The Bridge in the Sky
The Nine Arches Bridge
Nestled in the lush hill country of Ella, Sri Lanka, stands a true engineering marvel - the Nine Arches Bridge. Fondly referred to as the "Bridge in the Sky", this iconic man-made masterpiece boasts a breathtaking setting that spans a verdant valley, nestled between tea fields and dense jungle. A must-see for any tourist visiting Ella, the Nine Arches Bridge offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and colonial-era railway construction, making it one of Sri Lanka's top tourist destinations.
Located on the Demodara loop, between Ella station and Demodara station, the Nine Arches Bridge stretches an impressive 91 meters in length, towering 24 meters high. Interestingly, the bridge was initially planned to be built with steel, but due to wartime priorities, the steel was diverted to support Britain's war efforts, and thus, the bridge was constructed solely with stone bricks and cement. After three years of meticulous construction, the Nine Arches Bridge was finally completed in 1921, becoming a testament to human ingenuity and innovation.
Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply in search of stunning scenery, the Nine Arches Bridge has something to offer everyone. So come and experience this architectural wonder and marvel at the stunning views that it offers. A visit to the Nine Arches Bridge is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Sri Lanka.
How to Reach the Nine Arches Bridge from Ella
If you're wondering how to get to the Nine Arches bridge from Ella, here are a few options depending on your budget and time.
On Foot: The most direct and fastest way to reach the Nine Arches Bridge is by walking from Ella train station along the train tracks. The walk takes approximately 25 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and tea plantations. As you pass through a tunnel, you will soon arrive at the Nine Arches Bridge.
On your return, take a different route through the jungle that can be accessed from Ella town. Take a left at the parking spots after Art Cafe Umbrella and follow the path for about 10 minutes over undulating terrain.
By Tuk Tuk: If you prefer a more comfortable ride, the easiest way to reach the Nine Arches Bridge is by hiring a tuk-tuk from Ella town. The driver can take you most of the way to the bridge, and then you can hike the remaining 5 minutes on foot to reach the bridge. This option is ideal for those who don't want to walk or who have limited time.
Discover the Best Viewpoints of Nine Arch Bridge
With its stunning setting surrounded by lush hills on both sides, Nine Arch Bridge, offers a picturesque backdrop from all angles. And with trains arriving almost hourly, it's the perfect place to snap some amazing pictures.
For the best view of the full curve of the track and the train as it emerges from the tunnel, head to the northern side of the bridge. Here, multiple viewpoints offer an unobstructed panorama of the bridge and the surrounding landscape.
Alternatively, take the path that winds up through the jungle in the direction of the tunnel. This scenic route leads to a clearing that provides a different perspective of the Nine Arch Bridge, with breathtaking views of the entire structure.
So grab your camera and make sure to visit these viewpoints for an unforgettable experience and to capture the beauty of Nine Arch Bridge in all its glory.
Alistair is a passionate traveler who has explored a diverse array of cultures and countries, having visited over 50 destinations across multiple continents.
Currently in: London, United Kingdom — @0_7734