Kandy to Ella train ride on (Train No: 1015 “Udarata Menike”)

Discover the Scenic Beauty of the Kandy to Ella Train Ride with Udarata Menike

If you’re traveling in Sri Lanka and craving a journey that combines comfort with some of the most famous vistas on the island, the Kandy to Ella train ride is an experience worth considering. Priced at $45 per person, this roughly 6 to 7-hour scenic trek offers a window into Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, colonial-era railway engineering, and vibrant rural life. The train departs from Colombo Fort, stopping in Kandy, then meanders through tea plantations, tunnels, farmland, and forests before arriving in Ella — a town renowned for its laid-back charm and mountain vistas.

We love that this journey provides multiple options for seating, whether you prefer the luxury of a first-class AC compartment or the more social vibe of second-class non-AC reserved seats. Both classes offer impressive views — especially from the window of the train, which is designed to maximize the scenery. Another highlight is the route itself, with the most spectacular part from Hatton to Haputale, where the train snakes through extra-steep tea estates and passes through tunnels carved into the hills.

A small caveat to keep in mind: the train ticketing process can be frustrating for some travelers, as noted in reviews. Some have found that tickets are often sold through third-party booking services at inflated prices, which can seem unfair or misleading. Plus, the lack of hotel pickup or drop-off means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point in Kandy and from Ella at the end.

This tour suits those who enjoy slow travel, scenic train rides, and authentic experiences over luxury or speed. If you’re a lover of trains, nature, and rural landscapes, this journey will likely delight you, especially if you’re prepared for a day of relaxed sightseeing rather than high-adrenaline adventure.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: The route from Hatton to Haputale offers some of the most picturesque views of tea estates and valleys.
• Flexible Seating: Options for first-class AC or second-class non-AC seats cater to different comfort preferences.
• Travel Duration: Expect around 6 to 7 hours, making it a full-day experience.
• Booking Concerns: Tickets are often sold through third-party providers, sometimes at inflated prices.
• No Included Transport: You need to arrange your own transportation to and from the train stations.
• Authentic Experience: You’ll pass through villages, farms, tunnels, and forests, giving a real sense of rural Sri Lanka.

An In-Depth Look at the Kandy to Ella Train Journey

Setting Out from Colombo and Kandy

Your adventure begins at Colombo Fort Railway Station or Kandy Railway Station, depending on where you purchase your ticket. The train departs around 11:00 am, giving travelers time to settle in and enjoy the views from the start. The ride from Colombo to Kandy takes about two hours, but most travelers focus on the scenic stretch from Kandy onwards.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

The highlight of this journey is undoubtedly the segment between Hatton and Haputale. This part of the railway line snakes through lush tea estates, each row of tea bushes meticulously plucked and maintained. You’ll see farmers working in the fields, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some local villages with their colorful houses and bustling markets.

The train passes through numerous tunnels, some carved through solid rock, creating a dramatic sense of adventure and revealing breathtaking mountain views. The vistas of rolling green hills, sprawling farms, and dense forests provide a feast for the eyes. One reviewer noted, “The most scenic part of the train journey is from Hatton to Haputale,” highlighting how this segment makes the trip worthwhile.

Travel Comforts and Seating Options

Passengers can choose between first-class AC compartments or second-class reserved seats, which are non-AC but still offer good views. While the first-class cabins provide more space and comfort, the second-class seats tend to be more social, with a chance to chat with locals and fellow travelers.

We appreciate that both options are reserved, ensuring you have a seat, which is important given how popular this route is. The train’s design emphasizes large windows and open views, so regardless of class, you’re in for a visual treat.

Duration and Pacing

With a total journey time of approximately 6 to 7 hours, this is a leisurely trip. It’s long enough to soak in the scenery but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. The train arrives in Ella around 5:10 pm to 5:16 pm, giving you plenty of time to settle into your accommodation or explore the town.

Booking and Pricing

The tour costs $45 per person, which includes all taxes and service charges. While this seems reasonable, some reviews point out a disappointing experience with ticket availability, as third-party providers often sell tickets at inflated prices, limiting direct access to Sri Lanka Railways. Booking well in advance, about 43 days on average, is recommended to secure your preferred class and seat.

What’s Not Included

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this package. Travelers need to make their own arrangements to get to Kandy or to the station in Ella. Food and drinks are also not included, so consider bringing snacks or purchasing at stations or onboard.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Passing through villages and farmland, you’ll get a sense of everyday Sri Lankan life. The train isn’t just a transportation device but an active part of the community, with locals commuting daily along these tracks. This adds an authentic touch to the experience, making it more than just a tourist attraction.

Possible Drawbacks

The primary concern, as some travelers have pointed out, is the ticketing process. “Viator buy up multiple tickets under the guise of doing travelers a service,” one reviewer complains, noting the inflated prices and limited access. This can turn what should be a straightforward scenic ride into a frustrating experience if you’re not prepared.

On top of that, since no transfers are included, travelers without their own transport may find logistics a bit tricky, especially at the start and end of the journey.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you love train journeys that showcase a country’s natural beauty, this ride will appeal to you. It’s best suited for slow travelers, those who enjoy nature, photography, and authentic rural scenes, and don’t mind doing some pre-planning for ticketing. If large crowds or logistical hassles bother you, consider whether you’re comfortable booking through third-party vendors or arranging your own tickets directly.

On the other hand, if you prefer luxury travel or seamless logistics, this might not meet every expectation, especially given the potential for ticketing issues and the absence of included transportation.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $45, this train ride offers a memorable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s mountainous landscapes, tea plantations, and village life. The route’s scenic highlights are truly stunning, and the train’s design ensures you won’t miss the views. However, the ticketing process can be a source of frustration, so advanced planning is essential.

This experience is best for adventurous travelers who cherish authentic journeys and are willing to navigate booking challenges. If you want a relaxed, picture-perfect day on the rails that transports you through some of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated scenery, this train ride is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long does the train ride from Kandy to Ella take?
It takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, with the most scenic part from Hatton to Haputale.

What type of compartments can I choose?
You can book either first-class AC compartments or second-class non-AC reserved seats.

Are meals included in the ticket price?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase on board or at stations.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Kandy or from Ella to your hotel.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 43 days ahead is recommended, especially to secure your preferred class and seat.

Are there any reviews about the ticketing process?
Yes, some travelers report that tickets are sold through third-party vendors at inflated prices, which can be frustrating.

Does the train run on a fixed schedule?
The train departs around 11:00 am, but always check current schedules and availability when booking.

Is this ride suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness to manage the length of the trip and potential walking around stations.

Embarking on the Kandy to Ella train ride offers a chance to see Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes from the comfort of a train designed to maximize scenic views. While it involves some planning, particularly around ticketing, the views and authentic rural scenes make it a journey worth considering for those craving a slow, picturesque adventure.