Kandy to Ella: Sri Lanka’s Most Beautiful Train Journey

Glide along winding tracks that hug mountains and cross charming villages, relaxing in the gentle sway of the carriage as scenic landscapes drift past your window. Experience the magic of Sri Lanka’s countryside from the comfort of your seat, where every moment feels timeless.

Why Take the Kandy to Ella Train?

There are plenty of reasons why the Kandy to Ella train is considered one of the best railway journeys in the world. First, the landscapes are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll pass through vibrant green tea fields, mist-covered mountains, and gushing waterfalls. The pace of the Ella train allows you to soak in these stunning views without rushing. Another great reason to take this trip is the cultural experience. As the train moves through different regions, you’ll see locals going about their daily lives, children waving from small platforms, and vendors selling you delicious snacks through your window. Plus, compared to other modes of transport, the Kandy to Ella train is incredibly affordable, making it the perfect choice for budget travellers.

You can take the journey on the same train from Colombo to Badulla. However, it takes almost half a day to travel between the two destinations. And the first leg of the journey from Colombo is somewhat uninspiring. Since the most scenic portion is between Kandy and Ella, that’s the section you don’t want to miss. It is, therefore, another reason to get onboard the Ella train from Kandy!

Journey Highlights

The Kandy to Ella portion of one of the most scenic railway journeys in Sri Lanka, and it can take anywhere from six to seven hours. So you are in for quite a ride. But, there’s a lot of scenery to capture your attention. So the time won’t feel like an eternity.

Kandy to Nanu Oya

The journey begins in Kandy, a historic city surrounded by lush hills. As the train departs, you’ll be greeted by scenic views of rice fields and thick jungle before reaching Nanu Oya, the closest station to Nuwara Eliya.

This section is filled with misty mountain views and endless tea plantations. The train to Ella is a stunning sight as it winds along mountainsides. But that’s a view only bystanders can admire. If you are actually aboard the train, you will miss that opportunity, but you gain more. The changes to the landscape are subtle at first since Kandy is already a mountainous area. However, as the train picks up speed and moves away from the city, you get to admire more rural landscapes. As you near Nanu Oya, this change begins to include tea estates, waterfalls and distant mountains. If you want to visit Nuwara Eliya, it is best to disembark here.

Nanu Oya to Haputale

Continuing towards Haputale, the train climbs higher into the hill country, offering breathtaking views of the valleys below. This stretch of the Ella train journey is particularly beautiful, with tea estates stretching as far as the eye can see. Haputale is another famous destination in Sri Lanka. The area is within easy distance of several historic sites in the hill country. These include the Adisham Bungalow, Lipton's Seat and the Dhowa Rock Temple. So if you are interested, you can hop off the train and explore the neighbourhood. However, doing so might add one more day to your journey from Kandy to Ella.

Haputale to Ella

The final leg from Haputale to Ella is the most iconic. Here, you’ll pass through the famous Nine Arches Bridge, a highlight of all Sri Lankan railway journeys. As the train snakes through tunnels and across dramatic landscapes, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

Best Seats and Train Classes

To get the best experience, choosing the right seat is essential. The Kandy to Ella train offers three main classes:

• First Class: Air-conditioned and comfortable, but the sealed windows limit the open-air experience.
• Second Class: A great balance of comfort and adventure, with open windows and the option to sit by the doors for unobstructed views.
• Third Class: The most budget-friendly option, often crowded but filled with lively local energy. For the best scenery, try to sit on the right side when travelling from Kandy to Nanu Oya, then switch to the left side from Nanu Oya to Ella.

How to Book Tickets

Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can buy them:

• Online via official booking sites.
• At the train station a few days before departure.
• Through travel agencies that reserve seats for tourists. If first-class tickets are sold out, don’t worry! Many travellers find the second-class cabins enjoyable on the train ride from Kandy to Ella.

Best Time to Travel

The Kandy to Ella train journey is beautiful year-round, but the best months to travel are February to April and July to November. These periods offer clear skies and lush greenery. However, travelling in the off-season means fewer crowds, making the journey more peaceful. Of course, railway journeys in the off-season come with their issues too. You need to be wary especially if you travel through the hill country. The constant rain during this period often results in mudslides. For that reason alone, it is better to travel from Kandy to Ella during the dry season, whether you take the train or drive there.

Final Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

• Bring snacks and water. While vendors sell food on board, it’s always good to have your own.
• Carry a camera. Every part of this trip is worth capturing!
• Stay safe. While leaning out of the train for photos is popular, always hold on tightly and be mindful of tunnels.
• Enjoy the moment. The slow pace of the train is perfect for relaxing and taking in the views.

Ready to Enjoy the Journey?

Join our Epic Sri Lanka Train Journey or extend your journey with A Week in the Tropics.

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