Nine Arches Bridge, Ella

The story

A masterpiece of colonial-era railway engineering, the Nine Arches Bridge stretches 91 metres across a jungle ravine on the Demodara loop line. Built entirely of stone, brick, and cement — no steel — it curves gracefully between tea-covered hillsides. When the sky-blue train crosses, mist and steam wrap the arches for one of Sri Lanka's most photographed moments.

Highlights

• Iconic colonial-era stone bridge
• Ella–Demodara train views
• Surrounded by tea estates
• Short walk from Ella town

Things to do here

1. 1Photograph the blue train crossing the arches
2. 2Ride the Kandy–Ella scenic train through tea country
3. 3Hike Little Adam's Peak (easy 45-minute ascent)
4. 4Sunrise climb of Ella Rock
5. 5Tea factory tour and Ceylon tea tasting
6. 6Zipline across the Ella valley or visit Ravana Falls