The train journey between Kandy and Ella is, without exaggeration, one of Sri Lanka's most famous rail routes and often appears on lists of the world's most beautiful trains. For several hours, the landscape transforms completely, passing through jungle, rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages.
But not all that glitters is gold. Although it's a route that generates very high expectations, it's not always as idyllic as it looks in the photos.
I made this journey in January and I can say that, although the landscapes are truly spectacular, if you travel in the most economical classes, there are also times of large crowds and considerable discomfort, especially in high season.
In this post I'm going to tell you about the train journey from Kandy to Ella, what classes are available, how long the journey actually takes, how to buy tickets, what the best intermediate stops are if you don't want to do it all at once, and some practical tips to adjust your expectations and enjoy it as much as possible.
Table of Contents
Where is the Kandy – Ella section located?
The railway line between Kandy and Ella is located in central and southern Sri Lanka, traversing the country's mountainous heartland. Kandy is situated in the central region, about 115 km northeast of Colombo, while Ella lies further south in a hilly area known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and cooler climate.
This route is part of the Main Line of Sri Lanka's railway system, a historic line connecting Colombo with Badulla and which was built during the British colonial era to facilitate the transport of tea from the highlands to the coast.
The total distance between Kandy and Ella is approximately 135 kilometers. Although it doesn't seem like much, the train travels at a very slow pace due to the mountainous terrain, constant curves, and intermediate stops, making the entire journey take between 6 and 7 hours, depending on the service and any delays that day.
How to take the train from Kandy to Ella
The train journey between Kandy and Ella is one of Sri Lanka's most famous, primarily due to the stunning mountain scenery and tea plantations. It's also one of the most popular, so it's helpful to know how it works to avoid frustration.
Step 1: Arrive at Kandy Station
Kandy train station is relatively close to the centre (see location on map) and can be reached on foot, by tuk-tuk or by taxi. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially if you're traveling without a reservation, as it tends to be quite busy.
Step 2: Buy the ticket
You have two options:
- Buy the ticket on the spot, directly at the station. This is the most common option for backpackers. The price is very low, but it doesn't guarantee a seat, especially in second and third class.
- Book in advance (online or through local agencies), recommended if you want to travel seated and in a specific class, especially in high season. The only official website for booking tickets with assigned seats is the Sri Lanka Railways portal. Reservations usually open around 30 days before the travel date and sell out quickly, especially for the Kandy–Ella route, so it's best to check as soon as they open and have your passport details ready.
Approximate train times from Kandy to Ella
Schedules may change, but there are generally several trains daily. For reference, the most frequently used trains usually depart from:
- 05:55 – Ideal if you want to arrive early or split the journey
- 08:47 – one of the most popular
- 11:10 – a good option if you don't want to get up early
Step 3: Choose the class
First Class
- Assigned seats
- Windows closed (with air conditioning)
- Fewer people and more comfort
- Paradoxically, it is the least "scenic", since doors and windows cannot be opened
Second class (the most balanced)
- Unassigned seats (unless previously booked)
- Open windows and doors that are often left open
- A good balance between comfort and visual experience
- It's the most recommended option if you want to enjoy the scenery.
Third
- The cheapest and the most local
- Very crowded, sometimes without seats
- Authentic, but not very comfortable for such a long journey
- Only recommended if you have no other option or are looking for a 100% local experience
Step 4: The journey
The entire journey to Ella takes between 6 and 7 hours, depending on the train and whether there are any delays. It's not a fast trip, but the scenery makes the time pass much more pleasantly. There's no need to get off at every stop; you can enjoy the views for much of the journey.
Intermediate stops to divide the journey
It's not mandatory to do the entire journey in one go. In fact, splitting it up can be a very good idea.
Hatton
A strategic stop if you want to climb Adam's Peak (Sri Pada), one of the most important sacred mountains in the country.
From Hatton, it's easy to continue by bus or taxi to Nallathanniya, the starting point of the trek. This is a good option if you're traveling during the pilgrimage season.
How to climb Adam's Peak in Sri Lanka
Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya)
The closest station to Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” is the best place to explore tea plantations, visit factories, and enjoy cooler weather.
From Nanu Oya, Nuwara Eliya is about 15–20 minutes by bus or taxi.
How to visit tea plantations in Sri Lanka from Nuwara Eliya (coming soon)
You can also go to and from Nuwara Eliya on a fairly affordable private tour that includes visits to viewpoints and tea factories.
Ella
The final destination for many travelers, ideal for trekking, viewpoints and a much more relaxed atmosphere than Kandy.
What to do in Ella (coming soon)
Final tips for taking the train from Kandy
- If you can, choose second class and sit on the right side of the train as you leave Kandy (although both sides have good scenery).
- Avoid carrying too much luggage, space is limited.
- There's no need to hang from the door for "the photo," the scenery can be enjoyed just the same.
What is the peak season on the Kandy train – Ella?
The peak season for traveling by train between Kandy and Ella mainly coincides with the months of December to March, which is when the weather is typically drier in the highlands and when the most travelers are visiting Sri Lanka. This is further compounded by European holidays and the peak of international tourism, resulting in particularly crowded trains.
During these months, and particularly in January and February, it's very common to find overcrowded carriages, even in second and third class. Many people travel standing for hours, the aisles become crowded, and peering out of the open doors—one of the most iconic images of the journey—can become uncomfortable or simply impossible in some sections.
Outside of this period, especially between May and September, there are usually fewer tourists, although the monsoon rains come into play. The landscape remains lush and breathtaking, but visibility can vary and train delays are more likely.
Final thoughts on the train journey from Kandy to Ella
I have two opinions about this trip. Without a doubt, the scenery is mesmerizing, with endless green hills and tea plantations stretching to the horizon. I could have stared out the window the entire way without getting bored.
However, since I was there in January, in some sections the train was so crowded that the journey became really uncomfortable, to the point of feeling like I was traveling during rush hour in my city.
Therefore, I recommend it, yes, but with adjusted expectations; it's a visually incredible journey, although not always as idyllic as it usually appears in photos.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Kandy to Ella train
Is it mandatory to book the train from Kandy to Ella in advance?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended if you want to travel seated, especially in second or first class. Without a reservation, it's still possible to travel, but you'll often have to stand for several hours.
Is it better to take the train from Ella to Kandy or from Kandy to Ella?
In terms of scenery, both routes are equally spectacular, as the train passes through the same hilly areas and tea plantations in both directions. Generally, the Kandy → Ella route tends to be busier, as many travelers follow that direction as part of their Sri Lanka itinerary. Traveling from Ella to Kandy can be slightly more comfortable, with fewer people at certain times, although this isn't always the case.
Which is the best class for the Kandy – Ella journey?
For most travelers, second class is the best option. It allows for open windows and open doors on some stretches, combining good views with a minimum of comfort.
From which side of the train that goes from Kandy to Ella can you see the best scenery?
There is no "perfect" side, but leaving Kandy many recommend sitting on the right side. In any case, the scenery is constantly changing and can be enjoyed from either side.
Can I bring large backpacks on board?
Yes, but space is limited. It's best to travel light and be patient, especially if the train is crowded.
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