), this pedestrian-only bridge crosses the scenic Periyar River and offers visitors a mesmerizing experience of Kerala’s lush natural beauty.

Location and Accessibility Inchathotty is a quaint village near Kothamangalam and Thattekad, famous for its proximity to the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. The suspension bridge serves as a walkway connecting Charuppara in Keerampara Panchayat with Inchathotty in Kuttampuzha Panchayat. It lies about 60 km from the popular hill station of Munnar and around 70 km from Kochi, making it accessible for day trips from both locations. Visitors can reach the bridge either by road or by a scenic 1-hour boat ride from nearby Bhoothathankettu.

Architectural and Natural Significance This suspension bridge is designed by the Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company Limited and is an engineering marvel in Kerala’s rural landscape. Suspended high above the Periyar River—about 200 meters in height—the bridge wobbles gently, providing an exhilarating experience for visitors. Walking across the swaying bridge invokes a mix of thrill and awe while opening up stunning aerial views of the river and the adjoining Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. The panoramic sights of dense forests, flowering plants, and the tranquil waters below contribute heavily to the bridge’s allure.

Activities Around the Inchathotty Suspension Bridge The area surrounding the bridge is not only perfect for a thrilling walk but also offers various recreational activities:

Boating and Kayaking: Tourists can enjoy kayaking and pedal boating on the Periyar River, with boat jetties located near the bridge. These water activities provide a relaxing way to explore the river and its secluded surroundings.

Photography: The suspension bridge itself, coupled with the breathtaking landscape, serves as an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and filmmakers. The unique hanging structure combined with natural scenery is often captured in wedding and travel shoots.

Nature Observation: Being close to the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, the region is a paradise for birdwatchers and animal lovers. The surrounding forested areas' biodiversity adds an ecological charm to the visit.

Picnicking and Relaxation: The peaceful village atmosphere around Inchathotty encourages picnics and quiet leisure time amidst nature.

Visiting Information Entry: The bridge is open to the public free of charge.

Timings: It is accessible throughout the day, but the ideal time to visit is from November to March to avoid the heavy monsoon rains common in Kerala.

Safety: Life jackets and safety measures are in place for kayaking and boating activities, and visitors are encouraged to take precautions while crossing the swinging bridge.

Importance and Popularity Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is more than just a bridge—it is a symbol of Kerala’s rustic charm and natural splendor. It draws tourists from across India and abroad who want to experience a unique blend of adventure and serenity. The bridge is often featured as a must-visit destination in Kerala travel itineraries, particularly for those looking to combine nature tourism with light adventure experiences. Its panoramic vistas and the thrill of crossing a swaying bridge over a river surrounded by untouched greenery make it...

I have visited this place several times, and especially during the monsoon season, just after a light rain, it becomes incredibly beautiful and refreshing.

There are two main routes to reach here: The first route is from Kothamangalam to Onnukal Junction, and from there you take a left turn. This route also gives you the opportunity to visit other scenic spots like Bhoothathankettu along the way, making it a great option for a day trip. The second route takes you directly to Neriamangalam, where you cross the Periyar River and then turn left. This road passes through a small stretch of forest, which makes the journey very enjoyable and peaceful. However, this route ends at the bridge itself, so you’ll need to return the same way.

At the spot, you can sometimes find kayaking activities, particularly when the dam is closed, which adds a fun adventure element to the visit.

I first came here back in 2016, and at that time the bridge looked fairly new and well-maintained. Sadly, now it shows clear signs of aging with visible damages on the handrails and other areas. It is disappointing to see that almost no proper maintenance is being carried out, considering the bridge is very useful for people living on both sides.

Around the approach area, there are a few local shops selling tea, ice cream, tender coconuts, and small snacks. While that adds convenience, the surroundings still look quite underdeveloped and untidy. A thorough clean-up and some essential maintenance work would make a huge difference in enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Despite these issues, the location itself is naturally beautiful and makes for a perfect spot to sit down, relax, and enjoy a peaceful cup of tea, especially during monsoon...

The Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is a 183-meter-long suspension bridge located in Kothamangalam, Kerala, India. It is the longest hanging bridge in Kerala and offers stunning views of the Periyar River and the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.

The bridge was built in 2013 and is made of steel cables and wooden planks. It is suspended from two concrete towers that are 30 meters high. The bridge can accommodate up to 50 people at a time. To reach the bridge, you can take a boat ride from the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. The boat ride takes about 30 minutes and offers a closer look at the river and the birds. Once you reach the bridge, you can walk across it and enjoy the views. The bridge is a little wobbly, but it is not dangerous. If you are afraid of heights, you can always stay on the side of the bridge. The Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Kerala. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush or a beautiful view, then this is the place for you. Here are some of the pros and cons of the Inchathotty Suspension Bridge:

Pros: Stunning views of the Periyar River and the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary Exciting experience for those who are not afraid of heights A great place to take photos Relatively easy to reach Cons: The bridge can be a little wobbly, which may not be for everyone It can get crowded during peak season There are no facilities at the bridge, so you need to bring your own water and snacks Overall, the Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is a great place to visit if you are looking for an exciting and memorable experience. Just be sure to be aware of the pros and cons...