Train Tickets From Kandy to Ella

Embarking on the train journey from Kandy to Ella is a must-do experience for any traveler exploring Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes. With prices starting at an affordable $20.00 per person, this scenic rail route offers a delightful and budget-friendly way to take in the country’s natural wonders. Booking at least a week in advance is recommended to secure seats, as the service is non-refundable. Passengers can conveniently purchase tickets online, at the Kandy railway station, or through authorized travel agents, with same-day options available but limited. But the real question is, what captivating sights and cultural insights await along this picturesque journey?

Key Points

1. Tickets for the Kandy to Ella train journey can be purchased online through the Sri Lanka Railways website or in person at the Kandy railway station.
2. Train ticket prices start at $20.00 per person and vary based on group size, with reservations including reserved seats and GST.
3. The journey takes approximately six hours and offers scenic views of tea plantations, rolling hills, and iconic landmarks like the Nine Arches Bridge.
4. Booking at least seven days in advance is recommended to ensure seat availability, as the service is non-refundable and cancellations do not result in refunds.
5. The meeting point for the journey is located at William Gopallawa Mawatha in Kandy, and printed train tickets must be collected from the station before boarding.

Overview of the Journey

The Kandy to Ella train journey is renowned for its scenic views as it winds through lush tea plantations and rolling hills for six hours.

The trip features the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era viaduct known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky’. This engineering marvel, constructed entirely of brick, stone, and cement, offers travelers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The train’s steady pace allows passengers to appreciate the changing scenery, from verdant hillsides to cascading waterfalls, creating an unforgettable experience.

Whether traveling from Kandy to Ella or the reverse, the journey promises to be a highlight of any Sri Lankan adventure.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Kandy to Ella train journey can be purchased for either direction of travel. Prices start at $20.00 per person, with variation based on group size.

Reservations include reserved train seats and GST (Goods and Services Tax). Tickets can be delivered to your hotel or collected at the station.

Booking at least seven days in advance is advisable to ensure seat availability and avoid issues. The service is non-refundable, and cancellations don’t result in refunds.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is received at the time of booking the Kandy to Ella train journey. The service is non-refundable, and cancellations don’t result in refunds.

It’s advisable to book at least seven days in advance to ensure seat availability and avoid issues.

Travelers should be aware that the service isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Plus, it’s recommended to purchase tickets directly from the railway station to avoid potential scams and inflated prices.

Following these guidelines can help ensure a smooth booking process and a pleasant train journey from Kandy to Ella.

Meeting Points and Accessibility

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

Passengers must collect their printed train tickets from the station before boarding. Unfortunately, this service isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the journey.

The key accessibility details are:

1. The meeting point is at William Gopallawa Mawatha, Kandy.
2. Printed tickets must be collected from the train station.
3. The service isn’t wheelchair accessible.
4. Infants must sit on laps during the journey.

Travelers should plan accordingly and arrive at the meeting point with ample time to collect their tickets before the train’s departure.

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Frequently, the service has received mixed reviews from travelers. Common complaints include issues with ticket availability, receiving different class seats than booked, and dissatisfaction with customer service responses. To better understand the range of experiences, consider the following table:

Sentiment	Percentage
Positive	42%
Neutral	23%
Negative	35%

Travelers are advised to book in person at the railway station to avoid potential scams and inflated prices. This can help ensure a smoother journey and a more satisfactory experience.

Train Route and Scenic Highlights

What makes the Kandy to Ella train journey so renowned for its scenic views? The six-hour trip winds through Sri Lanka’s lush tea plantations and rolling hills, offering travelers breathtaking vistas.

The highlights include:

1. The iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era viaduct known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky’.
2. Panoramic views of verdant tea estates cascading down mountainsides.
3. Passing through Nanuoya, a picturesque town nestled among verdant peaks.
4. Crossing the Demodara Loop, an engineering marvel where the train tracks spiral over each other.

This unforgettable journey showcases Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, captivating passengers with its stunning landscapes.

Duration and Schedule

The Kandy to Ella train journey typically takes around 6 hours to complete, though the exact duration can vary slightly depending on factors like weather conditions and train schedule.

Trains typically depart Kandy in the early morning hours, with the journey arriving in Ella in the early afternoon.

Passengers should plan to be at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for boarding.

The train runs daily, with multiple services available throughout the day.

Travelers are advised to consult the latest timetable to ensure they book the most convenient service for their needs.

How to Purchase Tickets

Travelers can, in several ways, purchase tickets for the Kandy to Ella train journey.

Tickets can be booked:

1. Online through the Sri Lanka Railways website, which offers the option for delivery to hotels or collection at the station.

2. In person at the Kandy railway station, where you can purchase tickets and collect them on the same day.

3. Through authorized travel agents, who can handle the booking process and potentially offer additional services.

4. At the Kandy station on the day of travel, though availability may be limited, and prices could be higher.

Regardless of the method, it’s recommended to book at least a week in advance to ensure seat availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Train?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the train. It’s recommended to pack light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the scenic 6-hour journey from Kandy to Ella.

Are There Bathrooms on the Train?

There are bathroom facilities available on the train. Passengers can use the restrooms during the six-hour journey from Kandy to Ella, which are typically clean and well-maintained.

Can I Get off at Intermediate Stations?

Yes, passengers can get off at intermediate stations along the Kandy to Ella train journey. However, it’s essential to check the ticket details as some tickets may not allow for stops at intermediate stations.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Journey?

The best time of day to take the Kandy to Ella train journey is in the morning. This allows travelers to fully enjoy the scenic views throughout the day and arrive at their destination before sunset.

What Are the Options for Seating Classes?

There are several seating class options for the Kandy to Ella train journey. Passengers can choose from first class, second class, and third class depending on their budget and preferences. Each class offers different levels of comfort and amenities.

Recap

The train journey from Kandy to Ella offers a scenic and memorable experience for travelers. Tickets can be booked in advance to ensure availability, though same-day purchases are possible. Passengers should arrive at the station early and collect their printed tickets before boarding. With stunning landscapes along the route, the trip is a popular option for exploring Sri Lanka’s beautiful countryside.