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The Ella Nine Arches Bridge is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, located in the scenic town of Ella in Badulla District, Uva Province. Known for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, the bridge has become a popular destination for both tourists and photographers. Built during the British colonial era, this viaduct spans a deep valley, connecting the towns of Ella and Demodara, and offers visitors breathtaking views of the lush landscape below.
The bridge is often referred to as the “Nine Arches Bridge” due to its nine impressive arches that span the gorge, creating an elegant and dramatic structure that stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the early 20th century. The surrounding area is known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and pristine natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience both culture and nature in one place.
The Nine Arches Bridge is located about 2 kilometers from Ella town, making it easily accessible by foot, tuk-tuk, or taxi. The walk to the bridge from Ella is a pleasant 30-minute hike, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area as they make their way through tea plantations and lush greenery. There are well-marked paths leading to the bridge, and the trail is relatively easy, though it can be muddy during the rainy season.
If you prefer a more convenient route, you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi from Ella town, which will take you closer to the bridge. From there, it’s just a short walk to the viewing platform. The journey from Ella to the bridge is relatively short, making it an easy excursion for visitors staying in Ella or the surrounding areas.
The weather in Ella is typically cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F), making it a great place to visit year-round. However, the best time to visit the Nine Arches Bridge is during the dry season, which lasts from December to April. This period offers clear skies and comfortable weather, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and photography.
During the monsoon season (May to November), the area experiences regular rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and the bridge harder to access. However, the rain also brings out the vibrant greenery of the region, and the views can be even more spectacular with the mist and fog that often surround the area. Be sure to check the weather forecast before visiting to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
There is no formal entry fee to visit the Nine Arches Bridge, and it is open to the public throughout the day. Visitors can access the bridge by foot via the hiking trail or by taking a tuk-tuk or taxi to the nearby viewpoint. While the bridge itself does not have any facilities, there are small shops and eateries in the vicinity where visitors can buy snacks and drinks. The area around the bridge is popular for photography, so it is a great idea to bring your camera and capture the stunning views of the bridge and the surrounding landscape.
The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon. Early mornings provide a peaceful atmosphere and often feature mist rising from the valley, which adds a mystical quality to the views. Late afternoons offer golden hour lighting, making it an ideal time for photographers. The bridge is also a popular spot to watch the passing trains, so be sure to check the train schedule for an unforgettable sight of the iconic blue trains crossing the bridge.
The Ella Nine Arches Bridge is famous for its unique architecture and the stunning natural setting in which it is located. Completed in 1921, it was initially built to support the railway line connecting the southern region of Sri Lanka to Colombo. The bridge stands out due to its impressive nine arches, which span a deep gorge and offer an awe-inspiring view of the valley below.
What makes this bridge particularly famous is not just its structural beauty but also its picturesque location. The surrounding landscape features lush green tea plantations, misty hills, and dense forests, making it one of the most photographed sites in Sri Lanka. The view of the bridge, with the dramatic backdrop of the hills, is often featured in travel magazines and social media posts, adding to its fame.
Moreover, the bridge is frequently visited by tourists who come to catch a glimpse of the passing trains. The sight of a bright blue train crossing the Nine Arches Bridge against the backdrop of the green hills is an iconic image of Sri Lanka’s railway system, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to the area.
The Nine Arches Bridge was constructed by the British colonial authorities during the early 20th century as part of the railway project connecting Colombo to the southern part of Sri Lanka. The bridge was completed in 1921 after several years of construction. Despite being built without the use of steel (due to a shortage during World War I), the bridge was constructed using solid stone and brickwork, making it a remarkable engineering achievement for its time.
The bridge’s nine arches are the defining feature of its architecture, and it is a testament to the skill of the builders who worked on it. The bridge is 91 meters long and rises about 30 meters above the valley floor. It was designed to withstand the challenging terrain and weather conditions of the region. Over time, the bridge has become an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka’s colonial past and its railway history.
The surrounding area, once a dense forest, is now a popular destination for trekkers and visitors who come to enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the site. The bridge itself has been well-maintained, and it still serves as an active railway route, adding a sense of nostalgia for those traveling by train in the region.
While the Nine Arches Bridge is primarily a visual spectacle, there are several activities you can enjoy when visiting the area:
