Located amidst the lush hills of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a charming city well worth visiting; adding to the adventure is a train ride here from Ella, another idyllic town in the mountains.
Why Take the Train Ride?
The main reason for journeying from Ella to Kandy (or vice versa) by train is the chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of the landscapes. On your way, you will pass by hills covered in greenery including tea bushes, small villages, old bridges, waterfalls and mountain vistas that will be truly awe-inspiring.
Plan Accommodation Ahead
Ensure you find suitable accommodation before you set off. When looking for the best hotel Kandy has to offer, find one that is a short drive from the train station. This includes properties like Hotel Topaz which are also within easy reach of key Kandy attractions like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Booking Your Train Tickets
Train tickets sell out fast especially on weekends or holidays so book ahead; tickets are usually available up to 30 days in advance and can be purchased at the train station you are departing from. The good thing is you can also buy tickets for any routes (like Ella to Kandy) at any other train station too.
Train Carriages and Duration
There are several carriage options; this includes the observation carriage which offers full views at the rear, a first-class air-conditioned carriage with reserve seating and second and third-class carriages with reserved and unreserved options. Trains from Ella depart to Kandy at 06:40am, 09:24am and 12:05pm and takes around seven hours.
