Kandy to Ella Train (Sri Lanka)

Hi there, It's really tough to book seats for early February. After trying multiple times on the official online sites, everything seems to be fully booked already. Hiring a taxi is an option, but even then, there aren’t many choices—agencies prioritize tour packages. Do you have any tips for making the trip from Kandy to Ella? Thanks! Have a great day.

Hi there,

We used this site: https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk At first, the experience is the same—the doors open too, and you might get more seats... Otherwise, leave from Nuwara Eliya. Good luck! Our guide Nalin +94776656567

Hi there

If it's not possible to book third class, it's still an option (that's what Sri Lankans do). People get on and off, so you might be lucky enough to find a seat... and there are always the steps (very popular too ;))

Have a great trip

Hello,

Tickets go on sale one month before the travel date. Within minutes, all reservable seats are bought up by large agencies.

If you couldn’t get one on online booking sites, your best bet is to arrive on the day of travel an hour or two before the train departs. With a bit of luck, you might snag a spot in 3rd class, but don’t count on getting a reserved seat.

Good luck, and enjoy the ride!

Fabien

Hey Dab02, here are all my tips for booking the train on the spot if you wanna give it a try :-) https://www.tongsetsrilanka.com/prendre-le-train-au-sri-lanka#reservation

And by asking your accommodation in Kandy—ideally in advance—you can get a taxi if the train option is really a no-go.

Have a great day! Caroline