Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Sri Lanka’s verdant highlands, as you travel from the cultural hub of Kandy to the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya by train. This full-day excursion promises an enchanting experience, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming colonial architecture. From marveling at the iconic Ramboda Falls to exploring the quaint streets and historic landmarks of Nuwara Eliya, this tour offers a tantalizing glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness that defines this remarkable region. The journey itself, however, is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

Nuwara Eliya From Kandy by Train - Key Points

  • This full-day private excursion from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya includes a scenic vintage train ride through the lush highlands.
  • The tour stops at Ramboda Falls and Blue Field Tea Factory on the return journey, providing a comprehensive experience.
  • Pickup from Kandy hotel, air-conditioned vehicle for return, and an English-speaking guide are included in the tour.
  • The train ride is not private, but the rest of the tour is tailored for group immersion.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves walking, with a maximum of 8 people per booking.

Tour Overview

Nuwara Eliya From Kandy by Train - Tour Overview

The tour offers a full-day private excursion from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill station with a strong British colonial heritage.

Centered around this colonial history, the tour includes a vintage train ride into the lush highlands. Along the way, visitors will stop at Ramboda Falls and the Blue Field Tea Factory on the return journey.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary tickets and transportation.

While the train ride isn’t private, the rest of the tour is tailored to the group, making it an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s colonial past and natural beauty.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing early morning, the tour kicks off with a pickup from the hotel in Kandy. Guests then transfer to Peradeniya railway station to board the train to Nanuoya station. The scenic 3-4 hour train ride takes them through lush landscapes, villages, and waterfalls, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.

Destination Highlights
Nuwara Eliya Explore the town’s British colonial architecture, Lake Gregory, and the vintage post office.
Ramboda Falls Stop to admire the cascading waterfall on the return trip.
Blue Field Tea Factory Visit the tea factory and learn about the local tea production process.

The return journey includes stops at the picturesque Ramboda Falls and the Blue Field Tea Factory, providing a well-rounded experience.

Transport Inclusions

Nuwara Eliya From Kandy by Train - Transport Inclusions

This tour includes pickup from the hotel in Kandy and drop-off at the end of the day.

The transportation is provided by an air-conditioned vehicle for the journey from Nuwara Eliya back to Kandy.

Train tickets are also included, with a choice of 2nd or 3rd class seating. Guests can upgrade to 1st class if available.

An English-speaking chauffeur guide accompanies the group throughout the tour, providing insights and assistance.

Bottled water is provided per person, and entrance fees to the sites visited are covered in the tour price.

Guests are responsible for their own meals, drinks, and optional gratuities during the tour.

Tour Accessibility

Nuwara Eliya From Kandy by Train - Tour Accessibility

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as it involves walking and navigating through various sites.

However, it’s located near public transportation. The tour can accommodate a maximum of 8 people per booking.

Comfortable walking shoes and hats are recommended, as the tour includes outdoor activities like exploring Nuwara Eliya and visiting Ramboda Falls.

It’s important to note that the train ride isn’t private; only your group will participate in the tour.

Confirmation may vary if within 3 days of travel, so it’s essential to check the details before booking.

Suggested Attire

When embarking on this tour, visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and hats. The terrain can be uneven, and the weather in the highlands can be unpredictable.

To ensure a pleasant and enjoyable experience, the following attire is recommended:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing that can be easily layered
  • Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Water-resistant jacket or light sweater, as the temperature can drop in the highlands

Customer Feedback

According to the customer reviews, the overall rating for this tour is 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 6 reviews.

While some customers highlighted the scenic views and the guide’s efforts during disruptions, there were also several complaints. These included train cancellations, lack of guide knowledge, and altered itineraries.

Customers noted that the tour isn’t fully private, as the train ride is shared with other passengers. The price starts at £59.80 and is non-refundable upon cancellation, which some may find restrictive.

Tour Pricing

Pricing for the Nuwara Eliya from Kandy by Train tour starts at £59.80 per person. This is a non-refundable rate upon cancellation.

The tour includes:

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy
  • Air-conditioned vehicle transport from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy
  • English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Train tickets (2nd or 3rd class; 1st class upgrade subject to availability)
  • Water bottle per person, entrance tickets to sites

However, the tour doesn’t cover food, drinks, or optional gratuities.

Customers should also note that the train ride isn’t private, with only the tour group participating.

Booking Confirmation

Nuwara Eliya From Kandy by Train - Booking Confirmation

Upon booking, customers typically receive confirmation of their Nuwara Eliya from Kandy by Train tour. This confirmation outlines the key details, including the full-day itinerary, highlights, and inclusions.

Customers can expect to receive pickup from their Kandy hotel and a scenic train ride through the highlands. The tour also includes stops at Ramboda Falls and the Blue Field Tea Factory.

Travelers should note that the train ride isn’t private, and the tour may be subject to changes if booked within 3 days of travel. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a maximum of 8 people can be booked per reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Lunch Options Included in the Tour?

The overview does not mention any lunch options being included in the tour. The inclusions only cover hotel pickup/dropoff, transportation, train tickets, and entrance fees, without specifying any meals.

Can We Request a Specific Train Carriage Class?

Yes, customers can request a specific train carriage class, subject to availability. The tour includes train tickets in 2nd or 3rd class, but a 1st class upgrade can be requested for an additional fee.

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customization options may be available, though limited. Guests can typically request train carriage class upgrades, subject to availability. However, the overall itinerary and included activities are generally fixed for this private tour from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.

How Experienced Is the Tour Guide in British Colonial History?

The tour guide has some knowledge of British colonial history, though the level of expertise is not clearly specified. Customers’ reviews indicate the guide made efforts to provide information, but lacked comprehensive knowledge on the historical aspects of the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy. Cancellations made within 3 days of travel will not receive a refund, as stated in the important information section. The price for the tour starts at £59.80.

Recap

Taking the scenic train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya provides an enchanting journey through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands. Travelers can marvel at the picturesque landscapes, explore Nuwara Eliya’s colonial charm, and experience the natural beauty of Ramboda Falls and the Blue Field Tea Factory. This memorable day trip offers a captivating blend of cultural insights and stunning vistas, making it an ideal excursion for those seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s captivating highlands.