Kandy to Ella Train Journey

The route, built in 1924, climbs from 500 meters to 1,041 meters elevation through some of the country's most scenic landscapes. It is at Ella Railway Station, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Ella's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one.

You sit in colonial-era carriages with open doors and windows as the train winds through dozens of tunnels and over bridges. Tea pickers wave from hillside plantations while waterfalls cascade beside the tracks, and mountain air flows through the carriage as you climb higher.

Consistently rated as one of the world's most scenic train routes through active tea country. That puts it near the top of any Ella visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Ella Spice Garden and Nine Arches Bridge - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Ella. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

See where it ranks among the things to do in Ella. The Ella guide covers transport, costs and when to go.

We plan trips to Ella and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.