Day 08 – Scenic Train: Nanu Oya to Ella
Board the train at Nanu Oya Station and prepare for one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in the world as you travel to the charming mountain village of Ella. This leg of your trip is nothing short of magical — the train winds its way through misty valleys, lush tea plantations, pine forests, and cascading waterfalls, offering an ever-changing canvas of Sri Lanka’s hill country beauty. Travel at a gentle pace that allows you to fully absorb the panoramic landscapes, wave to friendly locals at rural stations, and take stunning photos right from your open window or door — an authentic experience that defines slow, soulful travel.
No visit to Ella is complete without witnessing the legendary Nine Arch Bridge, a true masterpiece of colonial-era engineering. Nestled between Ella and Demodara stations, this 30-meter-high stone viaduct is set amidst dense jungle and tea fields, and is one of the most photographed spots in Sri Lanka.Built in the early 20th century entirely out of brick, rock, and cement — without a single piece of steel, the bridge features nine majestic arches that gracefully carry the railway across a deep forested gorge. When a train crosses over it, especially during misty mornings or golden sunsets, the scene becomes truly magical.
You can experience the bridge from multiple perspectives. Stand on the tracks and walk across the bridge (when no train is scheduled) View from below, surrounded by green tea bushes Capture the moment as a train curves across the bridge — an unforgettable photo opportunity The Nine Arch Bridge isn't just a beautiful structure — it's a symbol of Sri Lanka’s blend of natural beauty, colonial history, and engineering brilliance.
The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the "Bridge in the Sky," is a colonial-era railway viaduct located between Ella and Demodara stations in Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
• Length: Approximately 91 meters (300 feet) Height: Around 24 meters (79 feet)
• Width: Roughly 7 meters Arches: 9 graceful stone arches
• Constructed: Around 1921, during the British colonial period Materials Used: Stone, brick, and cement — no steel or iron was used in its construction
• Builder: Designed by British engineers and built by local Sri Lankan craftsmen
This bridge is considered an engineering marvel for its time, especially as it was constructed without any metal support. Surrounded by lush jungle and tea plantations, it remains one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed and visited landmarks. According to local folklore, after the British engineers abandoned the project due to the outbreak of World War I and the lack of imported steel, a Sri Lankan village builder and ex-craftsman named P.K. Appuhami from the nearby Keppetipola area took over the construction.
With his deep knowledge of traditional Sri Lankan engineering, masonry, and local labor skills, Appuhami successfully built the bridge entirely out of stone, bricks, and cement — without using a single piece of steel or metal. His methods were so effective that the structure has stood strong for over a century, even surviving earthquakes and heavy rail traffic. Though historical records don’t fully confirm all details, Appuhami is widely credited in local legend as the man who saved the bridge and gave Ella one of its most iconic landmarks.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Ella Meal plan: Bed breakfast & Dinner Included
Planned Excursions & Experiences – Ella
•Depart from your hotel in NuwaraEliya early morning to board the scenic train from Nanuoya to Ella.
•Arrive at Nanu Oya Railway Station around 11:00 PM, enjoying spectacular views of the hill country throughout the journey Ella 3.00 pm or 4.00 pm
•Transfer to Ella Hotel Visit in the evening City of Ella
•Nine Arch Bridge: Iconic photo stop — best when the train passes
•Cooking Class/Yoga: Local food experience or wellness session (optional)
•In the evening, sit down with your tour guide to plan the next day's exciting activities.
•Return to your hotel, relax, and enjoy.
•Overnight stay at the hotel in Ella
