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 GetYourGuide. 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 Kandy to 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 visitsrilankatours.co.uk at no extra cost. 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 seat61.com.

Tea plantations | Kandy to Ella Train | 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.

Spending time on the south coast? Read my guide to the best restaurants in Hiriketiya and, if you are travelling solo, my solo travel Sri Lanka guide is worth bookmarking before you go.

Overview of All Classes on the Kandy to Ella Train

First Class

If you’re after a little luxury on your Kandy to 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. 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.

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Third Class

Third class offers the cheapest tickets, often under 2 euros for the entire journey, and the liveliest atmosphere. Unreserved seats 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. My personal recommendation: 3rd class reserved is the sweet spot. Cheapest option with just as much comfort as 2nd class, open windows and the freedom to hang out of the doorway. Just watch out for trees.

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 a more authentic experience and better views, second or third class is the way to go.!

My train departed from platform 2. You can board from 2 sides. | Kandy to Ella Train | Sri Lanka

When to Take the Kandy to Ella 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. The train can also be extremely busy on weekends, so try to avoid those days if possible. The Kandy train station is centrally located and easily accessible by tuktuk or taxi.

For a better chance at getting a seat, consider heading to Peradeniya Junction to start your journey, a strategic stop just outside Kandy. Knowing the stops along the route also helps you plan breaks, find open seats, and access vendors selling snacks. You can also choose to hop on one station earlier or later than the main stations.

How Long Does the Kandy to Ella Train Journey Take?

On my Instagram you can watch all my Sri Lanka Instastories in Highlights for lots of travel inspiration!

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 get there. Along the way, the train has to wait several times for another 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.

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, 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. For the best photography, try to sit near an open doorway, especially in the early morning light. Tip: take the early train for better photo opportunities, as it’s less crowded and the light is at its most beautiful.

What to Bring on the 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 own 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.

Also check out my tips for Hiriketiya and Weligama if you’re heading to the south coast after the train ride.

TRY A COOKING CLASS IN ELLA

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. Read all my Ella recommendations and my tips for Kandy before you go.

Finding Your Seat on the 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.

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 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.

DON’T MISS THIS DAY TRIP IN ELLA

If you are looking for an amazing way to explore Sri Lanka, rent your own tuktuk at TukTuk Rental! They rent tuktuks from locals to boost their income, a great way to travel around, visit all the places off the mainstream tourist route, and support a local family as well

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 Maps.me you can download the map of Sri Lanka, so you can always see where you are without internet. That way 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, though note that the windows don’t open.

More practical tips for the Kandy to Ella train

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 it handles heavy passenger traffic and is popular among both locals and tourists.

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. 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, a popular excursion from Ella or as part of a broader trip.

Kandy to Ella Train: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book tickets for the Kandy to Ella train?

Ask your hotel in Kandy or Ella to book the ticket for you, which is often the easiest option. Alternatively, book online via GetYourGuide or at visitsrilankatours.co.uk up to 30 days in advance.

Which class is best on the Kandy to Ella train?

Third class reserved is my personal favourite: cheapest option, open windows and doors, and you can hang out of the doorway for photos. Second class reserved is a good alternative if you want a fan and slightly more comfort.

How long does the Kandy to Ella train ride take?

Officially 6 to 7 hours, but delays are common. Ours took 8 hours. Pack snacks, download an offline map and enjoy the ride.

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On which side of the train should I sit?

Right side until Nuwara Eliya, left side from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. Many people leave at Nuwara Eliya, so you can often switch sides after that stop.

Is it worth taking the Kandy to Ella train?

Without a doubt. It is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world and costs almost nothing. Book early, take the morning train and sit near an open door. You won’t regret it.

A RECOMMENDED SURF & YOGA RETREAT IN SRI LANKA

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!