Uttarkashi’s 150 YO Ancient Bridge Gartang Gali Is Opening Up Again After 1962 Indo-China War

Located at an altitude of 11,000 feet in Nelong Valley, this historical timber-lined bridge promises to offer a thrilling adventure in Uttarkashi!

Whenever most of us visit Uttarakhand, engaging in thrilling adventure sports like trekking or river rafting is usually on our itinerary. However, in case you’re looking to indulge in an even more thrilling and adrenaline rushing activity like walking on a bridge perched 11000 feet above a beautiful valley, then we’ve got some exciting news for you. 

Have you heard about the historic Gartang Gali bridge? Located in Uttarkashi, a town in Uttarakhand, this bridge was closed during the Indo-China war in 1962. Now, after almost six decades, it is finally open to the public again.
 

Here’s a quick history lesson! This wooden stairway, measuring up to 500 meters long, was built by the Peshawari Pathans back in the day. Later, the bridge became a trade route between India and Tibet and was used by Tibetian merchants to exchange products like spices, gold, Pashmina wool, jaggery, and salt. In the wake of the Indo-China war in 1962, however, the Nelong Valley was closed for tourists and that eventually led to the disuse and depreciation of the Gartang Gali bridge over the years. 

The restoration process of the bridge started in September last year and was finally completed in July this year. Constructed in a traditional style by cutting through a single rock, visitors will now be able to witness the breathtaking view of the celestial Nelong Valley that is surrounded by lush greenery and mighty ranges. The valley is also an abode for rare animals like the snow leopard and blue sheep.
 

Pic Credits: Times Of India

In an issued order, Uttarkashi District Magistrate Mayur Dixit stated that tourists who are interested in visiting the bridge will have to register themselves at the Bhairav Ghati outpost. He also emphasised that visitors must keep in mind Covid-19 safety protocols and that for security reasons, only 10 people at a time will be allowed on the bridge, that too while maintaining a distance of one metre from each other. 

Pic Credits: Times Of India

The Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj stated how the opening of the Gartang Gali bridge will contribute to a new dimension of adventure activities in the state. He also cited that the bridge is of significant historical importance as it reflects the friendly relations that India had with its neighbouring countries during that period.

So, if you ever visit Uttarakhand for a weekend getaway, make sure you visit the Gartang Gali bridge for an exciting trek along the Nelong Valley! 

Pic Credits for OG/ Header/ Vertical: Times of India,Instagram/xolidays.in