According to traditional stories, Lakshman crossed the river on jute ropes between the places, where the bridge is built. Lakshman Temple, situated on the west bank of the river, was built to memorialize the journey of Lakshmana across the river.

Numerous temples and ashrams around both ends of the bridge attract visitors from far and near. Close to the Lakshman Jhula is the Ram Jhula (also Shivanand Jhula), a swinging bridge made a few years back.