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Nine Arches Bridge
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Landmark
The Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the 'Bridge in the Sky', is an architectural masterpiece from the British colonial era located near Ella. Completed in 1921, the bridge is part of the scenic railway line connecting Ella and Demodara. What makes this structure extraordinary is that it was constructed entirely out of bricks, stones, and cement, without the use of any structural steel. The bridge spans a deep valley surrounded by lush tea plantations and dense jungle landscapes. At 91 meters long and 24 meters high, it provides a spectacular sight, especially when the iconic trains cross its spans. According to local lore, the steel originally intended for the bridge was diverted for military use during World War I, leading local craftsmen to build it with available masonry materials. Today, it is one of the most photographed locations in Sri Lanka, symbolizing the ingenuity and precision of colonial-era engineering.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Slide & swing ella · Nine Arches Bridge Viewpoint · siva subramaniyar kovil
- Nearby: Bandarawela (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 144 | 106 | 102 | 155 | 128 | 62 | 50 | 65 | 112 | 221 | 289 | 262 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Nine Arches Bridge in Ella is a freely accessible landmark that can be visited anytime. You can walk across the bridge and enjoy views of the surrounding tea plantations.
Typical hours
As the bridge is an active railway line, keep an eye on train schedules; trains pass several times daily. Best time for photos is early morning or late afternoon when light is soft.
Photography
Photograph the bridge best from one of the nearby hills to capture the entire arch structure. A wide-angle lens helps include the surrounding tea plantations.
Time needed
Plan about 30 minutes to an hour for visiting the bridge and its surroundings. If you also want to explore the tea plantations, allow two to three hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a hike to Ella Rock or Little Adam's Peak. Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and Ella Spice Garden are also nearby.
Getting there
The bridge is about a 20-minute walk from Ella town center. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk which drops you off at the viewpoint.
Insider tip
Visit the bridge on a weekday to avoid larger weekend crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the bridge can be uneven.
Geography
Facts
- The bridge was officially commissioned for use in 1921.
- The total length of the masonry structure is 91 meters.
- The bridge stands at a height of 24 meters from the valley floor.
- Not a single piece of structural steel was used in its construction.
- P.K. Appuhami was the local builder who collaborated with British engineers.
- The bridge is located between the Ella and Demodara railway stations.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Nine Arches Bridge (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the bridge located?
It is located in Ella, between the Ella and Demodara railway stations.
What is the best way to get there?
Either via a 30-minute hike from Ella or by taking a tuk-tuk.
When do trains pass over the bridge?
Several trains pass daily; check the current timetable at Ella station.
Why is its construction special?
It was built using only bricks, stone, and cement, without any steel reinforcement.
Are there cafes nearby?
Yes, there are small cafes on the hillside with the best views of the bridge.
Nine Arches Bridge: where is it located?
Nine Arches Bridge is located in Sri Lanka.
Nine Arches Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Slide & swing ella, Nine Arches Bridge Viewpoint, siva subramaniyar kovil.
Nine Arches Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
Nine Arches Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the 'Bridge in the Sky', is an architectural masterpiece from the British colonial era located near Ella.
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