Watching the train cross the Nine Arch Bridge and complete the Demodara Loop
6 Answers from travellers
Yes, walking the tracks is a common local practice. The walk from the Nine Arch Bridge to Demodara Station is about 2.5 kilometers through lush jungle. The Demodara Loop is an engineering marvel where the track spirals around a mountain and passes directly under its own railway station. It is a stunning piece of colonial engineering.
Make sure you check the local train timetable at Ella station. You do not want to be stuck in a narrow tunnel when a train is coming.
Watch out for massive wasp nests hanging under the arches of the bridge. Do not make loud noises right under them.
If you are too tired to walk the tracks, you can just take a 15 minute tuk tuk ride from Ella town directly to the Demodara station to watch it loop.
The small canteen at the Demodara station serves incredibly strong, sweet black tea. Grab a cup while you wait for the train to emerge from the tunnel below.
The tunnels are quite dark. Use your phone flashlight and step into the designated safety alcoves carved into the tunnel walls if you hear a train whistle.
Scam Watch: ella
People outside stations offer to "help" buy tickets but charge large markups. They may buy cheap third-class tickets and sell as more expensive classes.
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Best photography locations and golden hour spots beyond the obvious for a serious shooter4 answers
- First class Observation Saloon on the Kandy Ella train reality vs hype4 answers
- Nine Arch Bridge Ella - where exactly to stand, what train times to photograph, and how to get there?1 answer
- Watching the train cross the Nine Arch Bridge and complete the Demodara Loop6 answers
- Ella train tomorrow - bringing camera, any issues with security or space?2 answers
- First class vs second class on the Kandy to Ella train.3 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture