Almost all countries have characterized bridges, each of which reflect the lifestyle and customs of the local people. Particularly in Mekong Delta Vietnam, there are extremely odd bridges that many tourists feel very scared when they pass them, like playing a risky game. It is Monkey Bridge.
A monkey bridge, also known as a “cầu khỉ” in Vietnamese, is a type of handmade bridge made from wood or bamboo that is commonly found in rural Vietnam. These bridges are typically narrow and single-file, with no railings or supports, and they often cross over streams, rivers, or gullies.
Monkey bridges are most commonly built across rivers in the Mekong Delta. You can also see the bridges in the coastal areas of the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam, built across streams and rice fields. The “Monkey Bridge”, like the Ao Dai, is a uniquely Vietnamese traditional symbol. This style of bridge was the inspiration for the title of a popular novel called Monkey Bridge, published in 1997 and written by Vietnamese American attorney and writer Lan Cao.
Why is it called a ‘Monkey Bridge’?
This is a question to which there is no definitive answer. Some suggest it is because they are so difficult that you need to be an agile monkey to make it across without falling off. Others suggest the name comes from the posture most people assume when trying to cross one. People bend over and hang on tight like a monkey, to make sure they don’t fall into the river below.
The Monkey Bridge in current times
The Government is slowly being replacing the monkey bridges throughout Viet Nam with concrete structures. These may well be safer and much easier to cross, but are certainly much less interesting and beautiful. Some locations with monkey bridges hold competitions to cross them. Contestants can attempt the challenge of riding a bicycle across a monkey bridge. This is as difficult as it sounds and most often ends with competitors swimming in the river!
The Monkey Bridge for travelers to Viet Nam
Visitors to the Mekong Delta area are likely to encounter one or more of these unique structures on their travels. Crossing the river or stream on a monkey bridge is always a challenge and usually an adventure. But it is a wonderful way to capture an iconic Viet Nam photograph to remember the adventure.
If you are ever in Vietnam, be sure to take a Mekong Delta tour and check out a monkey bridge if you have the chance. Just be sure to cross carefully and take your time!
Make your plan to Vietnam right now by obtaining a Vietnam visa at https://www.vietnam-evisa.org. We, a reputable and reliable Visa service, will assist you turn your plan into reality at the very first step.
Source: incountrytours.com