Demodara Loop, Ella Overview

The Demodara Loop is a spiral railway loop in Demodara and is a piece of cutting-edge civil engineering. The railway line runs underneath itself, snakes around the mountain and appears from a tunnel which is below the Demodara Railway Station; this railway line is said to be the only one of its kind in the world.

In the 20th century, the steep hills of Demodara proved to be difficult for building the current rail line; consequently, a spiral loop, around 441 feet long, was constructed. The engineering aside, Demodara Loop and its verdant surroundings are indeed a sight to behold; experience the charm of the area by taking a train ride, preferably from Ella to Demodara.

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History Of Demodara Loop

Uva, a province in Sri Lanka, is home to many tea estates. The tea had to be transported to Colombo, the capital city; this led to the construction of the Main Line, a railway connecting Badulla in Uva and Colombo. During its development, it was discovered that the hills at Demodara were quite high, and the Ceylon Government Railway had stipulated a maximum inclination of one foot per 44 feet (1/44); this prompted the need for a single track.

The story goes that Devapura Jayasena Wimalasurendra, a famed Sri Lankan engineer, was inspired by a farmer’s suggestion to construct the track similar to the way his turban was tied.

The railway was opened in 1923, and since then, has been the source of many a thrilling train journey.

Things To Do In and Around Demodara Loop

An exhilarating train ride

The journey on the Main Line is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Hop on a train at the railway station in Ella and travel to the Demodara Railway Station; on the way, you will traverse across the Nine Arch Bridge as well as the loop. Enjoy the scenic locales around and marvel at the ingenuity of the railway engineers of the colonial era.

Visit the Demodara Railway Station

The Demodara Railway Station, situated above the tunnel, offers a fantastic view of the spiral loop. It houses a model depicting the circuit and the station that one can admire while waiting for the train.

Walk Along the Loop

In the era of Instagram, you can never miss out on a great photo. A trek along the loop is an opportunity to admire and photograph the rail line and the beautiful landscape firsthand. Do check the train schedule before you plan a trek at this spot.

Best Time To Visit Demodara Loop

The best time to visit Demodara Loop is during the train rides. Check the train schedule beforehand for the timings.

Tips For Visiting Demodara Loop

1. A train ride from Ella to Demodara spans 6 km and lasts roughly 15 minutes. The journey costs LKR 20 for a 2nd class seat and LKR 10 for a 3rd class seat.
2. Visit the Oodoowerre Tea Factory, which is about 30 minutes away from the Demodara Railway Station, for a stunning aerial view of the loop.