[2025 Ella Attraction] Travel Guide for Nine Arches Bridge (Updated Jul)

Nestled in the lush highlands of Sri Lanka, the Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the "Bridge in the Sky," is a masterpiece of colonial-era engineering and one of the most visited landmarks in Ella. Built entirely out of stone, brick, and cement — without the use of steel — this iconic bridge was constructed during the British colonial period in 1921. Spanning 91 meters in length and standing 24 meters high, the bridge features nine majestic arches that stretch across a deep jungle valley, surrounded by tea plantations and misty hills. What makes this place truly magical is the chance to witness a train slowly crossing the bridge, with its blue carriages contrasting beautifully against the green landscape. It’s a sight that captures the hearts of photographers, hikers, and history lovers from around the world. 🚶 How to Visit: You can reach the bridge with a short, scenic walk from Ella town or via nearby trails through the tea fields. The walk is part of the experience! 📸 Best Time to Go: Morning for softer light and fewer crowds Late afternoon for dramatic lighting and a higher chance of seeing a passing train ✨ Don’t Miss: Enjoying a cup of Ceylon tea at a nearby café with a view of the bridge Climbing the surrounding hills for panoramic shots Talking to locals and learning more about the bridge’s fascinating history The Nine Arches Bridge isn’t just a photo op — it’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring reminder of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and colonial past.

When I saw the fascinating photo of the Nine Arch Bridge, I was determined to visit this dreamlike place in person. After arriving, we walked along a forest trail In order to capture its most beautiful side, we spent a lot of time exploring the surroundings and constantly adjusting the angles. The moment the shutter button is pressed, all the efforts are worth it and the journey becomes more memorable. #2024TravelReview #Jiugong Bridge #Sri Lanka Travel #Natural Scenery

Ella, located in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is a charming town full of natural beauty. Its stunning landscapes and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among backpackers. The most famous attractions here include the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. Climbing Little Adam's Peak in the early morning, surrounded by tea plantations and mountains, offers breathtaking views of the sea of clouds and sunrise from the summit, making it a paradise for photographers. The Nine Arches Bridge is another must-see spot. You can either walk through the tea plantations to reach it or wait to capture the iconic moment when a train crosses the bridge. After your adventure, relax with a cup of freshly brewed Sri Lankan tea at one of the town's cafes. For food lovers, Ella has many local restaurants offering traditional curry rice and roti at affordable prices. In the evening, head to a local bar to enjoy live music and share travel stories with other travelers. For transportation, it is recommended to take the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy to Ella, known as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Ella is not only a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but also an excellent choice for exploring Sri Lankan culture and nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply want to relax, Ella offers an unforgettable experience!

Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka was a magical experience. 🌉 The bridge, with its grand design and nine arches, stands out amidst breathtaking scenery and dense greenery 🌿. I enjoyed walking around the bridge and taking photos because the beautiful landscape blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature 🏞️. The occasional passing train adds to the charm and fame of the bridge 🚂. The Nine Arch Bridge is an ideal place to enjoy the scenery and capture beautiful moments.

📍Nine Arches Bridge, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 In the city of Ella in Sri Lanka, there is a tourist spot called Nine Arches Bridge! Ella and Nuwara Eliya are also the leading tea producing areas in Sri Lanka, and the trains that pass through here are also called tea trains 🌿 You can enter the tracks and take photos, but you need to be careful. I was at Asanka Cafe near the bridge, drinking fruit juice and slowly looking at the bridge. Recommended for those who want to relax and unwind. #SriLanka #TravelingWithMe #TravelingSolo #OverseasTravel

Nine Arch Bridge was built by the British in 1912, with its nine stunning arches. It is located between Ella & Demodara station. 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. unfortunately when we arrived here, it was quite late in the evening and it was starting to rain heavily that we didnt get to wait for the train.

With around 15 minute walk through the forest located just a 5-10 minute from the Main Street of Ella, Nine Arch Bridge is a must visit! Simply beautiful architecture, Nine Arch Bridge was built by the British with its nine stunning arches. It is located between Ella & Demodara station. 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. unfortunately when we arrived here, it was quite late in the evening and it was starting to rain heavily that we didnt get to wait for the train. we took the tuk tuk on the way back because we will get all soaked with the heavy rain. #scenictrain #ninearches

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The 9 Arch bridge deep in the tropical jungles of Sri Lanka. I waited for aboiut an hour for this blue train to come over the bridge! Definitely worth the wait.

#summervacay Ella is one of those places where you roll in and instantly think, yeah, I could stay here a while. It’s a tiny town in the hills of Uva Province, surrounded by tea plantations, misty mountains, and super relaxed vibes. Kinda feels like a backpacker’s dream mixed with nature retreat. Little Adam’s Peak hike? Super easy and super worth it. Views for days without totally dying from the climb. And then there’s the Nine Arch Bridge, yep, the one you’ve seen all over Instagram. Seeing a train pass through it while you’re standing on the hill with the wind in your hair? Absolute movie moment. Cafes are cute, locals are chill, and the food? So good. Lots of places to just hang out with a smoothie and stare at the mountains. You can also hop on the scenic train ride to or from here, green hills, tunnels, tea fields, the whole vibe. Ella isn’t about rushing, just nature, views, and good energy all around.

If you come to Sri Lanka and don’t take a photo of the Nine Arch Bridge, it’s like you haven’t been to Alice’s jungle world. This “Nine Arch Bridge” located in the small town of Ella is hidden between the green forest valley. When the train passes through the bridge, it is so beautiful that it seems unreal, as dreamy as an animation scene. 🕐Best shooting time & train passing time (need to confirm the daily schedule) It is recommended to arrive between 6:00-8:30 in the morning or 4:00-5:30 in the afternoon. The light is soft and the photos in the fog are more fairy-like It is recommended to ask the local accommodation one day in advance about the train time. There may be slight errors every day Common flights: about 6:30/9:30 in the morning, about 3:30 in the afternoon (depending on the route) 📸TOP 5 recommended photo positions: ① 🔝High point for viewing the bridge side (the most classic composition) From the hillside, you can take a long-distance shot of the entire bridge + train into the composition It is recommended to use a wide-angle or 0.5x lens to take the overall perspective. The red and blue colors of the train contrast with the green mountains and forests, which is very layered ⚠️Go up the mountain early to reserve a spot. There are many people at popular camera positions ② 🛤️Portraits on the bridge (before the train arrives) Before the train arrives, you can walk on the bridge to take photos of people. The arc of the rails + arch bridge has a special sense of extension It is recommended to stand in the middle and look far away, and the walking movements and back view composition are all good-looking Pay attention to the sound of the train, and be sure to leave the bridge immediately when you hear the whistle! Safety first ③ 🌿Jungle perspective under the bridge (unpopular niche) Walk into the forest from the trail below and shoot the entire bridge from above. You can capture the epic feeling of the bridge pier + human figure + train passing through Suitable for taking silhouettes, and the composition is very shocking There is a trail leading to the bottom of the bridge, and it is safer to wear non-slip shoes 🧭How to get to Jiukong Bridge? Location: Nine Arch Bridge, Demodara How to get there from Ella town: 🚶♀️Walk for about 30 minutes, depart from Ella Railway Station or Ella Flower Garden Resort 🛵10 minutes by motorcycle / 🚙300-500 rupees by tuk-tuk The route is mostly forest trails, it is recommended to go during the day, wear sports shoes or non-slip shoes! #九孔桥 #Sri Lanka Check-in #Ella Must Go #Train Through the Bridge #Railway in the Forest #Travel Photography Spot #SriLankaTravel #One of the World's Most Beautiful Railways #Jungle Train #Must-Shoot for Railway Fans

Direct flights from Japan or combined trips with India make Sri Lanka an accessible destination. If you're traveling from South India, you can get a one-way ticket for around 10,000 yen. Ella is a famous town, small yet charming, with a cozy countryside vibe. The town itself is pleasant, and there are trekking opportunities in the surrounding mountains, allowing you to relax amidst lush greenery. Wellawaya is a bird-watching haven. You can spot colorful birds everywhere, and the sight of millions of fruit bats resting on the Bat Tree is truly breathtaking. If you love animals and nature, Yala is another must-visit destination to pair with Wellawaya. The beaches around Uwanatuna and Talpe can be stunningly beautiful, exceeding expectations. Some beaches resemble those in Africa's Seychelles, and the area also offers adorable beach fashion apparel that might inspire you to start an online shop. It's a recommended spot for beach lovers. Due to the mountainous terrain, public transportation routes can be a bit roundabout or inconvenient, but traveling by train in Sri Lanka is an experience in itself. Even riding the packed local buses can be a fun adventure. Getting around is not particularly difficult, and traveling in Sri Lanka is safe and accessible. Having visited 90 countries, I consider Sri Lanka one of my favorite places in Asia. ☺︎♡

This trip was truly unforgettable! We spent two packed days exploring the beauty around Badulla and immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of Sri Lanka. Itinerary & Attractions: We started with a safari in Yala National Park – an incredible experience, especially spotting peacocks, deer, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Then we visited Yala Sanctuary Beach, a quiet and scenic spot perfect for relaxing. Photo Opportunities & Atmosphere: Every stop offered great photo spots – from lush jungles and serene lakes to golden beaches. The landscape was simply breathtaking. Transport & Cuisine: We traveled by rental car, which gave us the flexibility to explore at our own pace. Along the way, we enjoyed delicious local cuisine – especially fresh seafood and coconut-based dishes. Accommodation: We stayed at Walaa Kulu – A Villa by 98 Acres. A cozy, peaceful place with stunning views, ideal for unwinding after a full day of adventures. Tips for Travelers: – Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom. – Go on safari early in the morning to see more animals. – Don’t forget insect repellent and sunscreen.

Fmous nine arches bridge ! Ella, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 #srilanka #ella

Visiting the Nine Arches Bridge in Ella was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka. Tucked away amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, this iconic bridge is a masterpiece of colonial-era architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting the hill country. I reached the bridge by taking a short, scenic walk through a quiet jungle path and tea plantations. The trail itself was peaceful and beautiful, giving me a real sense of Ella’s charm. Once I arrived, I was struck by how majestic the bridge looked with its nine perfectly curved arches rising over the dense jungle below. The best part of the visit was timing it right to see the train pass over the bridge. It felt like something out of a movie. There’s a magical stillness in the air just before the train arrives, and then the rumble of the engine adds a sense of drama to the breathtaking landscape. It’s a moment I’ll never forget. There are several small cafes nearby where you can relax and take in the view. I sat with a cup of Ceylon tea, just soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating the serene beauty of the place. If you’re planning to visit Ella, make sure to check the train schedule in advance and go early to beat the crowds. This spot is absolutely worth the effort. #SriLanka #NineArchesBridge #EllaAdventures #TrainView #Wanderlust #TravelSriLanka #NatureLovers #ScenicViews #CeylonVibes #HiddenGems

Ella’s famous train ride in Sri Lanka is a must-see! Walking from town to the Nine Arches Bridge is peaceful and full of greenery. It will take around 20-30 minutes to reach there by walking. Trees, hills, and fresh air surround the path, I absolutely loved the experience! The bridge itself is stunning, and watching the train cross is magical. It’s the perfect mix of nature and adventure. It is definitely a beautiful experience for any traveler visiting Sri Lanka. Highly recommended! . . . #postandearn #srilanka #asia #ella #ellatrain #ninearchesbridge #srilankatrip #srilankatravel #landscape #greenery #train #ellastation

8:06 Day Tours Multiday Tours Things To Do Transfers Rent A Car Maldives Home Things To Do NINE ARCH BRIDGE NINE ARCH BRIDGE The Nine Arch Bridge, also called as the Bridge in the Sky, is a bridge in Sri LankaLocally it is known as ‘Ahas Namaye Palama’ meaning nine skies bridge in Sinhala. The name derives from the visual experience. . It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country.The construction of the bridge is generally attributed to a local Ceylonese builder, P. K. Appuhami, in consultation with British engineers. The chief designer and project manager of the 'upcountry railway line of Ceylon' project was D. J. Wimalasurendra, a distinguished Ceylonese engineer and inventor. The designer of the viaduct was Harold Cuthbert Marwood of Railway Construction Department of Ceylon Government Railway. The 1923 report titled "Construction of a Concrete Railway Viaduct in Ceylon" published by the Engineering Association of Ceylon has details of all the records including the plans and drawings. It is located in Demodara, between Ella and Demodara railway stations. Popular rumours suggest that when construction work commenced on the bridge, the Great War began between the empires of Europe and the steel assigned for this site was reallocated to Britain's War related projects at the battlefront. As a result, the work came to a standstill, leading the locals build the bridge with stone bricks and cement, but without steel.

📍Location: Ella, Sri Lanka🇱🇰 Nine Arches Bridge 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Price per person: Free The side of the tracks is crowded with many tourists at the time when the train passes. The scene of walking on the tracks is just like the world of the movie Stand by Me. It's about a 20-30 minute walk from the bus stop, but there are tuk-tuks, so women can feel safe. Please go there in search of the scenery that can only be seen here. #0yentravelFebruary2025 #SriLankatrip #SriLankatourism

A nod to the island's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. It’s pristine Beaches, from the golden sands of Unawatuna and Mirissa to the serene shores of Nilaveli and Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s coastline is a tropical paradise. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or watching breathtaking sunsets. Lush Hill Country and the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya and Ella are adorned with rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls like Dunhinda and Ravana Falls, and cool, refreshing climates. The iconic Adam’s Peak offers a spiritual and scenic trekking experience. Truly a magical place to be.

Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 amazing wildlife with the combination of culture is wonderful! Beautiful Buddhist temple and monasteries and the efforts on conservation of colonial architecture! Indulge in local Sri Lankan cuisine - String Hoppers, Rice and Curry and stop by to have a king Coconut 🌴 make time for a cooking class, had mine at Ella and learnt to appreciate the food that’s serve after! Spend at least 10 days if you can to truly enjoy Sri Lanka

📍The Hill Country Train～First experience There are quite a few carriages, and one of them is semi-open, where you can enjoy the breeze, the scenery, and afternoon tea, which is a very good choice. If you don't like the outdoors, there are indoor seats where you can sit down and enjoy the slow-paced train journey. Along the way, you can see many Sri Lankan people, crops, and many animals and plants (quite interesting). There are also waterfalls to enjoy. There will be many people greeting everyone along the way. It is really a smiling country. The train will stop in the middle to take photos for everyone 📷 (just pay attention to the height difference between the train and the ground ~ please be careful) There are also many vendors selling things ➡️Must take photos of the Nine Arch Bridge📍 (the photo position must be at the angle of the vendor to take a good view) Sri Lanka is a tea-producing country. Take the train and enjoy the scenery of the tea plantation. Personal recommendation: The right side of the train is the best place to take photos (with a clear view) Recommended reason: You can stick your body out of the train (there are no doors on the train) and take pictures with the whole train 📷Super beautiful❤️

| A Must-Experience in Sri Lanka: The Highland Tea Garden Train! 🔶🔶🔶Sri Lanka has a tropical marine climate, so there are no seasons. Winter is the dry season, and the central mountains have little rain and a pleasant climate, making it a great place to escape the cold winter. 🚞The Highland Tea Garden Train is a major attraction in Sri Lanka. The train travels slowly through the highland tea gardens, with the fragrance of tea and fresh air. The train passes through small towns and villages, where you can see the local residents' life along the way. 🚋Transportation: I took the Nuwara Eliya to Ella section, which is a classic route for the Highland Tea Garden Train. I bought a ticket at the Nanu Oya station in Nuwara Eliya. There are 3 trains a day to the south. 💹Ticket prices: LKR 3,000 for first class, LKR 2,000 for second class, and LKR 1,500 for third class. 🎏The destination, Ella, is a picturesque town with many hiking trails, Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, waterfalls, etc. These are popular with European and American tourists, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding highland tea gardens and canyons. 🌟Tips: 1️⃣The climate in Sri Lanka is mild in winter, but the temperature difference between morning and evening in the highland tea garden area is large, so bring a light jacket. 2️⃣The train schedule will be adjusted during the dry and rainy seasons, so check the schedule before departure and arrive early. 3️⃣Choose a seat on the left side of the train, so you can take pictures of the long train. The scenery is different in each section.

Nestled in the lush jungles of Ella, the Nine Arches Bridge is a perfect blend of nature’s green and mankind’s dreams.

come come come Ella tea farm train, ahhaah, you can visit 9 arch bridge, good view, train will stop, and good to have photo or video, train from nanuoya to Ella just 1usd, but,,,, might have delays and cancel, my train delay for 45 minutes, and didn't move, so i dropby and hire a car to 9 arch bridge, after that, u have to walk, like 15minutes to the top of the bridge, a little climbing #ella #tea farm train

📍Discover the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering nestled in the lush hills of Ella, Sri Lanka. 🇱🇰 Built during the British colonial era, this stunning bridge is a testament to architectural brilliance. - Best Time to Visit:🌅 Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and breathtaking views. - Accessibility:🚶♂️ A short hike through picturesque tea plantations leads you to the bridge. Highlights: - Scenic Beauty:Surrounded by dense jungle and rolling hills, it's a perfect spot for photography. 📸 - Train Crossings:Catch a train passing over the bridge for a truly magical experience. 🚂 ❗️check the last photo for the train timetable ❗️ Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and history of this remarkable site! 🌺 #ninearchesbridge #Ellatrain #srilankatrip

#SouthEastAsiaTravel Visiting the “Nine Arches” Bridge was a great experience! 🌉✨ This historic bridge dating back to the colonial era features 8 large and small arches surrounded by picturesque scenery. While standing on the bridge, I enjoyed seeing the amazing view of the surrounding green forest and small waterfalls. 🌿🏞️ It was also great to see the train passing over the bridge, adding liveliness to the beautiful scenery. 🚂📸 I walked around the bridge and took many memorable photos, and I highly recommend visiting the “Nine Arches” Bridge to anyone who wants a great scenic experience with a historical touch.

විදේශිකයින්ගේ ප්රදානතතම සංචාරක ස්තානයක් වන මෙය ස්රී ලාංකිකයින් වශයෙන් නැරබිය යුතුම ස්තානයකි..#100WaysOfTravel #ninearchesbridge #srilanka #srilankatravel

Experience the Sri Lankan train through the highland tea plantations! Hang off the train and enjoy the freedom of the wind. Sri Lanka boasts incredibly beautiful train routes. Train travel is one of the must-do activities in Sri Lanka, featuring some of the world's most scenic highland railways. Traverse through highland tea plantations, delve into dense forests, and revel in the freedom of the wind. - I took the highland train from OHIYA to ELLA. It was a journey reminiscent of an adventure in the Emerald City. The train weaves through mountains at an altitude of around two thousand meters. The blue train stands out against the greenery of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls... And there are vast expanses of lush green tea plantations. One of the most important stops is the Nine Arch Bridge, which has a history of over 200 years. Because it is perpendicularly situated above the high mountain cliffs, it is also known as the Bridge in the Sky. Not only can trains pass over the Nine Arch Bridge, but people can also walk on it. You can sit on the bridge and wait for the train to arrive for a perfect photo opportunity. The train carriages also have a cultural charm, with locals using this train to travel to different parts of Sri Lanka. Especially since this train heads to the capital, Colombo, many locals take it. - The special feature of the highland train is hanging off the train. Since there is no air conditioning, all doors and windows are open. Many people stretch out of the doors to experience the thrill of the highland train. But be sure to hold on to the handrails tightly, as there is still some danger despite the slow speed of the train. - 🚄 Ticketing Strategy: Station: OHIYA to ELLA Price: 200 rupees per person (very cheap) There are no fixed seats, just like riding a bus, you can sit down when someone gets off. - 📷 Nine Arch Bridge Train Passing Times 💙 Blue Train Passing Time: 9:15am (will stop at Nine Arch Bridge) ♥️ Red Train Passing Time: 9:30am (will stop at Nine Arch Bridge) From the entrance of Nine Arch Bridge to the viewing spot, you need to hike 1.2 kilometers of mountainous trail. It requires climbing up and down the mountain, which is quite strenuous, but you can take a tuk-tuk back and forth for 1500 rupees.