Kandy , Sri Lanka

Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy

Active

13h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour takes you on a scenic train ride through the beauteous mountains of tropical Sri Lanka. Embark on the train ride from the City of the Kings, Kandy. Feast your eyes on the colourful scenery and interesting villages passing by. Experience Sri Lanka's natural beauty at its best. Disembark at Ella and finish your tour with a walk through the delightful little town there.

Available options

Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy

Pickup included

What's included

Ella to Kandy Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.

Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy.

Hotel Pick & Drop.

1 Liter of Bottled Mineral Water Per Person.

Service of an English-Speaking Chauffeukr Guide.

Detailed itinerary

Your tour will start at 7:30 am from your hotel in Kandy when your chauffeur picks you up. You will then proceed to the Kandy Railway Station getting there by 8:00 am. The train will leave at 8:40 am and you will be booked optimal seats for sightseeing.

As the train travels to Ella you will be able to see many sights. The initial part of the ride will let you feast your eyes on the sight of the sun rising over the misty mountains. As the time reaches mid morning the bright green tea estates and the rolling slopes of the valleys will become visible. You will be able to see brilliantly colored wildflowers in untouched meadows and occasional villages and towns with invitingly cosy-looking homes. As you get closer to Ella you will find yourself passing through stands of trees and patches of forest with increasingly taller trees. You will be able to take photographs of all these and more.

There will be occasional sellers passing through the train selling fruit and snacks. However, it is recommended that you bring your own snacks as it will take you up till 3:00 pm to get to Ella. Once you get there you will be able to visit the town and have a delicious meal at one of the cafes there at your own cost.

After lunch, you will be able to walk around the town and check out some souvenir shops. You can socialize with some of the residents or the visitors or try the various delectable on offer in the many quaint eateries that pepper the area. At 4:30 pm you will be leaving Ella and will be driven back to Kandy. You will get back to your hotel by 9:00 pm completing your tour.

What's not included

Food and Beverages.

Expenses of Personal Nature.

Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kandy

Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)

A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (small fee for guided tours)

Kandy Esala Perahera

A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.

Cultural Multiple days Free (special seating may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Hoppers (Appa)

A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

String Hoppers (Idiyappa)

A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking Elephant watching Tea plantation tours Boat rides on Kandy Lake Tea tasting Spas and wellness centers Visiting temples and historic sites Attending cultural performances

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km

By train

Kandy Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Kandy Peradeniya Daluwala

Day trips

Nuwara Eliya

65 km • Full day

Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Sigiriya

100 km • Full day

Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.

Dambulla

80 km • Full day

Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.

Festivals

Esala Perahera • August Vesak • May (date varies) Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)

Pro tips

Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.