A breathtaking bridge hidden in the heart of Ella! Discover the stunning Nine Arch Bridge, where history, nature, and engineering marvels come together for an unforgettable experience.
Discover the Beauty of the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
The Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and beautiful landmarks. Built entirely with stone and cement—without any steel—this 30-meter-high bridge is an incredible piece of British colonial-era engineering. Surrounded by lush green tea fields and dense jungle, it offers a breathtaking view that attracts visitors from all over the world.
How to Get to the Nine Arch Bridge
🚶 Walking Routes:
- The bridge is just a 30-minute walk from Ella town. One popular route is called the Nine Arch Bridge Natural Road. It is through the jungle, where you’ll enjoy stunning scenery along the way.
- For a more peaceful walk, turn left into the jungle at the parking spots after Art Cafe Umbrella and walk for about 10 minutes to get a unique view of the bridge.
- You can also use Google Maps and search for Lake Front Cottage for another route.
🚂 By Train:
- The bridge is located between Ella Station and Demodara Station.
- You can take a train to either station and then walk or take a tuk-tuk.
🚖 By Tuk-Tuk:
- You can ask the driver to drop you near the tunnel, and then it’s just a short walk to the bridge.
- A tuk-tuk ride from Ella to the bridge costs about 300 LKR (2 USD).
🚗 By Car:
- There are two car parks available for visitors to access the Nine Arch Bridge from different locations.
- Check Google Maps to find the closest one, park your vehicle there, and walk along the road to the bridge.
- The path is easy to find, but if you have trouble, don’t hesitate to ask the locals for directions.
Best Time to Visit
🌅 Sunrise (Best Option):
- The early morning light makes the bridge look magical.
- You’ll avoid the big crowds that arrive later in the day.
🚆 When Trains Pass:
- Trains cross the bridge six times a day, but the times change frequently.
- Ask your hotel or guesthouse for the latest train schedule.
🕙 Avoid Crowds:
- Visiting on weekdays instead of weekends can help avoid big crowds.
- By 10 AM, the area starts getting busy with tourists.
Is the Nine Arch Bridge Overhyped?
While the bridge is a beautiful landmark, it has become extremely popular, and large crowds can take away from the peaceful experience. If you want to enjoy the atmosphere, consider visiting during off-peak hours or staying in one of the guesthouses nearby to see the bridge early in the morning.
What to Expect at Nine Arch Bridge
- Breathtaking views of the lush green valley.
- A famous photography spot—but be prepared for many tourists.
- Food stalls selling snacks like grilled corn and coconuts.
- Guesthouses nearby offer a unique view of the bridge.
- Free entry—there’s no ticket required!
💡 Important Tip: The place can get very crowded, making it hard to take the perfect photo. If you want a good shot, plan to visit early in the morning.
Safety Tips for Visitors
- Be Cautious When Walking at Night – The jungle paths can be dark and unsafe if you’re alone.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – Some trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
- Watch Your Belongings – Keep valuables out of sight and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Be Careful on the Tracks – Trains run regularly, so always stay alert when walking on or near the railway.
Final Thoughts
Nine Arch Bridge is a must-visit spot in Sri Lanka. Whether you love history, photography, or nature, this bridge offers an unforgettable experience. Despite the crowds, the stunning scenery and incredible engineering make it worth the visit.
📍 Plan your trip today and witness this breathtaking landmark in Ella! 🌿🚂
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Plan Your Adventure: Explore Our Interactive Map!
To make your journey even easier, check out our interactive map, where we’ve marked all these amazing destinations. Use it to plan your trip and discover more hidden gems in Sri Lanka! To plan your trip with public transportation in Sri Lanka, visit Sri Lanka Railways for train schedules.
