Undoubtedly one of the most popular sights to visit in Sri Lanka is the famous Nine Arch Bridge, located between the railway stations of Ella and Demodara. It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. It is built at 3100 m above sea level in the Central Highlands.
Popular rumors 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.
Me and Reya enjoying a walk on the bridge
There are several ways to reach the bridge. We were staying near Little Adam’s Peak so we walked along the paved road in front of the hotel and after 10-15 minutes we saw a sign for the bridge on the left. Then we just followed the signs and reached what apparently was the backyard of locals’ house, which they had turned into a coffee place with a great view over the bridge. There we waited for the coming train and went for a walk on the bridge afterwards.
The road leading to the bridge
If you are feeling lazy you can catch a tuk-tuk which to take you close to the tunnel, but I recommend walking instead. Going there a few hours before sunset will mean a pleasant walk without the strong sun burning you and crowds of tourists to share the experience with. Another option will be to go there very early in the morning, when fewer people will be there.
Under the bridge
Here you can check what we did for three days in Kandy and around.
Locals’ backyard
