Demodara Loop – A Unique Railway Marvel Near Ella, Sri Lanka

Nestled in the scenic highlands of Sri Lanka, just a few kilometers from the charming town of Ella, lies one of the most fascinating railway engineering wonders in Asia – the Demodara Loop. This unique railway curve, where the train makes a complete loop before crossing over itself, is a testament to the ingenuity of British colonial-era engineers and one of the most photographed spots on Sri Lanka’s hill country railway line.

A Masterpiece of Railway Engineering

The Demodara Loop is located about 8 kilometers from Ella and 172 kilometers from Colombo, along the famous Badulla railway line. The loop was designed in the early 20th century by British engineers who faced a challenging terrain with steep gradients and limited space. To overcome this, they came up with an ingenious solution — the track makes a 360-degree loop, going around a hill and then passing directly beneath the station through a tunnel.

It is said that the design idea was inspired by a local villager who suggested “if you can’t go over it, go around it.” The result is an engineering marvel that combines practicality with beauty. The Demodara Railway Loop remains fully operational to this day and continues to be one of the most iconic landmarks on the Colombo–Badulla railway route.

The Scenic Train Journey

The train journey from Ella to Demodara (or vice versa) is one of the most picturesque short rides you can take in Sri Lanka. As the train slowly winds through misty hills, lush tea plantations, and small villages, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Uva highlands.

When the train enters the loop and circles around the hill, travelers can experience the unique moment when the engine passes directly under the Demodara Railway Station through the tunnel. This remarkable sight makes it a must-do experience for railway enthusiasts and travelers alike.

The Historic Demodara Railway Station

Built during the British colonial era, the Demodara Railway Station has retained much of its old-world charm. The small station sits on top of the loop, surrounded by tea estates and mist-covered mountains. It serves as both a functioning stop and a historical site, where visitors can observe trains making the full loop around the hill.

Many travelers stop here to capture stunning photos or simply to enjoy the serene surroundings. The station’s elevated location also provides panoramic views of the railway tracks curving gracefully around the landscape.

Visiting Demodara Loop

The Demodara Loop is located about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk or local bus from Ella town. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cool and the light is perfect for photography. You can walk along the nearby paths for different viewing angles of the loop and tunnel entrance.

If you time your visit to coincide with a passing train, you’ll be able to witness the entire loop in action — a truly mesmerizing experience for visitors of all ages.

Attractions Near Demodara

Since Ella is just a short distance away, you can combine your visit to Demodara Loop with other top attractions such as:

• Nine Arches Bridge – Another stunning railway landmark near Ella.

• Ella Rock – A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the valley.

• Ravana Falls – A majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

• Little Adam’s Peak – A relatively easy climb with rewarding views of Ella Gap.

Why Visit Demodara Loop

The Demodara Loop is more than just a railway curve — it’s a symbol of creativity, perseverance, and harmony between engineering and nature. Whether you’re a history lover, train enthusiast, or photographer, this destination offers a rare chance to witness a living piece of Sri Lanka’s railway heritage.

As part of your Sri Lanka hill country itinerary, a stop at Demodara Loop near Ella is an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the charm and ingenuity of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, surrounded by the timeless beauty of its mountain landscapes.