The Kandy to Ella Train: A Journey Unparalleled
Popular, picturesque, and packed with vistas, the train ride from Kandy to Ella is much more than a mere journey. It’s an experience par excellence, often referred to as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Let’s Begin At Kandy
Kandy is a city nestled among the hill country of Sri Lanka. Classified as the country’s cultural capital, tourists and locals flock here to explore its rich heritage, lush green landscapes, and cool, refreshing air. Home to the world-renowned Temple of the Tooth Relic and the tranquil Kandy Lake, there is a charm about Kandy that one cannot resist.
Destination Ella
Ella, on the other hand, is a small, cozy town in the highlands. With a climate that will impress the hardest of hearts, Ella’s tea plantations and rolling hills offer a scenic paradise. The Ravana Falls and the Nine Arch Bridge are must-visit landmarks located near Ella.
Onboard The Kandy-Ella Train
The railway line from Kandy to Ella, being 125 years old, exudes an old-world charm. Unfazed by the rush of modern technology around it, the train moves at a leisurely pace, allowing passengers to absorb the stunning beauty of the landscapes passing by. Despite being modest in accommodations, the joy this train ride offers is simply unparalleled.
The route from Kandy to Ella is awash with ever-changing landscapes. Watch tea pickers work in vast plantations, wave back to friendly locals, catch a glimpse of a water buffalo or a sporadic waterfall, and experience the gradual descent of mist over the mountains as you head further inland. This seven-hour ride hardly feels prolonged with such allure.
Catching The Right Train
There are four trains daily from Kandy to Ella starting from as early as 8:47 am to as late as 11:10 pm. However, the most popular among travelers are the trains departing at 8:47 am, 11:10 am, and 3:30 pm, providing ample opportunities to revel in the magical landscapes in daylight.
Class Encounters
The Kandy-Ella train offers three travel classes: First, Second, and Third. The First Class includes an observation car, which has large windows and is often fully booked by tour groups. The Second Class offers a bit more nitty-gritty experience, replete with reclining seats. The Third Class grids are the simplest, where cushioned seats aren’t guaranteed, but the captivating window views certainly are.
Tickets, Anyone?
Let’s be realistic, securing a ticket from Kandy to Ella can get a little tricky due to high demand. While you could book well in advance online through a booking agency, please binge on a bit of adventure and buy a ticket on the day itself from the Kandy railway station. Typically, third-class tickets never run out!
Packing For The Ride
A journey like this should find you well-prepared. Essential carry-ons include a good camera for those spectacular frames, a light jacket for when it gets chilly, and some snacks for the cravings along the way. Also don’t forget to pack in a good dose of excitement and a bear-sized heart, willing to fall in love with the landscapes!
The Verdict?
The Kandy-Ella train ride is a tantalising moveable feast of views. It’s a brilliant way to travel between these two lovable places, and it also helps you synchronise your senses with nature’s rhythm. The fact that this ride is ultra-photogenic and utterly enjoyable is a sweet little bonus.
