Kandy to Ella Train Ride on (Train No: 1005 Podi Menike)

Embarking on the Kandy to Ella train ride aboard the Podi Menike (Train No: 1005) promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating landscapes. Departing from the historic Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station, passengers can enjoy the lush tea estates, charming villages, and breathtaking vistas of mountains and waterfalls that unfold along the scenic route. With comfortable seating options and first-class amenities, the experience offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. As the train winds its way to the picturesque town of Ella, travelers are left with a deeper appreciation for the country’s stunning geographical diversity and the joy of train travel.

Key Points

• The Podi Menike train connects Kandy and Ella, showcasing Sri Lanka’s scenic countryside with tea estates, villages, and lush landscapes.
• Passengers can choose between first-class or second-class seating, with first-class offering more amenities and plush seating.
• The train departs from Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station at 8:30 AM, and the journey ends at the Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway in Ella.
• The train ride includes hotel pickup and drop-off services, but food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 15 travelers, and a moderate physical fitness level is required for participation.

Overview of the Train Ride

The Podi Menike train connects the cities of Kandy and Ella, offering passengers a scenic journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning countryside.

This route takes travelers through picturesque tea estates, charming villages, and lush green landscapes. Along the way, passengers can marvel at the breathtaking views of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers.

The train travels through several major stations, allowing riders to catch glimpses of the local life and culture. The journey is particularly renowned for its scenic beauty, making it a must-do experience for anyone visiting the region.

With its comfortable carriages and stunning vistas, the Podi Menike train ride is a delightful and unforgettable way to explore the heart of Sri Lanka.

Ticket Information

To guarantee your seat on this popular train, it’s best to pre-book tickets. You can choose either first- or second-class seating. The train departs from Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station.

Booking in advance ensures you have a reserved spot, as this route is in high demand. Ticket prices vary depending on the class you select. First-class offers more comfort and amenities, while second-class provides a more basic but affordable option.

All taxes and service charges are included in the ticket price. Just be sure to arrive at the station with plenty of time to spare before the 8:30 AM departure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The train ride includes the scenic journey itself, with all taxes and service charges covered in the ticket price. However, passengers will need to pay for any food, drinks, or personal expenses during the trip.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Scenic train ride	Food or drinks
All taxes and service charges	Personal expenses
Hotel pickup and drop-off from/to Kandy or Ella	–
–	–
–	–

The train departs from Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station, and the journey ends at the Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway in Ella.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the Kandy to Ella train ride is located at William Gopallawa Mawatha in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

From there, passengers will be picked up and transported to the Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station to board the Podi Menike train.

The end point of the journey is the Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway in Ella, Sri Lanka.

The train departs at 8:30 AM, so passengers should arrive at the meeting point on time.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Travelers with back problems are also not recommended to join this experience.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Kandy to Ella train ride.

This trip isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems. A moderate physical fitness level is required.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers. Passengers can cancel their reservations up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and the lowest price is guaranteed.

Based on 3 reviews, the train ride has a rating of 3.5 out of 5, with no 5-star ratings.

Train Route and Scenery

Winding its way through the lush, verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, the Podi Menike train journey from Kandy to Ella offers passengers a captivating visual feast.

Traversing misty tea plantations, the train climbs through rolling hills dotted with small villages, their colonial-era homes and shops nestled amid vibrant greenery.

As it ascends, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep ravines lining the tracks.

Passengers can marvel at the engineering feats that allow the train to navigate this rugged terrain, including the iconic Nine Arch Bridge near Ella.

Throughout the journey, ever-changing vistas keep travelers enthralled, making the Kandy to Ella train ride a true highlight of any Sri Lankan adventure.

Onboard Amenities

As passengers settle into their seats, they’ll find a range of onboard amenities to make their journey comfortable.

First-class coaches feature plush seating, ample legroom, and personal reading lamps. Second-class seats are slightly more modest but still provide a pleasant ride.

Throughout the train, passengers can take advantage of the onboard refreshment service, offering a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages.

For those seeking a scenic respite, the large windows offer panoramic views of the passing landscapes. Ample storage space is available for luggage, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.

With these thoughtful amenities, the Podi Menike train delivers a comfortable and enjoyable journey from Kandy to Ella.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Passengers can pre-book their tickets to secure a seat on this popular train route connecting Kandy and Ella. Ticket options include first- or second-class seating, with the train departing from Peradeniya/Kandy Railway Station.

The scenic journey includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy or Ella, though food, drinks, and personal expenses are excluded. Confirmation is received upon booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems. A moderate physical fitness level is required, with a maximum of 15 travelers per tour.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and a lowest price guarantee is offered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Train?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the train. The overview does not mention any restrictions on outside food or beverages, so travelers are free to enjoy their own provisions during the scenic journey.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Train Ride?

There are no age restrictions for this train ride. Infants must sit on laps, but passengers of all ages can enjoy the scenic journey. The train is open to travelers from young to old.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Journey?

While it’s possible to purchase tickets on the day of the journey, it’s recommended to pre-book them to guarantee a seat on this popular train. Last-minute tickets may be limited or more expensive.

Is There Luggage Storage Available on the Train?

There is no dedicated luggage storage on the Podi Menike train. Passengers can store their belongings on the overhead racks or under their seats, though space may be limited. It’s recommended to travel light for this scenic journey.

Can I Take Photographs During the Train Ride?

Yes, passengers can take photographs during the train ride. The scenic views along the route provide excellent opportunities for capturing the picturesque landscapes, tea estates, and villages that the train passes through.

Recap

The Kandy to Ella train ride on Train No: 1005 Podi Menike promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes. Passengers can expect comfortable seating, first-class amenities, and breathtaking views of tea estates, charming villages, and majestic mountains. This scenic route culminates in the picturesque town of Ella, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. It’s an experience not to be missed.