Kandy to Ella Train Tickets – Reserved Seats

Kandy to Ella Train Tickets – Reserved Seats: A Scenic Ride Through Sri Lanka

If you’re dreaming of a scenic adventure that captures the beauty of Sri Lanka’s rolling hills, tea plantations, and waterfalls, the Kandy to Ella train journey is hard to beat. For around $24 per person, you can reserve second- or third-class seats aboard the iconic blue train, departing twice daily from Peradeniya Railway Station in Kandy. The trip varies in length from about 3 to 7 hours, depending on your choice of destination—either Ella or Nanu Oya—and offers an authentic taste of local travel.

What we love most is how seamless the reservation process can be—your tickets are often delivered straight to your hotel, making planning stress-free. Plus, the spectacular scenery you’ll witness along the way is truly unforgettable, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and endless tea estates filling your windows. It’s a fantastic way to see the countryside without the hassle of driving.

A potential downside is the cost premium—these reserved tickets are notably more expensive than buying directly at the station, and availability can be tricky for last-minute bookings. Also, some travelers have found themselves seated apart or with less-than-ideal views if booked late or on local tickets.

This experience suits independent travelers who enjoy flexible schedules and are eager to see Sri Lanka’s landscape in comfort. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate authentic journeys, scenic vistas, and the charm of traveling like a local.

Key Points

• Spectacular scenery: The train offers breathtaking views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and lush hills.
• Reserved seats: Your ticket guarantees a seat in second or third class, with the option to upgrade.
• Delivery convenience: Tickets are often delivered to your hotel, saving you time and effort.
• Cost and value: At around $24, it’s a reasonable price for a scenic, comfortable journey.
• Timing options: Departures at 8:47am and 11:03am allow flexibility.
• Authentic experience: Travel like a local and see Sri Lanka from the comfort of a train.

The Scenic Train Journey from Kandy to Ella: What You Need to Know

The Kandy to Ella train ride is often called one of the world’s most picturesque train journeys. We can understand why. The train snakes through the hill country, offering sweeping views of tea estates, waterfalls, and mist-shrouded mountains. It’s a visual feast that makes the long hours worthwhile, especially if you choose the right side of the carriage for the best scenery.

Booking and Ticket Options

This tour is designed for travelers who want a hassle-free way to secure reserved seats in second or third class. The price of $24 includes all fees and taxes, but keep in mind that it’s a premium over the face value—mainly because the tickets are guaranteed and delivered in advance. You can book about 31 days ahead, which is recommended given how quickly tickets sell out.

You’ll depart from William Gopallawa Mawatha in Kandy at either 8:47am or 11:03am. The journey can last from 3 to 7 hours, depending on the final stop (Ella or Nanu Oya). If you’re in a hurry, the shorter Nanu Oya route offers a quicker, still beautiful, experience.

What to Expect on the Train

Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a comfortable second- or third-class compartment, with reserved seating ensuring you’re not scrambling for a spot last minute. Some reviews mention that seats are allocated randomly, which can lead to being separated from travel companions or sitting in less desirable locations. However, many travelers note that the views are excellent from both sides of the train, and moving around during the ride is common, giving you a chance to see the scenery from different angles.

The train features vendors selling tea, snacks, and even basic washroom facilities, adding to the authentic experience. The journey is leisurely enough that you can truly appreciate the landscape, especially during the last hour, which is often highlighted as the most scenic part.

Authentic Local Travel

Traveling on this train offers a glimpse into everyday life in Sri Lanka. You’ll see locals commuting, vendors offering refreshments, and fellow travelers like yourself marveling at the scenery. Many reviews emphasize how this ride feels like an immersive cultural experience rather than just a sightseeing tour.

The Highlights

The scenery is the main draw—waterfalls spilling down the hills, green tea plantations, and villages dotted along the route. As one traveler put it, “Incredible views, make sure you reserve your seats. Best part of the trip is the last hour, although the whole trip was amazing.” The views are so varied, and both sides of the train offer good vantage points, which is great for photography or just soaking in the sights.

For travelers who enjoyed the ride, the timing and delivery of tickets stood out. Many received their tickets a day in advance, either at their hotel or via easy communication with the ticket provider. This convenience is a bonus when planning your trip.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Departure from Kandy

Your journey begins at the Peradeniya Railway Station in Kandy. The train departs twice daily—8:47am and 11:03am—allowing you some flexibility. Most travelers recommend arriving slightly early to find your reserved seat and get comfortable. If you prefer, you can upgrade to include hotel pickup, but this isn’t included in the standard package.

The Scenic Ride: From Kandy to Nanu Oya (or Ella)

The railway line takes you through lush hill country, with dramatic landscapes unfolding outside. Many reviews highlight that the train’s route showcases tea estates, waterfalls, and villages, making every minute picturesque. The last stretch, especially from Nanu Oya to Ella, is often called “the most beautiful part,” with rolling hills and misty mountains.

Travel time varies, but most agree that the shorter Nanu Oya route is around 3 hours. The longer route to Ella can take up to 7 hours, but it’s well worth it for the full experience.

The Arrival in Ella or Nanu Oya

Upon reaching either destination, you’ll find yourself in a small town surrounded by tea plantations and scenic highlands. Many travelers choose to stay here, soaking in the mountain air and enjoying local cafes. Others might hop on a local bus or taxi to explore further.

The Return Trip

Most travelers opt for a different journey back or continue their adventures elsewhere in Sri Lanka. Note that your reserved ticket is only for the outbound trip—if you want to ensure a smooth return, you might want to plan that separately.

Authenticity and Value for Money

This train ride offers a rare chance to see Sri Lanka’s countryside from a relaxed, comfortable seat rather than a packed bus or car. Many reviews point out that the price of around $24 is excellent value given the scenery and convenience. Some travelers express concern about the additional markup—paid through third-party providers—but argue that the peace of mind and guaranteed seats are worth it.

The delivery of tickets to your hotel simplifies logistics, especially if you’re short on time or prefer to avoid long queues at the station. The reservations ensure you’re not left scrambling for tickets during the busy season, making this a smart choice for planning ahead.

Considerations

While most reviews praise the scenery and service, some mention seats being allocated randomly—meaning you might not sit with your travel companions or get the best views if booked late. Also, the long duration of the ride can become tiring, especially if you’re not used to extended train travel. For those concerned about comfort, opting for the shorter Nanu Oya route might be preferable.

Who Should Take This Train?

This journey suits independent travelers eager to explore Sri Lanka at their own pace. It’s ideal if you value authentic local experiences over commercialized tours. If you’re looking for spectacular scenery and don’t mind a longer ride, this is a great way to see the highlands. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate seated comfort and want reserved seats guaranteed in advance.

Travelers who enjoy photography, nature, and culture will find this trip rewarding. Just keep in mind the cost—some feel it’s a bit of a premium—and plan accordingly. If you’re flexible and enjoy scenic journeys, this ride will leave you with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes.

The Sum Up

The Kandy to Ella train journey with reserved seats is a fantastic way to see Sri Lanka’s hill country in comfort. For around $24, you get a spectacular scenic experience, guaranteed seats, and the convenience of ticket delivery. The views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains are truly some of the most photogenic in the world.

This trip suits adventurous, independent travelers who want to avoid the hassle of last-minute bookings and relish authentic local travel. While the price might seem high compared to local tickets, the peace of mind and comfort make it worth considering, especially during peak travel times.

If you love breathtaking landscapes and want to travel like a Sri Lankan, this journey delivers. Just be prepared for a long ride, and aim for the shorter route if you’re pressed for time or prefer an easier day trip. Either way, you’ll walk away with amazing memories and stunning photos to cherish.

FAQ Section

How far in advance should I book tickets?
It’s best to book about 30 days ahead, as tickets sell out quickly and availability is limited.

Are the reserved seats in second or third class?
Yes, your ticket guarantees a seat in either second or third class, depending on what you select.

Can I upgrade to a private transfer or from my hotel?
Yes, some options include hotel pickup, but this is an upgrade and not included in the standard package.

What time does the train depart?
Trains depart at 8:47am and 11:03am daily from Peradeniya Railway Station.

How long is the train ride?
The journey lasts approximately 3 to 7 hours, depending on whether you go to Nanu Oya or Ella.

Is it worth paying extra for reserved seats?
Most reviews say yes, especially to avoid the hassle of unreserved or standing-room tickets, and to enjoy a guaranteed window seat.

What if I want to see more countryside?
Many travelers recommend taking the shorter Nanu Oya route for a quicker but equally scenic experience, especially if you’re short on time.

Can I sit with my travel companions?
Seats are allocated randomly, so there’s a chance you might be separated, but many find that moving around during the ride helps.