Nine-arch bridge: an architectural masterpiece that will amaze you
9-arch bridge in Sri Lanka
The Nine Arch Bridge, also named in Sinhalese and Tamil, is known as the “Sky Bridge” and is one of the most prominent examples of pedestrian bridge construction in Sri Lanka.
This bridge is designed in a way that has a nine-degree curve and a steep slope. Its construction was carried out entirely by local labor under British supervision and faced many logistical challenges such as uneven terrain and transportation of raw materials. This structure was completed in 1919 and has been well preserved since then. The bridge also exemplifies engineering innovations, including the use of concrete cornice blocks to support the arch and locally produced sand-cement blocks for the cladding.
The location of the nine arch bridge
Nine-arched bridge is located in Demdara, between Elah and Demdara railway stations. Due to its artistic design and surrounding natural beauty, this area has seen a significant increase in tourism.
History of Nine Arch Bridge
The project was carried out under the supervision of Chief Engineer M. Cole Bowen, and the engineering responsibility was given to Harold Cuthbert Marwood. D. J. Wimalasurendra, chief designer and project manager of the Ceylon Upcountry Railway, was a prominent Ceylon engineer and inventor. A report published by the Ceylon Engineering Society in 1923 details the construction of the concrete footbridge, along with related drawings and documentation.
Local lore generally attributes the construction of the bridge to a local builder, P. K. Appuhami, who collaborated with British engineers. Although there is no documentary evidence to confirm this participation, this narrative is still part of the local culture.
The construction of the bridge coincided with the start of World War I, and there were rumors that the steel required for the bridge had been allocated to British military projects. For this reason, the construction of the bridge continued using brick, stone and cement, and only steel was used for the rails and needles.
Where is the nine arch bridge?
The Nine Arch Bridge is a popular Instagram photo spot located between Ella and Damdara railway stations in Sri Lanka. About the Nine Arch Bridge The Nine Arch Bridge was built during the British colonial period. It is said that when the work on the bridge began, the First World War broke out between the European empires, and steel and metal materials for the bridge were allocated to British war-related projects.
Therefore, the bridge was built using bricks, stones and cement. The impressive stone bridge is 91 meters long and 24 meters high and is surrounded by forest and lush tea plantations. When you stand under the bridge and look up through the nine arches, you can see the sky.
It’s a fantastic sight when the iconic blue or red trains pass by.
Best time to visit Ella, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a popular year-round destination! But the best time to visit Elah is between January and May. The weather during these months is sunny and dry, perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding attractions. The rainy season in Elah lasts from September to December. The hottest months are June, July and August. Elah has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and the average temperature is 25 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
How to get to the nine-arched bridge in Elah
The best way to reach Elah is by train. Most people come to Elah from Kandy or Colombo. The breathtaking journey from Kandy to Elah is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, so don’t miss it.
The distance between Kandi and Elah is about 140 km, which takes 6-7 hours depending on the type of train. Although the train journey from Kandy to Elah usually takes 9-10 hours due to long stops and frequent delays.
Trains only run 3 times a day between Kandy and Elah, so we recommend buying your train tickets in advance.
God to the bridge not the arch
If you are in Elah, you can easily reach the nine-arched bridge by walking through the forest, which is 1.5 kilometers long and takes about 30 minutes. Be careful as the trail can be slippery, especially after heavy rain.
You can join a guided tour that includes visits to Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adams Peak, with lunch and transfers.
If you travel by Tutek, you will be taken directly to the bridge, from where you can reach the iconic photo locations in minutes.
Parking with Tutek is free, but do not leave valuables in the vehicle.
After arriving at the parking lot (marked on the map), we walked about 15 minutes to one of the iconic landmarks at Cafe Asanka. From there, we went to the stone bridge which took about 10 minutes.
Spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the best photo spots at Nah Taq Bridge, Elah. There are small cafes and restaurants where you can eat delicious Sri Lankan food or relax.
Elah to Badula by train
We recommend traveling from Elah to Badula and back. Although this part of the journey is not as beautiful as the train journey from Kandy to Elah, it is a great way to experience the train journey and see the Nine Arch Bridge.
The journey from Elah to Badula takes 45-60 minutes.
On the train from Badula to Elah, you can take the iconic photo hanging outside the train. But be careful when you go out the door, because the trees can be too close and cause damage.
Frequently asked questions of the 9-arch bridge in Sri Lanka
1. Where is the Nine Arch Bridge located?
Nine-arched bridge is located in Demdara, between Elah and Demdara railway stations.
2. When was the nine-arch bridge built?
The bridge was completed in 1919 and has been well preserved since then.
3. How to get to the Nine Arch Bridge?
The best way to get to Nah Taq Bridge is to travel by train to Elah and then walk for 1.5 km.
4. What kind of materials were used in the construction of nine arch bridge?
Brick, stone and cement were used in the construction of this bridge, and only steel was used for the rails and needles.
5. When is the best time to visit Elah?
The best time to visit Elah is between January and May when the weather is sunny and dry.
final word
Nine Arch Bridge is a masterpiece of engineering and nature that brings an unforgettable experience to every tourist. By visiting this historical bridge, you will not only watch one of the most beautiful attractions in Sri Lanka, but also get closer to the history and culture of this country. So don’t miss the opportunity and visit the Nine Arch Bridge on your next trip to Sri Lanka.
