By Tushar [14/Mar/23] Kerala, God’s Own Country never fails to amuse tourists with its spectacular natural beauty. We all know about the popular hill stations, beaches, backwaters, cultural richness and so on of Kerala and very eagerly plan to visit and admire them. Vagamon is one such hill station in Kerala, located in the Kottayam district of the amazing state. The misty verdant hills of Vagamon are definitely worth a visit to revive your soul amid the tranquil nature.
Vagamon used to be ground for tea plantations for Britishers and still has been kept out of the clutches of commercialization. There are multiple Things to do in Kerala such that your fingers will fall short for them to count. However, if you are coming to Vagamon, you can make a list of the places you want to cover. The most interesting places to visit in Vagamon are Thangal Para, Vagamon Pine Forest, Vagamon Meadows, Kulamavu Dam, Vagamon Lake and many more. But among them, there is a really unique spot which is indeed lesser known as it has been a fresh addition to the attractions of Vagamon.
This is India’s longest Cantilever Glass Bridge inaugurated on 6th September 2023. A cantilever bridge is a distinct bridge type constructed with cantilevers, deriving its name from this structural feature. A cantilever is a framework anchored solely at one end, with its opposite end extending horizontally into space. This extended end plays a crucial role in providing support to the overall structure of the bridge.
This 40-metre-long glass bridge is positioned at a height of 3500 feet from the sea level. There is an entry fee you need to pay before coming to enjoy the view. This glass bridge has been a spot of great enthusiasm for all, especially for travel vloggers, who have got to visit and upload something really interesting.
The Technical Magic:The construction of the Vagamon Glass Bridge being a marvel in itself features a five-layer, 40mm-thick German glass that ensures both safety and transparency. Supported by a strong grip of a robust infrastructure of 35 tonnes of steel, the bridge is connected to sturdy steel pillars atop the mountain through six metal ropes. As you step with your bare feet, you'll be treated to a breathtaking outlook of Kuttikal, Kokkayar, and Mundakayam.
This extraordinary bridge is the outcome of collaboration between DTPC and Bharat Mata Ventures, a Perumbavoor-based company, operating under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The project incurred a cost of Rs 3 crore, with the glass imported from Germany and a substantial 35 tonnes of steel contributing to its impressive structure.
The View It Offers:Imagine walking through the bridge with layers of white mist right in front of you. The experience is nothing short of watching a 3D movie. Positioned strategically, the cantilever glass bridge offers a jaw-dropping bird’s eye perspective of the surrounding valleys, rivers, and distant landscapes. Beyond the horizon, visitors are immersed in the natural splendour of Koottikal, Kokkayar, and Mundakayam, crafting everlasting memories. Whether bathed in the soft hues of dawn or the warm tones of dusk, the panoramic view unfolds as a canvas painted with nature’s finest strokes, a masterpiece in every fleeting moment. Serving as a revealing lens, the bridge showcases the untamed beauty that Kerala holds. Each step on the glass floor imparts the exhilarating and captivating sensation of walking on air, with a sheer view below.