Sri Lanka's train journeys are legendary—especially the scenic Kandy to Ella route through tea country. Here's your complete guide to train travel including ticket prices, timetables, and booking tips.
Train Classes Explained
1st Class — Air-conditioned compartments with reserved seating. Observation cars available on scenic routes. Most comfortable but sells out quickly.
2nd Class — Reserved seating with opening windows. Best value for scenic journeys—you can lean out and feel the breeze.
3rd Class — Unreserved, wooden bench seating. Very cheap but can be extremely crowded. Arrive early for a seat.
Ticket Prices By Route
The Famous Scenic Routes
Kandy to Ella (Main Line)
Often called one of the world's most beautiful train journeys. Passes through tea plantations, over the Nine Arch Bridge, and alongside misty mountains. Best experienced in 2nd class with windows open.
Recommended Trains:
• Podi Menike (1005) — Departs 5:55 AM, arrives 12:27 PM
• Udarata Menike (1015) — Departs 9:45 AM, arrives 3:43 PM
• Night Train (1045) — Departs 11:10 AM, arrives 5:00 PM
Main Train Timetables
Colombo Fort to Kandy
How To Book Tickets
At the Station — Tickets available at counters. At Colombo Fort, use Counter 2 or 8 for hill country routes. 3rd class is unreserved and always available.
Online Booking — Book via eservices.railway.gov.lk up to 30 days in advance. 1st and 2nd class reserved seats can sell out weeks ahead for popular routes.
Booking Window — Reservations open 30 days before travel. For Kandy-Ella in peak season, book as soon as the window opens.
Tips For Train Travel
- Sit on the right: Kandy to Ella — better views of valleys and tea estates
- 2nd class is best: Open windows for photos, breeze, and the full experience
- Book early: 1st class sells out weeks ahead in peak season
- Delays happen: Trains can run 30 mins to 2 hours late—don't plan tight connections
- Bring snacks: Vendors sell food but selection is limited
- Hang from the door: The famous train photo spots—but be careful!
Conclusion
Train travel in Sri Lanka is an experience, not just transportation. With tickets as cheap as LKR 200-600 ($1-2) for most journeys and scenery that rivals any in the world, it's an essential part of any Sri Lanka itinerary. Book your Kandy-Ella journey in advance, grab a window seat, and enjoy one of Asia's greatest rail adventures.
