Thank you for visiting my site.
You are here: Home / Destinations / 9 ARCH BRIDGE IN ELLA
Hidden amidst the lush green hills and tea plantations of Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge, affectionately known as the "Bridge in the Sky," is one of Sri Lanka's most photographed and iconic railway landmarks. Built during the British colonial era in the early 20th century, this magnificent stone viaduct gracefully spans 91 metres across a deep jungle valley at a height of approximately 24 metres, showcasing the remarkable engineering and craftsmanship of its time.
The bridge is widely credited to the vision of local Ceylonese builder P. K. Appuhami, who worked closely with British engineers. The ambitious Upcountry Railway Line was designed and managed by the renowned Ceylonese engineer and inventor D. J. Wimalasurendra, while the viaduct's detailed design was prepared by Harold Cuthbert Marwood of the Ceylon Government Railway's Railway Construction Department. Their combined expertise created one of the finest examples of colonial railway engineering in Sri Lanka.
Constructed almost entirely from stone, brick, and cement, the Nine Arch Bridge is particularly remarkable for its minimal use of structural steel. According to local legend, during the First World War, the steel originally intended for the bridge was redirected to Britain's war effort. In response, skilled local craftsmen completed the bridge using traditional masonry techniques, creating the impressive structure that still stands today. Historical records, including the 1923 report Construction of a Concrete Railway Viaduct in Ceylon published by the Engineering Association of Ceylon, document the bridge's original design and construction.
Located between Ella and Demodara railway stations, the Nine Arch Bridge is surrounded by dense tropical forests, misty mountains, and rolling tea plantations, creating one of the most picturesque landscapes in Sri Lanka's hill country. Its nine elegant arches blend perfectly with the natural surroundings, making it a favourite destination for photographers, railway enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Visitors can stroll along the railway track, admire the breathtaking panoramic views, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding countryside. One of the highlights is watching Sri Lanka's famous blue train slowly cross the bridge, creating a truly picture-perfect moment that has become one of the country's most iconic travel experiences.
More than simply an architectural masterpiece, the Nine Arch Bridge represents the perfect harmony of history, engineering excellence, and natural beauty. Whether you visit to witness the passing train, capture stunning photographs, or simply enjoy the tranquil mountain scenery, this remarkable landmark promises an unforgettable experience and remains one of the must-visit attractions in Ella.
"We would like to say thank you very much Mr. Cyril for the excellent 7 night tour of Sri Lanka you provided us. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Sri Lanka and the itinerary you arranged. The four hotels (Earls Regency, Amaya Lake, Heritance Kandalama and the Colombo Hilton) were excellent and thoroughly deserved their 5 stars. Your driving skills was excellent. Also very friendly, calm, helpful, and courteous and always prompts. Sri Lanka is a lovely country and the people were very friendly. ..." Suresh and Prashanth
"Dear Cyril, We just got back to Singapore today...I am will be back to work tomorrow.. :) Sad but true ha ha……. We were very lucky to have you as our guide. I don’t think there will be anyone else who could have done an excellent job that you have done. We will spread the word around and will surely sell your services...do keep in touch so we can work something out. Thanks for the photos they are great Will visit your website soon and put in some good words for you.. Ti..." Shuhanth Haridas from Singapore
"Cyril was our driver and guide for the last nine days. We had the comfortable white Toyota van shown in the pic - it was just as clean and shiny, and not a scratch on it. He is clearly a very skilled driver. He is particularly knowledgeable about the history of the many places we visited. We were pleased we had Cyril as our driver. He had been recommended to us by an acquaintance. Andrew Speirs Melbourne, Australia Travel period 04 Jan - 12 Jan 2018" Mr. Andrew an Mrs. Suzy Speirs from Australia
"We came for a wedding and then embarked on an amazing holiday. Cyril show us magnificent sights and scenery of Sri Lanka. To do the country just we need to return with more time. Many of the sites we visited just made us want to know more about them, even though Cyril was a fountain of knowledge. We have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Cyril and his excellent company, and it was so nice to go home a guardian angel looking after us. He is consistently courteous & good humored and now fe..." Andy Powell UK
"Dear Cyril, Sincerest apologies for this delayed email --- reason being that I had been extremely busy with work & travel, since returning from Sri Lanka and just got a breather now, to download our photos and catch up with private matters. Hope this email finds you & family, in the best of health & spirits. Your granddaughter must be keeping you busy and giving you & Mrs. Baddegama immense joy. At this end, we are doing fine. Nikhita is back at school, now in Grade 7 and havi..." Pradeep Kumar Menon - Singapore
"Dear Cyril, Yes that's the one that we were calling all the time. Her name is Celia and by now she has a little sister. My dear Cyril, of course we can't forget your companion and we are always telling about you when we are talking about our trip to Sri Lanka. I wish you good luck with your company and I hope that you will have whatever you want. I want to tell also that I was very happy when I learned that you are a grandfather now. Best regards, Chris Greece 26/07/2011" Cristos Pravitas - Greece
"We had excellent 8 days tour with CYRIL TOURS. It's all credit goes to Mr. Cyril. From the welcoming at Air port to hotels we stayed,food we had and driver who was provided was excellent. We always introduce CYRIL TOURS to all who wiling to tarvel to Sri Lanka. Swaran Kaur and family Kuantan - Malaysia 2012 May 18 - 25 May" Swaran Kaur and family from Malaysia
"Dear Cyril, Thank you very much for wonderful holiday. Your attention to detail and care of your clients is extraordinary. We certainly hope to cross paths again and we will recommonding you to all of our friends and to family too. Many thanks again. Paul nad Machelle Brisbane, Australia. Visited during 10/10/2012 - 26/10/2012" Mr. Paul and Mrs. Machelle from Australia
"Thanks a lot for making great arrangements for the visit. The visit was very well organized with good hotels and the vehicle/ driver. I would highly recommend your agency and its services to everyone who wants to visit Sri Lanka. Anastasia - Russia, Feb 2011 " Anastasia
"11th April 2014 01 week tour around Sri Lanka A fantastic week was had by all with Cyril, exploring Kandy, Nuwaraeliya and Bentota. Your meaningful insights & excellent explanations of the Sri Lanka’s culture, nature and traditions were invaluable. Your smile and charm helped is feel related and comfortable. Not getting stressed once. With your guidance & tips, the holiday flew by with only one problem: it was very short! Your comprehensive list of talents ranges from findin..." Ian Price and family from UK
.JPG)
