Train from Colombo to Ella: Tips for the World's Best Train Ride

It's featured on countless travel blogs and Instagram feeds. The train journey from Colombo, up through the hill country to Kandy, and winding on to Ella, isn't just a mode of transport—it's one of the main attractions of a trip to Sri Lanka. Here's how to do it right.

The Route and Duration

The full journey from Colombo Fort station to Ella takes roughly 9 to 10 hours. It's a long day. Because of this, many travelers choose to break the journey.

• Phase 1 (Colombo to Kandy): Takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Scenic, but not the "famous" part. Many tourists opt to take a comfortable taxi from Colombo to Kandy, spend a night there, and catch the train the next day.
• Phase 2 (Kandy to Ella): Takes about 6 to 7 hours. This is the spectacular leg of the journey, passing through Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station), endless tea estates, pine forests, and misty valleys.

Classes of Travel

1st Class (Observation Car/Air-Conditioned)

Comfortable, plush seats with A/C. The Catch: The windows are sealed shut. You cannot lean out to take the iconic photos, and taking pictures through the glass often results in glare.

2nd Class (Reserved) - Highly Recommended

This is the sweet spot. You get a guaranteed seat with a fan, but crucially, the windows and doors open. This allows you to feel the cool mountain breeze and take unobstructed photos.

2nd and 3rd Class (Unreserved)

These tickets can be bought on the day of travel. They are extremely cheap but offer no guaranteed seat. You will likely be standing packed like sardines for several hours. Recommended only for the adventurous on a strict budget.

Essential Tips

• Booking: Reserve your 2nd Class tickets exactly 30 days in advance online or via a local agent. They sell out instantly.
• Which Side to Sit On? From Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya), the right side offers the best views. From Nuwara Eliya down to Ella, the left side is generally considered better.
• Snacks: Local vendors will walk through the train selling short eats, peanuts, and tea. Bring some small cash to enjoy the local snacks!