Scenic Train Ride to Ella From Kandy

Nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella offers travelers an unforgettable journey through the island’s renowned tea estates and picturesque valleys. Departing in the morning, the 6-to-7-hour ride showcases breathtaking vistas at every turn, with ample opportunities for exploration upon arrival in the charming town of Ella. Complemented by convenient inclusions like pre-arranged tickets and an English-speaking guide, this highly-rated tour promises a seamless and memorable travel experience. Those seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and witness its renowned tea cultivation would find this journey particularly enchanting.

Key Points

• The scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella showcases Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, including tea estates and valleys, with pre-arranged tickets and an English-speaking guide.

• The train journey lasts 6-7 hours, with opportunities for shopping and dining in Ella, and a maximum group size of 8 to ensure a comfortable experience.

• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a base package that excludes food, drinks, and personal expenses.

• The train departs at 8:40 AM from Kandy Railway Station, with pre-arranged seating, and private return transportation to the hotel around 9:00 PM.

• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and customers are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and be aware of the accessibility limitations and policies before booking.

Tour Options and Pricing Comparison

The Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy offers several tour options for visitors, each with its own pricing structure.

The Scenic Train Trip from Kandy to Ella is priced at $150, with the cost varying based on group size.

The Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Day Tour is available for $80 per group, while the Horton Plains Tour is $140, also with price variations for group size.

The Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari is priced at $89, and the Day Tour to Nuwara Eliya is $85 per group.

Travelers can also compare similar experiences, such as a Scenic Train Ride to Ella from Kandy for $90 or a First Class Scenic Train Ticket to Ella for $75.

Highlights of the Scenic Train Ride

The scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella showcases Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, offering passengers a chance to enjoy the country’s rolling tea estates, verdant valleys, and charming local villages.

Pre-arranged tickets and transfers enhance the convenience, while an English-speaking chauffeur guide provides assistance throughout the journey. Passengers can look forward to shopping and dining opportunities in Ella, as well as a private return drive to Kandy at the end of the tour.

The experience, however, isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the maximum group size is limited to 8 people. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the best experience.

Convenient Tour Inclusions

One of the key advantages of the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella is its convenient tour inclusions. The experience features an air-conditioned vehicle for transport, along with an English-speaking chauffeur guide to assist you throughout the tour.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are also provided, ensuring a seamless experience. While the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, gratuities, or personal expenses, the base package offers excellent value.

Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour’s maximum group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

These convenient inclusions make the scenic train ride an appealing option for travelers seeking a hassle-free way to explore the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka.

Pickup and Meeting Details

Departure for the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella begins at the customer’s hotel in Kandy. The pickup time is set for 7:30 AM, ensuring arrival at Kandy Railway Station by 8:00 AM.

The tour includes assistance from an English-speaking chauffeur guide throughout the journey. Customers will board the train, which departs at 8:40 AM, with pre-arranged ideal seating arrangements.

The scenic 6-to-7-hour train ride showcases the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, including tea estates, valleys, and local villages.

After the train ride, the chauffeur will provide private return transportation to the customer’s hotel in Kandy, arriving around 9:00 PM.

Experience Accessibility and Policies

Although the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella isn’t wheelchair accessible, it can accommodate a maximum group size of 8 people.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour may involve some light walking.

It’s essential to recognize that this experience is non-refundable, and cancellations will result in the full charge.

Customers with any questions or concerns should direct them to the Viator Help Centre for assistance.

The tour operator give you a seamless and enjoyable journey, but it’s vital for guests to be aware of the accessibility limitations and policies before booking.

Nearby Attractions and Recommendations

Kandy and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of nearby attractions and related activities for visitors to explore. Popular sights include the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, and the picturesque tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya. The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy also draw many travelers. For those interested in extending their experience, options include private sightseeing tours, day trips to Sigiriya and Dambulla, and even a Kandy village cooking class.

More Attractions Near Kandy	Duration	Price
Sigiriya Rock Fortress	–	–
Dambulla Cave Temple	–	–
Nuwara Eliya	–	–
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens	–	–

Scenic Train Ride Benefits

The scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella showcases Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, allowing travelers to enjoy the country’s lush landscapes.

The journey winds through verdant tea estates, picturesque valleys, and charming local villages, offering a fascinating panorama.

Travelers can enjoy the convenience of pre-arranged tickets and transfers, making the experience seamless.

The tour also provides an opportunity for independent exploration and dining in Ella, while a private return drive to Kandy is included post-tour.

With an English-speaking guide on hand, travelers can learn about the region’s rich culture and history throughout the journey.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella, with many highlighting the stunning vistas and seamless organization of the tour.

On the review site Viator, the experience boasts a stellar 4.9-star rating from over 1,200 reviews. Guests laud the comfortable train journey, informative guide, and picturesque scenery that unfolds along the route, from tea plantations to verdant valleys.

Several reviewers note the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, while others appreciate the flexibility to disembark in Ella for shopping and dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Scenic Train Ride?

The scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella typically takes between 6 to 10 hours, depending on the specific train and class of travel selected. The journey showcases Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes along the way.

How Often Do the Trains Run From Kandy to Ella?

The trains from Kandy to Ella run multiple times daily, with departures approximately every 1-2 hours throughout the day. Travelers can select from a variety of train classes and schedules to suit their preferences.

Can I Purchase Tickets for the Train Ride on the Day of Travel?

Yes, travelers can purchase train tickets on the day of travel for the Kandy to Ella route. However, it’s best to book in advance as tickets may sell out, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

Are There Any Special Dining Options Available on the Train?

The train ride does not offer any special dining options. Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks onboard. There are no dining facilities or catering services provided during the scenic train journey.

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

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the train. This allows them to enjoy a personal meal or snacks during the scenic journey. However, some train companies may have restrictions on certain items, so it’s best to check beforehand.

Recap

The scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella offers an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes. With pre-arranged tickets, an English-speaking guide, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, travelers can enjoy a seamless experience showcasing stunning vistas and lush tea estates. The tour’s high customer ratings and numerous positive reviews further attest to its popularity and quality, making it a must-do experience for visitors to Sri Lanka.