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Traveling by train through Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes is often regarded as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. This detailed review explores the Colombo to Ella trip aboard the Udarata Menike, offering insights into what makes this ride so special—and how you can make the most of it. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or simply after an immersive way to see the country, this route offers a memorable experience.
The two standout aspects for us are the pre-booking option, which saves you the hassle of last-minute ticket queues, and the spectacular scenery visible from your carriage, especially from Hatton to Haputale. However, with a journey lasting around 8.5 hours, it’s not a quick hop—so patience and a good book are advisable. This trip is ideal for travelers who love scenic adventures, aren’t pressed for time, and appreciate authentic travel experiences that go beyond typical tourist routes.
Key Points
- Pre-booked tickets ensure you secure a seat on this popular scenic train
- Options for air-conditioned 1st Class or reserved 2nd Class seats cater to comfort preferences
- The journey offers breathtaking views, especially between Hatton and Haputale
- It takes approximately 8.5 hours from Colombo to Ella, with a start time of 8:30 am
- Costing around $45 per person, the experience offers good value considering the scenic allure
- It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, immersive way to explore Sri Lanka’s hill country
An introduction to the journey
The Colombo to Ella train ride on the Udarata Menike is often described as a highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka. While the journey itself takes around 8.5 hours, it’s far from mundane—each mile offers stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and charming villages. This is not just transportation; it’s an experience that reveals the country’s natural beauty in a way that car or bus simply cannot match.
One of the key advantages of booking this trip in advance is the peace of mind. No last-minute scramble for tickets or worry about availability, especially during peak travel seasons. The option to choose between air-conditioned 1st Class or reserved 2nd Class seats enhances comfort, allowing you to tailor the journey to your preferences, whether you’re after luxury or simplicity.
That said, the journey is quite lengthy—so it’s worth considering how to pass the time. Bring snacks, a good book, or download some movies to enjoy during the scenic stretches. The highlight? The Hatton to Haputale segment, famous for its sweeping views of tea estates and lush green mountains.
This adventure suits travelers who value genuine experiences over hurried sightseeing. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic route that offers authentic glimpses into Sri Lanka’s hill country, then this train ride fits perfectly.
What makes this train trip stand out?
The Udarata Menike is renowned for its spectacular scenery. The phrase “most scenic train ride” gets thrown around a lot, but this route genuinely lives up to that reputation. As you chug through the highlands, the landscape transforms into a patchwork of tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages. It’s a visual feast for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The pre-booking process is straightforward and adds to the overall value. You simply select your preferred class—air-conditioned First Class or reserved Second Class—and let the experts handle your tickets. This means no stress on the day of travel, especially important considering the popularity of this route.
During the ride, you’ll appreciate that the train departs from Colombo Fort Station at 8:30 am and reaches Ella around 5:17 pm. Given this schedule, the journey covers a full day, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery. The most memorable part is the segment between Hatton and Haputale, where the views are nothing short of breathtaking.
The itinerary in detail
Starting from Colombo Railway Station, the train kicks off its scenic journey early in the morning. The 8:30 am departure is designed to maximize daylight hours for sightseeing, arriving in Ella in the evening. The journey is long, but that’s part of the charm—you’re traveling through some of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque landscapes.
If you opt for first class, you’ll enjoy a climate-controlled carriage with comfortable seats, ideal for those who prefer to travel in style and stay cool amid the tropical heat. The reserved second class seats are a good choice for budget travelers or those who are happy with less space but still want a guaranteed spot and a good view.
The scenic highlight of the ride is the stretch from Hatton to Haputale. Here, the train winds through lush tea plantations, with views that seem to stretch endlessly. Waterfalls cascade down hillsides, and the cool mountain air is a refreshing change from Colombo’s coastal warmth. It’s an ideal part of the journey to have your camera ready.
The train’s duration—about 8.5 hours—allows plenty of time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps chat with fellow travelers. The train itself is a charming way to see the countryside up close, with the windows providing unobstructed views.
Authentic experiences and traveler insights
One traveler from Tripadvisor describes the journey as “relaxing, bumpy, beautiful,” emphasizing the charm of traveling by train through such scenic terrain. The fact that everything was well-organized—tickets arranged by Lakpura, timely departure, and a comfortable ride—adds to the overall positive impression.
Another reviewer calls this trip “one of those once in a lifetime things you’ve got to do!” They appreciated the smooth planning and highlighted the stunning views arriving into Ella after a long but rewarding day.
While the train ride is predominantly about the scenery, the logistics of booking are also noteworthy. The $45 price point covers all taxes and service charges, making it an accessible luxury for most travelers. The option of mobile tickets makes the process even more straightforward.
The practicalities
The meeting point is Colombo Fort Station, where you’ll start at 8:30 am. The train is near public transportation, so reaching Colombo Fort is simple from most parts of the city. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should organize their own transportation to the station.
The duration—roughly 8.5 hours—means a full day of travel. It’s worth planning your day accordingly, perhaps pairing the train ride with an overnight stay in Ella or nearby. The comfort options allow you to choose a class that fits your budget and comfort level.
Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as navigating stations, boarding, and finding seats may involve some walking and standing. Still, the journey itself is quite relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views.
The Sum Up
This train journey from Colombo to Ella on the Udarata Menike offers a rare chance to see Sri Lanka’s hill country in a way few other modes of transport can match. The pre-booking service guarantees your seat, removing the stress of last-minute planning, while the spectacular scenery makes every mile memorable.
If you’re someone who appreciates authentic travel experiences, loves photography, or simply wants a relaxed way to witness Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, this ride will be a highlight of your trip. The combination of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty makes it a very good value—especially given the high regard in which travelers hold this route.
It’s best suited for those who don’t mind a long journey, want to avoid busy ticket queues, and are eager to see some of the country’s most iconic views. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this train ride will leave you with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s scenic grandeur.
FAQ
How do I book tickets for the Colombo to Ella train? Bookings are made through a pre-booking service, which ensures your seat is reserved. You can choose between air-conditioned 1st Class or reserved 2nd Class seats, and tickets are collected at the station.
What’s included in the price? The $45 fee covers all taxes and service charges, and it guarantees your scenic train ride from Colombo to Ella with mobile ticketing. Food, drinks, and transportation to or from the station are not included.
When does the train depart and arrive? The train departs from Colombo Fort Station at 8:30 am and reaches Ella around 5:17 pm, making it a full day of travel.
Can I choose my class of seat? Yes. You can opt for air-conditioned First Class or reserved Second Class seats, depending on your comfort preferences and budget.
What is the most scenic part of the journey? The segment from Hatton to Haputale is widely regarded as the most scenic, with breathtaking views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountains.
Is this journey suitable for all travelers? The journey requires moderate physical fitness, mainly for station navigation and boarding. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic trips and are comfortable with a long ride.
Are meals included? No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring snacks or buy at stations if available.
Is the train journey safe and reliable? Yes, the train service is generally reliable, well-organized, and highly rated, with positive reviews highlighting smooth arrangements and impressive scenery.
This classic Sri Lankan train ride offers a genuine connection to the country’s landscapes and a chance to escape the busy roads. With pre-arranged tickets and a flexible schedule, it’s an experience worth planning for—an authentic adventure to cherish.
