The train journey from Kandy to Ella is often called one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, and for good reason. This 6-7 hour journey through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country takes you across rolling tea plantations, misty forests, and quaint mountain villages. It’s not just a way to travel; it’s an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm.
A Journey Through the Heart of Sri Lanka
The adventure starts in Kandy, a vibrant cultural hub in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Known for its iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and serene Kandy Lake, the city serves as the perfect starting point for this scenic train ride. At the Kandy railway station, the sight of the colorful, vintage trains creates a sense of excitement. The train itself is an experience—a mix of locals, tourists, and vendors selling snacks, all coming together for the long but rewarding journey.
There are usually two trains departing daily from Kandy to Ella—one in the early morning around 6 am, and another at noon. Taking the morning train lets you experience the golden hues of sunrise filtering through the hills, while the afternoon ride allows you to see the landscapes drenched in soft afternoon light. Either choice promises incredible views.
Lush Tea Plantations and Rolling Hills
As the train begins its slow climb out of Kandy, the city’s bustling streets quickly give way to rolling hills blanketed with tea plantations. This is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, where neatly trimmed rows of bright green tea bushes stretch as far as the eye can see. Tea pickers, often wearing colorful saris, dot the hillsides as they go about their daily work, adding a vibrant splash of life to the serene greenery.
The journey becomes even more beautiful as the train climbs higher into the hills. The air turns cooler, the mist begins to rise, and the train meanders through valleys where you’ll spot small villages nestled against steep hillsides. Occasionally, the train slows down or stops at smaller stations, offering glimpses of daily life in Sri Lanka’s hill country—children waving, vendors selling fresh fruits, and locals hopping on and off.
Crossing Bridges and Passing Waterfalls
One of the highlights of the train journey is the series of iron bridges and viaducts the train crosses as it snakes through the hills. Each crossing feels like a moment suspended in time, as you look down at dense forests, rushing rivers, or deep valleys below. The most famous of these is the Nine Arches Bridge, located near Ella. While you’ll pass it closer to the end of the journey, the view of this architectural marvel surrounded by lush greenery is one of the most iconic sights of the trip.
Throughout the ride, you’ll also spot numerous waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides, particularly after the monsoon season. Some of these waterfalls are hidden deep in the forests, while others are clearly visible from the train windows, adding a magical touch to the landscape.
Life on the Train
The train ride itself is an experience to cherish. The vintage train carriages have a rustic charm, with open windows and doors that allow you to feel the cool breeze on your face. As the train chugs along, you’ll find that standing by the open doors is one of the best ways to take in the scenery—it’s as if the landscape stretches out just for you.
Vendors often walk through the aisles selling local snacks like spicy peanuts, samosas, and freshly cut fruits. These treats, combined with a warm cup of Sri Lankan tea, are the perfect companions for the journey. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s a sense of camaraderie among passengers as they share stories, take photos, and marvel at the beauty outside.
For photographers, every turn offers a new perspective—mist-covered mountains, endless tea estates, bridges over deep valleys, and locals going about their day. It’s no wonder this train ride is so often featured in travel guides and postcards.
The Final Stretch to Ella
As the train approaches Ella, the scenery reaches its peak beauty. The small, laid-back town of Ella is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and tea plantations. The train ride slows as it passes through tunnels and curves around the hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The air feels fresher, and the views more expansive as you descend slightly toward Ella.
The final stretch of the journey is marked by the sight of the Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic stone bridge built during the British colonial era. Many travelers look forward to this part of the ride, as the bridge’s beautiful arches, surrounded by thick forests, create a postcard-perfect scene.
When the train finally pulls into Ella station, the sense of fulfillment is undeniable. The journey from Kandy to Ella is more than just a ride—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, its people, and its charm.
Why This Journey Is Special
The Kandy to Ella train journey is unique because it takes you deep into Sri Lanka’s central highlands, offering a close look at the country’s diverse landscapes. From the tea-covered hills to misty valleys, rivers, and villages, every part of the ride feels like a new discovery. It’s not just about reaching Ella—it’s about everything you see, feel, and experience along the way.
The slow pace of the train, the cool mountain air, and the warm smiles of fellow travelers all combine to create a journey that feels like a step back in time. It’s a chance to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with nature’s beauty in its purest form.
Experience the Magic of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country
The scenic train from Kandy to Ella is more than a train ride—it’s an unforgettable adventure through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whether you’re gazing out at endless tea plantations, feeling the cool wind through open doors, or marveling at waterfalls and bridges, every moment of this journey is special.
Plan your scenic train journey with LocalHi and experience the charm, beauty, and magic of Sri Lanka’s hill country for yourself.
