Nine Arches Bridge

This colonial-era stone railway bridge, built in 1921 without any steel, spans a lush jungle valley with nine stone arches. It is at Ella's Nine Arches Bridge Area, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Ella's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 1-2 hours gives you a thorough visit.

You walk across 300 feet of century-old stonework suspended 100 feet above the valley floor. When trains approach, the ground vibrates and the whistle echoes through the jungle as the carriages curve dramatically overhead.

The combination of colonial engineering and jungle setting creates one of Asia's most scenic railway bridges. That puts it near the top of any Ella visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Little Adam's Peak and Ella Spice Garden - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Ella. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

The nearest area to base yourself is Nine Arches Bridge Area. It is one entry in our list of things to do in Ella. The Ella guide covers transport, costs and when to go.

We plan trips to Ella and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.