Demodara Nine Arch rail bridge in Sri Lanka

The Demodara Rail Bridge, also known as the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, is a remarkable feat of engineering located near Ella in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. Built during the British colonial era in the early 20th century, this stone bridge is famed for its unique design and stunning setting. The bridge consists of nine elegant arches, spanning a length of about 91 meters and rising to a height of 24 meters. Constructed entirely from stone and cement without the use of steel, it showcases the ingenuity of local and British engineers.

Set amidst lush green tea plantations and dense jungle, the bridge lies along the scenic railway line connecting Ella and Demodara. One of the most iconic aspects of this area is the nearby Demodara Loop—a rare railway loop where the track passes under itself through a tunnel and emerges above, allowing trains to ascend steep terrain smoothly. The combination of natural beauty and architectural brilliance makes the Demodara Bridge a major tourist attraction.

Visitors often gather at the bridge to watch the blue trains of the Sri Lanka Railways curve gracefully across the arches, capturing the harmony between colonial-era craftsmanship and the breathtaking landscape of Sri Lanka’s hill country.