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Take a scenic train ride through Sri Lanka's central highlands on the Mountain Train from Kandy to Ella. This ride offers breathtaking views of lush greenery, tea plantations, and misty mountains. You can also hike to nearby viewpoints like Ella Rock and visit the Ravana Falls after the train journey.
The train runs from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. The High Mountain Tea Garden Railway is known as "the most beautiful high mountain train line in the world," traversing forests, tea plantations, and clouds, and its reputation is well-deserved. The train, shrouded in the aroma of tea, travels so slowly it almost feels like falling asleep, like a journey through time and space.
The railway station is clearly old-fashioned, and while a bit run-down, its location amidst the mountains lends it a unique character. The crisscrossing railway lines creates a striking contrast between the red trains in the foreground and the green mountains in the distance, creating a picturesque scene.
September to October is the best time to travel to Sri Lanka. This is the dry season and suitable for travel.
The whole journey takes about 4 hours
First class seat 1000 rupees, second class seat 600, third class seat 400
No matter which bus you take, there will be delays. It all depends on your luck.
The Mountain Train is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, running through Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. It was built during British colonial rule in the 19th century and was originally used to transport tea and other goods from the hill country to Colombo.
The Mountain Train runs between Kandy and Ella. To get there, take a taxi or a bus to Kandy from Colombo, then board the train. The nearest train station for the Ella route is the Kandy Railway Station.
The train operates several times a day, with the best time to visit being early morning for clearer views. The dry season, between November and April, is ideal for clear skies and optimal visibility.
The ticket price for the Mountain Train ranges from around LKR 300 to LKR 1,500 depending on the class (third, second, or first class). Tickets can be purchased at the train stations or booked online through Sri Lanka Railways or other travel agencies.
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for first-class seats, which are limited. You can book online or at the station at least a few days before your trip.
The train ride takes about 6-7 hours one way from Kandy to Ella, depending on stops. A full day is ideal for exploring the train journey and the surrounding areas.
The journey itself is the highlight, with beautiful views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains. Make sure to get a window seat for the best experience.
Guided tours are not commonly available on the train itself, but private guides can be arranged for the trip to provide commentary in English, German, or other languages.
The best photography spots are from the windows of the train as it passes through the hills, particularly near Nuwara Eliya, the Nine Arches Bridge, and Ravana Falls.
The recommended route is the full Kandy to Ella journey, which offers the most scenic views. If you have limited time, you can take the train from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy to nearby stations for shorter rides.
There are no night visits or light shows. The train operates only during daylight hours, with the journey being best experienced in the morning.
The train can get crowded, especially during holidays and peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays and avoid the peak months of December to February.
The train has basic facilities, including toilets and small food carts offering snacks and drinks. However, it's recommended to bring your own water and food for the journey.
The train can be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to the narrow aisles and stairs. It’s more suitable for children and active visitors who can comfortably manage the train's environment.
Cash is required for purchasing tickets at the station and for onboard snacks. Cards or mobile payments are generally not accepted, especially in remote areas along the route.
There are several small tea houses and local restaurants near the train stations, especially in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella, offering Sri Lankan cuisine and tea.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in local restaurants along the route. Halal options can be found in larger towns like Kandy.
In Kandy, Ella, and Nuwara Eliya, you can find various accommodations from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular choices include "Hotel Topaz" in Kandy and "Ella Flower Garden Resort" in Ella.
Nearby attractions include the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, the botanical gardens in Peradeniya, Ravana Falls, and Ella Rock. These can be combined with your Mountain Train journey for a full day of exploration.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near train stations and in towns like Kandy and Ella. Typical souvenirs include tea, wooden carvings, handmade jewelry, and Sri Lankan batik clothing.
After completing the Mountain Train journey, you can take buses or private taxis to continue to nearby destinations such as Nuwara Eliya, Colombo, or even head back to the airport.
