Ella Odyssey Train Reserved Seats Kandy to Ella

Travelers often rave about Sri Lanka’s scenic railway journey between Kandy and Ella, but the Ella Odyssey offers a truly special twist. This reserved-seat train experience is designed for those who want more than just a ride – it’s about witnessing breathtaking vistas, avoiding overcrowding, and enjoying a well-organized, comfortable journey.

This tour by Mahaweli Tours and Holidays is especially appealing because it stops at extra scenic locations—waterfalls, mountain ranges, forests, and viewpoints—giving travelers ample opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments. With reserved seats, you avoid the chaos of general compartments, making this a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.

A slight downside? The journey runs only twice a week, so planning ahead is essential. If you’re someone who values comfort, scenic beauty, and smooth organization, this experience might just be one of your highlights in Sri Lanka. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to see some of the island’s best views.

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Key Points

Reserved Seats Guarantee Comfort: No standing passengers, no overcrowding, just your seat and the scenic views.
Extra Scenic Stops: The train pauses at waterfalls, viewpoints, and forests—ideal for photos and appreciation.
Pre-Book for Peace of Mind: Tickets are delivered to your hotel and include seat numbers, eliminating last-minute stress.
Limited Operation Days: The train runs only two days per week, so plan your trip accordingly.
Professional Service: Many reviews highlight the efficiency of the booking process and helpful communication.
Great Value for Price: At $35 per person, the experience offers a lot of scenic value and comfort compared to regular train rides.

Introduction: Why this Train Journey Stands Out

Sri Lanka’s train routes are famous for their sweeping views and charming stations, but the Ella Odyssey elevates that experience. We’ve seen many scenic train rides, but this one offers something extra — stops at key viewpoints and less crowded compartments, making it a top choice for travelers who want to enjoy the ride without the hustle and bustle of typical unreserved cars.

What makes this trip particularly attractive? First, the reserved seats mean you can settle in without fighting for space or standing in aisles. Second, the extra scenic stops make the journey more of an adventure than just a commute. And third, the smooth organization—from ticket delivery to communication—means your day is worry-free.

However, bear in mind that this train operates only twice a week, so securing tickets in advance is a must. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Sri Lanka’s hill country, this tour is ideal.

Looking for more options in Kandy? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Why Choose the Ella Odyssey?

Comfort and Convenience: Reserved seats ensure you get a proper spot, while the pre-booking system simplifies your travel planning. Many reviews praise the effortless process—tickets are sent to your hotel, and communication is smooth through WhatsApp.

Spectacular Views and Stops: The extra stops at waterfalls, mountain ranges, and viewpoints are what make this journey stand out. Travelers have shared how these spots provided amazing photo opportunities and unforgettable scenery.

Reliable Service: Several reviews commend the team for fast responses and helpful coordination. From delivering tickets to fixing booking mistakes (sometimes due to the railway staff), the company seems dedicated to a seamless experience.

Affordable Price: At just $35 per person, the trip offers incredible value—especially considering the comfort of reserved seats and the scenic stops.

What to Expect on the Journey

Meeting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at Kandy Railway Station, Platform 1, at 8:15 am. The station is centrally located and accessible via public transportation, making it easy to reach on the day of your trip.

Ticketing and Booking Process

Making arrangements is straightforward. You provide your personal details and preferred delivery location during booking. The tickets, printed with seat numbers, are delivered before 7 am on the day of travel, ensuring no last-minute surprises. This pre-reservation is crucial, as only passengers with assigned seats can access the second and third-class reserved compartments. No overcrowding or standing allowed here.

There's plenty more to explore in Kandy

The Scenic Stops

Unlike typical train rides, the Ella Odyssey makes multiple stops at noteworthy scenic locations—waterfalls, mountain viewpoints, and lush forest reservations. On reviews, travelers mention how these stops offered perfect moments for photography and an appreciation of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Inside the Compartments

Seats are either in second or third class reserved compartments. These are designed for comfort, with no standing passengers, and are only accessible to those with pre-booked tickets. This means you’ll avoid the chaos often seen on unreserved cars. Reviewers have noted that the compartments are not overcrowded, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Views

Many travelers highlight the endless tea fields, mountain vistas, and waterfalls visible from the train—making it a visual feast. One reviewer said, “The ride was really great. We stood at the door all the time and saw endless tea fields,” capturing the essence of what makes this journey special.

Duration and Timing

The entire journey lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 8:15 am and ending around 2:15 pm. The timing allows for a leisurely experience, with ample stops for photos and sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many reviews praise the excellent communication and reliability of the service. One reviewer shared, “Geesara from Mahaweli tour company contacted me and was the best organizer,” emphasizing how helpful the team is throughout the booking process.

Others appreciated the hotel delivery of tickets, noting how it removed stress. One said, “They brought our tickets to our accommodation the night before, making everything smooth and effortless.”

The scenic stops are a common highlight. Reviewers mention “incredible views” and “perfect photo moments,” with some saying they stood by the door to take advantage of the endless tea plantations and mountain vistas.

Guides and Assistance

While the journey itself is self-guided, the company’s staff—particularly Geesara and Bawantha—are frequently praised for their quick responses and helpfulness. Several reviews mention how they assisted with ticket issues, last-minute bookings, or clarifications, which enhances the overall experience.

Booking Experience

The booking process gets high marks for its simplicity and efficiency. Many travelers mention how easy it was to organize the tickets via WhatsApp or email, and that tickets were delivered well in advance of travel.

Practical Details and Tips

Price: At $35 per person, this ticket represents good value. It includes reserved seating and access to additional scenic stops, which are often considered the highlights of the journey.

Operation Days: The train runs only twice a week, so check your schedule and book ahead to secure your spot.

Group Size: The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to large crowded tours.

Cancellation Policy: It’s non-refundable, so plan your dates carefully. If your trip plans change, you might not be able to recover your investment.

Additional Services: Many reviews mention the professional communication and ticket delivery services, which make the process hassle-free.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This train ride is perfect for scenic lovers who want comfortable, reserved seating without the chaos of unreserved compartments. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate extra scenic stops, want to avoid overcrowding, and value reliable, professional service. It suits those traveling in a group or solo, especially if they prefer a more relaxed, photo-friendly journey.

Final Thoughts

The Ella Odyssey train journey from Kandy to Ella offers a smooth blend of comfort, stunning scenery, and excellent organization. For just $35, you get reserved seats, multiple scenic stops, and attentive support, making it a standout option among Sri Lanka’s many train experiences.

While limited to two days a week, those who plan early will find this a highlight of their Hill Country adventure. It’s a journey that delivers on its promise of beautiful views and hassle-free booking, making it well worth considering for your Sri Lanka itinerary.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. The train runs only twice a week, so securing your tickets ahead of time is essential.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes a reserved seat in either second or third class, with access to scenic stops along the route.

How are the tickets delivered?
Tickets are delivered to your hotel or preferred location before 7 am on the day of travel, with seat numbers printed on them.

Can I choose my seat?
Seats are pre-reserved; your ticket will have a specific seat number assigned, so no need to choose manually.

What should I bring on the journey?
Bring your camera, water, and possibly a light snack. The stops are great for photos, so be prepared with your camera or phone.

Are there any group size restrictions?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy, less crowded experience.

Is the journey suitable for families?
Yes. The journey is comfortable and scenic, making it suitable for families traveling with children.

What happens if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable, so cancelations are not permitted once booked.

How long does the journey last?
Approximately 6 hours from 8:15 am to around 2:15 pm.

Is this a guided tour?
No, it is a self-guided scenic train ride, but the booking process and ticket delivery are managed professionally.

In essence, this train journey from Kandy to Ella, with its reserved seats and scenic stops, offers a memorable way to experience Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes comfortably and reliably. Whether you’re a photographer, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxed travel experience, the Ella Odyssey delivers on all counts.