How to get from Ella to Kandy

Planning to travel between Ella and Kandy, two of Sri Lanka’s most scenic hill-country towns? This guide walks you through every realistic way to get from Ella to Kandy—train, bus, private transfer and self-drive—so you can pick the option that fits your time, budget and travel style.

At A Glance (Ella to Kandy)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆 Scenic Train (Ella → Kandy)	~6–7h (allow for delays)	Iconic views, relaxed pace
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 600–3,000 one-way for standard classes; more for tourist 1st-class and packages » compare trains | rail tours | reserved seats
🚐 Private Car / Van Transfer	~4–5h door-to-door	Comfort, families, tight schedules
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 20,000–35,000 per vehicle depending on size and season » compare taxis & vans | long-distance transfers | airport/city pickups
🚌 Local Bus / Tourist Minivan	~5–6h (route- & traffic-dependent)	Cheapest fares, sociable & local
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 400–1,500 one-way (local vs. A/C or minivan) » tourist vans & shuttles
🚗 Self-Drive Car / Tuk-Tuk	~4–6h including stops	Adventurous travelers, side trips
🏷️ Cost: From ~LKR 10,000–20,000 per day for a small car or scooter (plus fuel & insurance) » compare scooters & bikes

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest / most convenient: If you want to get between hotels with minimum hassle, choose the 🚐 Private Car / Van (Option #3). It’s door-to-door, lets you schedule departure around your plans, and is easiest if you’re traveling with kids or lots of luggage.
• Most iconic / best scenery: The 🚆 Scenic Train (Option #1) is the classic Sri Lankan hill-country ride. It’s slower and can be crowded, but the views of tea fields, misty mountains and local villages are unforgettable.
• Cheapest / most economical: Budget travelers should look at the 🚌 Local Bus or Tourist Minivan (Option #2). Local buses are extremely cheap; tourist minivans cost more but include comfier seats and sometimes hotel pickup.
• Most flexible / side-trip friendly: Confident drivers who want to stop at waterfalls, viewpoints and tea factories en route will enjoy 🚗 Self-drive or Tuk-Tuk (Option #4). Just be prepared for steep, winding mountain roads.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Reserve popular trains early: Reserved seats (1st, 2nd, some 3rd class) between Ella and Kandy can sell out, especially in high season. Check schedules and availability on the official Sri Lanka Railways timetable, then book via the online seat-reservation portal or at stations with reservation counters.
• Use trusted booking platforms when seats are scarce: If official quotas are sold out, you can sometimes still secure tickets via platforms like 12Go Asia, curated scenic train products on Klook, GetYourGuide or Trip.com scenic train tickets.
• Book accommodation near stations or bus stands: In both Ella and Kandy, staying within walking or short tuk-tuk distance of the transport hubs makes departure day much smoother. You can browse stays in Ella and Kandy on Booking.com.
• Connect with ride-hailing apps: Around major towns, ride-hailing apps like PickMe (Sri Lanka’s local super-app) and sometimes Uber are useful for getting to and from stations or bus stands as an alternative to hailing tuk-tuks on the street.
• Check weather and disruption updates: Heavy rain and landslides in the hill country can temporarily close roads and railway lines. Before you travel, monitor recent situation updates from Sri Lanka Railways and public notices from the Sri Lanka Transport Board, especially during monsoon months or after major storms.
• Travel light when possible: Carriages and buses can get crowded. If you have big suitcases and a long gap before check-in, consider using a luggage-storage network such as Radical Storage in bigger cities on your route (for example, Colombo or Kandy) so you can explore hands-free.

🚆 Option #1 — Scenic Train (Most Iconic & Scenic)

Top scenery Relaxed pace Can be crowded

• Overview: Classic hill-country train from Ella Railway Station to Kandy Railway Station, usually taking about 6–7 hours. The route winds past tea plantations, forests, viaducts (including the famous Nine Arch Bridge earlier on the line) and misty mountain villages.
• Classes & comfort: Most travelers choose 2nd or 3rd class reserved for a good balance of price and comfort. 1st class and “tourist” carriages (including the Ella Odyssey when running) often have A/C, forward-facing seats and sealed windows; lower classes are more local in feel, with windows that open for photos.
• How to book (with price): Standard fares bought directly from Sri Lanka Railways typically run from around LKR 600–3,000 depending on class and whether you reserve. Check times and base fares on the official online timetable and book advance seats via seatreservation.railway.gov.lk or at major stations. If those allocations are sold out, you can still often secure seats via 12Go Asia, or packaged scenic journeys on GetYourGuide, Klook and Trip.com.
• Pros: Spectacular scenery; very atmospheric local experience; inexpensive by international standards; plenty of opportunities to chat with locals and other travelers.
• Cons: Slow and sometimes delayed; reserved seats can sell out weeks ahead in peak season; toilets are basic; luggage racks can be limited; standing-room-only in unreserved carriages at busy times.
• When to avoid: Immediately after very heavy rains or landslides, services on hill-country lines may be suspended or delayed. Always check latest notices on Sri Lanka Railways’ official site or with your guesthouse.

Step-by-step: Scenic Train from Ella to Kandy

1. Check the timetable and choose your train. Use the official online timetable (Ella → Kandy) to see departure times, train numbers, and which services offer reserved seats (including any Ella Odyssey or intercity services).
2. Decide on class and reserve seats if desired. For guaranteed seats, book via the official online seat reservation system, the Sri Lanka Railways mobile app, or in person at a station with reservations (e.g. Kandy, Colombo Fort, sometimes Ella). If everything is sold out, check services on 12Go Asia or organized scenic-train products on Klook, GetYourGuide or Trip.com.
3. Get to Ella Railway Station. From most guesthouses in Ella, you can walk (10–20 minutes from Main Street) or take a short tuk-tuk ride. You can hail one on the road, use the PickMe app (where available) or ask your hotel to arrange a ride.
4. Arrive 30–45 minutes early. Queues can form at ticket counters and platform access points. Show your booking reference (if reserved) and keep passports handy if you booked via the official online system.
5. On board: find your carriage and settle in. Check carriage numbers on your ticket; stow larger bags at the ends of the carriage and keep valuables on you. Snacks and drinks are sometimes sold on board, but it’s wise to bring your own water and food from Ella town.
6. Enjoy the views and know where to sit. From Ella to Kandy, many travelers prefer the left-hand side (facing direction of travel) for the most dramatic views over valleys and tea estates, though scenery is beautiful on both sides.
7. Arrival in Kandy. At Kandy Railway Station you’ll find tuk-tuks, PickMe cars and taxis waiting outside. If your hotel isn’t within walking distance, confirm the fare (or use the app) before you depart. If you have hours before check-in, consider temporary luggage storage in town via a network like Radical Storage so you can explore comfortably.

Getting to the main embarking points (Ella Railway Station)

• From Ella Main Street: Follow the road downhill toward the small bridge and railway crossing; the station entrance is clearly signposted and usually less than 15–20 minutes on foot from most central guesthouses.
• By tuk-tuk: A quick tuk-tuk ride from anywhere in town is inexpensive; agree the fare beforehand, or use PickMe where available for metered pricing.
• From out-of-town hotels: Ask your accommodation to arrange a transfer well ahead of departure, especially for early-morning trains; allow a buffer in case of fog or rain.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Local Bus / Tourist Minivan (Cheapest, Good Value)

Low cost Frequent departures Basic comfort

• Overview: Travel from the small Ella bus stand toward Kandy either by direct bus (when available) or with a change in a larger town such as Badulla or Bandarawela. Journey time is usually 5–6 hours depending on traffic, stops and connections.
• Types of service: Options range from basic non-A/C government or private buses to more comfortable A/C express buses or pre-booked tourist minivans. Tourist shuttles sometimes include hotel pickup and guaranteed seats.
• How to book (with price): Local buses are usually paid onboard with cash—expect roughly LKR 400–800 per person depending on route and bus type. Tourist minivans and shuttles are more, often LKR 1,500–3,000+ per person, and can be pre-booked via platforms like 12Go Asia or through local agencies. For certain long-distance government services, you may find online tickets via the official SLTB eSeat portal.
• Pros: Cheapest way to travel; frequent departures along the route; a very local experience; flexible if you want to hop off in an intermediate town.
• Cons: Seats can be cramped; limited luggage space; no guaranteed seat in standard buses; music can be loud; driving styles vary; delays possible due to traffic and road conditions.
• Best for: Travelers on a strict budget, those used to local transit, or anyone keen to experience everyday Sri Lankan life on the road.

Step-by-step: Bus or Minivan from Ella to Kandy

1. Ask locally about current routes. Bus routes and direct services can change. Check with your guesthouse or at Ella bus stand for the latest options, and whether a direct Kandy bus is running that day or if you should connect via Bandarawela or Badulla.
2. Decide between local bus and tourist minivan. If comfort and a seat are important, look for A/C buses or tourist shuttles and consider reserving via 12Go Asia. If saving money is the priority, a regular non-A/C bus is usually fine.
3. Get to the Ella bus stand early. Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your intended departure, especially for popular morning buses. Ask drivers or conductors to confirm the destination and where to change if needed.
4. Pay the fare and store your luggage. On local buses you’ll pay the conductor onboard; try to have small notes ready. Place large backpacks near the front or back of the bus as directed and keep valuables in a daypack you can keep with you.
5. Breaks and food stops. Buses may stop briefly at roadside snack stalls or larger towns. Carry water and light snacks, and don’t wander too far during short stops.
6. Arrival in Kandy. Most buses arrive near the Goods Shed Bus Stand close to Kandy Railway Station. From there, tuk-tuks, PickMe and sometimes Uber are available, or you can walk to central hotels.

Getting to the main embarking points (Ella & Kandy Bus Stands)

• Ella bus stand: Located along the main road in Ella town, a short walk from many guesthouses. Ask for “Ella bus stop”—locals will point you in the right direction.
• To Ella bus stand by tuk-tuk: From hillside hotels, arrange a tuk-tuk through your host or a ride-hailing app like PickMe; allow extra time as steep access roads can be slow.
• Kandy bus stands: Long-distance and many hill-country services arrive at or near the Goods Shed Bus Stand, a short walk from the railway station and the city centre.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #3 — Private Car or Van Transfer (Fastest & Most Comfortable)

Door-to-door Flexible schedule Highest cost

• Overview: A driver picks you up at your Ella accommodation and drops you at your hotel or guesthouse in Kandy, typically taking about 4–5 hours depending on traffic and photo stops. This is the easiest option if you value comfort and time.
• Vehicle types: Choices range from small cars for couples to larger vans or minibuses for families and groups. Some include Wi‑Fi, bottled water and sightseeing stops.
• How to book (with price): Expect roughly LKR 20,000–35,000 for a private transfer between Ella and Kandy, depending on vehicle size, season and inclusions. You can compare options and reviews on 12Go Asia or book long-distance rides anywhere in Sri Lanka via marketplaces like GetTransfer and city-to-city services by Welcome Pickups (especially useful if you’re combining this leg with airport transfers). Many local tour companies and hotels can also arrange a driver.
• Pros: Fastest and most convenient; hotel pickup and drop-off; full control over departure time; easy with bulky luggage; possible to add sightseeing stops like Diyaluma Falls or tea factories.
• Cons: Much more expensive than public transport; road conditions can be tiring if you’re sensitive to winding mountain roads; you won’t get the same social, local feel as on the train.
• Best for: Families with children, groups splitting the fare, travelers with mobility issues, those traveling very early/late, or anyone arriving in Sri Lanka the same day and connecting directly from Colombo with a driver.

Step-by-step: Private Transfer from Ella to Kandy

1. Compare offers and vehicles. Look at reviews, vehicle types and inclusions on sites like 12Go Asia, GetTransfer or, if you’re starting/ending in Colombo, Welcome Pickups. You can also ask your guesthouse to recommend a trusted local driver.
2. Confirm details in writing. Make sure your booking includes pickup time and exact location, vehicle type, whether tolls and fuel are included, and any planned sightseeing stops. Share your hotel address and a local contact number or messaging app.
3. Prepare for the drive. Pack motion-sickness tablets if needed, plus water and light snacks. Let your driver know if you’d like more frequent breaks or photo stops along the way.
4. Pickup in Ella. Your driver will usually meet you at reception or outside your guesthouse. Double-check vehicle plate number and driver name from your booking platform before getting in.
5. En route to Kandy. Typical routes pass through scenic hill-country roads with viewpoints, tea estates and small towns. Feel free to ask your driver to stop safely for photos or short breaks.
6. Drop-off in Kandy. You’ll be taken directly to your chosen accommodation. This option is especially handy if your hotel is on a hill above the city or away from main public-transport routes.

Getting to the main embarking points (Your Hotel in Ella)

• Hotel pickup: Most private transfers include pickup from your hotel or guesthouse. Check whether very steep or narrow access roads are suitable for larger vans and discuss alternatives with your driver if needed.
• Meeting point in town: If vehicle access is difficult, you may be asked to meet at a central point in Ella (for example, near the main road or the railway station). Confirm the pin location in advance.
• Backup options: For shorter hops around town, or if you need to move between guesthouses before pickup, use local tuk-tuks or apps like PickMe.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Self-Drive Car or Tuk-Tuk (Most Flexible)

Freedom to stop Great for side trips Challenging roads

• Overview: Rent a car, scooter or tuk-tuk and drive yourself between Ella and Kandy, stopping at waterfalls, viewpoints and tea plantations along the way. Travel time is roughly 4–6 hours depending on your route and the number of stops.
• Licensing & permits: Sri Lanka drives on the left. You’ll normally need an International Driving Permit plus either a temporary local driving permit or endorsement from the Department of Motor Traffic (some rental companies arrange this for you). Tuk-tuks require special permits—always use a reputable provider.
• How to book (with price): Expect to pay around LKR 10,000–20,000 per day for a small car or tuk-tuk, plus fuel and any extra insurance. You can compare scooter and motorbike rentals in Sri Lanka on platforms like BikesBooking, then contact local companies directly to confirm pickup in or delivery to Ella.
• Pros: Maximum flexibility; you can start early or late; stop anywhere that catches your eye; combine Ella–Kandy with detours to places like Nuwara Eliya, waterfalls or lesser-known viewpoints.
• Cons: Mountain roads are narrow, often without guardrails, and local driving styles can be assertive. Fog and heavy rain reduce visibility; night driving is not recommended. Parking in central Kandy can be tricky.
• Best for: Experienced drivers who are comfortable with mountain driving and left-hand traffic, and who want to explore independently rather than follow a fixed timetable.

Step-by-step: Self-Drive from Ella to Kandy

1. Arrange your rental. Contact a reputable rental agency in advance to confirm vehicle type, insurance, permits and any one-way drop-off fees if you’re not returning the vehicle to Ella. Platforms like BikesBooking can help you compare providers for scooters and bikes.
2. Plan your route and stops. Popular stops include viewpoints near Ella, tea factories, temples, and hill towns. Download offline maps for Google Maps and/or OpenStreetMap-based apps in case mobile signal drops.
3. Check the weather. Avoid starting a long mountain drive in the middle of heavy rain or when significant landslides have been reported in the hill country. Your guesthouse or the official Sri Lanka Tourism site can often point you to current advisories.
4. Drive cautiously. Keep speeds low on bends, watch for buses and tuk-tuks cutting corners, and be ready for pedestrians, animals and sudden potholes. Use low gears on steep descents to avoid overheating brakes.
5. Arrive and park in Kandy. Many hotels have their own parking. In the city centre, look for designated parking zones and obey local signs; if in doubt, ask your accommodation where to park safely.

Getting to the main embarking points (Vehicle Pickup/Drop-off)

• Pickup location: Some rentals will deliver the vehicle to your Ella guesthouse; others use a central office or parking area in town. Confirm exact details and pickup time in advance.
• Drop-off in Kandy: If you’ve agreed on a one-way rental, clarify where to hand the vehicle back (e.g. at a partner office, your hotel, or a public car park).
• Using ride-hailing as backup: If you prefer not to drive into central Kandy’s traffic, you can drop the vehicle on the outskirts (where agreed) and then use PickMe, Uber or a tuk-tuk to reach your hotel.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Ella to Kandy)

Is the Ella to Kandy train really worth it?
Most travelers consider this one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, thanks to tea plantations, forests and villages along the line. If you have the time and don’t mind a slower, sometimes crowded ride, the train is absolutely worth doing at least one way.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Ella to Kandy?
For reserved seats in 1st or 2nd class, aim to book at least several days ahead in low season and 1–3 weeks ahead in peak periods and holidays. Use the official Sri Lanka Railways seat reservation system or visit a major station’s reservation counter. If official quotas are sold out, check platforms like 12Go Asia or curated tickets on Klook, GetYourGuide and Trip.com.

Which side of the train has the best views from Ella to Kandy?
From Ella to Kandy, many travelers prefer sitting on the left-hand side (facing direction of travel) for sweeping valley and tea-plantation vistas, though views are lovely on both sides. If you can, move around the carriage or stand near open doors (safely and where permitted) for photos.

Is it safe to travel between Ella and Kandy during monsoon or bad weather?
In normal seasonal rains, travel continues with minor slowdowns. However, during periods of very heavy rain, landslides and flooding can temporarily close both roads and railway lines in the hill country. Always check recent updates from Sri Lanka Railways and the Sri Lanka Transport Board, and follow advice from your accommodation; if conditions are severe, consider postponing travel or using a different route/date.

Can I bring large luggage on the train or bus?
Yes, but space is limited. On trains, large backpacks usually sit at carriage ends or under benches; on buses, they may go near the driver or in the aisle. Pack valuables in a daypack you can keep with you, label larger bags clearly, and avoid blocking exits.

Where should I stay in Ella and Kandy to make this journey easier?
For the smoothest departure days, stay within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride from Ella’s main street and Kandy’s railway/bus hubs. Central guesthouses also make it easy to explore restaurants and sights before and after your journey; you can compare well-located options in Ella and Kandy on Booking.com.