Ella : Scenic Train Ride & Horton Plains Private Tour

Exploring the scenic wonders of Sri Lanka’s Ella region has never been more convenient. The Ella: Scenic Train Ride & Horton Plains Private Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the country’s breathtaking landscapes. From a relaxing train journey to a guided exploration of the UNESCO-designated Horton Plains National Park, this 11-hour adventure promises an unforgettable day. While the tour’s price tag may seem reasonable, there’s more to uncover about the inclusions and exclusions that make this experience truly remarkable.

Key Points

• Scenic 2-hour train journey from Ella or Bandarawela to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO-designated site with diverse ecosystems.
• Guided 4-hour tour exploring the park’s landscapes, including the iconic World’s End viewpoint and 20-meter Baker Falls.
• Priced at $90 per person, with hotel pickup, refreshments, and guide services included, but excluding park entrance fees.
• Tour duration of 11 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option.
• Customer reviews indicate a mix of experiences, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5, highlighting the importance of setting proper expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This scenic train ride and Horton Plains tour offers a full-day excursion from Ella or Bandarawela.

Priced from $90 per person, it includes a 2-hour train journey, a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Horton Plains National Park, and transportation to and from your hotel.

For just $90 per person, this tour includes a 2-hour train ride, a guided visit to Horton Plains National Park, and hotel transfers.

The tour lasts 11 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You’ll hike to the World’s End viewpoint, see Baker Falls, and explore diverse landscapes – all with an English-speaking guide.

Refreshments, water, and entrance fees (except park fees) are covered, though gratuities are recommended.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Ella or Bandarawela around 5:45 AM, adjusted based on your location.

You’ll take a 30-minute car ride to the railway station, then board a 2-hour scenic train to Ohiya station.

From there, a van will transport you for 30 minutes to the entrance of Horton Plains National Park.

During the 4-hour guided tour, you’ll explore the diverse landscapes and hike to the World’s End viewpoint and Baker Falls.

After, the van will return you to your original drop-off locations.

Park Experience

Visitors can explore the UNESCO-designated Horton Plains National Park, a unique and diverse natural landscape.

They’ll hike to the iconic World’s End viewpoint, a 4,000-foot drop-off, and see the 20-meter Baker Falls.

Along the way, they’ll traverse grasslands, forests, and lakes, keeping an eye out for wildlife with the help of a knowledgeable guide.

The guided tour offers a comprehensive experience, immersing guests in the park’s remarkable ecosystems and scenic wonders.

With diverse landscapes and natural attractions, Horton Plains delivers an unforgettable day of discovery and adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a train ticket to Ohiya, an English-speaking guide, refreshments and water, and a guided tour of the park.

However, the Horton Plains National Park fees aren’t included and must be paid separately. Guests are also responsible for their personal expenses and are encouraged to provide gratuities to the guide and driver.

Certain items aren’t allowed on the tour, such as pets, smoking, and large bags.

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Important Information

What should guests bring to this tour? Guests should wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

Large bags aren’t allowed on the tour. Pets are also prohibited. The tour involves walking on uneven terrain, so proper footwear is essential.

Visitors should bring any personal items they may need, as there are limited opportunities to purchase items during the tour.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be prepared for various weather conditions.

Adherence to these guidelines will ensure a more enjoyable and comfortable experience for all participants.

Customer Feedback

Based on the information provided, customer reviews for this tour have been mixed.

While the overall rating is 4.4 out of 5, some reviews highlight concerns with the tour guide and the value for money.

Customers have noted both positive and negative experiences, suggesting the quality of the tour may vary.

It’s important for potential customers to read reviews carefully and set appropriate expectations.

The tour includes several noteworthy features, but the mixed feedback indicates the experience may not consistently meet everyone’s needs or preferences.

Getting to Horton Plains National Park

To reach Horton Plains National Park, the tour includes transportation by car, train, and van. First, a car provides a 30-minute transfer from your hotel to the railway station. Next, you’ll board a 2-hour train ride to Ohiya station. Then, a van delivers you to the park entrance, followed by a 4-hour guided tour and scenic drive within Horton Plains National Park. After your park exploration, the van returns you to your drop-off location.

| Transportation | Duration |

| — | — |

| Car | 30 minutes |

| Train | 2 hours |

| Van | 30 minutes |

| Guided Tour | 4 hours |

Enhancing Your Ella Adventure

With its stunning scenery and abundance of outdoor adventures, Ella provides the perfect backdrop to elevate your Sri Lankan experience.

Beyond the Horton Plains tour, visitors can enjoy the region’s renowned tea plantations, hike scenic trails, and indulge in the vibrant local cuisine.

From serene train journeys to thrilling activities like white-water rafting, Ella offers a wealth of opportunities to curate a truly memorable holiday.

Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, travelers can easily tailor their itinerary to suit their preferences and enhance their exploration of this captivating destination.

Common Questions

Is the Train Ride Climate-Controlled?

The train ride is not explicitly stated to be climate-controlled. However, the tour includes transportation by train, so it’s likely the train has some climate control features to provide a comfortable journey.

Is the Hike to World’s End Suitable for All Fitness Levels?

The hike to World’s End may not be suitable for all fitness levels. It’s a moderate to challenging 4-hour round-trip trek involving steep sections and a 4,000-foot drop. Proper hiking shoes and adequate fitness are recommended.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t provide luggage storage. Participants will need to make their own arrangements to store any larger bags or suitcases during the day trip to Horton Plains National Park.

Are There Any Vegetarian or Dietary Options for the Refreshments?

The tour includes refreshments and water, though it doesn’t specify if there are vegetarian or dietary options. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any special dietary requirements prior to the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ella Before or After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Ella before or after the tour. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust your pickup and drop-off locations to accommodate your desired travel plans in the Ella area.

The Sum Up

The Ella: Scenic Train Ride & Horton Plains Private Tour offers a captivating Sri Lankan adventure. Travelers can enjoy the country’s breathtaking landscapes, from the scenic train journey to the UNESCO-designated Horton Plains National Park. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, and the option to pay park fees separately, this tour provides an efficient and memorable way to explore the natural wonders of Ella.

You can check availability for your dates here: