Kandy to Ella train ride on (Train No: 1015 “Udarata Menike”)

Traveling from Kandy to Ella by train is often highlighted as one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, and for good reason. This ride offers sweeping vistas, lush greenery, and a sense of adventure that few other routes can match. While you might encounter some booking frustrations, the experience itself is a worthy highlight for anyone exploring Sri Lanka’s hill country.

What we love about this journey include the incredible scenic views, the chance to see Sri Lanka’s tea estates up close, and the nostalgic charm of riding on a historic train. A potential drawback is the booking process—tickets through third-party providers can be inflated and may limit spontaneity. This journey suits travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy train travel, and are comfortable with a day that’s roughly 6 to 7 hours long.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Spectacular views of tea estates, forests, and mountains.
• Reserved seats in either first-class AC or second-class non-AC ensure comfort.
• Long journey but filled with scenic highlights, especially from Hatton to Haputale.
• Booking challenges due to third-party sales; book well in advance.
• No included meals or transfers, so plan ahead for food and logistics.
• Ideal for those seeking an authentic, picturesque train experience in Sri Lanka.

An Overview of the Route and What Makes It Special

The Kandy to Ella train journey along the Udarata Menike (Train No: 1015) is famed for its breathtaking scenery. Starting at Colombo Fort Railway Station, the train departs early in the day, around 11 a.m., and heads into the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The ride takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, culminating in Ella—a small town known for its cool climate and lush landscapes.

The most memorable part of the journey is the stretch from Hatton to Haputale, where the train snakes through tea plantations, tunnels, and mountain views. This section is often highlighted in reviews for its unparalleled beauty, with travelers marveling at the endless fields of tea and the way the train cuts through the misty hills.

How the Journey Is Structured

The train departs from William Gopallawa Mawatha in Kandy around 11 a.m. and reaches Ella by approximately 5:10 p.m. to 5:16 p.m. The route is a leisurely way to see the landscape unfold in real time, with windows providing perfect views for photography and sightseeing.

The train offers reserved seating options—either first-class AC or second-class non-AC. This setup ensures a degree of comfort during the long ride, but it’s essential to book well in advance, as tickets do sell out quickly. The journey is facilitated by Lakpura LLC, which manages the booking process and provides mobile tickets.

What to Expect During the Ride

Travelers can anticipate passing through farming fields, small villages, and dense forests. The journey is slow enough to allow you to savor your surroundings, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Keep in mind that the train runs through numerous tunnels and will climb into higher altitudes, giving you cooler air and stunning vistas.

Reviews highlight some common experiences: one traveler noted the scenic ride from Hatton to Haputale as “the most scenic part,” while another expressed frustration over ticket availability and inflated prices. It’s worth noting that the tickets sold via third-party providers often cost more than the official railway prices, and some reviews suggest that this can limit your ability to purchase tickets directly from the Sri Lankan Railways.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Travelers will want to prepare for a day’s outing—bring water, snacks, and perhaps a light jacket as temperatures can drop in the higher elevations. Since food and drinks are not included in the tour, packing some essentials is recommended, especially if you prefer specific snacks or beverages.

The journey is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and the ability to find and settle into your reserved seat comfortably. The train’s popularity means it can be crowded, so arriving early to secure your preferred seating may help.

The Booking Process and Practicalities

The tour’s price is $45 per person, which covers the scenic ride and all taxes and service charges. While this might seem steep compared to the official railway fare, most travelers find value in the guaranteed reserved seating and convenience of booking in advance.

However, some reviews warn about the booking process, with one reviewer stating that Viator sells multiple tickets at inflated prices under the guise of helping travelers. This practice can block direct access to official tickets and inflate the cost. Therefore, planning ahead and considering direct booking through Sri Lanka Railways, if possible, might be worth exploring for a more economical experience.

Meeting points are straightforward: the departure is from William Gopallawa Mawatha, Kandy, and the journey ends at Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway, Ella. The tour is limited to 15 travelers, maintaining a relatively intimate group size.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

While most reviews are generally positive about the scenery, some highlight logistical issues. One traveler simply said “Never again,” criticizing the ticketing process that prevents direct purchase from the railway and leads to inflated prices. This underscores the importance of planning well in advance and being aware of potential booking hurdles.

On the upside, many travelers rave about the visual spectacle, with views of tea plantations and mountain vistas that are truly unmatched. The slow pace of the train makes it easy to soak everything in, and the comfortable reserved seats improve the overall experience.

Who Would Love This Journey?

This train ride best suits adventurous travelers eager to see Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country in a relaxed way. It’s perfect for photographers, train enthusiasts, and nature lovers who enjoy authentic experiences. If you’re happy to plan ahead and accept that logistics can be tricky, this ride promises some of the best vistas in the country.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

Travelers seeking a quick, budget-friendly option might find the ticket prices a bit steep, especially if booking through third-party vendors. Those with limited flexibility or who dislike long journeys might prefer shorter, more direct tours or private transport options.

Final Thoughts

The Kandy to Ella train ride on the Udarata Menike offers a truly memorable way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning landscape. While booking can be a hurdle, the payoff—standing in a train carriage amid rolling tea estates and mountain vistas—is well worth it. It’s a journey that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and offers a deep appreciation for the country’s lush, undulating terrain.

This trip is best for those who value authentic travel experiences, don’t mind planning ahead, and want to add a touch of adventure to their Sri Lankan holiday. If you’re after a picturesque, slow-paced journey with a chance to see the country’s iconic scenery, this train ride will not disappoint.

FAQ

How long does the train ride take?
The journey lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 11 a.m. and ending in Ella by about 5:10 p.m. to 5:16 p.m.

What are the seating options?
You can choose between first-class AC or second-class non-AC reserved seats, both of which guarantee a comfortable spot and a better experience than standing.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks and water for the trip.

Is hotel pickup offered?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off services from Kandy or Ella. Travelers need to arrange their own transport to the starting point.

Can I buy tickets directly from Sri Lanka Railways?
While possible, some reviews indicate that tickets bought through third-party sites like Viator can be inflated and may limit availability. Booking well in advance is advised.

Is this experience suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and settling into reserved seats for a lengthy travel day.

In the end, this journey offers a chance to see Sri Lanka’s famed hill country in a relaxed, scenic way, making it a memorable part of your trip—just be prepared for the booking process and the length of the ride.