Sri LankaTRAIN JOURNEY18 May 2026

Train Kandy to Ella

Train through the green hills between Nanu Oya and Ella in Sri Lanka

Short version: no, the full route no longer runs the way it used to. Part of the track is damaged and the classic Kandy-Ella train journey that everyone has on their bucket list is currently not a reliable full-route option.

And yes, that sucks. Because this is literally the reason half of all backpackers fly to Sri Lanka.

But. There is a workaround. And it works fine.

What's the situation?

The train does run on parts of the line, but the full route from Kandy all the way through to Ella is no longer a given. Damaged track, maintenance, or whatever the issue is means you can no longer just board in Kandy and roll out in Ella the way all the 2019 blog posts promised.

After some research (and personally trying to find this route in April 2026) it turns out you have two options:

  1. Hope the train is running and risk having to switch to a bus halfway.
  2. The smart option: take the best part.

The workaround: board at Ambewela/Nanu Oya

Here's what everyone should know but few people tell you: the most beautiful part of the route is between Nanu Oya/Ambewela and Ella. That's the green hills, tea plantations, misty mountains and the views you came for.

The section from Kandy to Nanu Oya? Nice, but not the point.

So instead of planning the whole uncertain journey: travel to Nanu Oya or Ambewela (by tuk-tuk, bus, or taxi from Kandy) and board the train there to Ella. You get the mountain section, you have certainty that this part runs, and you only miss the less spectacular first stretch.

Practical: Nanu Oya is right next to Nuwara Eliya, so you can combine this with a stop there. Ambewela is a bit further towards Ella. Both stations work as boarding points.

Times & prices

Full route (Kandy-Ella, when it runs)

  • Departure times: around 08:47 and 11:10 from Kandy.
  • Price: reserved tickets are between US$ 20-29 depending on where you book and which class (2nd or 3rd).

Shorter route (Ambewela/Nanu Oya to Ella)

  • Ticket sales: often open around 13:00 for 2nd and 3rd class.
  • Departure: around 15:00 from Ambewela.
  • Price: lower than the full route, exact price depends on the station and class.

Tickets can be bought at the station itself, or in advance online via sites like 12Go or Viator. Online is more expensive but gives you certainty. On the spot is cheaper but can sell out, especially in high season.

How do you book this?

Option 1: Buy at the station (cheapest) Go to Nanu Oya or Ambewela station, buy your ticket a few hours before departure. 2nd class reserved is comfortable, 3rd class you're sitting with the locals and everyone's hanging out the window (ideal for the iconic photo) both are fine.

Option 2: Book online (certainty) Via 12Go, Viator, or similar sites. You pay more, but your seat is already secured. Handy if you have a tight schedule or are travelling in peak season.

My experience: I ended up buying at the station. No hassle, just a bit of a wait at the counter. If you get there early enough (morning), you'll have plenty of choice.

Tips for the journey

  • Sit on the right side of the train (when heading towards Ella) for the best views.
  • Doors stay open. Yes, really. Everyone hangs out for the photos. Watch your belongings and don't fall out.
  • Bring a jumper. It's cool in the mountains and the train has no heating.
  • Don't expect a fast train. The journey takes a long time, stops often and shakes quite a bit. That's part of the experience.
  • No toilets in 3rd class. Plan accordingly.

Is it still worth it?

Yes. Even if the full route no longer runs the way it used to, the section you take from Nanu Oya/Ambewela to Ella is still that iconic green mountain landscape everyone talks about. The tea plantations, the mist, the winding rails through the hills, all of that is in this section.

You only miss the first stretch from Kandy, and honestly? That part was more "okay" than "holy shit".

So take a tuk-tuk or bus to Nanu Oya, board the train there and still get that bucket list photo. The train may no longer run the way it used to, but the story behind it still holds up just fine.

Further reading?