Train Journey from Kandy to Ella
One of the highlights of a trip to Sri Lanka is the stunning train journey from Kandy to Ella. Whether you travel the entire route or just part of it, this train ride is an exceptional experience. The journey is characterized by breathtaking tea plantations in the island’s central highlands, needle forests, waving children, small villages, and numerous tunnels. The trip can also be split into two stages if you wish to stop in Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya). The so-called “Express Train” takes about 6 to 10 hours for the approximately 150 km distance.
General Information about the Train Journey from Kandy to Ella
There are 3 trains per day operating the Kandy to Ella route. We have listed the departure times (as of March 2022). However, train schedules may change or trains may be canceled, so it’s essential to check for updates in advance. Locals can usually provide accurate information.
Kandy – Ella
| Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| 03:30 | 13:24 | ~ 10 hours |
| 08:47 | 15:14 | ~ 6.5 hours |
| 11:10 | 17:27 | ~ 6.5 hours |
Ella – Kandy
| Departure | Arrival | Duration |
| 06:40 | 13:03 | ~ 6.5 hours |
| 09:24 | 15:53 | ~ 6.5 hours |
| 12:05 | 20:37 | ~ 8.5 hours |
Ticket and Prices for the Train Journey from Ella to Kandy
There are three classes available: first, second, and third. We found the third class to be quite comfortable. However, there is no seat reservation in the trains. Tickets for the full journey are incredibly affordable, ranging from about €1 to €1.50 per person. Tickets for the second and third classes can be purchased at the stations a quarter-hour before departure. The drawback of first class is that the trains are air-conditioned, so the windows and doors remain closed. If you want the classic photo, you should choose one of the other classes.
The Unique Experience of the Train Ride
We arrived at the station an hour before departure to buy our tickets at Ella Station and then enjoy a delicious rice and curry meal before the train leaves. Upon arrival at the station, we learned that tickets for the 2nd and 3rd classes could only be bought 15 minutes before departure. After purchasing our tickets, we waited on the platform for the incoming train. We were almost the only tourists in our “wooden class.” Once on board, it became clear that seats by the open doors are the most coveted. After about 2 hours of travel, we finally secured a spot and took some fantastic photos. Tea plantations, waving children, needle forests, and unventilated tunnels create a picturesque setting. At almost every station, vendors board the train selling samosas, drinks, toys, lunch packages, etc., loudly promoting their goods. A Tamil family boards a few stations later and starts to play music together. Just then, a group of young Sinhalese women decides to join in with their music. They try to outdo each other peacefully, revealing the lingering rivalry between the two ethnic groups in some areas.
Important Information
Accidents often occur on the Kandy to Ella train route as passengers lean out of the doors and fall from the train. Since the train passes along some precipices, it is essential to be very cautious when standing or sitting by the door and not to underestimate the jerky movements of the train.
What to Do in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy?
Of course, these places have a lot to offer as well. Here are some of our top highlights:
