Travel in comfort on a first-class scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy. This journey showcases Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes, offering panoramic views of lush tea plantations and breathtaking mountains. Each ticket includes pre-booked seating, ensuring a relaxed experience as you glide through picturesque scenery. Ideal for travelers looking to soak in the natural beauty and charm of Sri Lanka, this train journey is a must-do, connecting two of the country’s most iconic destinations. Due to damage caused by Cyclone Dithwa, the Until Further Notice Train Experience will temporarily end at Nanuoya. For your convenience, a complimentary shuttle service will be provided to cover the section not accessible by train. We appreciate your understanding and apologize for any inconvenience caused.
Prices are per person when two book together; a solo traveller pays $110.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 6.
Board your train in Ella and begin your magical journey through rugged mountains, lush greenery, and pristine lakes. Find your seats in the first-class section of the train and settle in. As you ride to Kandy, the train will first pass through a narrow ridge and misty green forests before reaching Highlands several rushing waterfalls. Continue through Nanuoya and small villages surrounding the beautiful countryside of Sri Lanka. Whilst you pass the luscious fields of tea to cross into Horton Plains, keeping an eye out for wildlife and glamorous settings. As enter your final stretch, enjoy the views of green rolling hills before pulling into Kandy, a bustling town nestled in the Highlands of Sri Lanka. Currently the trains Terminate at Nanuoya Station due the damage caused by The cyclone dithwa. We provide a shuttle service to Kandy. Important Notice: Bookings made within 30 days may not always receive the preferred class, although priority is always given to the chosen class.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Excurgo comparison of 729 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From Ella: First Class Scenic Train Ticket to Kandy lasts about 6–10 hours. The itinerary has 1 stop.
Prices start at $95 per person for this Kandy experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. That is the per-person price when two book together; a solo traveller pays $110. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Confirmation is sent by the operator within 24 hours of booking.
Travellers rate it 4.6 out of 5 across 5 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Ceylon Pass.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
The train isn't running from Ella to Kandy, so these people should revise their listing. They did come back pretty quick after I'd tried to book to confirm that the trip isn't possible, but it was a waste of time even trying to book.
They are so lovely and helpful very good communication before the activity they told the railway is damaged and arranged us a transfer to Kandy. I see some criticism to the service provider in other feedback but it’s very bad as how are they responsible for damages due to a natural disaster! Also if it’s too expensive don’t book an activity you cannot afford! I feel sorry for these guys having to put up with these type of people who leaves bad reviews without a base!
First class was miserable, well they all looked it. Must be prebooked. Our guide organised this and drove us to the station. No need to use the toilets at station better available on train. We did second class. Windows open for experience and view. Personally prefer to open bottom and look out with care. Tea and coffee sold by boy coming into carriages. Then Samosas. Then expensive treats such as Kit Kats . Doors are locked for safety, but if you find a guard they will help you do a safer door open and hang out of train. We looked into first class all windows closed and all in carriage were either miserable as sin or aloof. Our driver met us at Ella to take us on to our next hotel. A must do and enjoyable experience. Proceeded to 9 arches which whilst enjoyed and wouldn’t have liked to miss, I wouldn’t worry too much if you can’t fit that one in Best seats would be F 47 and 48 in carriage were were in
We had our hearts set on taking the famous train journey from Ella to Kandy, but due to heavy monsoon rains, part of the track was impassable. Rather than cancel, we decided to still make the trip and support the local areas with our tourism dollars — and we’re so glad we did! We booked through Viator with Ceylon Pass, and it was absolutely worth every cent. Although the trip had to be modified several times due to weather and busy periods, Viator kept us fully informed every step of the way. We were genuinely impressed by their professionalism and communication — no surprises, just seamless coordination. We ended up traveling from Ella to Ambewela by train in first class, and from there, Udaya and Gayan, our private drivers, took the reins when the tracks were closed. From our hotel door in Ella to our hotel door in Kandy, everything was perfectly arranged. The private luxury bus that shuttled us through the mountains felt like a VIP experience — comfortable, scenic, and expertly guided. One of the most memorable moments was passing through Ramboda, where we saw the flower boys running down the mountain, selling beautiful fresh bouquets of roses and lilies to passing travelers. Their energy, smiles, and spirit were so heartwarming — I only wish I’d known about them beforehand so I could have supported them directly. These young men were a highlight of the journey, and their hard work truly embodies the warmth and resilience of Sri Lanka. 🌺 This tour was a 10/10 experience — professional, caring, and full of heart. Ceylon Pass and Viator went above and beyond to make what could have been a disappointment into one of the most special memories of our trip. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Sri Lanka — even with travel challenges, the team ensured our adventure was safe, scenic, and unforgettable. 🇱🇰💛
We went from Ella to Kandy it was the most memorable journey for me and my wife we cannot wait to go home and share the memories with family
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| From Ella: First Class Scenic Train Ticket to Kandy | 6–10 hours | 4.6 (5) | $95 | |
 First Class Scenic Train Ticket From Kandy To Ella | 6–10 hours | 3.9 (31) | $95 | View |
 From Kandy: Second/Third Class Scenic Train Ticket to Ella | 10 hours | 5.0 (6) | $89 | View |
 Kandy to Ella Scenic Road Trip and Train Ride Tour | 8–11 hours | 5.0 (7) | $65 | View |
 Kandy to Ella Tour by Car with Scenic Train Ride from Nanu Oya | 6–10 hours | 5.0 (7) | $55 | View |
 Ella Private Day Trip with Train Ride & Tea Factory-All Inclusive | 10–12 hours | 4.9 (74) | $145 | View |
 Nuwaraeliya Nanuoya Ella Train Tickets | 2–3 hours | 4.0 (52) | $24 | View |