A clean, central and social hostel a few minutes’ walk from Ella’s station, buses and restaurants, with tea-plantation views.
- Budget
Why we marked it
- Iconic colonial-era stone bridge
- Trains still cross on the Nanu Oya–Badulla line
- Walk through tea and jungle
- Free to visit
The Nine Arches Bridge, completed in the early 1920s, is one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed sights, a curving stone viaduct set in thick jungle and tea plantations near Ella.
What to expect
Walk there along the tracks or through the tea from Ella, then wait for a train to cross. Cafés on the hillside give a view with a drink.
Good to know
- Trains are running on this section in 2026; ask locally for crossing times.
- Go early morning to avoid crowds.
- Take care walking on the tracks.
Where it is
Demodara, Ella, Sri Lanka
More spots in Ella
All of EllaElla’s most rewarding hike, a steeper half-day climb to a summit with views over the whole valley.
- Budget
- Experience
A luxury hostel in Ella built for backpackers and remote workers, with free breakfast and a short walk to town.
- Mid-range
- Poshtel
- Remote work
- Free breakfast