One of the highlights in the mountain village Ella is the 30-meter high Demodara Nine Arch Bridge. With a small 30-minute walk through the jungle, you will reach a piece of beautiful architecture that is hidden between lush green tea fields. It is allowed to walk on the bridge and it’s one of the things you must do in Sri Lanka.
Stone Bridge Ella
The stone train bridge, with its nine beautiful arches, was built by local P.K. Appuhamy, with support from the British, and is located between Ella and Demodara stations. The Kandy to Ella train ride in the highlands is named one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, and we have to agree! You can visit the bridge on your own (like we did) or as part of a multi-stop day tour.
How to get to the Nine Arch Bridge
You have multiple options and ways to reach the train bridge. Follow the road towards Little Adam’s Peak and turn left at the small colored temple. Follow Lake Front Cottage on Google Maps.
For a quieter walk in the jungle, turn left into the jungle at the parking spots after Art Cafe Umbrella. From here, you have to follow the path for about 10 minutes, which gives you a unique view over the bridge. We highly recommend this path.
For safety reasons it’s better to not walk alone when it’s dark outside. Either join a group of other travellers walking there or visit during the daytime.
The quickest way is to walk along the track from Ella town until you reach a tunnel. After passing the tunnel, you immediately reach the Nine Arch Bridge.
The easiest way to get to the Nine Arch Bridge is by a 300 LKR (2 USD) tuk-tuk ride from Ella. To save time, ask them to drop you off near the tunnel and walk to the last part of the bridge.
Must read: Complete 3-week Sri Lanka Route Guide
This drone photo was taken during our first visit to Sri Lanka. Please note that you need to register your drone in Sri Lanka. You can do that here.
Train Times at the Nine Arch Bridge
Trains pass the bridge about 6 times a day. The exact times change all the time in Sri Lanka, but there should be one every hour. Don’t worry that you have to wait that long.
It’s a great place to photograph, and there are small cafes where you can buy drinks and food. We recommend arriving in the morning, around 9:00 AM.
Do ask your guesthouse or hotel about the current train times.
Best Time to Visit the Nine Arch Bridge
Sunrise is the best time to visit the Bridge. The light is stunning, and you avoid the crowds. By 10 AM, it is getting busier with tourists since it is the start of their day trip tour.
Staying at Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
Over the last few years, an increasing number of guesthouses have been opened or are currently under construction.
Nine Arch Bridge is a bit out of town, so you’ll need transportation to visit the popular restaurants. Nevertheless, waking up with a view of the Nine Arch Bridge is, without a doubt, a fantastic experience.
By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost.
Thank you for your support. ♥️
- Find Hotels via Booking.com
- Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
- Find Flights to Sri Lanka via Skyscanner
- Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
- Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
- Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.
The photos look stunning.
We are planning to visit the bridge, however I am 5 months pregnant. What do you suggest is the best way to reach? We will have a car to yourself.
There is a relatively easy walking path but I can’t put myself in your shoes and feelings right now so another option would be to walk via the train track through the tunnel. The train arrive at set times so it can be done safely. Locals will help you out, no worries :-)