Facts about the train from Kandy to Ella
| Cheapest Train | $30 |
| Fastest Train | 6h 28m |
| Earliest Train | 8:13 AM |
| Latest Train | 8:13 AM |
| Daily Train Routes | 1 |
| Distance | 100 kilometers |
| Train | Sri Lanka Railway |
Trains from Kandy to Ella
Recommended
Transport type
Price
Departure
Departure Station
Arrival
Arrival Station
Transportation from Kandy to Ella
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Trains$ 29.05
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Flights$ 170.42
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Taxis$ 46.20
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Vans$ 30.63
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Buses are not available
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Ferries are not available
Kandy to Ella Destination Reviews
MS
Madlen SOverall great experience. Immediately after booking (34 days prior train departure) we received an email with a booking confirmation, however, it took very long until we received the ticket confirmation/voucher (11 days prior train departure). The shipping of tickets went smooth, however, we never received an email confirming the shipment of the tickets as it was mentioned in the ticket confirmation email.
So overall the train ride was superb, just a little bite nerve killing waiting for confirmation or hoping tickets will arrive:)
Kandy to Ella, Train #1005 2nd Class Reserved Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Sep 20, 2022
CR
Chathurika RWhen a family book tickets they are assigned random seats and not together.
Then police come and inquire you about the seats.
No one wants to leave kids and others at random places
Kandy to Ella, Train Second Class Reserved Seats, Ella Odyssey, Apr 16, 2022
AA
Apolonia AFast efficient service
Kandy to Ella, Train Second Class Reserved Seats, Ella Odyssey, Apr 16, 2022
DR
David RVery expensive way to guarantee a seat. We booked Kandy to Ella train journey on 13th April 2022 (reserving just over 1 month before), reserving for $39.34USD, for two tickets for 2nd class seated. We ticked that if these were not available that we would take an upgrade. We were emailed 1-2days later to say that there were no 2nd class tickets and asked if we would pay the extra of $5.5USD/person, which we accepted and paid
We subsequently came to Sri Lanka and was told by our taxi driver (who is from Kandy), that we grossly overpaid and this was a complete ripoff. He explained that the tickets are only a fraction of the cost and that we should make a complaint about the website. When we checked the tickets on the train, we found that they only cost 2400Sri Lankan rupees which at the time of ordering (mid-March 2022), equalled 8.88USD. This seems to be a hussle that relies on foreigners paying over and above the cost of the ticket for fear of tickets not being available. This was one of the more expensive international websites to use so I would at least encourage people to shop around for cheaper prices
The train journey itself was great. Slightly delayed by 20mins but otherwise well timed, regular snacks and great views. It was busy on most carriages however there were a few free seats (maybe 90% full, this was on Sri Lankan New Year’s Eve as well which I believe is normally a very busy time). I cannot comment on how full 2nd class seated was (I am presuming it was full as per 12Go’s email to us). Our driver did insist that tickets are always available on the day (although I think this is only for non-seated tickets), so it leaves me wondering if I would bother booking again in advance (with a large price markup of over 600%) to guarantee tickets or just take a chance getting tickets on the day…I would certainly at least shop around for other websites anyway
Kandy to Ella, Train #1015 1st Class Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Apr 14, 2022
HC
Henriette CThe price was clearly changed
Kandy to Ella, Train #1005 2nd Class Reserved Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Apr 10, 2022
AP
Andrea PThey changed the date
Kandy to Ella, Train #1015 Third Class Reserved Seats, Sri Lanka Railways, Apr 3, 2022
MN
Mark NWould have been excellent had another train not derailed in front of us. Had to get off carry luggage 500 metres to next station to get onward train. Only lost about an hour so very good all considered.
Kandy to Ella, Train #1041 Second Class Reserved Seats, Sri Lanka Railways, Apr 3, 2022
NM
Nick MEverything was just smooth and handled professionally. Very happy with the service overall.
Kandy to Ella, Train #1005 1st Class Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Mar 30, 2022
AL
Adam LAn excellent service for train tickets! 12go purchased the tickets in advance and delivered them to the hotel. Upon arrival at check-in the tickets were waiting for us. It made the trip smooth and easy. Many other travels had to wake up early or go to the station the day before whilst we had them in our possession from day 1! I messaged 12go to check the train details and they responded extremely quickly. Could not recommend them enough! Thank you so much
Kandy to Ella, Train #1005 1st Class Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Mar 29, 2022
PB
Peter BThese guys did exactly what they said they would. Trustworthy and efficient. I recommend their service. Peter
Kandy to Ella, Train #1005 2nd Class Reserved Seat, Sri Lanka Railways, Mar 25, 2022
Popular Routes
Popular Routes in Sri Lanka
How to get from Kandy to Ella by Train
Taking a train to get from Kandy to Ella is a safe, fast, and scenic option to travel the country. On certain routes, there are multiple train departures per day every 10 to 15 minutes. This is typical for intercity travel, while for long distance train routes there are fewer scheduled departures – plan ahead to choose the one that fits your itinerary best.
For long distance train journeys, we recommend reserving your tickets at least a few days ahead of your travel date. Buying train tickets via our online booking system will allow you to choose and reserve the best Kandy to Ella tickets.
Buying your tickets online will help you secure the trip on the selected date and avoid queuing at the station.. When travelling on weekends and holidays it is recommended to reserve tickets much earlier due to a much higher demand. During high season, train tickets sell out quickly – do book as early as you can.
How far is it from Kandy to Ella?
Travelling by train, the distance from Kandy to Ella is 63 miles. Before setting on for a train journey, have a look at the map to find out what tourist spots or landmarks you will pass by – maybe they are worth a quick stop?
How long does it take to get from Kandy to Ella by Train?
Travel time from Kandy to Ella is estimated to be about 6h 28m. Trains ensure the fastest time to travel by land. As normally there is no congestion, the speed of travel is more or less constant and stops at train stations are rather short, train is almost always one of the quickest and safest ways to get from Kandy and Ella.
The most important thing that may affect train travel time is the type of train. Ordinary trains travel at a speed of about 40 mph or 65 km/h to 65 mph or 105 km/h. Some intercity trains with shorter distances between stations run slower than 40 mph. Even with these low speeds, it can still be faster than commuting by car, bus or taxi.
The speed of express trains can reach up to 100 mph or 160 km/h. Modern high-speed trains can run at speeds exceeding 250 mph or 400 km/h.
These speeds of travel together with relatively short stops between stations can greatly shorten the duration of your trip.
How much does it cost to get from Kandy to Ella by Train?
The train ticket price from Kandy to Ella varies depending on the types of trains or carriages available.
Some trains feature different types of carriages, seats and berths offering various amenities and level of comfort.
Basic passenger trains which are often non-air-conditioned and have wooden, hard or old seats are normally cheap. Premium or luxury trains and coaches have a higher ticket price but are equipped with air-conditioning, toilets, and large soft seats with sufficient legroom to make train rides comfortable.
Considering the distance travelled, train is the most affordable means of transport. Also, ticket prices include 2 or 3 bags – sometimes even more – per passenger.
Kandy to Ella timetable
Trains are great for long-distance travel. Double-check your travel itinerary and use the Kandy to Ella timetable above with train departure times and arrival times to find the best train for your route.
Best-Rated Companies for this Route
Unlike buses or taxis which have numerous companies offering their services, train service is usually offered by just one major company in each country. As railway service requires a large amount of infrastructure, most railway companies are government-owned and are a part of the national transport system.
One of the best advantages of travelling by train is that railway stations are often conveniently located within or very near major cities and urban areas. Immediately on arrival to their destination, travellers find themselves in close proximity to important facilities like hotels, supermarkets, and hospitals.
If you travel with a lot of bags and luggage, trains are your best option. Luggage weight limits on trains are rather flexible and allow you to carry multiple bags with you.
Special or luxury trains feature sufficient legroom which allows you to stretch your legs and relax. In comfort and space these train seats can be compared to business class airplane seats.
Similar to buses, trains can provide a variety of amenities to make your travel more comfortable and enjoyable. Modern trains have WIFI service, a snack counter and a drinking bar. Onboard toilets can be a life saver for travellers with queasy stomachs.
Lastly, unlike buses and other overland means of transport, trains are very rarely involved in accidents.