Sri Lanka’s central highlands are best experienced by train. The Ella Odyssey train will escort you from Colombo’s bustle to the beauty of chilly Badulla.
Overview
Running daily between the Colombo Fort railway station and Badulla railway station, the Ella Odyssey train leaves for Badulla on Thursday and Saturday while the return journey to Colombo occurs on Friday and Sunday. Thus, for some of the most picturesque takes on Sri Lanka’s mountain regions, it is recommended that you reserve tickets on board the Ella Odyssey train.
Highlights
The train covers a total travel time of 10 hours and 23 minutes and makes a stop at 21 railway stations between both cities while passing an amazing 10 tourist attractions that will have you in awe of the environs. 176 air-conditioned seating areas are allocated for 1st Class, 144 for 2nd Class travel and a further 50 seats for those in 3rd Class.
Tickets
For a 1st Class ticket to Badulla, expect to pocket out LKR 5,000 while if you intend on hopping off at Kandy, then the cost would be LKR 3,000. On the other hand, 2nd Class tickets to Kandy, Nanu Oya and Badulla will incur charges of LKR 2,000, LKR 3,000 and LKR 4,000 respectively. However, in 3rd Class which is the cheapest of the lot, you will be required to pay LKR 3,000 for the entire duration.
Attractions
The ebbs and flows of the island nation’s landscapes will be yours to savour and take pleasure in when riding the Ella Odyssey Train. These include the citadel of Kandy, Nanu Oya, Bandarawela, Ella and Demodara. Along the way, you will be able to witness Adam’s Peak, St. Clair’s Falls and the Nine Arches Bridge which is one of the finest places to visit in Sri Lanka as provided for on Truly Sri Lanka.
