The Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most famous and photographed landmarks in Sri Lanka, nestled in the lush hill country near the town of Ella.

Here is an overview of the bridge’s architecture, history, how to visit, and the best time to go.

1. Architecture and History

• “Bridge in the Sky”: The bridge is also widely known by its scenic local name, “Ahas Namaye Palama” in Sinhala, which means “Nine Skies Bridge” or simply the “Bridge in the Sky.”
• Structure: It is a massive viaduct bridge, a stunning example of colonial-era railway construction.
  • Length & Height: It is about 91 meters (300 feet) long and approximately 24-30 meters (80-100 feet) high.
  • Material: A remarkable engineering feat, the bridge was constructed entirely from stones, bricks, and cement—reportedly without the use of any steel or metal.
• Construction Story (Folklore): According to popular local folklore, the bridge’s construction began under the British but was halted when World War I broke out and the steel intended for the project was redirected for war efforts. A local Ceylonese builder, P.K. Appuhami, is often credited in legend with taking over and completing the bridge using only local materials like stone and cement. While official records point to British engineers like Harold Cuthbert Marwood, the story of Appuhami remains a cherished part of the local heritage.
• Location: It is located between the Ella and Demodara railway stations.

2. Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge

The highlight of a visit is seeing the iconic blue train chug across the nine graceful arches as it passes through the dense jungle and tea plantations.

• Best Time to Visit:
  • Time of Day: Sunrise is highly recommended for stunning light and to avoid the biggest crowds. The early morning light illuminating the tracks makes for beautiful photographs.
  • Train Times: Trains pass the bridge several times a day in both directions. The schedules change frequently and are prone to delays, so it’s best to ask your accommodation or the Ella train station for the current times the day before your visit. You should plan to arrive about 30-60 minutes early to find a good spot.
• How to Get There from Ella Town: The bridge is about a 4 km (2.5 miles) journey from the town center.
  • By Tuk-tuk: This is the fastest and easiest option. A tuk-tuk can take you to a nearby parking area, from which it’s a short 5-10 minute walk down a path to the bridge. Negotiate the price with the driver beforehand.
  • On Foot (Hiking):
    • Jungle Path: You can take a scenic walk (around 45 minutes to an hour) following roads and paths through the jungle and guesthouses.
    • Railway Tracks: Alternatively, you can walk along the active railway tracks directly from the Ella train station, passing through a short tunnel just before reaching the bridge. Be extremely mindful of approaching trains on this route and listen for the horn.
  • Guided Tours: Many local tours combine a visit to the Nine Arch Bridge with other popular Ella sights like Little Adam’s Peak and Ravana Falls.

Safety Tip: The railway is still active. If you are walking on the tracks or the bridge, be very alert and move off the track immediately as soon as you hear a train horn or see a train approaching.