Nine Arches Bridge

What Is the Nine Arches Bridge?

The Nine Arches Bridge – also known as the “Bridge in the Sky” — is a stunning colonial railway viaduct located in Demodara, near Ella, in Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country. Sitting at over 1,000 metres above sea level and surrounded by emerald tea plantations and dense jungle, it is one of the most photographed and beloved landmarks in all of Sri Lanka.

The bridge stretches 91 metres in length and soars 24 metres above a deep, forested gorge, supported by nine elegant arches built entirely from locally-sourced stone, brick, and cement — with no steel whatsoever.

“Standing beneath the Nine Arches Bridge as the blue train inches across the viaduct — mist drifting through the tea fields below — is one of those travel moments that stays with you forever.”

History & Construction

The Nine Arches Bridge was commissioned during British colonial rule. Construction began in the early 1910s under British engineer Harold Cuthbert Marwood.

When World War I broke out, the steel was redirected to the war effort. Sri Lankan workers and engineers stepped in, completing the structure using locally-produced sand-cement blocks and stone. The bridge was completed between 1919–1921. Local legend attributes the success to Appuhami, a traditional devil dancer who assisted the British engineers with his knowledge of the terrain.

How to Get There

The bridge is approximately 2.5 km from Ella town.

• On Foot (30–40 min): Follow the railway track from Ella or the jungle trail from Ella-Passara Road.
• Tuk-Tuk (10 min): Available from Ella town centre; they drop you near the entrance.
• By Train: Take a train to Ella or Demodara station and walk along the tracks.
• Bicycle (15 min): Bikes are available for rent in Ella for a flexible trip.

Best Time to Visit

January – May (Best): Driest months with great light.

June – August (Good): Dramatic misty atmosphere with fewer tourists.

September – December (Wet Season): Heavy rains; paths can be slippery.

Insider Tip: Early morning (6–8 AM) is the best time for soft golden light and minimal crowds.

Train Schedule (2026)

Note: Times are approximate. Always check the Sri Lanka Railways website.

Approximate Time Direction Notes
06:30 – 07:00 AM Ella → Demodara Morning light — excellent for photos
08:45 – 09:15 AM Demodara → Ella Early crowd, still manageable
11:00 – 11:30 AM Ella → Demodara Mid-morning — busiest period
01:00 – 01:30 PM Demodara → Ella Peak crowds — very busy
03:30 – 04:00 PM Ella → Demodara Good light; popular
05:30 – 06:00 PM Demodara → Ella Golden hour — best photography

Insider Tips & Safety

• Avoid Sundays: This is the busiest time for local tourists.
• Active Line: This is a working railway. Move off the tracks immediately if you hear a horn.
• No Barriers: The edges are unprotected and can be slippery after rain.

Drone permits from CAASL are required for aerial photography.