Anji Khad Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge and one of the most impressive engineering marvels in the Himalayas. It is a part of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India by railway.
This iconic bridge spans the deep Anji Khad gorge (a tributary of the Chenab River) in Reasi district. Standing at a towering height of 331 metres above the riverbed, it is among the tallest railway bridges in the world. The bridge was successfully completed and tested in 2024–2025 and has become a major attraction for engineering enthusiasts and tourists.
Anji Khad Bridge Location
The bridge is located in the scenic hilly terrain of Reasi district, near the town of Reasi and close to the famous Chenab Bridge.
- Address: Anji Khad Bridge, Reasi District, Jammu and Kashmir
- PIN Code: 182311
- Length: 331 metres (main cable-stayed span)
- Height: 331 metres above the riverbed
- Type: Cable-Stayed Railway Bridge
- Significance: India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge
How to Reach Anji Khad Bridge
| From | Distance | Approx. Time | Best Options |
| Jammu Tawi Railway Station | 80–85 km | 2 – 2.5 hours | Cab, Taxi, Bus |
| Reasi Town | 12–15 km | 30–45 minutes | Cab / Shared Taxi |
| Katra (Vaishno Devi) | 35–40 km | 1 – 1.5 hours | Cab / Bus |
| Udhampur | 45–50 km | 1.5 hours | Cab / Train |
| Srinagar | 280–300 km | 7 – 8 hours | Cab / Bus (via new railway route) |
| Chenab Bridge (nearby) | 8–10 km | 20–30 minutes | Cab |
Best Route: Most visitors travel from Jammu or Katra by road. The bridge is visible from the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) at certain points.
Road & Bridge Connectivity
- The bridge is a railway-only structure (no road traffic).
- It is part of the historic USBRL project, which includes the world’s highest railway bridge — the Chenab Bridge.
- Excellent road connectivity via NH-44 (Jammu–Srinagar Highway).
- The area falls under the scenic Reasi–Banihal stretch with breathtaking mountain views.
Nearby Areas and Landmarks
| Landmark / Area | Distance | Description |
| Chenab Bridge (World’s Highest Railway Bridge) | 8–10 km | Iconic 359-metre-high railway bridge — major attraction. |
| Reasi Town | 12–15 km | Historic town with old temples and fort. |
| Vaishno Devi Temple (Katra) | 35–40 km | One of India’s most revered Hindu shrines. |
| Salal Dam | 25–30 km | Large hydroelectric dam with scenic reservoir. |
| Jammu City | 80–85 km | Winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. |
| Anji Khad Valley | Adjacent | Deep gorge with stunning natural beauty. |
Significance
The Anji Khad Bridge is a landmark achievement in Indian railway engineering. Built in extremely challenging Himalayan terrain with high seismic activity, it showcases India’s capability to construct world-class infrastructure in difficult regions. Along with the Chenab Bridge, it has dramatically reduced travel time between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley and has become a symbol of modern India’s progress in the Himalayas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is special about Anji Khad Bridge?
A. It is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge and stands at a height of 331 metres above the riverbed.
Q2. Is Anji Khad Bridge higher than Chenab Bridge?
A. No. The Chenab Bridge is taller (359 metres). Anji Khad is the first cable-stayed railway bridge, while Chenab is an arch bridge.
Q3. Can tourists walk or drive on Anji Khad Bridge?
A. No, it is a railway-only bridge. However, excellent views are available from nearby roads and viewpoints.
Q4. When was Anji Khad Bridge completed?
A. The bridge was completed and tested between 2024 and 2025 as part of the USBRL project.
Q5. What is the best time to visit Anji Khad Bridge area?
A. April to June and September to November are ideal for clear weather and beautiful mountain views.
