An Iconic Journey for a Few Dollars
Often hailed as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, the journey from Kandy to Ella is a bucket-list item for good reason. The route, originally built by the British in the 19th century to transport tea from the lush hill country, has become
an iconic travel experience. The slow-moving, often brightly colored trains—typically blue or red—chug through some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning landscapes. For a journey that can last between six to eight hours, the ticket prices are astonishingly low. Unreserved third-class tickets can cost as little as a couple of dollars, while even reserved second-class seats often come in under $10, making it one of the best travel bargains on the planet.
How to Book Your Ticket
The train offers three main classes, and choosing the right one is key to your experience. First Class provides air-conditioning and reserved seats, but the windows are sealed, which means you miss the open-air feeling and photo opportunities. Second and Third Class are the fan favorites, offering open windows and doorways. Both have reserved and unreserved options. Reserved seats guarantee you a spot and are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they sell out weeks or even months in advance. You can book these online through third-party sites like 12go.Asia. If you're more spontaneous, you can buy unreserved tickets at the station on the day of travel, but be prepared to stand for at least part of the journey, as these cars can get very crowded.
The Onboard Experience and a Crucial Tip
Once you're on board, the magic begins. The atmosphere, particularly in second and third class, is a lively mix of tourists and locals. Vendors walk through the carriages selling snacks like crispy lentil fritters (vada) and sweet milk tea, adding to the authentic experience. Now for the most important tip: If you're traveling from Kandy to Ella, sit on the right side of the train. This will give you the most expansive and breathtaking views of the valleys and tea plantations. From Nuwara Eliya onwards, the views become spectacular on both sides, but for the first leg of the journey, the right side is undeniably superior. For the return trip from Ella to Kandy, you'll want to be on the left side.
Views That Just Won't Quit
The scenery is the undisputed star of the show. The journey begins by climbing out of Kandy and soon enters the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. You'll pass through dense forests, charming villages where children wave at the train, and seemingly endless rolling hills blanketed in meticulously manicured tea bushes. Look closely and you’ll see the brightly colored saris of tea pluckers moving among the green leaves. The train navigates dramatic ridges, crosses old stone bridges, and ducks into numerous tunnels, with each exit revealing another stunning vista.
The Grand Finale: Nine Arch Bridge
As the train approaches Ella, it reaches its most famous landmark: the Nine Arch Bridge. Located between Demodara and Ella stations, this massive stone viaduct curves gracefully through the jungle-clad valley. As the train slowly makes its way across, passengers hang out of doorways to capture the iconic photo. It’s a moment that feels suspended in time, perfectly blending colonial-era engineering with the wild beauty of Sri Lanka. The bridge itself has become a major attraction, with travelers gathering in the valley below to watch the train pass over this architectural marvel.
