Kandy to Ella train ride on (Train No: 1015 “Udarata Menike”)

Travelers dreaming of Sri Lanka’s legendary scenic train rides often focus on the route from Kandy to Ella. Known as one of the most picture-perfect train journeys in the world, this ride offers a window into the island’s lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and colonial rail heritage. While this particular tour, operated by Lakpura LLC, aims to facilitate booking of reserved seats on the iconic Udarata Menike train, it’s worth exploring what you can realistically expect—balancing the mesmerizing vistas with practical considerations.

We’re drawn to this experience for a few reasons: its reputation for breathtaking scenery, the convenience of reserved seating, and the chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most famous tea estates and mountain vistas. However, some travelers have also raised concerns about ticket availability and pricing transparency. If you’re considering this journey, it’s best suited for those who value authentic travel experiences and are comfortable with advanced planning.

Key Points

• The journey runs from Colombo Fort to Kandy and then onwards to Ella, passing through some of Sri Lanka’s most scenic landscapes.
• The train’s highlight is the stretch from Hatton to Haputale, renowned for panoramic tea estate views and mountain scenery.
• Tickets are usually booked around 39 days in advance, with options for 1st class AC or 2nd class non-AC reserved seats.
• The total travel time is approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it a leisurely but long trip.
• Pricing at $45 per person offers access to a well-organized scenic ride, although some reviews highlight issues with ticketing practices.
• The experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic train rides, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want a memorable journey rather than just transportation.

The Kandy to Ella train is frequently lauded as one of the must-do journeys for visitors to Sri Lanka. The train operated by Train No: 1015 “Udarata Menike” is designed to take you through the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, offering expansive views of tea plantations, lush forests, and traditional villages.

It begins at Colombo Fort Railway Station, arriving in Kandy around 11:03 am. From there, the train departs, heading southward through scenic landscapes until reaching Ella around 5:10 pm. This makes for a day-long adventure, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and relax.

One of the key features of this route is the spectacular section from Hatton to Haputale, where the train threads through the mountains, often passing through tunnels and alongside terraced tea estates. This segment alone is considered one of the most photogenic train rides in the world, with travelers often citing it as the highlight of their Sri Lankan trip.

Booking and Ticketing

A significant point to note with this tour is that it offers reserved seats in 1st class AC or 2nd class non-AC compartments. This reservation service provides comfort and guaranteed seating, which can be a challenge on this popular route if you try to buy tickets directly from the railway station—especially during peak seasons.

The booking window is typically around 39 days in advance, so planning ahead is essential. The cost is listed at $45 per person, which includes all taxes and service charges. While this price might seem reasonable for a scenic day trip, some reviews point out that the ticketing process can be a little complex, especially if the tickets are bought via third-party providers like Viator. There are concerns about inflated prices and limited availability when tickets are purchased through agents rather than directly from the railway.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The experience guarantees a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella, with the option of reserved seating, but it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off—so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Kandy’s railway station and from Ella at the journey’s end. Food and drinks are also not included, so packing a snack or enjoying local vendors at stations is advisable.

Personal expenses are also on you, and the tour’s small group size of up to 15 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, avoiding the bustle of large tour groups.

The Scenic Highlights

The real magic of this ride lies outside the window. As the train skirts the mountains and descends into valleys, you’ll see lush tea estates, often in neat, terraced rows. The journey also features numerous tunnels, which add a touch of adventure, and glimpses of traditional villages and farmland.

Travelers have expressed that the views from the train provide a true sense of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, with some noting the train’s slow pace as perfect for photography. If you’re into capturing landscapes or simply want to enjoy the scenery without rushing, this ride offers plenty of opportunities.

Authenticity and Practicalities

While this tour aims to deliver an authentic train experience, some reviews reveal a less rosy side. One reviewer, Bev, mentions a common issue: ticket scalping and inflated prices through third-party sellers, which may limit the ability to buy directly from the railway and could lead to disappointment or increased costs.

The tour’s emphasis on reserved seats is a definite plus, especially for travelers who dislike the unpredictability of unreserved second class. It also means you can select a more comfortable or spacious compartment, making the long journey more bearable.

Timing-wise, the departure at 11:00 am from Kandy allows travelers to enjoy a relaxed morning and avoid the early start. The ride’s length of around 6 to 7 hours might be long for some but is generally considered a reasonable duration given the scenery.

The Experience: Real Travelers’ Perspectives

With only three reviews available, opinions are somewhat limited, but some insights stand out. One reviewer rated the experience 3.7 out of 5, citing the scenic views but also highlighting potential frustrations with ticketing practices. It’s clear that while the journey itself is stunning, the booking process can be a sticking point for some.

The quoted review, “Never again,” reflects frustration with third-party sellers, emphasizing how important it is to plan ahead or seek reliable sources. Despite this, many travelers agree that the scenery, especially between Hatton and Haputale, makes the journey worthwhile.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early: Secure your reservation as soon as possible, ideally 39 days in advance, to avoid disappointment.
• Consider your physical fitness: Moderate fitness levels are recommended, as the journey involves a long day on the train.
• Bring snacks and water: Food isn’t included, and stations can have limited options.
• Prepare for the weather: Depending on the season, it might be cool or hot—bring appropriate clothing.
• Capture the moments: A camera or smartphone with a good zoom will help you make the most of the panoramic views.
• Arrive early at the station: To ensure a smooth start and find your reserved seat without hassle.

This train ride is perfect for those seeking a relaxing, scenic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes. It suits travelers who are prepared to plan ahead for tickets, enjoy train travel, and appreciate authentic experiences over luxury. If you’re a photography enthusiast or a lover of mountain vistas and tea plantations, this trip will be a highlight.

However, if you prefer a shorter, more comfortable experience or dislike long journeys, you might want to consider alternative options or private transport. For those willing to brave the logistics, this journey offers a genuine glimpse into rural Sri Lanka’s beauty—an experience unlikely to be forgotten.

The Kandy to Ella train ride on the Udarata Menike is a genuine highlight of any Sri Lanka itinerary. It combines the charm of vintage railways with some of the most iconic scenery the country has to offer. While ticketing can be tricky, the effort is often rewarded by sweeping mountain vistas, lush tea estates, and village scenes that stay with you long after the train has pulled into Ella.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value authenticity, enjoy scenic journeys, and are comfortable with a bit of advance planning. It’s a fantastic way to see Sri Lanka’s hill country from a different perspective—on a train that’s as much a part of the adventure as the views themselves.

In summary, if you’re after a memorable, picturesque train ride and are willing to plan ahead, this journey offers some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning scenery—all from the comfort of reserved seats in a train that feels like a moving postcard.

How do I book the tickets for this train ride?
Tickets can be booked through Lakpura LLC or other authorized vendors, usually around 39 days in advance. Be aware of the potential for inflated prices if purchasing via third-party platforms.

What are the seat options available?
You can reserve 1st class AC compartments or 2nd class non-AC seats. Reserved seating guarantees comfort and reduces the stress of finding a seat during peak times.

How long does the journey take?
The trip lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting from Colombo Fort at 11:00 am and arriving in Ella around 5:10 pm.

Can I buy tickets directly from the railway station?
While possible, tickets might be fully booked during busy periods, which is why advance reservations are recommended, especially for the preferred reserved compartments.

Is food included in the experience?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own snacks or purchase from vendors at stations en route.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable clothing, a camera, water, snacks, and a sense of adventure. Also, consider a hat or umbrella if the weather is sunny or rainy.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to the length of the journey. There are no specific age restrictions, but young children should be supervised.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
The spectacular views from Hatton to Haputale, where the train snakes through mountains and tea estates, offering some of the most iconic scenery in Sri Lanka.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size and reserved seats make it a comfortable choice, and solo travelers often find the scenic journey a lovely way to meet fellow enthusiasts.