The train to Ella: current status and tips

The railway through Sri Lanka’s hill country climbs from Kandy through tea estates, past waterfalls and through dozens of tunnels to Ella and Badulla. Many travellers say it is the highlight of their trip.

Current status (October 2026)

In November 2025, Cyclone Ditwah caused landslides and badly damaged the hill-country line. Repairs have been going on in sections since then:

• Running again: Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya) – Ella – Badulla, since June 2026. This part includes some of the most famous views, the climb to Pattipola, Sri Lanka’s highest station, and the Nine Arches Bridge near Ella.
• Still closed: the sections between Kandy and Nanu Oya.
• Colombo–Kandy line: trains from Colombo run again as far as Peradeniya since 2 October 2026. The last few kilometres into Kandy stay closed until a damaged bridge is repaired.
• Reopening: officials have mentioned the end of 2026 or early 2027, but earlier dates have already slipped.

We check the status before your trip and plan accordingly.

How we combine the train with your car

Your driver takes you to the station, drives on with your luggage and waits for you at the station where you get off. You enjoy the train with only a small bag, and you don’t need to worry about seats for suitcases.

Tickets and seats

• Trains have reserved seats in first, second and, on some trains, third class, plus unreserved second and third class.
• Reserved seats sell out quickly in high season. We book them for you as early as possible.
• First class differs from train to train; on some it is an air-conditioned carriage with closed windows, which is not ideal for photos. Many travellers prefer reserved second class, where you can open the windows.

Which side to sit on?

Between Nanu Oya and Ella, both sides have views, but the best ones are usually on the left-hand side in the direction of travel (towards Ella). Don’t worry too much: in second class you can move around and look out of the open doors.

Safety

Leaning out of open doors is popular for photos, but it is dangerous. Trains pass close to tunnel walls and vegetation. Please hold on and keep inside the carriage.