Beautifully cultivated green spaces decked with places to picnic, walk, run, play, relax and meet- our innovative skywalk and sky parks are set to be some of the most popular attractions at Bhartiya City. We’re always interested to know what other cities are up to, so we recently took a walk on the wild side and explored the world of skywalks- it wasn’t long before we realised that not all were designed to be quite as appealing. So hold on tight, we’re going to take you on a walk along some of the world’s most revered skywalks for a journey you won’t forget.
The Sky Deck- Willis Tower, USA
This 108-story, 1,451-foot skyscraper set in the heart of Chicago once held the coveted title of ‘world’s tallest building’ and it wasn’t until the World Trade Centre was constructed 25 years later that the tower’s title was relinquished. Once on the top of the deck, you’ll get far-reaching views of the city and it’s said that on a clear day you can see as far as the extraordinary Lake Michigan. The elevator takes just 60 G-force-inducing seconds to reach the top, which is just enough time to begin to sweat. Those brave souls who have ventured along its glass balconies or sat within its all-glass boxes will tell you with conviction that the deck can be felt swaying in the winds. Hold on tight.
Glacier Skywalk, Canadian Rockies, Canada
From bustling cities to isolated glaciers, this is one to make the hands clammy and the brow sweat. This bold, curving structure juts 35 metres out of a rugged cliffside deep in the national park. Perched 280 metres above a canyon of fast-flowing waterfalls and icy rock faces, the Glacier Skywalk is as educational as it is terrifying. Along the way you can learn more about the vast ecosystem in which it exists as well as the future of the glacier regions. The entire curved glass-bottomed structure can be navigated on foot and offers exceptional views of craggy rolling peaks in the heart of an area of exceptional natural beauty. It took five whole years for the team to complete its design, which to put it into perspective is the same amount of time it took to design the first iPhone- we think you’ll be safe!
Skywalk X, Macau Tower, China
Skywalk X is known the world over as being one of the most adrenaline fuelled spots on this entire planet. Here’s why. This is the home to the world’s highest bungee jump. If flinging yourself downwards from 233 metres above the ground sounds like fun, then you’ll be pleased to hear that you can also harness up and navigate the entire circumference of the tower. Lean off it, fly, or jump off the edge and do it as fast as you like. By the way-there’s no handrail. This isn’t a skywalk for the faint hearted. The walk around the tower’s edge takes 15 long and terrifying minutes to complete, but comes with a side-serving of knock-out city views. For the truly courageous amongst you, book an evening walk and enjoy the dazzling lights of the city from way up above.
Blackpool Tower Eye, Blackpool Tower, UK
At just 380 feet tall, this it isn’t the highest skywalk on our list. In fact, this is one to enjoy rather than to fear. Although the 5cm thick glass bottom adds a slightly scary element to the experience, it serves to provide aerial views of this colourful coastal town. The coastline winds gracefully beneath you along the promenade and extends as far as they eye can see. On a good day, visitors can see as far south as Liverpool and the tower provides sweeping views of the stunning north-west English coastline.
Tianmen Mountain Skywalk, China
This is our favourite of all the skywalks as this one well and truly turns the fear factor level up to eleven. The skywalk sits at a whopping 4,700ft elevation and the incredibly remote location serves as a haven for all things lush and green, with mountains and forest stretching as far as the eye can see. And this is exactly what you should be focusing on as you navigate the skywalk, as those who look down have been known to freeze in their tracks. The hanging walkway hugs the mountain face, curving and twisting wildly before joining up with the glass skywalk. If you plan on heading up there, you’ll be required to wear socks to prevent your feet marking the glass. It’s not that the park team are house proud, it’s just that they’re yet to find anybody willing to take on the job of cleaning it daily due to its soaring height.