Nine Arches Bridge
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What people say
Alice
Available for hire
"You can walk along the tracks to or from the bridge all the way from Ella Station (or your accomodation if it’s close to the tracks) and this is how most people including locals get here. If you did want to get a tuk tuk it should cost around 800-1000LKR one way from Ella high street.
Often the trains run an hour or so late (a local can let you in on what time they expect the next one) but technically trains should be going through the bridge:
AM:
6.15 am
6.30 am
9.20 am
11.50 am
PM
1.50 pm
2.40 pm
3.30 pm
5.30 pm
7.15 pm
Hot tip 1: Get here early- it gets steadily more crowded from 8.30am onwards.
- I suggest you either hike Little Adams Peak for Sunrise (Which is amazing) and then on return walk down the tracks to the bridge so you arrive around 7.30am and then you can wait for the train.
Hot tip 2: There is a great viewpoint to take photos from when the train comes through, it's higher up so it's a good angle for photos. You can find it by turning right as you exit the tunnel just before the bridge- there are a set of steps by some food shacks, just follow it up for a great vantage point. "
Ravindu DTH
"The Nine Arches Bridge in Demodara, Sri Lanka, is a stunning engineering marvel completed in 1921. This iconic bridge, also known as the Demodara Bridge, is renowned for its impressive nine-arch design and its role in the scenic railway route through the island's highlands. The bridge stands out for its elegant stone arches, which were built without the use of steel, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of early 20th-century engineers. It spans a lush valley and is part of the historic railway line that connects Ella to Demodara, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Nine Arches Bridge is a popular spot for travelers, who can marvel at its architectural beauty and enjoy the picturesque scenery. The bridge is especially photogenic when trains cross it, creating a striking contrast against the verdant backdrop. Visiting the Nine Arches Bridge provides a chance to experience a piece of Sri Lanka’s railway history and enjoy the scenic beauty of the island's central highlands. It’s a perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and appreciating the ingenuity of early engineering."
Eva Rios
Available for hire
"I would say that this place is of the most popular ones when travelling to Sri Lanka. But with a good reason. It is really beautiful, specially when you get to catch the train passing by on top of the bridge. However, I think that the most beautiful thing of this place was the abundant vegetation, it really amazed me!
❗EVA'S TIP: we saw the bridge from a viewpoint you reach going through the jungle, and we went with a local, so if you are adventurous to find out the path, go for it! Be cautious and careful, though, as you will be alone in middle of the jungle and local houses. Also, if this is of your concern, places full of vegetation like this are full of lichess so watch out your shoes! 🐛 "
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