How to get from Kandy to Ella

Kandy to Ella is Sri Lanka’s most iconic journey. Choose the scenic hill-country train, a quicker private transfer via Nuwara Eliya tea country, budget buses (with a change), or a door-to-door tour/charter. Below you’ll find side-by-side comparisons, booking links, step-by-steps, and map planners.

At A Glance (Kandy to Ella)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚆 Scenic Train (Kandy → Ella)	~6–9h (service/season dependent)	Views, comfort, classic experience
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 600–7,000 (2nd/3rd class vs. reserved) » compare trains | SLR official booking
🚐 Private Car/Driver (Door-to-door via Tea Country)	~4.5–6.5h (stops/weather vary)	Flexibility, families, luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 35,000–70,000 per vehicle » get quotes
🚌 Public Bus (via Bandarawela/Badulla)	~7–10h (1–2 changes)	Lowest cost, flexible travelers
🏷️ Cost: ~LKR 1,000–2,500 total (legs + short taxi)
🧭 Guided Transfer/Day Tour (Kandy→Ella)	~6–10h (with scenic stops)	Door-to-door + sightseeing
🏷️ Cost: ~US$60–200 pp/vehicle » compare options | Klook picks

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Most scenic & memorable: Scenic train (try 2nd class reserved or observation when available).
• Fastest door-to-door: Private car/driver—stop at viewpoints and tea factories en route.
• Cheapest: Public buses with a change around Bandarawela/Badulla, then a short taxi/dolmuş to Ella.
• Comfort + sightseeing without planning: Guided transfer/day tour that includes Ramboda Falls, Nuwara Eliya, or Nine Arch Bridge.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Reserve early in peak months: Trains and popular transfers sell out—check 12Go and the official railway portal.
• Seat classes: 2nd class reserved is the sweet spot (windows open, assigned seat). 3rd class is cheapest but can be crowded.
• Luggage & timing: Bring layers (cool tunnels, warm sun), water, and snacks. Aim for mid-morning trains for light, or early for fewer crowds.
• Apps & rides: PickMe is the common ride-hailing app in Sri Lanka; for intercity fixed quotes consider GetTransfer.
• Staying over? Browse Ella stays (Little Adam’s Peak area) or Kandy lake-side hotels on Booking.com (Ella) and Booking.com (Kandy).

🚆 Option #1 — Scenic Train (Iconic, Budget-Friendly)

Scenic Comfortable Fixed schedule

• Overview: The hill-country line Kandy → Ella winds past tea estates, waterfalls, and misty ridges. Try to sit on the right (Kandy→Nanu Oya) then switch sides after Haputale for valley views.
• How to book (with price): ~LKR 600–7,000 depending on class and booking channel. Compare departures on 12Go or buy direct on the Sri Lanka Railways official site (when allocations open).
• Pros: Unbeatable scenery, authentic ride. Cons: Can sell out; occasional delays.

Step-by-step: Scenic Train

1. Get to Kandy Railway Station by tuk-tuk or PickMe 30–45 minutes before departure.
2. If you prebooked on 12Go or the official portal, have your voucher/QR ready; otherwise buy at the ticket window (subject to availability).
3. Board the correct carriage (2nd reserved/observation when available). Keep valuables close; doors and windows may be open.
4. Enjoy photo stops from the doorway (safely); consider a break at Nanu Oya or Haputale on some services.
5. Arrive at Ella Railway Station; walk or take a short tuk-tuk to your hotel.

Getting to the main embarking points (Kandy Station → Ella Station)

• Kandy Railway Station: Central; tuk-tuks queue outside.
• Ella Railway Station: 5–15 minutes by foot/tuk-tuk to most guesthouses.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #2 — Private Car/Driver via Tea Country (Fastest Door-to-Door)

Flexible Comfortable Costlier

• Overview: Go Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella with scenic pauses at Ramboda Falls, tea factories, or viewpoints. Perfect with luggage or kids.
• How to book (with price): ~LKR 35,000–70,000 per vehicle (size/season). Compare instant quotes on GetTransfer. In-city hops can use PickMe.
• Pros: Fastest, tailored stops. Cons: Price vs. train/bus.

Step-by-step: Private Car/Driver

1. Request a quote on GetTransfer with pickup time, luggage, and desired stops (e.g., Nuwara Eliya, Nine Arch Bridge).
2. Meet your driver at your Kandy hotel; verify vehicle size and child seats if needed.
3. Drive via A5 through Nuwara Eliya, continuing to Ella on A16; take photo/rest breaks every 1–2 hours.
4. Arrive at your Ella accommodation; pay remaining balance if applicable.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel in Kandy → Hotel in Ella)

• Pickup: Any address in central Kandy; airport pickups also possible.
• Drop-off: Any Ella hotel/guesthouse—many are on steep lanes; driver will get as close as possible.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #3 — Public Bus Combo (Cheapest)

Budget Frequent Connections needed

• Overview: Take a Kandy→Bandarawela/Badulla bus, then connect to Ella by local bus or tuk-tuk. Seats are first-come; expect multiple stops and mountain curves.
• How to book (with price): Buy on board or at the stand; ~LKR 1,000–2,500 total. For curated intercity listings check 12Go (Kandy→Ella)—availability varies.
• Pros: Very cheap, frequent services. Cons: Tight seating; variable timing; at least one transfer.

Step-by-step: Public Bus Combo

1. Go to Kandy Goods Shed Bus Stand (central) and ask for buses toward Bandarawela or Badulla.
2. Ride to Bandarawela/Badulla; keep small change for the conductor.
3. Connect to a local bus or tuk-tuk for the short hop to Ella Town.
4. Walk or tuk-tuk from Ella town to your hotel (some lanes are steep).

Getting to the main embarking points (Kandy Goods Shed → Bandarawela/Badulla → Ella)

• Kandy Goods Shed Bus Stand: Near the railway; tuk-tuks and PickMe available.
• Bandarawela/Badulla: Busy junctions with onward buses; tuk-tuks easy to find.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧭 Option #4 — Guided Transfer / Day Tour (Door-to-Door + Sights)

Hassle-free Sightseeing included Fixed itinerary

• Overview: Combine your relocation with visits to tea factories, Ramboda Falls, Gregory Lake, or a Nine Arch Bridge viewpoint before finishing in Ella.
• How to book (with price): From ~US$60–200 depending on private vs. shared and inclusions. Browse GetYourGuide or Klook.
• Pros: Easy logistics, stories from a local guide. Cons: Less schedule freedom than self-drive/private hire.

Step-by-step: Guided Transfer / Day Tour

1. Select an itinerary on GetYourGuide or Klook with your preferred stops (tea factory, waterfalls, Nine Arch Bridge).
2. Set your Kandy pickup (hotel/address) and confirm inclusions (tickets, lunch, guide language).
3. Meet your driver/guide, enjoy the curated stops, and continue to Ella hotel.
4. Tip your guide/driver if service was great.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotel in Kandy → Sights → Ella)

• Pickup: Door-to-door from most Kandy hotels; exact time on your voucher.
• Route highlights: Ramboda Falls, Gregory Lake (Nuwara Eliya), Nine Arch Bridge viewpoint (Demodara).
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kandy to Ella)

Which side of the train has the best views?
Right side from Kandy to around Nanu Oya; after Haputale, views open on both sides—switch if seats allow.

Do trains run daily?
Yes, but schedules and classes vary by day/season. Reserve early via the official portal or 12Go.

Is the road to Ella safe at night?
It’s mountainous with curves and occasional fog. Daylight driving is recommended; use trusted drivers and avoid rushing.

Can I bring large luggage?
On trains, big bags fit near doors or overhead if compact; keep valuables with you. In cars, confirm trunk space when booking.

Where should I stay in Ella?
Near Little Adam’s Peak/Nine Arch Bridge for views and trail access. Compare options on Booking.com.

Any storage options if I have a late train?
Ask your hotel to hold bags, or search citywide stashes on Radical Storage Kandy (availability varies).