Nine Arches Bridge

"Nine Arches Bridge is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, located near the town of Ella in the central highlands. Built during the British colonial era in the 1920s, this stunning bridge spans a deep valley surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations. The bridge is 91 meters long and stands at 24 meters above the ground, with nine graceful arches giving it its name. The Nine Arches Bridge is a marvel of engineering and has become a popular spot for both tourists and photographers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The bridge is located along the railway line that connects Kandy to Badulla, and it’s a popular spot for watching the famous trains that pass through, creating a perfect photo opportunity. The best time to visit Nine Arches Bridge is during the **dry season** from **December to March**, when the weather is stable and clear, offering perfect visibility for photography. **May** and **October** can bring heavy rainfall, which may make the area slippery and affect visibility. **Pro tip:** The best views of the bridge can be captured from the nearby hills, which are easily accessible by a short hike. If you want to catch a train crossing the bridge, check the train schedule ahead of time, as it’s a popular spot for train enthusiasts and photographers."

"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. "

"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! 🐛 "