How to get from Colombo to Ella

Ella, known for its lush tea plantations, scenic mountain views, and iconic Nine Arches Bridge, is a charming hill station in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands. Located 200 km (124 miles) east of Colombo, Ella is accessible by train, bus, private car, or taxi. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Colombo to Ella:

• By Train: The most scenic and popular option.
• By Bus: The cheapest but least comfortable choice.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Ella.

Timetable

By Train: The Most Scenic and Popular Option

Taking a train from Colombo to Ella is considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, passing through tea plantations, mountain tunnels, and picturesque valleys.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
• Arrival Station: Ella Railway Station.
• Duration: 9 to 10 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 600–3,000 LKR (~$2–$9 USD), depending on class.
• Train Types:
  • Express Train (Faster, more comfortable).
  • Slow Train (Cheaper, more stops, longer journey).
• Seating Options:
  • 1st Class Observation Car (Scenic rear view, A/C).
  • 1st Class Reserved Seats (A/C, reclining seats).
  • 2nd Class Reserved (Open windows, fans, more local experience).
  • 3rd Class (Crowded, no reservations, basic seating).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures (morning and afternoon).
• Popular Trains:
  • Udarata Menike Express (Most popular and scenic).
  • Podi Menike Express (Morning departure, scenic views).

Pros:

• Most scenic travel option (~9 hours of breathtaking views).
• Comfortable seating in 1st and 2nd class.
• Affordable prices for a long journey.

Cons:

• Long travel time (~9+ hours).
• Tickets sell out quickly, especially 1st class.
• 3rd class can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Booking Tip:

For best views, book a 1st Class Observation Car or 2nd Class Reserved seat on the right side (heading to Ella). Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Least Comfortable Choice

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a public bus from Colombo to Ella is the cheapest way to travel, though it’s less comfortable than the train or private car.

Key Details:

• Route: Colombo → Bandarawela → Ella.
• Departure Points:
  • Colombo Fort Bus Station.
  • Pettah Central Bus Station.
• Arrival Point: Ella Bus Stop (Near Ella Town Center).
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Price: 400–800 LKR (~$1–$3 USD), depending on bus type.
• Bus Types:
  • Public Bus (Cheapest, crowded, basic seating).
  • Semi-Luxury Bus (A/C, more comfortable).
  • Private Bus (A/C, reserved seats, slightly faster).
• Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes from morning to evening.
• Transfer Required: Change bus at Bandarawela for Ella.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~400 LKR for public buses).
• Frequent departures throughout the day.
• Direct travel without advance reservations.

Cons:

• Less comfortable than trains (~7+ hours on bumpy roads).
• Crowded and noisy, especially public buses.
• Requires a transfer at Bandarawela.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a Semi-Luxury or Private Bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Option

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Colombo to Ella is the most convenient choice.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel or airport in Colombo.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Ella.
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 15,000–25,000 LKR (~$45–$80 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • PickMe (local ride-hailing app).
  • Hotel-arranged private drivers.
  • Local taxi companies.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~5 hours).
• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Scenic views and flexible stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than trains and buses.
• Narrow, winding roads in the hill country.

Recommended Stops Along the Way:

• Nuwara Eliya – Tea plantations and colonial architecture.
• Ravana Falls – Beautiful waterfall near Ella.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Ella

• Best Option for Scenic Views & Experience: Train (~9 hours, from 600 LKR).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~400 LKR, 7+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~15,000 LKR, 5+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and private cars sell out quickly during holiday seasons.
• Motion Sickness Alert: The train and road journey can be winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.