Ready to embark on one of the most scenic journeys in the world—the Kandy to Ella train route? Known for its breathtaking views, this iconic train ride takes you through lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and stunning mountain landscapes, offering an unforgettable travel experience.
Regarded as one of the most picturesque train routes, it’s a must-do for any traveler visiting Sri Lanka. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know—from train timetables and booking options to what to expect along the way.
So, sit back, relax, and read on as I take you through this unforgettable journey.
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Table of Contents
Kandy to Ella Train Summary
Distance: Approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles)
Travel Time: Around 7 hours (depending on the train service and stops)
Daily Departures: 04:00 am, 08:55 am, 11:15 am
Special Departures (Monday, Thursday & Saturday): Ella Odyssey (only First and Second Class)
Available Coaches: First Class, Second Class, Second Class Reserved, Third Class, Third Class Reserved
Recommended for Comfort: First Class
Recommended for Budget: Second and Third Class
Ticket Purchase: directly at the counter, online via 12go.asia
History of the Kandy to Ella Train
1864: The first railway line in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) was inaugurated, connecting Colombo to Ambepussa.
1867: The railway line was extended to Kandy, making the city more accessible and reducing its previous isolation in the central highlands.
Early 20th Century: The section of the railway connecting Kandy to Ella was completed. This route is known for its picturesque landscapes, winding through lush greenery, tea plantations, and mountain ranges.
Tourism Boom: Over time, the Kandy to Ella train route gained popularity, becoming an iconic travel experience due to its breathtaking views. It has since become a significant part of Sri Lanka’s tourism.
Why is the Kandy to Ella Train Ride so Famous?
The Kandy to Ella train journey is renowned as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, attracting visitors who want to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
The train route takes you through vast stretches of tea plantations, where you can see the green slopes dotted with workers picking tea leaves.
As the train ascends through the central hills, the landscapes become increasingly dramatic, with mist-covered mountains and panoramic views of valleys below.
Is the Kandy to Ella the Most Beautiful Train Ride in the World?
Many people consider the Kandy to Ella train ride to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Whether it’s the most beautiful is subjective and comes down to personal taste.
There are countless other stunning train journeys around the globe, such as the Glacier Express and Bernina Express in Switzerland, the Blue Train in South Africa, the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia, or the Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland. Each of these routes offers its own breathtaking landscapes.
Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Kandy to Ella train ride is the most beautiful is to experience it for yourself and decide if it holds that title for you.
Key Highlights Along the Kandy to Ella Train Route:
Kandy. The journey begins in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, which is located in the island’s central highlands. Kandy is known for its cultural significance and natural beauty, surrounded by lush hills and the sacred Temple of the Tooth.
Peradeniya Junction. The train passes through Peradeniya, which is close to the Royal Botanical Gardens. This area is lush with greenery and provides some early views of the tea plantations.
Nawalapitiya. The train passes through Nawalapitiya, a key stop in the hill country, which is a town surrounded by tea estates. From here, you’ll start seeing dramatic mountain views.
Glenloch. This area is notable for its tea plantations and tea factories. The scenic beauty intensifies as you climb higher into the mountains.
Hatton. This is the gateway to Adam’s Peak, one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. The train travels past this region, offering stunning views of the mountains and the famous peak.
Nanu Oya station. It is a lovely hill station in Sri Lanka’s central highlands and the servicing station for Nuwara Eliya. Known for its cool climate and lush landscape, Nuwara Eliya (Little England) is a popular getaway for both locals and tourists. The town is surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and the famous Gregory Lake, offering a peaceful retreat with scenic beauty. Nuwara Eliya is also a base for hiking Adam’s Peak and exploring the nearby Horton Plains National Park.
Ramboda Pass. As the train approaches Ramboda, you pass through this famous mountain pass known for its cool climate and panoramic views.
Ella. The final stop on the journey, Ella, is famous for its tea plantations and striking natural beauty, including attractions like Ella Rock and Nine Arches Bridge. This town is a popular base for travelers exploring the central highlands.
Where is the Kandy Train Station?
The station is situated near the city center, just a short distance from the famous Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) and Kandy Lake. It is easily accessible, with nearby transportation options like tuk-tuks, buses, and taxis to take you around the city.
The station has a classic British colonial design, with a large, open waiting area and high ceilings. The wooden beams, arched windows, and red brick walls will catch your attention for sure. It feels as though you’ve walked into a bygone era. Truly, it’s a sight to behold.
There are several ticket counters for both regular train services and tourist trains, where passengers can buy tickets. It’s often busy, especially in the morning and during peak travel seasons.
You will find restrooms and small snack bars, but other than that, don’t expect the comfort of the modern stations. But that’s part of its appeal—the rustic, charming atmosphere is like stepping into the past.
Look out for the manual signboards showing the train schedules. There’s something nostalgic about them, almost as if time slows down for a moment.
Where is the Ella Train Station?
Ella Railway Station is located just outside the main town, within easy walking distance of some of the area’s most famous areas, such as the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and the breathtaking Ella Rock.
The station itself has a quaint, rustic charm typical of Sri Lanka’s smaller stations. Although it’s relatively small, it’s well-connected to the town, and you’ll find tuk-tuks and taxis readily available to help you explore Ella and its stunning surroundings.
Inside, there’s a small ticket counter, along with a few food stalls where you can grab a quick bite.
Kandy to Ella Train Timetable
Departure Daily:
04:00 am – Train No: 1126, Type: Mixed, Arrival: 12:33 pm
08:55 am – Train No: 1005, Type: Express, Arrival: 3:41 pm
11:15 am – Train No: 1015, Type: Express, Arrival: 5:37 pm
Departure on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday:
08:25 am – Ella Odyssey (Special Train) – Train No: 1041 (Coming from Colombo), Arrival: 3:07 pm
For more accurate and updated information, visit Sri Lanka Railway Schedule.
Kandy to Ella Train Ticket Prices
Get your tickets at the counter:
First Class: from LKR 3,000
Second Class: from LKR 600
Third Class: from LKR 300
Note. Prices can fluctuate due to economic conditions in Sri Lanka, so it’s important not to rely entirely on what you find online.
How to Choose the Right Tickets for the Kandy to Ella Train
Choosing the right ticket for your Kandy to Ella train journey can be a bit confusing. In the end, it all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. So, here’s a breakdown of your options:
First-Class Ticket
Best for: Those looking for a premium, comfortable ride.
Why: First-class coaches are air-conditioned with reserved seating and plenty of space to stretch out. This is the most expensive option, but it’s perfect if you want to relax in comfort during the 7-hour journey while enjoying the stunning views.
Note: If you’re hoping to get that perfect photo with the doors open, first-class might not be an option, as the windows and doors typically don’t open. However, the train attendant was kind enough to open the doors whenever someone wanted to take photos. In fact, from Nuwara Eliya onwards, the doors remained open the entire time.
Second-Class Reserved Ticket
Best for: Travelers who want a reserved seat without the first-class price tag.
Why: These carriages are spacious and comfortable, with reserved seats.
Note: There’s no AC, but the doors and windows are open, so you get to enjoy the fresh air and the view.
Third-Class Reserved Ticket
Best for: Those who want a seat but are looking to save a bit more.
Why: This option is a compromise between comfort and cost. You get a reserved seat (no standing or scrambling), but without the luxury of air-conditioning. Plus, it’s usually less crowded than third-class unreserved.
Note: There’s no AC, but the doors and windows are open, so you get to enjoy the fresh air and the view.
Third-Class Unreserved Ticket
Best for: Budget travelers who don’t mind being flexible.
Why: If you’re okay with sitting on the floor or standing for part of the journey, this is the most affordable option. It’s crowded, especially during peak times, but it offers a more authentic, local experience.
Note: It’s not for those looking for comfort, but it’s definitely a great option if you’re just focused on the experience and saving money.
Second-Class Unreserved Ticket
Best for: Travelers who want a bit more comfort than third class but are still flexible.
Why: Like third-class unreserved tickets, there’s no guaranteed seat, but you’ll be riding in a more spacious and comfortable car. The seats are cushioned, and the windows are bigger, providing a better view. It can still get crowded, especially during peak travel times.
Note: While the second class is less crowded than the third class, it’s still not a guaranteed seat, and there’s no air-conditioning.
So, which ticket should you buy?
First-Class is for those who want comfort and premium space.
Second-Class Reserved is great for a balance of comfort and budget.
Third-Class Reserved is a good option if you’re looking to save money but still want a seat.
Third-Class Unreserved is the cheapest but comes with the possibility of standing.
Second-Class Unreserved offers a more comfortable experience than third-class but still doesn’t guarantee you a seat.
Our choice for the Kandy to Ella train ride
We really wanted to make the most of the famous Kandy to Ella train ride, so we opted for first-class tickets. Now, before you throw stones at us or say we missed out on the real adventure—hear us out because, in the end, we definitely didn’t!
You might be wondering why we went for this choice. Well, to be honest, we weren’t too keen on the idea of trying to snap photos from the perspective of open windows and doors.
Plus, the thought of having those windows and doors wide open for a 7-hour journey didn’t sound all that comfortable.
We just wanted to relax, enjoy the ride in comfort, and soak up the stunning views without the hassle—and that’s exactly what we did.
Here’s a nice little touch, though: The train attendant was kind enough to leave the doors open for us every time we wanted to take some photos. It was the perfect way for us to experience the beauty of the journey at our own pace. So, no regrets here!
To ensure a smooth journey, we pre-booked our tickets well in advance through the 12go.asia platform. The booking process was incredibly easy, and our tickets were conveniently delivered to our hotel in Kandy a few days before we arrived. I definitely recommend using this service—it’s reliable and hassle-free.
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The Ella Odyssey Train
The Ella Odyssey train journey is is known for its focus on comfort, scenic views, and the overall travel experience.
The windows are larger compared to other trains, offering fantastic views of Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes.
The Ella Odyssey operates on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. It departs from Colombo early in the morning. The return journey from Ella is also available on select days.
The train is usually reserved for first-class and second-class passengers, and these tickets tend to sell out quickly, so it’s recommended that you book ahead.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious train ride through the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, this is an excellent choice.
How to Buy Tickets for the Kandy to Ella Train?
Purchase directly at the station
You can buy your tickets at the Kandy Railway Station or Ella Railway Station ticket counters (if you’re traveling from Ella to Kandy). These counters are open daily.
You can purchase unreserved tickets on the day of travel only. Be prepared for longer wait times, especially during peak hours or holidays. The unreserved tickets can’t sell out — they’re unlimited.
However, keep in mind that unreserved tickets in second-class or third-class don’t guarantee you a seat.
If you’re okay with sitting anywhere for the 7-hour journey, opting for third-class or unreserved tickets could be a great option.
On the other hand, first-class and second-class reserved tickets cannot be purchased on the day of travel. These need to be bought a few days in advance at your departure station. During peak travel times, it’s common for these tickets to sell out quickly, so it’s best to secure your seat as early as possible.
Online booking
A convenient way to book your tickets online is through platforms like 12Go Asia. You can choose your train, class, and departure time in advance and even secure reserved seats, especially in Second Class and First Class.
For obvious reasons, there is a service fee, but you can secure tickets, especially if you’re looking for reserved seats.
Tips for Buying Train Tickets
First Class and Second Class Reserved: These tickets are often in high demand, so I strongly suggest booking your tickets ahead of time.
Third Class: You can often buy these tickets at the station on the day of your travel.
Peak Seasons: During holidays or tourist seasons, it’s a good idea to book in advance to ensure you get a seat.
Which is the Most Scenic Part of the Journey?
Well, another hard question. The most scenic part of the Kandy to Ella train journey is, in my opinion, the section between Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya) and Ella. This part takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes Sri Lanka has to offer. But hey, that’s only me. You have to experience it and decide for yourself.
Where to Sit on the Kandy to Ella Train?
Ah, this is one of those questions that sparks a bit of debate, in my opinion!
When you book your tickets online, one thing is certain: you can’t choose your seat. You’re simply allocated one, and that’s that.
We were assigned two seats on the right side of the train, and we really enjoyed the views. From there, we had a perfect glimpse of the rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and lush valleys that Sri Lanka is known for.
But here’s the thing: as the journey went on, we noticed that the left side also offered some picturesque landscapes. It was especially when we passed through places like Nuwara Eliya, where the tea estates and mountain scenery were equally captivating.
So, in the end, it really comes down to a subjective choice. Both sides offer beautiful views—it just depends on what part of the scenery you’re most interested in.
Don’t get frustrated if you don’t get the perfect seat! Just enjoy the adventure.
The entire journey is an experience in itself, and there’s beauty to be found from every angle. So sit back, relax, and let the views unfold, no matter which side you’re on!
What Food and Drinks Can You Buy On Board?
One of the charming aspects of the Kandy to Ella train ride is the vendors who walk through the carriages with baskets full of snacks and drinks.
You’ll find a variety of treats, from samosas filled with meat or peas to an assortment of chocolate bars, roasted peanuts, and chips. It’s a great way to sample some local flavors while taking in the stunning scenery.
However, if you’d rather not spend extra on snacks from the vendors, feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks along for the journey.
Is Starting at Peradeniya Junction Still a Smart Choice?
While Kandy Railway Station is the main starting point, Peradeniya Junction is just a short distance away. It often had fewer passengers boarding the train, giving a better chance of securing a seat, especially during peak times or busy seasons.
Peradeniya Junction has become more popular and crowded in recent years as more travelers have discovered it as an alternative boarding point. It’s now often just as busy as Kandy Station.
In summary, while Peradeniya Junction was once a good alternative, it seems that with increased popularity, it may no longer be as useful for securing a seat.
Taking Photos Out of the Train Open Doors
Taking photos out of the train open doors on the Kandy to Ella train is a popular activity, and for many travelers, it’s the highlight of the journey. The thought of capturing those stunning views as you hang out of the door sounds thrilling, and it’s definitely a big part of the experience.
However, before you get too excited, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Always be aware of the safety risks. Leaning out of the train or standing near an open door can be dangerous, especially as the train speeds along narrow tracks or makes sharp turns.
Make sure you’re holding on tightly, and don’t stretch too far out. While the views are spectacular, spending the entire journey hanging out of the door can be uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
If you do decide to take that photo from the train door, stay cautious and avoid putting yourself in danger.
Our Kandy to Ella Train Experience
Our one day in Kandy was an absolute blast! We spent our time wandering around the city center, discovering hidden alleys and secret corners.
We got into some great conversations with locals while popping into quirky little shopping stalls. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth and the ceremony left us totally awestruck, and those stunning viewpoints over the city? Totally worth the tuk-tuk drive.
But the real excitement began the next day when we set our sights on the Kandy to Ella train journey. A quick tuk-tuk ride dropped us at the station, where the vibe was relaxed… until we reached the ticket office. There, it was a whole different story. Apparently, winter holidays in Sri Lanka come with a side of chaos.
Wanting to avoid the dreaded “no seat” situation, we decided to book early, and let me tell you, that was a genius move. By the time we boarded, the second and the third class carriages were packed tighter than a can of sardines! But after an hour-long wait (typical Sri Lanka time), we were finally on our way.
The ride to Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya) was absolutely breathtaking. The first-class seats weren’t fully booked, so we had the freedom to roam and snap pics from both sides of the train.
From Nuwara Eliya, however, things were a little more… crammed. There were tourists, Sri Lankans, and a few disappointed faces—especially those who didn’t realize the windows in first class are always closed. Yikes!
Luckily, the train attendant kept the doors open, and we fully enjoyed the views.
Oh, and here’s a funny one: A couple came up in Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya), waving tickets for our seats and told us to move. We couldn’t help but laugh when the train attendant shuffled them off to another car. Who knew train drama was a thing?
Seven hours, endless snacks, and a ton of photos later, we arrived in Ella – exhausted but so happy!
Things to Keep in Mind
Weather: The best time weather-wise is typically between December and March, when the weather is drier and clearer, offering better visibility of the stunning landscapes.
Peak Season: If you’re traveling during peak seasons (like the winter holidays or public holidays), it’s advisable to book tickets in advance.
Train Schedule: While the times I mentioned are standard, train schedules can sometimes change, so be sure to double-check the timings on the Sri Lanka Railways website.
Respect the locals: While taking photos, be mindful of fellow passengers. It’s important to be considerate of the space and avoid obstructing aisles or disturbing others.
Where to Stay in Kandy
When I first started looking for a place to stay in Kandy, I imagined finding somewhere up on a hill, surrounded by greenery and peace. But then I realized I wasn’t here just to relax in solitude—I wanted to experience the heart of Kandy and be close to the action.
I ended up choosing SWP Eco Lodge, an eco-friendly gem that’s just a short walk from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake. It was the perfect spot for me to explore the city on foot during the day and then unwind in a peaceful environment at the end of each day.
So, my advice is to stay in the city center, where you’ll have easy access to all the main attractions and a wide range of restaurants to explore.
My other top choice for staying in Kandy was Adigar Manors Kandy, but unfortunately, it was fully booked. This boutique hotel offers a luxurious yet traditional experience, set in a beautiful colonial-era mansion surrounded by lush greenery. The views of the hills are absolutely stunning, making it the perfect spot for those looking for a peaceful, upscale stay while still being close to all of Kandy’s main attractions.
Another excellent option for staying in Kandy is the Grand Serendib Hotel, a luxurious boutique hotel right in the heart of the city. Just a short walk from the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake, this hotel provides a peaceful and elegant escape for travelers looking to experience the charm of Kandy while staying in comfort.
Conclusions
Taking the train from Kandy to Ella is truly one of the best experiences you can have in Sri Lanka. The epic views, the charm of the train ride, the verdant tea plantations and the thrill of capturing the moment all make it a journey worth remembering.
Don’t forget to enjoy the moment, though! While taking photos is great, don’t forget to put down your camera from time to time and simply enjoy the incredible scenery.
Enjoy the ride, and let the magic of the journey unfold!
Sri Lanka Related Posts
I hope this article helped you with your planning. If you’re considering visiting other places and need help with your itinerary, please check out my articles!
HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT ONE DAY IN COLOMBO
10 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN SIGIRIYA
AN EASY TO FOLLOW GUIDE TO VISITING POLONNARUWA
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF ONE DAY IN KANDY
VISITING THE NINE ARCH BRIDGE IN ELLA
HOW TO BOOK TRAINS IN SRI LANKA – A COMPLETE GUIDE
Happy travels, Lizy
