The train ride from Kandy to Ella provides what many call the most spectacular railway experience worldwide. This historic route has operated since the 1920s. Passengers witness breathtaking views of lush jungles, rolling hills, and endless tea plantations that paint Sri Lanka’s stunning landscape.
The 140-kilometer adventure takes about 7 hours. Time passes quickly as magnificent views unfold outside your window. Only three trains run daily between these destinations. This iconic ride stands out as Sri Lanka’s best train experience. Smart travelers place this unforgettable journey at the top of their Sri Lankan must-do list.
Our multiple trips on this route have given us valuable insider knowledge. We know the tricks to grab the best seats and find perfect photo spots. This piece covers everything you need about train schedules, booking tickets, different class options, and the most picturesque stops between Kandy and Ella.
Why the Kandy to Ella Train Ride is So Special
The Kandy to Ella train meanders through Sri Lanka’s emerald highlands at a relaxed pace. Locals lovingly call it “podi manike” or “little honey” – a sweet nickname husbands give their wives. British colonials built this railway line in the 19th century to transport tea leaves and crops from the central hills. The railway line has grown into something much more meaningful today.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
A scenic journey through Sri Lanka’s hill country
Your unforgettable visual feast starts right as you leave Kandy’s colonial-era station. The train winds through eucalyptus forests before revealing rolling landscapes dotted with pristine tea estates. The views become more spectacular as you climb higher – tea bushes create mesmerizing patterns across rippling mountains.
The scenery changes between Hatton and Ella as you enter Sri Lanka’s famous tea country. Some of the most breathtaking sections include:
- Misty forests and mountain ridges between Nanu Oya and Haputale, where the train hugs narrow mountain edges
- A unique “Swiss-like knot” between Ella and Badulla where the train loops back and crosses its path at different heights
- The stunning Nine Arch Bridge near Demodara, known as the “Bridge in the Sky” that soars above the jungle
Walls of foliage grow close enough to touch, letting you smell the earthy scent of damp soil and rock. Waterfalls dot the route, including the magnificent 80-foot Elgin Falls that looks like a giant teapot pouring water down the mountainside.
Cultural moments and local interactions
This train ride offers genuine glimpses into local life that most tourist experiences can’t match. Guards in bright-white trousers and station-keepers wearing starched khaki jackets with perfectly groomed mustaches bring colonial-era charm to remote platforms.
Vendors skillfully balance flasks of sweet chai and steaming hot wade (prawn fritters) as they move through carriages. Their offerings range from fresh guava and mango to curried cashew nuts and chocolate bars. These moments give you perfect chances to try local treats while sharing smiles with friendly locals.
Second and third class carriages buzz with energy as tourists and locals mix freely. Sri Lankans love to chat, creating a warm atmosphere of cultural exchange. The train captivates everyone around it – field workers stop to watch it pass, and children wave excitedly along the route.
Small stations offer fascinating peeks into daily life. Each station has its own charm, painted in candyfloss pink or brahmin blue. Some stations proudly display beautiful flower beds, almost competing with their neighbors for the prettiest look.
Why it’s a must-do for travelers
This journey stands out by blending spectacular scenery, cultural immersion, and adventure into one experience. Busses might cover the same route much faster, but the train creates real connections with both landscape and people.
These carriages offer a unique freedom you won’t find anywhere else. Fresh wind blows through doors and windows while you can safely sit in doorways (watching out for tunnels and trees). The ever-changing views create an adventure that modern travel rarely matches.
This trip means more than just getting from A to B – it shows you Sri Lanka’s colonial past, farming heritage, and natural beauty. Cool temperatures and humid, misty valleys make this region perfect for growing tea and creating unforgettable travel memories.
This train ride teaches you to slow down in our ever-changing world. Seven hours give you time to appreciate every moment, view, and conversation – a precious gift in today’s rushed travel experiences.
Where to Start: Kandy and Ella Train Stations
The Kandy and Ella train stations stand at opposite ends of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful rail trip. Each station has its own unique character and they’re the starting points for an amazing adventure through the island’s hill country.
How to reach Kandy Railway Station
You’ll find Kandy Railway Station right in the city center. It sits 512 meters above sea level and about 120 kilometers from Colombo. The station building blends Modernist and Victorian styles beautifully. Its main structure shows off Art Moderne features with curved shapes and long horizontal lines.
Image Source: Beyond Wild Places
The station is easy to reach from downtown Kandy:
- Walking: This works well if you’re staying near Kandy Lake or the Temple of the Tooth
- Tuk-tuk: A quick and cheap way to get there from anywhere in the city
- Local taxi: You can book through PickMe/Uber apps
The station connects well with other parts of Sri Lanka. Trains from Colombo take 2-3 hours, and busses are also available. If you’re coming from the north, busses from Dambulla will get you there in about 2-3 hours.
The station has everything you need – ticket counters, toilets, and markets nearby for last-minute shopping. The busy atmosphere shows why it’s one of the most important railway hubs in Sri Lanka’s central hills.
Getting to Ella Railway Station
Ella Railway Station offers a more relaxed feel compared to Kandy’s grandeur. This smaller station sits right in Ella’s heart, just a short walk from the main street.
Getting there is simple:
- Walking: Most people walk since Ella is quite small
- Tuk-tuk: These are ready if you’re staying far from the center or have bags
Food stalls near the station sell snacks and water for your trip. The station itself has become a popular spot for photos.
If Ella is your first stop in Sri Lanka, keep in mind that the drive from Colombo airport takes about 6 hours and costs around 16,000 rupees. Most travelers come to Ella by train instead of starting their journey here.
Nearby attractions to explore before boarding
Each station has amazing places to check out before your train ride.
Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural heart, has several must-see spots nearby:
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: A sacred Buddhist site with Buddha’s tooth that makes Kandy holy
- Kandy Lake: Great for evening walks, especially at sunset
- Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya: Beautiful gardens showing off Sri Lanka’s plant life
- Local Markets: Perfect spots to try Sri Lankan treats like whoppers, dosas, and curries
Ella may be smaller, but its natural beauty is stunning:
- Nine Arch Bridge: A beautiful colonial-era railway bridge that’s maybe Ella’s most famous sight
- Ella Rock: A hike that rewards you with amazing views
- Tea Plantations: Green tea estates cover the hills, and you can take tours
If you have extra time in Kandy, think over a day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla. When you get to Ella, take time to enjoy its relaxed vibe and misty mountain setting.
These stations mark the ends of what many think is Sri Lanka’s most spectacular train route. Each place has its own charm and nearby spots worth exploring before you start your rail adventure.
Understanding the Kandy to Ella Train Schedule
Planning your trip on the historic rails between Kandy and Ella needs a good understanding of the train schedule. This is a vital element that can make or break your experience. The route has few daily departures and often runs late, so knowing the exact train times will help you plan a smooth adventure through Sri Lanka’s highlands.
Latest 2025 train timings
As of July 2025, three daily trains run between Kandy and Ella:
- Early Morning Train (1126): Departs Kandy at 04:00 AM, arrives in Ella at 12:13 PM – Slow train
- Morning Express (1005): Departs Kandy at 08:55 AM, arrives in Ella at 03:03 PM
- Midday Express (1015): Departs Kandy at 11:15 AM, arrives in Ella at 05:15 PM
Train times might change throughout the year. These three daily departures stay consistent though. You should verify the current schedule at your accommodation or the railway station before planning your trip.
The first two trains – known as the “blue trains” – are your best bet for complete scenic views in daylight. Sometimes you’ll find a luxury option called the “Ella Odyssey” that has air-conditioned carriages along with second and third class seating.
How long the trip takes
The Kandy to Ella train route covers approximately 147 kilometers or 130 kilometers, based on how you calculate the route. Express trains should complete this trip in about 6 hours. Slower trains take around 8 hours.
The actual trip usually lasts between 6-10 hours. Delays happen often on this route because of:
- Weather conditions (especially during rainy seasons)
- Track maintenance
- Unscheduled stops
Delays are so common that seasoned travelers add extra time to their plans. The trip from Kandy to Ella typically takes 9-10 hours due to long stops. You should plan your day with this uncertainty in mind. Avoid tight connections or evening plans after arrival.
Best time of day to travel
Morning trains are a great way to get the best experience for several reasons. Early trains let you complete the entire trip in daylight. This matters because you’ll want to see the spectacular scenery that makes this route famous. The 08:55 AM express train hits the sweet spot between a reasonable departure time and maximum daylight views.
The earliest train (04:00 AM) usually has fewer passengers. This gives you better chances of finding comfortable seats if you don’t have reserved tickets.
The dry months from December to March give you the best conditions for this trip. You’ll enjoy:
- Clear skies with excellent visibility
- Minimal rainfall
- Fewer weather-related disruptions
July through September works well too, with relatively dry conditions. These peak seasons bring more tourists, so booking tickets ahead becomes even more important.
Many frequent travelers recommend the early morning “Podi Meneke” train (now leaving at 08:55 AM). Even with delays, this timing gets you to Ella before dark. You’ll see the final spectacular sections of the trip in daylight.
Note that whatever train you pick, the trip itself matters more than reaching your destination. The slow pace lets you take in the changing landscapes, meet fellow travelers, and take amazing photos.
How to Book Kandy to Ella Train Tickets
The iconic Kandy to Ella train ride attracts countless tourists, so you need a good plan to get tickets. Getting a comfortable seat depends on understanding your booking options, or you might end up standing for hours.
Online booking options
The quickest way to get reserved seats on the Kandy to Ella train is through online booking. Sri Lankan Railways doesn’t sell tickets directly to international travelers, so you’ll need these trusted booking platforms:
- 12Go.Asia – Allows booking 32 days in advance
- VisitSriLankaTours – Prices range from £21 per person (as of 2023)
- Tourmastertravelservices
These agencies buy ticket blocks and resell them at a 50-100% markup compared to station prices. The premium might seem high, but you’ll get a guaranteed seat without waiting in long station queues.
You can pay using Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners, or Discover cards. LANKAQR scan and pay options work too. After payment, you’ll receive your e-ticket and details by email, which you must show during your trip.
Image Source: The Common Wanderer
Buying tickets at the station
Budget travelers or those with flexible plans can still buy tickets directly at the train station. You can’t get unreserved tickets before your travel day. Just show up early at the station (at least 2 hours before departure) and line up at the ticket office.
The best part about station purchases? Unreserved tickets never really “sell out.” People might tell you tickets aren’t available because they assume you want reserved seating. Third-class tickets cost about LKR 300, second-class LKR 600, and first-class LKR 3,000 (as of January 2024).
You’ll need to visit the nearest railway station with mTicketing service if you cancel your trip. Bring your e-tickets and ID (NIC/passport) for verification.
When to book for reserved seats
Your experience on the Kandy to Ella train depends on timing your booking right. Reserved seats open exactly 30 days before travel at 10:00 AM Sri Lankan time. These tickets sell out in minutes, and the booking website often crashes due to high traffic.
Here’s how to boost your chances of getting reserved tickets:
- Mark your calendar for exactly 30 days before your intended travel date
- Set an alarm for 9:55 AM Sri Lanka time
- Have multiple browser tabs open with different booking sites
- Prepare your payment information in advance
Tourist and local demand peaks on weekends, so try to travel on weekdays. During peak season (December-March), booking through an agency early makes sense despite the cost.
First and second-class reserved tickets give you a much better experience than unreserved options on this long journey. One traveler’s tip stands out: “Second class unreserved is far, far worse than third class reserved”. Keep this in mind while picking your ticket type.
Choosing the Right Train Class for Your Trip
The right train class can make or break your Kandy to Ella experience. Your choice should match what matters most to you – comfort, authentic experience, photo ops, or staying within budget.
First class vs second class vs third class
First class carriages give you the most comfort with padded seats and air conditioning at about USD 6.00. There’s a big downside though – windows and doors stay closed the whole way. This means no clear photos or fresh mountain air. One frequent traveler puts it straight: “In my opinion, it’s not worth it at all”.
Many travelers think second class hits the sweet spot between comfort and experience. These carriages don’t have AC but come with windows and doors that open fully. This lets you:
- Take clear photos of the scenery
- Feel the fresh highland breeze
- Get those classic train photos from the doorways
A ticket costs about USD 4.00, and you get decent space with ceiling fans. The high altitude is a bonus – you don’t need AC because the natural breeze keeps things cool throughout the trip.
Third class gives you the same open-window experience as second class but with basic seating and more crowds. It’s the cheapest option at around USD 2.00. You get less space and bench seats instead of individual ones. You might share your ride with local travelers and sometimes even livestock and produce.
Reserved vs unreserved seating
The biggest difference isn’t about class – it’s whether you have a reserved seat or not. Reserved tickets guarantee your spot for the whole journey. Unreserved tickets just let you into a carriage with no promised seat.
You need to book reserved seats 30 days ahead. An inspector checks tickets at each carriage door to make sure only assigned passengers get in. This creates a relaxed vibe where you can leave your seat to take photos without worrying about losing it.
Unreserved tickets are sold only on travel day and offer no guarantees. These carriages get packed with people standing in aisles and doorways. Even if you grab a seat early, expect tight spaces as more passengers hop on at later stops.
Here’s a surprising tip: “Second class unreserved is nowhere near as good as third class reserved”. Keep this in mind when picking your ticket.
Observation car: pros and cons
The observation car is a special option on some trains, mostly on the 12:25 departure from Peradeniya. These rear carriages have large windows designed to give panoramic views.
Some observation cars have AC (closed windows), while others don’t but let you open the windows. The views are great, but think over these points:
- You’ll face backward the whole way – tough if you get motion sick
- These tickets sell out first, often months ahead
- In AC cars, taking photos through closed windows is tricky
For travelers who want the real Sri Lankan rail experience – including those famous doorway photos – second class reserved offers the best mix of comfort, photo opportunities, and local culture.
Local Secrets to Get a Seat and Avoid Crowds
Getting a comfortable seat on the Kandy to Ella train can be tricky, even with a ticket. Smart travelers have found several ways to avoid crowds and make this scenic experience more enjoyable.
Boarding early from Peradeniya Junction
The best way to get a seat is to start your journey outside Kandy. Peradeniya Junction sits just 10 minutes away by tuk-tuk and gives you a strategic advantage. Here’s a clever way to do it:
- Skip the crowded Kandy station and take a tuk-tuk to Peradeniya Junction
- Get on the incoming train headed to Kandy
- Stay on the train at Kandy station while others get off
- Take the empty seats before new passengers board for Ella
This works because trains stop at Peradeniya before reaching Kandy. You’ll be in a perfect spot to grab seats as passengers leave at Kandy station. This trick has spread through blogs and social media, but it still works well.
Avoiding weekends and holidays
The timing of your trip makes a huge difference. These are the busy periods you should avoid:
- Weekends have substantially more crowds than weekdays
- Sinhalese Tamil New Year (April 13-15) makes the transport network incredibly busy
- Christmas season brings holiday crowds
- Days right after long weekends or holidays
Weekday trips usually offer more space and comfort. Early trains, like the 6:37 am from Ella, tend to have fewer passengers. Planning your trip during quieter days will make your experience much better.
Tips for unreserved ticket holders
No reserved seat? These practical tips can help:
You should reach the station 2 hours before departure to buy tickets and find a good spot on the platform. The boarding process can get chaotic—people often push and shove to find seats.
Watch for Nanu Oya and Talawakelle stations where many passengers get off, creating chances to grab empty seats. Note that unreserved tickets are always available—if someone says they’re sold out, they probably think you want reserved seating.
Keep your luggage small to help with the crowded conditions. The trip might test your patience, but the amazing views make it all worthwhile.
Best Photo Spots on the Kandy to Ella Train
Taking stunning photos is one of the biggest reasons why people take the train from Kandy to Ella. The tracks offer countless Instagram-worthy moments, and knowing the best spots to capture these memories can make your trip special.
Where to sit for the best views
Your viewing experience depends heavily on where you sit. Passengers heading from Kandy to Ella should pick the right side of the train for the best views. This side gives you sweeping views of tea plantations and mountain landscapes, while the left side mostly faces cliff walls and tall grass.
The opposite is true when you head back – travelers from Ella to Kandy should grab seats on the left side of the train. The stretch between Nanu Oya and Ella shows amazing scenery on both sides, so your seat choice matters less here.
Top scenic sections of the route
The real magic happens between Hatton and Ella. The scenery changes as you enter Sri Lanka’s famous tea country. A few sections really stand out:
- Misty forests and mountain ridges between Nanu Oya and Haputale
- The unique “Swiss-like knot” between Ella and Badulla where the train loops around itself
- Areas near the Nine Arch Bridge close to Ella
You’ll see waterfalls, vibrant towns, and tunnels cutting through mountains along these sections. The observation saloon has large windows and is the best viewing option, but it’s only available on the 12:25 train from Peradeniya.
How to take safe photos from the train
Second class carriages give you the perfect mix – comfortable seats plus windows and doors that open fully for clear shots. Safety should be your top priority though. Several travelers got hurt by hanging out of doors carelessly.
These tips will help you take better photos:
- Set fast shutter speeds (minimum 1/250th) with autofocus and burst mode
- Bump up your ISO in mountain areas where fog makes things darker
- Use the train’s slow speed in hills to your advantage, but watch out for branches, poles, and tunnel entrances
Those door shots look great on Instagram, but stay alert – the train often passes very close to cliff walls, signs, and other obstacles.
What to Bring and Expect on the Journey
The right preparation can transform your seven-hour train experience from Kandy to Ella into an amazing adventure instead of a difficult ordeal. You’ll enjoy the stunning scenery much more when you have all your essentials ready.
Snacks and water
You need your own water and snacks for this long ride. Food vendors walk through the carriages selling local treats like wade (deep-fried dhal balls), samosas, mangos, and tea, but your options are limited. Smart travelers stock up on supplies before they reach the station.
Items worth packing include:
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Protein bars or other filling snacks
- Small change to buy local treats from onboard vendors
Local merchants who pass through the carriages offer authentic Sri Lankan snacks. Most frequent travelers love the spicy peanuts and dahl samosas.
Toilets and cleanliness
Let’s be honest – train toilets aren’t luxurious. Each carriage has a squat toilet that gets dirtier as the day goes on. The toilets work but don’t have any paper, so you must bring your own supplies.
Pack these toilet necessities:
- Toilet paper or wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Small packet of tissues
Waste from bathrooms falls straight onto the tracks. This makes station stops especially unpleasant.
Safety and etiquette tips
Solo female travelers can feel secure on the Kandy to Ella train. In spite of that, you should take normal travel precautions.
The boarding process might surprise you. Sri Lanka’s usual politeness takes a break during boarding as people push and crowd to get on.
A positive attitude makes this experience special. The tracks might be bumpy, trains might run late, and facilities are simple, but spectacular views make up for these small hassles. This ranks among the world’s most beautiful train rides – minor inconveniences just add to your story.
Conclusion
The train trip from Kandy to Ella is a true highlight of any Sri Lankan adventure. Our experiences on this iconic route showed that planning ahead makes all the difference. Getting reserved second-class tickets at least 30 days before your trip will give you the perfect mix of comfort and freedom to take photos. All the same, even without reserved seats, this trip creates magical moments you won’t find anywhere else.
The weather will affect your experience. The dry season between December and March gives you the best chance to get clear views and stunning photos. On top of that, weekday travel usually means fewer crowds and a more relaxed feel on the train.
Most travelers say the breathtaking views of emerald tea plantations and misty mountains make up for the simple facilities and occasional delays. These winding tracks through Sri Lanka’s hill country show you a slice of local life that no bus ride or guided tour could match.
The spectacular scenery is just the start. This trip is a chance to connect with fellow travelers and locals. Friendly vendors sell delicious treats while children wave with excitement as the train passes by. Passengers hang from doorways to capture that perfect photo. These moments create an atmosphere filled with joy and friendship.
Your camera will fill up with incredible shots. Note that some moments deserve your full attention instead of viewing them through a lens. The cool mountain breeze, the rhythmic clickety-clack of wheels on tracks, and the slow-changing landscape create memories that last way beyond any photograph.
Patience becomes your best friend during this seven-hour adventure. Delays happen often and comfort levels change, but these small challenges fade against what many call the world’s most beautiful train ride. This iconic blue train that winds through Sri Lanka’s central highlands gives you something rare in modern travel – a trip where the journey beats the destination.
Take a full day to enjoy this remarkable train ride. A quick trip means missing the subtle changes in scenery and atmosphere that make it special. Each section has its own charm, from the first climb out of Kandy through tea country to the spectacular mountain views near Ella.
This train doesn’t just move you from place to place – it takes you back to when travel meant more than reaching a destination. Your trip through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes will become a highlight of your travels, giving you stories to share for years ahead.
Key Takeaways
Master the art of booking Sri Lanka’s most spectacular train journey with these essential insights for an unforgettable experience through the emerald highlands.
- Book reserved second-class tickets 30 days in advance – They sell out within minutes at 10:00 AM Sri Lankan time, offering the perfect balance of comfort and open windows for photography
- Board early from Peradeniya Junction instead of Kandy – Take a tuk-tuk 10 minutes away to secure seats before crowds board at the main station
- Choose weekday travel during December-March dry season – Avoid weekends and holidays for fewer crowds and clearer mountain views throughout the 7-hour journey
- Sit on the right side heading Kandy to Ella – This positioning provides superior views of tea plantations and mountain landscapes for the majority of the route
- Pack water, snacks, and toilet paper – Limited onboard facilities and vendors make personal supplies essential for comfort during this lengthy scenic adventure
The Kandy to Ella train represents more than transportation – it’s a window into Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage and natural beauty. Despite basic facilities and frequent delays, this iconic blue train winding through misty tea plantations offers an authentic travel experience that modern tourism rarely provides. The journey itself becomes the destination, creating memories that last far beyond any photograph.
FAQs
Q1. How long does the Kandy to Ella train journey take? The journey typically takes between 6-10 hours, with express trains completing it in about 6 hours and slower services taking around 8 hours. Delays are common, so it’s best to allow for 9-10 hours in your itinerary.
Q2. What’s the best class to book for the Kandy to Ella train? Second class reserved is often considered the ideal choice. It offers a good balance of comfort, open windows for photography, and the ability to hang out of doors safely. First class has air conditioning but closed windows, while third class can be very crowded.
Q3. How far in advance should I book tickets for the Kandy to Ella train? Reserved tickets become available exactly 30 days before the travel date at 10:00 AM Sri Lankan time. These tickets often sell out within minutes, so it’s crucial to book as soon as they become available, especially during peak season (December-March).
Q4. What are the best photo spots on the Kandy to Ella train journey? The most scenic sections are between Hatton and Ella, particularly the areas around Nanu Oya and Haputale. The Nine Arch Bridge near Ella is also a highlight. Sitting on the right side of the train when traveling from Kandy to Ella offers the best views for most of the journey.
Q5. What should I bring for the Kandy to Ella train journey? Essential items include water, snacks, toilet paper or wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a camera. The journey is long, and facilities on board are basic, so being prepared will make your trip more comfortable. Don’t forget to bring some small change to purchase local treats from vendors on the train.
