Kandy to Ella Scenic Train
Sri Lanka's iconic Kandy to Ella train journey offers breathtaking views of tea plantations, misty mountains, and rural life. A must-do scenic adventu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Kandy to Ella Scenic Train
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sri Lanka's iconic Kandy to Ella train journey offers breathtaking views of tea plantations, misty mountains, and rural life. A must-do scenic adventure.
"The train ride from Kandy to Ella is so beautiful, especially if you get a window seat in 2nd class."
🎯 Buy Reserved Seats
For comfort & guaranteed views, book 2nd or 1st class reserved seats. Unreserved can be crowded.
🪟 Right Side Views
Sit on the right side (Kandy to Ella) for the most iconic tea plantation and mountain vistas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lush Tea Plantations
Hill Country
Witness endless emerald tea fields rolling across the hillsides, a quintessential Sri Lankan vista.
Misty Mountains
Central Highlands
Experience the ethereal beauty of mist-shrouded mountains and cool highland air.
Nine Arch Bridge
Near Demodara Station
Marvel at this iconic colonial-era railway bridge, a stunning architectural feat amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Reserved Seats
For comfort & guaranteed views, book 2nd or 1st class reserved seats. Unreserved can be crowded.
🪟 Right Side Views
Sit on the right side (Kandy to Ella) for the most iconic tea plantation and mountain vistas.
💰 Snacks & Drinks
Hawkers sell delicious local snacks and drinks on board. Bring cash!
📸 Be Photo Ready
The scenery is breathtaking! Keep your camera or phone handy for constant photo ops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Reserved Seats
For comfort & guaranteed views, book 2nd or 1st class reserved seats. Unreserved can be crowded.
🪟 Right Side Views
Sit on the right side (Kandy to Ella) for the most iconic tea plantation and mountain vistas.
💰 Snacks & Drinks
Hawkers sell delicious local snacks and drinks on board. Bring cash!
📸 Be Photo Ready
The scenery is breathtaking! Keep your camera or phone handy for constant photo ops.
⏳ Allow for Delays
The journey can take longer than scheduled. Embrace the relaxed pace!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers overwhelmingly praise the Kandy to Ella train journey as an unforgettable, breathtaking experience, highlighting the stunning natural beauty of tea plantations and misty mountains. While the journey can be long and tickets hard to secure, the scenic views and onboard local snacks make it a must-do for most visitors to Sri Lanka.
"It was awesome experience this train journey. You can enjoy full nature through out the journey. One thing I must tell I booked all the train tickets and 2 car booking from Bookaway app for Sri Lanka trip. Try to buy panoramic train tickets for Ella to Kandy or Nuwara Eliye wherever you are going."
Elizabeth Purification
"Nanaoya Train station near Newara Eliya to Demodora Train Station just after Ella via the 9 Arch Bridge
You need to stay on this train past Ella (one stop) to Demodora as this then goes over (and stops on) the famous nine arch bridge. But that is at the end. The entire journey, with probably an average speed of twenty miles an hour, is utterly stunning. You will take hundreds and hundreds of photos as there are countless beautiful views. It's high, so its not too hot. We were booked in first class, nearly a mistake as although air conditioned you cannot open the windows and taking snaps through smeary windows is not ideal but fortunatley for us a door was open to the outside on one side and I spent much of the journey filming and snapping directly outside (please be careful, one poor lady, clearly trying for the ultimate social media photo, leaned right out of the train and hit a rock and was sadly killed, not on our train but on the same say we travelled) there are countless amazing photo opportunities without having to lean right out. Once in a life time opportunity and highly recommended."
Peter Curtis
"What a beautiful scenic journey from Nuwara Eliya to Demodara via Ella 😍 Just enjoyed the journey of about 3 hrs. It was out of the world experience - passing on 9 Arch bridge .. everything was amazing 🤩"
Veena Vijayaram
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take the scenic train from Kandy to Ella. The journey typically takes 6-7 hours, passing through stunning landscapes of tea plantations and mountains.
While several trains run this route, the 'Ella Odyssey' is a special tourist train with reserved seating. However, regular 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class trains also offer incredible views.
Sri Lanka Railways doesn't have a direct online booking system for international travelers. You can book through third-party sites like Bookaway or 12go.asia, or purchase them at the station.
It's highly recommended to book tickets at least a week in advance, especially for reserved seats, as they sell out very quickly due to the train's popularity.
Trains offer 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class. 2nd class reserved is often recommended for a good balance of comfort and open windows for photos. 1st class can be air-conditioned, limiting window access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If the official railway website is unavailable, try third-party booking platforms like Bookaway or 12go.asia. Local 'agents' also buy up tickets, so booking in advance is key.
Ticket prices vary by class and booking method. Reserved seats in 2nd class typically range from $5-$15 USD, but third-party bookings may include service fees.
Yes, unreserved tickets are available, but they are often crowded, and securing a good seat is not guaranteed. It's best to buy reserved tickets if possible.
The 'Ella Odyssey' is a special tourist train on the Kandy-Ella route, offering reserved seating and a comfortable journey. Tickets for this train are highly sought after.
While unreserved tickets might be available on the day, it's risky. Reserved seats are almost always sold out in advance, so booking ahead is strongly advised.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers stunning views, but the sections between Hatton and Haputale, and the approach to the Nine Arch Bridge near Demodara, are particularly photogenic.
Opt for a window seat on the right side (Kandy to Ella) and try to travel during the morning for the best light. Clean your window beforehand for clearer shots.
It is extremely dangerous and not recommended. Tragically, there have been accidents. Enjoy the views from inside or by an open door safely.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details like distant mountains or tea pickers.
Morning light offers soft, golden hues perfect for tea plantations. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting as the sun begins to set.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Hawkers board the train at various stops selling a variety of local snacks, meals, and drinks. It's a great way to experience local flavors.
While hawkers are plentiful, bringing some of your own snacks and water is a good idea, especially if you have dietary preferences or want to save money.
Larger stations like Kandy and Ella have food stalls and small eateries. However, the onboard hawkers are a more unique experience.
Expect to find samosas, pakoras, fresh fruit, biscuits, and local sweets. Bottled water and tea are also readily available.
Generally, yes. The food is usually freshly prepared and popular with locals and tourists alike. Use your discretion and choose vendors that look clean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the long duration (6-7 hours). While scenic, it can be a lot for very young children. Ensure you have plenty of water and snacks, and perhaps plan for a shorter segment of the journey if needed. The Nine Arch Bridge stop is often a highlight that kids will enjoy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons or opting for a slightly less popular train if available to potentially find better deals. Even with a budget approach, the sheer beauty of the landscape makes this journey a worthwhile investment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Morning departures offer the most flattering light. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for details. Remember to clean your windows for clearer shots or be prepared to shoot from an open door (safely!). Don't just focus on the grand landscapes; look for opportunities to capture the local life, the train itself against the scenery, and the details of the tea-picking process. The Nine Arch Bridge is a must-capture iconic spot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Route: Kandy to Ella
+1The most visually striking sections are often cited as being between Hatton and Haputale, and the approach to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge near Demodara. The train's route is a testament to colonial-era engineering, carving its way through challenging terrain to connect these vital highland towns. Many travelers consider this train ride a highlight of their Sri Lankan adventure.
Pro Tip: While the Kandy to Ella direction is popular, the Ella to Kandy route offers equally stunning views, often with fewer crowds in the morning. Consider which direction best fits your itinerary.
+1Navigating Train Tickets and Classes
The train offers different classes: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. 1st class is often air-conditioned, which can be a relief in the heat but limits the ability to open windows for photos and fresh air. 2nd class reserved is frequently recommended as it offers a good balance: comfortable seating, openable windows for unobstructed views and photography, and a more immersive experience. 3rd class is the most basic and can be very crowded, especially if you haven't booked in advance.
Unreserved tickets are available, but relying on them means risking a crowded carriage and potentially no seat. For a comfortable and scenic journey, booking a reserved seat in 2nd class is generally the best option. If you're aiming for the special 'Ella Odyssey' tourist train, booking is essential as it only offers reserved seating.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
Morning departures are often favored for their soft, golden light, perfect for illuminating the tea fields and creating a dreamy atmosphere. However, the scenery is beautiful throughout the day. Keep your camera or smartphone readily accessible, as the views change rapidly. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details.
Important Safety Note: While the temptation to lean out for the perfect shot might be strong, it is extremely dangerous and has led to tragic accidents. Always prioritize safety. Enjoy the incredible views from within the train or by an open door. The beauty of the landscape is immense, and you'll have countless opportunities for stunning photos without taking unnecessary risks.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit