Kandy to Ella Train in Sri Lanka: How to Experience the World’s Most Scenic Ride
The Kandy to Ella Train in Sri Lanka is a journey that often ranks as one of the most scenic train rides in the world. With misty mountains, lush green tea plantations, and waterfalls unfolding outside your window, it’s no surprise this is a must-do for travellers visiting Sri Lanka.
We experienced this iconic train route during our one month trip across the island, but we did it slightly differently. In this blog we tell you the easiest, cheapest and the best way to get the most out of the iconic Kandy to Ella train journey.
Why Take Kandy to Ella Train in Sri Lanka
The Kandy to Ella Train is also known as the Blue train in Sri Lanka which is famous for its scenic journey. Although it’s commonly called the “Kandy to Ella” train, the full route technically begins in Colombo and ends in Badulla.
Along the way it stops at beautiful stations with the whole journey being breathtaking. As the train glides out of Kandy, you begin your ascent into the Central Highlands.
Soon, the air gets cooler and mist starts to settle across the valleys. You will get to see green Misty mountain ranges, Tea plantations, Colonial-era railway stations, quaint little towns, Waterfalls tumbling down cliffs and a lot more.
You would also cross the iconic 14 tunnel corridor, where you pass the 2nd and 3rd longest tunnels in Sri Lanka, which are Singha Malai Tunnel and the “Tunnel 18” respectively.
In fact the tunnel 18 is located near Pattipola station which is the highest point of the railway summit.
Well the train is not just a treat for the eyes but also for the pocket.
Affordable and Comfortable
Taking a train is better than going by road as taxis or cabs can get very expensive.
To go from Kandy to Ella by road you will have to pay around 15,000 LKR, whereas the best train from Kandy to Ella will cost you 5,000 LKR, saving you almost 70%.
Taking a train is also a more comfortable option than a bus, as bus journeys can get a tad bit uncomfortable in Sri Lanka and you may have to change multiple buses to reach your destination.
Please note: Prices are subject to change
The Train Route: Kandy to Ella Train in Sri Lanka
This whole train route is a moving portrait of Sri Lanka’s heartland… lush, and full of life. Here is the complete route of the scenic Blue Kandy to Ella train in Sri Lanka.
- Colombo Fort
- Gampaha
- Kandy
- Peradeniya
- Nawalapitiya
- Hatton
- Great Western
- Nanu Oya
- Ambewela
- Ohiya
- Idalgashinna
- Haputale
- Diyathalawa
- Bandarawela
- Ella
- Demodara
- Hali Ela
- Badulla
Out of the entire route the section between Nanu Oya and Ella is what makes this trip world-famous.
THE best route to Experience Kandy to Ella Train
Instead of boarding a packed train from Kandy to Ella, we took the train from Ella to Nanu Oya, which is the most scenic part in the whole route.
Nanu Oya is the railway station near Nuwara Eliya, a tourist hotspot. We spent a few days there and then continued the second leg of the journey from Nanu Oya to Kandy on a different train.
Here is a snap shot of our journey which was broken in two parts, to experience this scenic country.
Ella to Nanu Oya
Details-
Train Name : THE ELLA ODYSSEY
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Duration: 3 HRS
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Class: 2nd CLASS RESERVED
Nanu Oya to Kandy
Details-
Train Name: UDARATA MENIKE
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Duration: 4 HRS
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Class: 2ND CLASS RESERVED
Not only did this break up our travel time and gave us some breathing space, but we also enjoyed our stay in the charming hill town of Nuwara Eliya.
For people who want to take the train from Kandy, we recommend going to Peradeniya, 6 km from Kandy and taking the train to Ella from there. This will help you avoid the massive crowd in Kandy.
The best train to take for the Ella to Nanu Oya route is the Odyssey train.
Ella Odyssey vs Regular Trains
Wondering what makes the Odyssey train special? It is a tourist-centric train that offers
- Large unrestricted windows
- Reserved seat options in 2nd class
- Open doors allowing the passengers to take the “hanging from the train” photograph
- Drinks, snacks and food available to be purchased in the train itself
The Odyssey train in itself is an experience as it is filled with tourists, walking around taking photos, helping each other and taking quick strolls at stations. There is a sense of brotherhood and camaraderie, which makes the train vibe even more interesting.
LOCAL TRAINS FOR THE SAME ROUTE
The other trains like Udarata Menike are local trains that go through the same route, but they are not specifically designed to cater to tourists. These local trains are similar but they do not have such large windows like the Odyssey, or open doors.
A SEPARATE OBSERVATION CARRIAGE
Upon speaking to the train station master, we also found out that there is an “Observation Compartment or carriage” in select local trains that is a bogie at the end of the train.
This red bogie is recommended if you want to take in the scenic views on local trains. They are mostly just 1st class carriages with large windows for absorbing the views.
A UNIQUE MUSICAL TRAIN
Keep an eye out for a unique train called the Calypso train, which runs only from Bandarawela to Badulla, with stops in Ella and Demodara.
This is a tourist specific train that runs only on weekends or specific dates and has live music and cultural performance.
We wanted to take this train from Ella, but it did not match our timings.
how much do Tickets cost For Kandy To Ella Train
Ticket prices vary depending on the train and which class you want to ride in. It also depends on the destination you want to reach. The shorter the destination the lower the price.
Here are the average prices for the Kandy to Ella train with some important stops.
Route | Train | Class | Cost (LKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
Kandy - Ella | Ella Odyssey | 2nd Class Reserved | 5000 |
Kandy - Ella | Local | 2nd Class Reserved | 1200 - 1900 |
Ella - Nanu Oya | Ella Odyssey | 2nd Class Reserved | 2500 |
Nanu Oya - Kandy | Local | 2nd Class Reserved | 1200 |
Please note: Prices vary depending on season and are subject to change. We bought all our tickets directly from the station counters in Sri Lanka, which gave us the flexibility to ask for the best trains available for our dates.
To give an example; upon reaching Ella, we went straight to the ticket station and saw all the available options, spoke to the train staff and picked the Odyssey train, for our journey to Nanu Oya 5 days later.
You can also book online
Peak Season Tip: It’s wise to buy your tickets 2–5 days in advance, especially between December–March and July–August.
You can also book your tickets online using the Official Sri Lanka Railways website.
Now, let’s talk about the classes and what to expect in each of the classes.
Kandy to Ella Train Classes: What to Expect
In most Sri Lankan trains you can select the 1st, 2nd or 3rd class option while you get a ticket.
In the 1st class you can get a seat reservation with a guaranteed seat. In the 2nd class there are some trains that get you a guaranteed seat with reservation but many trains do not also. It is imperative to check before you book.
3rd class tickets are usually the cheapest but you need to be ready to stand till you get a seat, as there are no seat reservations in it.
Here is a snapshot.
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First class Best for: Comfort Seekers
Expensive, A/C, Guaranteed reserved seats, Closed windows, Not ideal for photos or open views.
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Second Class Best for: Balanced Experience
Affordable, Reserved or unreserved seats, Fans, Open windows, Best mix of views & comfort.
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Third item on the list Best for: Budget Travel
Cheapest, Unreserved seats, Open windows, Crowded, Good for views if seat is available.
What is the Best Class for KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN
Get the 2nd class reserved ticket in any train be it the Odyssey or a local train, for open views, guaranteed seats and affordable travel.
We also recommend getting tickets with the Ella Odyssey train instead of the local ones, as it is most suited for photography.
What days does the Ella Odyssey train run?
The Ella Odyssey Train runs from:
Colombo to Badulla on: Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
From Badulla to Colombo on: Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.
It does not run on Wednesday.
Please note: This information is current and is subject to change. Please make sure you check the timing and days before you plan.
What is the best time to Take the Kandy to Ella train?
The best time to take the train is around 8 AM to 9 AM. The morning trains offer the best daylight for photography and views.
The best months to take the train are:
December to March, when the weather is cool and the skies clear.
June to September, as the monsoons highlight the lush greenery.
We did the journey in June, and it was worth it.
What is the best side to sit for the Kandy to Ella train?
You can see the views from anywhere in the Kandy to Ella train, as the windows are huge.
However, for the best views from Ella to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) sit on the right hand side.
Then from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy the left side is ideal for amazing views.
Photography on Train
This train journey is one of the best to get some amazing shots. Here are some tips:
- You can get the iconic shot by going at the door, hanging out, and asking someone to take the photo from the window.
- If you are using your phone – Use the portrait mode with a background blur.
- If you are using a camera – Use lens which gives good depth of field.
- Don’t forget to use the window. Be seated and use the beautiful blue train window as a frame.
- Be responsible while taking photos, do not take risks by hanging out too far or climbing the train.
During our train ride, there was a person who climbed the roof of the train which forced the train staff to detain him.
Don’t let that happen to you!
Best Stops Along the Route
- Hatton – Base for Adam’s Peak
- Nanu Oya – Gateway to Nuwara Eliya
- Ohiya – To go to Horton Plains National Park
- Haputale – Stunning views with fewer tourists
- Bandarawela – Calm hill town with tea gardens
- Ella – Surrounded by mountains and waterfalls
Quick Tips: Kandy To Ella Train
There are many ways to experience the Kandy to Ella Train, but if you want the easiest, most enjoyable, and scenic route, here is a snapshot of what to do:
- Take the Ella to Nanu Oya route; It’s short and has the best views.
- If you want to travel from Kandy, take the train from Peradeniya
- Choose the 2nd class, reserved seat in Ella Odyssey Train
- Take the train that starts around 8 AM-9 AM for pleasant weather, good lighting and views.
- Break your journey, to avoid long travel and exhaustion.
- Be prepared for train delays. It is very common for trains to get delayed by 30 minutes to an hour.
- Pack a jacket, as it can get windy and cool.
- Take your photograph, but mind the tunnels, leaves and branches that protrude into the train from the open doors and windows.
- Carry toilet papers to be safe and maintain your hygiene.
- Carry cash and especially change.
When in Ella looking for a place to stay- check out the beautiful homestay Once in Ella – which is run by a lovely homely couple.
Conclusion
With stunning views, morning energy, cool breeze and comfortable seats, the Kandy to Ella train, where ever you take it from is an absolute must!
It’s not just a great spot for photography but also an experience of a lifetime. Want to experience beach life in Sri Lanka’s east coast? Check out our blog on budget travel to Arugam Bay.
Connect with us or drop a comment if you need to know more information.
How long is the Kandy to Ella Train Journey?
The Kandy to Ella train journey takes 7-8 hours. Keep in mind the delays as well.
At some places during the journey the train goes single track, so there are instances the train waits for another train from opposite side to pass, and then it moves. So be ready for a 30 -45 minutes at the least.
What is the Special Kandy to Ella Tourist train?
You can take the Ella Odyssey train which is a special train catering to tourists, offering big windows, 2nd class reserved seats and open doors making it ideal for photographs.
Another tourist train is the Calypso train, that offers live music and entertainment. Some local trains have the observation compartments meant for tourists.
Are there toilets on the Ella Odyssey train in Sri Lanka?
Yes, there are toilets on the Ella Odyssey train in Sri Lanka. However make sure to carry toilet paper and hygienic sprays like “Pee Safe” to avoid infections.
