Nine Arch Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka (2026) : Complete Travel Guide to Sri Lanka’s Iconic Railway Landmark in Ella

Why Visit Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka?

The Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and photographed landmarks, located near the heart of Ella town Sri Lanka. Nestled among misty tea plantations and the lush greenery of the hill country, this colonial-era railway viaduct is a true architectural marvel and a must-see attraction when you visit Ella.

Ella itself is a picturesque town in Sri Lanka's hill country, perched at Ella's elevation of about 1,041 meters, offering cooler temperatures and stunning natural beauty. The town is famous for its lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls like Ravana Falls, and a vibrant main street filled with cafes such as the popular Cafe Chill, restaurants serving delicious local and international cuisine, and shops.

The bridge was completed in 1921 under British colonial rule and was constructed entirely from stone and brick by Sri Lankan engineers without any steel reinforcement, making it a unique structure in railway history. Its nine arches soar gracefully across a dense jungle valley, connecting Ella with Demodara on the famous Kandy to Ella train line, one of the world's most picturesque popular train routes.

Watching a brightly colored train slowly curve across the bridge is a surreal experience and a highlight for visitors. Many time their visit to coincide with train crossings to capture the perfect photo or video. Beyond its Instagram fame, the bridge symbolizes the ingenuity and resilience of local craftsmanship during a challenging historical period.

For photographers, hikers, and casual visitors alike, the Nine Arch Bridge offers not only a stunning photo opportunity but also a chance to experience the charm of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The Kandy to Ella train ride passes over the bridge multiple times a day, providing breathtaking views through misty forests and tea plantations.

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History of the Nine Arch Bridge

• Construction began in the early 20th century when Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) was under British colonial rule.
• Built in 1921, the bridge was designed by British engineers and constructed by local craftsmen using locally sourced materials.
• With the outbreak of World War I, steel allocated for the bridge was redirected for the war effort. Ingeniously, the engineers adapted by building the bridge entirely out of stone, brick, and cement, without any steel reinforcement.
• The bridge spans 91 meters in length, rises 24 meters in height, and features nine elegant stone arches.
• Locally known as Ahas Nawaya Palama (Sinhala for Bridge of Nine Skies) because its arches frame the sky when viewed from below.
• The bridge remains fully operational today, carrying trains along the train line between Ella train station and Demodara.
• The best time to visit for photography is at sunrise or late afternoon when the lighting is soft and the crowds are minimal.

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Things to Do at Nine Arch Bridge

🌉 Watch Trains Pass – Witness the iconic trains crossing the bridge, a must-see for train enthusiasts and photographers.
📸 Photography & Drones – Capture stunning shots during early morning mist or golden hour. Use a telephoto lens for detailed train shots. (Note: Drone use is discouraged due to bee activity.)
☕ Cafe Views – Relax at nearby hillside cafes like Asanka Cafe and Cafe Soul, which offer amazing views, onsite restaurant facilities, and delicious food and drinks.
🚶 Combine with Hikes – Extend your adventure by hiking to Ella Rock or the little adam's peak hike, both offering incredible views of Ella Gap and the surrounding tea plantations.
🌳 Explore Tea Plantations – Walk through lush tea fields and learn about the process of picking tea leaves. The nearby Halpewatte Tea Factory offers guided tours about Sri Lankan tea production.
💦 Visit Nearby Waterfalls – Explore Ravana Falls, just 10 minutes from Ella town, or take a day trip to Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s second tallest waterfall.
🍳 Cooking Classes – Participate in authentic Sri Lankan food cooking classes at places like Matey Hut or Lanka's Cooking Class, often combined with tours of local spice gardens.
🏞️ Relax at Ravana Pool Club – Unwind at this popular spot featuring an infinity pool with panoramic views of Ella’s hills and valleys.

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Best Time to Visit Nine Arch Bridge

🌞 Morning (6 AM–9 AM) → Experience fewer crowds and enjoy misty light over the tea plantations and lush greenery. Ideal for tranquil photos.
🌤️ Late Afternoon (3 PM–5 PM) → Golden-hour lighting perfect for photography; trains often cross during this time.
🌧️ Avoid Midday → Harsh sunlight can make photography challenging, and the area may be crowded.
🌦️ Dry Season (December–April, June–September) → Best weather for clear skies and easy hiking. The monsoon season (October–November) brings lush greenery but also heavy rains and slippery paths.

👉 Tip: The best time to visit Ella town Sri Lanka overall is from January to May when the weather is warmer and drier, making it perfect for outdoor activities like the little adam's peak hike and ella rock hike.

Train Crossing Times at Nine Arch Bridge (2026 Update)

Train schedules may vary, so always check locally at Ella train station for the most accurate times. As of 2026, trains typically pass the Nine Arch Bridge at:

• Morning: ~6:00 AM, 9:30 AM
• Midday: ~11:30 AM, 1:00 PM
• Afternoon: ~3:30 PM, 5:30 PM

Trains from Ella to Kandy depart daily at 0640 and 0924 (subject to change). Arriving 30 minutes before the scheduled train crossing ensures the best viewing and photo opportunities.

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Nine Arch Bridge – Photography Tips

📍 Best Angle: From the tea plantations above the bridge or from the bridge itself (stay safe!).
🌄 Best Lighting: Early morning mist or golden hour in the late afternoon.
🚂 Timing: Arrive at least 30 minutes before train schedules to secure the best spot.
📸 Equipment: Telephoto lenses for close-up train shots; wide-angle lenses for scenic landscapes.

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Where to Stay Near Nine Arch Bridge

Ella offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, many with terraces or balconies overlooking the lush green hills and tea plantations.

🏡 Budget (US$20–40)

• Guesthouses and homestays in town centre within walking distance to the Nine Arch Bridge and Ella train station.

🏨 Mid-Range (US$60–120)

• 98 Acres Resort & Spa – A stunning eco-resort near Little Adam’s Peak, featuring an onsite restaurant, spa, and spectacular views.\
• Chill Ville Viewpoint Hotel – Known for its lovely views over the Sri Lankan hill country and excellent hospitality.\
• Rowinrich Cottages – Cozy, budget-friendly cottages with mountain views.\
• Ella Mount View Hotel – Spacious rooms with stunning views, close to the main street and attractions.

💎 Luxury (US$200+)

• EKHO Ella – Boutique luxury hotel with panoramic views and an infinity pool.\
• Nine Skies by Teardrop Hotels – Colonial-style bungalow overlooking Demodara and the Nine Arch Bridge.\
• Bunk Station Hostel – Popular among travelers seeking a clean, friendly, and social atmosphere.

👉 Pro Tip: Book your accommodation at least a couple of months in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure the best rooms with amazing views.

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Nearby Attractions to Combine with Nine Arch Bridge

• 🌄 Ella Rock Hike – A challenging 3–4 hour hike offering spectacular panoramic views of Ella Gap and the surrounding tea plantations.\
• 🗻 Little Adam’s Peak Hike – An easier 1–2 hour hike with breathtaking views, suitable for most fitness levels.\
• 💦 Ravana Falls – A picturesque 25-meter waterfall just outside Ella town.\
• 🌿 Demodara Loop – A unique railway loop where the train circles over itself, near Demodara station.\
• 🍃 Tea Plantations & Factories – Learn about the tea-making process at Halpewatte Tea Factory and others nearby.\
• 🌄 Lipton's Seat – Named after Sir Thomas Lipton, this viewpoint offers expansive views of endless tea plantations and is accessible via a day trip from Ella.\
• 💦 Diyaluma Falls – Sri Lanka’s second tallest waterfall, approximately 30 minutes from Ella, ideal for hiking and swimming in natural pools.\
• 💦 Bambarakanda Falls – The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, located about 160 km from Colombo.

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How to Get to Nine Arch Bridge

The Nine Arch Bridge is located just 2.5 km from Ella town centre and is easily accessible via several options. Ella is well connected by train, bus, and tuk-tuk, making it convenient for day trips or longer stays.

🚶 By Foot – Enjoy a scenic easy walk of 30–40 minutes through tea plantations and dense jungle paths from Ella town along Ella Passara Road or the train tracks. Walking the train tracks is a popular choice for travelers seeking a unique experience, but be cautious of passing trains.

🛺 By Tuk-Tuk – The most popular and quickest option; a 10–15 minute ride costs around LKR 500–800. Tuk-tuks are readily available in Ella town and can also be used to explore other nearby attractions.

🚂 By Train – Take a short local train from Ella train station to Demodara. The Nine Arch Bridge lies between these two stations, providing a unique vantage point from the train itself.

🚌 By Bus – Buses from Colombo or the south coast connect to Ella, often requiring a change at Bandarawela. Local buses also connect Ella to surrounding towns and attractions like Udawalawe National Park.

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Getting Around, Safety, and Tips

• Walking – The bridge is a short 30-minute walk from Ella town.
• Tuk-tuks – Easily available to drop you closer to the bridge trail.
• Safety – Trains move slowly, but always stay clear of the tracks when trains approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Where is the Nine Arch Bridge located?
It is located in Demodara, Ella, in Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Q2. Who built the Nine Arch Bridge?
It was built by the British in 1921, using only stone and brick.

Q3. What is the best time to see a train crossing the bridge?
Morning (around 9 AM) and afternoon (around 3–5 PM) are the most popular times.

Q4. How long is the Nine Arch Bridge?
It’s about 91 meters long and 24 meters high.

Q5. How do I reach the bridge from Ella?
You can walk (30 minutes) or take a tuk-tuk (10 minutes + short hike).

Q6. Can I walk on the bridge?
Yes, visitors can walk on the tracks, but be cautious of trains.

Conclusion

The Nine Arches Bridge is more than a railway structure — it’s a living icon of Sri Lanka’s colonial history and breathtaking landscapes. Surrounded by tea fields and misty mountains, the bridge offers a perfect blend of engineering and natural beauty.

Whether you’re waiting for a train to cross, capturing the arches from a drone, or simply enjoying the hike through tea plantations, the Nine Arches Bridge is an essential stop in Ella and a highlight of any Sri Lanka trip.

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