Nine Arches Bridge, Ella: Hours, Address, Nine Arches Bridge Reviews: 4.5/5
Nine Arches Bridge
Nine Arches Bridge
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
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Top ways to experience Nine Arches Bridge
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
123 within 3 miles

Cafe Eden
250
0.4 mi$ • Asian • Sri Lankan • Vegetarian Friendly

Noname Cafe
106
0.5 mi$$$$ • Healthy • Sri Lankan • Vegetarian Friendly

Adam's Breeze
514
0.5 mi$ • Asian • Sri Lankan • Vegetarian Friendly

Ella Flower Garden Restaurant
1,039
0.5 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Indian • International

Nine Arch Cafe
7
384 ft$

Tip Top Sky Bar Ella
11
0.3 miAmerican • Indian • Asian • Sri Lankan

98 Acres Café & Restaurant
79
0.4 mi$$$$ • Asian • Sri Lankan • Vegetarian Friendly

AK Ristoro
1,646
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Asian • Fusion

Fresh Point
28
0.4 mi$ • Asian • Sri Lankan

Ceylon Tea Factory Restaurant
965
0.7 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Fusion • Sri Lankan
Attractions
15 within 6 miles

Little Adam's Peak
5,510
0.8 miMountains

Ella Spice Garden
566
0.8 miGardens

Ella Rock
2,013
1.5 miGeologic Formations

Demodara Loop
134
1.8 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Ella Train Journey
30
1.1 miScenic Railroads

Kinellan Tea Factory
120
1.4 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Ravana Ella Falls
2,115
2.5 miWaterfalls

Ella Black Pepper And Cinamon Garden
3
1.1 miGardens

Ravana's Cave
214
1.2 miCaverns & Caves

Mahamevnawa Monastery
33
2.3 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Religious Sites
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,715 reviews
Excellent
1,526
Very good
892
Average
254
Poor
32
Terrible
11
James D
Banwell, UK16 contributions
We followed the signs from Little Adam's Peak to see the nine arch Bridge. I know lots of people take tuktuk's but this kinda defeats the object and some of the fun.... Do the walk!!
The views are amazing and it's obviously a very impressive structure.
We did stop for a cup of tea on the way back to Ella also which was nice. There are locals selling fruit, drinks and fresh King coconuts about and they all seemed to be fair prices.
After the (Downhill) walk from little adams peak we then followed the tracks back to Ella railway station (Remember to exit to the left, don't walk on the platform as you can face a fine for not holding a valid ticket on the platform)!!
The walk back to Ella was about 45mins and very picturesque. Was very hot so some water helped out!!
The views are amazing and it's obviously a very impressive structure.
We did stop for a cup of tea on the way back to Ella also which was nice. There are locals selling fruit, drinks and fresh King coconuts about and they all seemed to be fair prices.
After the (Downhill) walk from little adams peak we then followed the tracks back to Ella railway station (Remember to exit to the left, don't walk on the platform as you can face a fine for not holding a valid ticket on the platform)!!
The walk back to Ella was about 45mins and very picturesque. Was very hot so some water helped out!!
Written September 14, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Panduka J
Nugegoda, Sri Lanka582 contributions
Reaching the area is challenging but absolutely worth the experience. We hired two 'Tuks' after parking our vehicle in a private car park nearby. The old bridge is a masterpiece of construction, which continues to serve several important trains plying the scenic main railway line between Colombo and Badulla.
A word of caution to those visiting the bridge. Several wasp hives are located under the arches and particularly the younger generation tends to be loud when visiting the area. this can be very dangerous as it is an open area without any protection to take cover in case of an attack. Please exercise due caution.
A word of caution to those visiting the bridge. Several wasp hives are located under the arches and particularly the younger generation tends to be loud when visiting the area. this can be very dangerous as it is an open area without any protection to take cover in case of an attack. Please exercise due caution.
Written September 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alfredo R
Olhao, Portugal78 contributions
The place is very scenic and worth the visit. Morning Trains will come around 9:30 and 11:30 - but they rarely pass by on time. Sometimes its 5 minutes after, other times is half an hour delay or more. Expect crowds on National holidays / Sundays / extended weekends. You can get there hiking or by tuk tuk.
Written February 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CheekyLondon
Southend-on-Sea, UK1,772 contributions
Our guide got completely lost and we had two aborted attempts to find the bridge, before he got us a tuk tuk! This was a good plan as for the equivalent of about £4, the tuk tuk driver took us down a pathway, we walked 100 steps to the railway line and walked along the line with him for about half a mile, and got to the bridge. He came with us and stayed with us and took us back. The bridge is a sight well worth seeing - build entirely of stone and cement, after the steel was withdrawn for the 2WW effort. It is truly stunning. There is a little industry grown up around the bridge with makeshift cafes and souvenirs. Plenty of locals go to see the train passing by too. The tuk tuk driver knew exactly when the train was due to pass and made sure we were safe on the side of the track. It's quite an experience for us health and safety mad westerners!! (We gave him extra Rupees as we felt he had given us excellent service).
Written February 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Parth Parekh
Ahmedabad, India12 contributions
Couples
Its a 20-30 minute walk to Nine Arch Bridge from the base. Its a combination of uphill & downhill walk & could be a bit streneous for aged people. I believe there are Tuk Tuk who take you to certain point, but we dint explore that option. There are certain timings on which train crosses across the bridge. But the one which we waited for was almost an hour late, so timmings of train was uncertain. Views are pretty nice!
Written December 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
PHABfamily
London, UK818 contributions
Family
This was a must see on our visit to Ella.
The walk begins on well maintained tracks but they are very steep both up & down. Then the track runs out & you have to scramble down mud tracks. These are VERY uneven. For some this will be simply impossible.
At every step the view of the bridge becomes more impressive.
Once at rail level you get to walk freely up & down the tracks at you leisure.
There are a few refreshment stands around the bridge, so no need to ration your water.
We we lucky to be there around 2:30pm when a train came rumbling passed.
We didn’t fancy the hike back up & chose a Tuk Tuk ride from right at the bridge. This route back to Ella is far longer around the mountain & costs around £6.50.
The journey from Ella to the start of the track going cost around £2.50.
Haggle hard & agree the price before you get in.
The walk begins on well maintained tracks but they are very steep both up & down. Then the track runs out & you have to scramble down mud tracks. These are VERY uneven. For some this will be simply impossible.
At every step the view of the bridge becomes more impressive.
Once at rail level you get to walk freely up & down the tracks at you leisure.
There are a few refreshment stands around the bridge, so no need to ration your water.
We we lucky to be there around 2:30pm when a train came rumbling passed.
We didn’t fancy the hike back up & chose a Tuk Tuk ride from right at the bridge. This route back to Ella is far longer around the mountain & costs around £6.50.
The journey from Ella to the start of the track going cost around £2.50.
Haggle hard & agree the price before you get in.
Written January 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
r4m
Mottram St. Andrew, UK275 contributions
This bridge is a masterpiece of the Victorian era - a beautiful piece of engineering in a deep green valley. It forms part the the Badulla branch of what must be one of the most characterful railways in the world.
Unfortunately it has risen to fame by social media and, as a visitor attraction, is now a circus.
At any time of day there are loads of people there ( I am ashamed to say I have added to the crowd by visiting).
Rough paths lead to it from all directions and areas have been worn away at each end.
If you're going to try to get "the picture" forget it - there will always be people there in the way.
To see something of the charm of the railway you could try going to the unique Demodara station which is up the line
Unfortunately it has risen to fame by social media and, as a visitor attraction, is now a circus.
At any time of day there are loads of people there ( I am ashamed to say I have added to the crowd by visiting).
Rough paths lead to it from all directions and areas have been worn away at each end.
If you're going to try to get "the picture" forget it - there will always be people there in the way.
To see something of the charm of the railway you could try going to the unique Demodara station which is up the line
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kekin2011
Mumbai, India302 contributions
Built by the British in 1921, this is one of the top attractions in Ella. The bridge was originally supposed to be constructed using steel but the steel was relocated by the British and the bridge was then constructed using bricks. It's named 9 arches because of the nine arches that are a part of its construction.
Make sure you know how to get there because there are multiple ways to get to the bridge and you'll be lost if you don't choose the right path. There is a small walk/trek to reach the bridge but you can also hail an autorickshaw. if you choose to walk then it isn't suitable to take infants. If you're there early enough you can also see the sunrise at the bridge.
The bridge is still in use and we also saw a passing train while we were there. I don't think there are many railway bridges that let you walk, sit and take pictures on the railway tracks. Perfect for IG influencers! It was set between a forest so the views were amazing!
Entry fee: Nil
Make sure you know how to get there because there are multiple ways to get to the bridge and you'll be lost if you don't choose the right path. There is a small walk/trek to reach the bridge but you can also hail an autorickshaw. if you choose to walk then it isn't suitable to take infants. If you're there early enough you can also see the sunrise at the bridge.
The bridge is still in use and we also saw a passing train while we were there. I don't think there are many railway bridges that let you walk, sit and take pictures on the railway tracks. Perfect for IG influencers! It was set between a forest so the views were amazing!
Entry fee: Nil
Written January 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thiranya
Colombo, Sri Lanka8 contributions
As others said it’s a nice experience. For hikers and adventures people I recommend going through Ella. For people who just want to enjoy the view or unable to climb/walk recommend going through Badulla side or go to Ella railway station and walk to the site. Better carry some water as there are very few shops along the way.
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Merryn
Essendon, Australia108 contributions
Couples
We walked along the "most direct" walking trail to the bridge and arrived at 5:30 pm...hoping to see the 5:30 train come through. No train by 6:10 pm so we walked back out. In the meantime, we took heaps of lovely photos, walked on the train tracks and enjoyed the people watching.....local and not so local. One gentleman calmly walked his 2 cows over the bridge amidst all the tourists!
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Здравствуйте! Как добираться до моста с дороги, если едешь на байке?
Oksana S
St. Petersburg, Russia24 contributions
Добрый день! Лучше всего оставить байк в деревеньке наверху и спускаться пешком, дорога вниз крутая и иногда ее подмывает. Есть и другой путь, более короткий, по каменной лестнице (местные покажут), однако во влажную погоду ей пользоваться опасно - очень скользко.
Hi there, Is it possible to get a place to stay with a nine arch view?
Annabel S
13 contributions
Yes, there are lots of guest houses on the hill and a few villas. I believe one of them is called nine arch view.
Stanislava H
Rimavska Sobota, Slovakia14 contributions
Thinking about holiday in Sri Lanka, where we are going with two children I would like to ask if it is necessary to travel with travel agency (with think it could be too demanding for children to see all places planned by travel agency, also it is more expensive) Is it easily possible to get to such a places like 9 arch bridge or elephant orphanage, some tea plantation, or other sightseeing by train / rent a car ? Is it safe and easy to travel by train? What about roads and traffic signs? Also what about beaches? Is it safe to find some lonely, not crowded beach? Thank you very much
Dhammi S
Ella, Sri Lanka20 contributions
Yes you can make reservations at some hotels at Pinnawala where the Elephant Orphanage in your first night after arriving to Sri Lanka. Then you can get a train to Ella, where the nine arch bridge, Tea Plantation and climbing to the Little Adam's Peak and stay one night at Ella. From Ella to beach side in Hikkaduwa or Unawatuna just by a taxi it is 3 hours. from beach to Air port another 2 hours on next day
Train is safe in Sri Lanka and if you need you can get a taxi arranged by us to pick you from Airport
Mayooran N
Caledon, Canada161 contributions
I want to see this place but my family includes kids with ages 4, and 7. Do we need to hike to see this place ?
nihan954
Ragama, Sri Lanka8 contributions
No need to hike. The easiest and fastest way to reach there as follows.
Take a van and travel towards to "Haliela" (On Badulla main road) and there is a Sign board with 9 arch bridge on your right side. Take that road you can reach very close to the location. There are car park you can park your vehicles and 5 minutes walk from there. If you are lucky, you can hire TUK TUK from car park, there a no walking at all to the bridge.
eleise8100
Hervey Bay, Australia32 contributions
Hi there. Could you tell me please if the track would be easily traversed by scooter? We are travelling by scooter around the island
Thanks
Eleise
msvalhalla
Barcelona, Spain306 contributions
Hi, what I would recommend is to take your scooter up to the Newburgh green tea factory in town. just slightly after it take a left turn off the main road, then stay left at the fork and drive down as far as yiu can go and walk from there. it's a steep road but nothing you can't manage. there are a few simple cafes on the way that will show you walking trails less than 5 min walk to the bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nine Arches Bridge
- Nine Arches Bridge is open:
- Sun - Sat 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
- We recommend booking Nine Arches Bridge tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 209 Nine Arches Bridge tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Nine Arches Bridge:
- 03 Days Highlights Of Sigiriya,Kandy,Nuwara Eliya ,Ella & Udawalawe (From $250.00)
- Kandy To Nuwaraeliya Scenic Train Ride and Nuwaraeliya City Tour And Drop Ella (From $95.00)
- 04 Days Tour- Sigiriya,Kandy,Nuwara Eliya,Ella & Udawalawe National Park (From $325.00)
- Trek to Little Adam's Peak and Nine Arches Bridge In Ella (From $73.85)
- Ella 3 Icons Private Tour (From $76.93)
- Hotels near Nine Arches Bridge:
- (0.00 mi) 9 Arch View Point
- (0.04 mi) Ella Homestay
- (0.13 mi) Nine Arch Lodge ella
- (0.20 mi) The Secret Ella
- (0.13 mi) Senevi 9 Arch Homestay
- Restaurants near Nine Arches Bridge:
- (0.07 mi) Nine Arch Cafe
- (0.45 mi) Cafe Eden
- (0.46 mi) Noname Cafe
- (0.46 mi) Adam's Breeze
- (0.51 mi) Ella Flower Garden Restaurant
- Attractions near Nine Arches Bridge:
- (0.01 mi) Shenu Lanka Viaggi
- (0.01 mi) Tour With Wasi
- (0.02 mi) Suriya Lanka Travels
- (0.38 mi) Beauty Lanka Travels
- (0.48 mi) Honey Bee Garden