Kandy to Ella Train Ride: Practical Tips
It’s quite a mystery how and where to reserve tickets for the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella, or the other way around. I asked my hotel in Kandy to buy the ticket for me before I was heading to Sri Lanka, so it was waiting for me at the reception. I booked a reserved seat in 3rd class and paid €2.30 for it! My hotel arranged this for me free of charge. If you are not sure where you are going to stay yet, you can also arrange tickets through Get Your Guide (using this link does not incur any extra cost for you). In this blogpost I will share all my practical tips for this impressive, bucket list train journey!
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Walking on the train tracks is pretty normal in Sri Lanka
How to Book Your Kandy to Ella Train Tickets
Booking Ella train tickets well in advance (up to 30 days ahead) is highly recommended due to high demand. In fact, reserving your seat at least one month before the departure date is the smartest move you can make. This train ride has been named one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, and therefore tickets are extremely popular. Of course, you can take the risk and buy a ticket at the station in Kandy or Ella on the day itself, but in that case you are not guaranteed a seat.
Alternatively, you can book online up to a month before departure at: https://www.visitsrilankatours.co.uk/ (no extra cost for you). However, to be honest, I would simply book the ticket through your accommodation in Kandy or Ella if you can. For departure times and schedules, check: https://www.seat61.com/SriLanka
Tea plantations | Train ride Kandy – Ella | Sri Lanka
Ticket Classes: First, Second and Third Class
There are three ticket classes for the Kandy to Ella train. First class costs around 3,000 LKR, has air conditioning but sealed windows, making it the least authentic option. Second class costs approximately 600 LKR, is comfortable and allows advance seat reservations. Most travellers recommend second class reserved for the best balance of comfort and local atmosphere. Third class is the cheapest at around 300 LKR, popular with locals and lively, though you may have to stand without a reservation. Reserved tickets in second and third class must be booked ahead; unreserved tickets are available on the day but come with no guaranteed seat.
Train ride Kandy – Ella | Sri Lanka
Tea plantations – Train ride Kandy – Ella – Sri Lanka
Overview of All Classes
- 3rd class reserved seats: as far as I’m concerned the best option, because these tickets are the cheapest and you have as much comfort as in 2nd class. There are no fans, but because of the open windows you don’t need these anyway. Moreover, in this class you can take the famous ‘casually hanging out of a train’ photo.
- 3rd class non-reserved seats: the busiest class, because all the locals travel here. As a result, it can be tricky to find a seat.
- Third class carriages: the most basic option, often crowded, yet providing a lively and authentic experience.
- 2nd class non-reserved seats: the same seats as in 3rd class reserved, fans, open windows and doors.
- 2nd class reserved seats: exactly the same, but with a guaranteed spot. The only difference is that the doors are not open here, though windows can still be opened.
- 1st class reserved seats: better seats, air conditioning, TV, and closed windows and doors.
The observation carriage, available on select trains, features large windows for sightseeing but is often booked quickly and does not allow for opening windows. It is usually located at the end of the train and sometimes faces backwards. For travelers seeking a more authentic experience and better views, second or third class is therefore highly recommended.
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My train departed from platform 2. You can board the train from 2 sides. | Train ride Kandy – Ella | Sri Lanka
When to Take the Train and Where to Board
Try to book the first train, which departs around 08:45. Unfortunately, that one was already fully booked when I travelled. So I had to take the train at 11:00 — and by the last part of the journey it was foggy and dark. Additionally, the train can be extremely busy on weekends, so try to avoid those days if possible. The Kandy train station is centrally located and easily accessible by tuk tuk or taxi.
For a better chance at getting a seat, consider heading straight to Peradeniya station (Peradeniya Junction) to start your journey, as it’s a strategic stop just outside Kandy. Knowing the train stops along the route can furthermore help you plan breaks, find open seats, and access vendors selling snacks. You can also choose to hop on the train one station earlier or later than the main station in Kandy or Ella.
How Long Does the Journey Take?
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The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on which train you catch and possible delays, though ours took 8 hours until we arrived in Ella. You’ll get there when you’ll get there, haha. Along the way, the train has to wait several times for another train connection, which caused most of the delay. Occasionally the train breaks down too. The most scenic part of the Kandy to Ella train ride is between Hatton and Ella, where the route runs through lush tea plantations and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Along the route, you can also make a stop to visit Nuwara Eliya or hike at Horton’s Plains. Another option is Adam’s Peak: a famous place of pilgrimage for Sri Lankans.
Watch out for obstacles if you want to hang out of the train!
On Which Side Should You Sit?
During the first part of the journey, until Nuwara Eliya, it’s best to sit on the right side. From Nuwara Eliya to Ella, however, the left side offers the best views. Many people leave the train at Nuwara Eliya, so if you stay seated you can sometimes switch sides, though it totally depends on how crowded the train is. For the best photography, try to sit near an open doorway. This spot is perfect for capturing unique angles, especially in the early morning light when the scenery is at its most beautiful. Hanging out of the train doors is a popular way to enjoy the views and take photos during the journey. Tip: take the early train for better photo opportunities, as it’s less crowded and the light makes the landscapes even more stunning.
What to Bring: Preparation Tips – Kandy to Ella Train
A warm sweater is essential for the cooler part of the trip. Before boarding, buy something to eat and drink at the shop on platform 1, as the train ride is often considerably delayed. On board you can buy some food, but it is smart to pack your favorite snacks as well. Try the warm peanuts with salt and chili for 200 LKR. Absolutely worth it! Also toss a book and some music in your bag. That way you won’t be bored if the ride takes longer than expected.
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The beautiful landscape….
Finding Your Seat on the Train – Kandy to Ella Train
You can board the train from 2 sides. Almost all tourists head to the right side, but I walked to the other side of the platform and was able to find my seat much faster. My reserved 3rd class seat was located at the beginning of the blue train, in the first compartment seen from the station. There are people walking around who will help you, and the seat numbers are displayed above the seats.
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The Scenery: What to Expect Along the Route
The Kandy to Ella train ride is considered one of the most scenic in the world. Lush tea fields, misty mountains, charming villages and the occasional waterfall: the route will take your breath away. Try to sit in one of the doorways for the full experience, but pay attention to trees and obstacles along the way, especially if you want to throw your hair into the wind. Being beheaded in Sri Lanka is probably not on your bucket list. The last part of the ride can also get surprisingly chilly, so pack a sweater. One highlight not to miss: the iconic Nine Arch Bridge near Ella, a perfect photo stop. Ella itself is a charming, laid-back village ideal for relaxing, hiking and escaping the heat of the southern coast.
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Train ride Kandy – Ella | Sri Lanka
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DON’T MISS THIS DAY TRIP IN ELLA
9 Practical Tips for the Kandy to Ella Train
To make sure your journey goes smoothly, here are my most important practical tips:
Toilet paper: Bring some with you. The 3rd class toilet was actually not too bad at all.
Extra space: If you want more room, consider booking 2 seats next to each other. I spent half the journey with the neighbour’s drooling baby on my lap…
Offline maps: With the app Maps.me you can download the map of Sri Lanka, so you can always see where you are without internet. As a result, you can track exactly which stop you’re at and how far you still have to go.
Keep your ticket: Hold on to your train ticket throughout the journey. You have to show it when you leave the station in Ella.
Observation carriage: Travel blogs often recommend booking seats here for the best scenic views and photography opportunities — though note that the windows don’t open.
Peak season: During busy periods like Sinhalese New Year or Christmas, it’s wise to stay in one destination to avoid transport disruptions and overcrowded trains.
History of the route: The Kandy to Ella train route was originally built to transport tea. Today, however, it handles heavy passenger traffic and is popular among both locals and tourists, making for a vibrant travel experience.
Delays and snacks: Delays are common and the journey can take up to 8 hours, so bring your own snacks and drinks as food options on board are limited. Additionally, keep your valuables safe and be mindful when using devices near open windows or doors.
After Ella: If you’re planning your Sri Lanka itinerary, consider a visit to Yala National Park for a wildlife safari — it’s a popular excursion from Ella or as part of a broader trip.
Classes and Prices – Kandy to Ella Train
When planning your Kandy to Ella train journey, it helps to know what each class offers. Sri Lanka Railways has three options: First Class, Second Class and Third Class, each with its own perks and price tag.
First Class
If you’re after a little luxury on your Ella train ride, First Class is the most comfortable option: air-conditioned carriages, good seats and a quieter atmosphere. Expect to pay around 10 to 15 euros for the full journey, which is still very affordable by European standards. The downside is that windows and doors stay closed, so those iconic open-door photos are off the table.
Second Class
Second Class is a great middle ground. There are reserved and unreserved options: reserved seats guarantee your spot, while unreserved tickets are cheaper but may mean standing during busy times. Carriages have fans, open windows and doors, so you can still enjoy the fresh air and get those dreamy open-door photos. Prices range from around 3 to 7 euros, making this a popular choice for both locals and international travellers.
Third Class
Third Class offers the cheapest tickets, often under 2 euros for the entire journey, and the liveliest atmosphere. Unreserved seats are the most budget-friendly but fill up fast, especially on the morning train. If you want a guaranteed spot, go for third class reserved tickets and book early. Open doors and windows make it easy to soak up the scenery and get those classic shots.
Whichever class you choose, the Ella train journey is an unforgettable way to experience Sri Lanka’s hill country. Prices vary slightly depending on where you buy them, at the station, online or through your accommodation, but all options offer incredible value for a true bucket list trip.
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Never visit an elephant park where elephants are ridden and, even at an “orphanage” or “shelter”, do your research in advance to check if the animals are treated well. At the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka, the animals are chained up underwater. Do not go there!
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THIS is my favourite destination on the south coast of Sri Lanka…
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