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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.
"Thank you so much Cyril for guiding us around your beautiful country. We thoroughly enjoyed our time which was made particularly special by your professionalism, enthusiasm and friendliness. We wish you all the best in the future. Warm regards from, Aonghus O'Keefee and Sheela Hendricks- Ireland " Aonghus and Sheela Hendricks- Ireland
"Cyril is one of the best experienced person in the industry" Ahamed Anver
"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
"We had an excellent and memorable trip and all credits to Cyril. In-depth knowledge about the places, roads and history and culture. From the airport assistance - Food, accommodation provided and the vehicle was excellent. Very matured and patient, We being on safe hands. Thanks for making it a memorable experience for all of us. " Aubry De Souza and group from Dubai
"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
"2nd to 15th November 2016 Dear Cyril, Thank you for arranging our first visit to your beautiful country. We had a very enjoyable, comfortable, safe, interesting and memorable holiday. All the accommodations you provided were very clean and comfortable and we will always remember the welcome, we felt when the smiling staff cheerfully looked after us and our every need. The itinerary you arranged was just right for us and made even better with the care you took whilst driving your very c..." Satwant and Doug from Australia
" Dear Cyril We spent a wonderful week with you. We were so pleased to have to visited your beautiful country and we will recommend you for all of our relatives and to friends. It has been a pleasure to spend these days with you, we will never forget nice smile on your face all the time. Thank you and if one day you would like to visit Switzerland we will be raedy take you around snowy mountans! All the best, Franz family" Dr. David franz from Swiss
"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
"I want to thank Mr. Cyril for this 17 days long tour. He is an excellent chauffeur guide, always on time with a car more than the clean. He knows all the places in the Island and organized very well. Most of all, he is very kind person, always with a smile and ready to help. I want to reccommond him to all my friends. Ria Deleu Belgium Travel period 25 Jan 2020 - 10 Feb 2020 ( 17 days)" Mrs. Ria Deleu from Belgium
"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
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