The 6-to-7 hour train trip from Kandy to Ella is celebrated as one of the most picturesque journeys in the world. Here is everything you need to plan your trip seamlessly.
Kandy to Ella Departure Timetable
There are four daily express trains connecting Kandy to Ella:
- Ella Odyssey (#1007): Departs Kandy at 08:35 → Arrives Ella at 15:40
- Podi Menike (#1005): Departs Kandy at 09:05 → Arrives Ella at 15:15
- Udarata Menike (#1015): Departs Kandy at 11:35 → Arrives Ella at 17:30
- Night Mail (#1045): Passes Peradeniya at 23:30 → Arrives Ella at 06:15
Reserved vs. Unreserved Tickets: What if Reserved Sells Out?
If advance reserved tickets are sold out, don't panic! Sri Lanka Railways allocates several 2nd Class and 3rd Class Unreserved carriages on every train. These tickets cannot be sold out by law and are purchased on the morning of travel directly at Kandy Railway Station ticket counters (sold 45 minutes before departure for approximately LKR 600 - 900).
Pro Tip: Board at Peradeniya Junction (one stop before Kandy terminus) or arrive at Kandy station 45 minutes early to secure an unreserved window seat.
