How to Find the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka

Nestled in the lush hills of Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. This comprehensive guide, based on our personal experience, will help you find the bridge, capture the best views, and time your visit perfectly to see a train crossing this architectural marvel.

Table of Contents

What is the Nine Arch Bridge?

The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the “Bridge in the Sky,” is a stunning colonial-era viaduct located between Ella and Demodara stations. Key facts include:

Length: 91 meters (299 feet)
Height: 24 meters (79 feet) above the valley floor
Construction: Stone, brick, and cement
Built in: 1921 during British colonial rule
Unique feature: Nine majestic arches spanning a deep gorge

Our Personal Experience at Nine Arch Bridge

We went to see the Nine Arch Bridge on a cloudy Sunday morning. It was so exciting! The sky was full of big, puffy clouds, which made everything look really cool. All around us, we could see lots of green trees and plants. They looked extra bright against the gray sky.

As we got closer, we saw how big the bridge really was. It was huge! The bridge stood out against the cloudy background, and we could see all of its arches clearly. It was amazing to think that people built this big bridge so long ago without any modern machines.

We took lots of pictures, but being there in person was the best part. Even though it wasn’t sunny, the cloudy weather made the whole place feel special and a bit mysterious.

How to Get to Nine Arch Bridge from Ella

There are three main routes to reach the Nine Arch Bridge, each offering a unique experience:

Hiking from Ella Railway Station along the tracks
Walking from Passara Road (two routes available)
Taking a tuk-tuk to the access points on Passara Road

Our Recommended Route: The Scenic Hilltop Trail

For the best bird’s-eye views and a rewarding hike, follow these steps:

Start at the main Ella crossroads and walk along Passara Road
Continue past Ella Heritage hotel (about 10 minutes)
Look for a colorful Hindu temple on your left
Take the road past the temple (Nine Arch Bridge Road)
At the fork, take the higher road to the right
At the next split, take the lower left-hand fork
Follow the descending road, watching for glimpses of the bridge
Look for sandy steps, go down and turn left
At the pink house, turn right and follow signs
Descend the path for spectacular views of the bridge

This route takes about 30 minutes from Passara Road and offers stunning vantage points along the way.

During our hike, we were grateful for the occasional shade provided by the trees and the gentle breeze that kept us cool. The anticipation built with each step, and the payoff was well worth it. When we caught our first glimpse of the bridge through the foliage, we were awestruck. It truly felt like we had discovered a hidden treasure.

Best Viewpoints for Photography

To capture the most impressive shots of the Nine Arch Bridge, consider these locations:

Hilltop Views: As you descend the path, you’ll get excellent bird’s-eye views of the bridge’s curve.
Tea Fields Below: Cross the tracks on the Demodara side and carefully climb down into the tea fields for unique perspectives of the arches.
On the Tracks: The railway tracks offer classic photo opportunities (but always stay alert for trains).
The Tunnel: The southern (Ella) side of the bridge near the tunnel provides great shots of the bridge against the hills.

From our experience, the most magical shots came from the tea fields below the bridge. Carefully making our way down, we found ourselves surrounded by tea plants, with the massive arches towering above us. This perspective truly captured the bridge’s grandeur and its harmony with the surrounding landscape.

Nine Arch Bridge Train Times

When we visited, we were able to see two trains cross the bridge, which was an exhilarating experience. However, it’s important to note that train schedules in Sri Lanka can be subject to change. Based on our visit and recent traveler reports, here’s a general guideline for train crossings:

Morning: Approximately 6:15 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM
Afternoon/Evening: Around 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM

Important note: These times are approximate and may have changed since our visit. We recommend checking with your accommodation or local tour guides for the most up-to-date schedule. Part of the adventure is the anticipation, so arrive early and be prepared to wait – the sight of a train crossing the bridge is well worth it!

We’ve made this useful YouTube video to help you find the Nine Arch Bridge easily.

Best Time to Visit

For fewer crowds: Visit at sunrise or early morning
For local atmosphere: Weekend mornings are popular with both tourists and locals
For photography: Early morning for soft light and potential mist in the valley

We chose to visit on a Sunday morning, which gave us a unique opportunity to mingle with local families who were also enjoying the site. The festive atmosphere added to our experience, making it feel like we were part of a special Sri Lankan tradition.

Safety and Etiquette

Listen for the official’s whistle warning of approaching trains
Stand aside when trains approach, either alongside the tracks or at the bridge ends
Don’t stand on the bridge walls, but sitting is generally allowed
Respect the tea plants when exploring viewpoints in the fields

During our visit, we noticed how respectful both locals and tourists were of the surroundings. Everyone seemed to understand the importance of preserving this beautiful site for future generations. We were particularly impressed by how quickly people moved to safety when a train approached, turning the moment into a communal experience of awe and excitement.

Return Route: A Forest Adventure

After your visit, try this scenic route back to Passara Road:

Cross to the southern (Ella) side of the bridge
Look for a path in the trees to your left
Follow the forest trail for about 25 minutes
Take the right-hand fork near the end (steeper but quicker)
Emerge back onto Passara Road

We found this return route to be a delightful contrast to our initial approach. The cool shade of the forest was a welcome relief after spending time in the open at the bridge. The sound of birds and the rustle of leaves underfoot made us feel like we were on a true Sri Lankan adventure.

Final Tips for Visiting Nine Arch Bridge

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water for the hike
Carry sunscreen and a hat, as parts of the trail are exposed
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the bridge’s full span
Allow at least 2-3 hours for the entire experience, including wait time for trains
Consider hiring a local guide for in-depth historical information and the best photo spots
Bring some snacks and extra water. We enjoyed a small picnic with a view of the bridge, which was a highlight of our day.
Take your time and soak in the atmosphere. Some of our favorite moments were simply sitting and watching the changing light on the bridge throughout the morning.
Strike up conversations with locals if you can. We learned fascinating stories about the bridge’s history from a friendly tuk-tuk driver.

Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip to Sri Lanka. The combination of stunning architecture, lush landscapes, and the thrill of seeing trains pass by created an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of breathtaking views, the Nine Arch Bridge is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s beauty.

We’d love to hear about your experience at the Nine Arch Bridge! Did you manage to capture that perfect shot of a train crossing, or did you discover a hidden viewpoint we missed? Share your stories and tips in the comments below – your insights could help make someone else’s visit even more special!