How to get from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England”, is a scenic hill station in Sri Lanka known for its tea plantations, colonial architecture, and cool climate. Located 170 km (105 miles) east of Colombo, Nuwara Eliya is accessible by train, bus, taxi, or private car. 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 Nuwara Eliya:

• By Train: The most scenic and memorable option.
• By Bus: The cheapest but less comfortable alternative.
• By Taxi or Private Car: The fastest and most flexible choice.

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

Timetable

By Train: The Most Scenic and Memorable Option

Taking a train from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya offers a breathtaking journey through tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty mountains — one of the most famous train rides in the world.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
• Arrival Station: Nanu Oya Railway Station (Closest station to Nuwara Eliya, ~15 minutes by tuk-tuk or taxi).
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 500–2,000 LKR (~$1.50–$6 USD), depending on class.
• Train Classes:
  • 1st Class (Reserved seats, A/C, spacious seating).
  • 2nd Class (Comfortable, non-A/C, windows can open for scenic views).
  • 3rd Class (Cheapest, basic seating, often crowded).
• Recommended Trains:
  • Podi Menike Express (Morning train with great views).
  • Udarata Menike Express (Afternoon train with scenic stops).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures.

Pros:

• Stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountains.
• Budget-friendly fares (~500 LKR for 2nd class).
• Comfortable and relaxing ride.

Cons:

• Longer travel time compared to buses or taxis.
• 1st Class seats often sell out quickly.
• Requires a short tuk-tuk or taxi ride from Nanu Oya to Nuwara Eliya.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort and views, book a 2nd Class reserved seat on the Podi Menike Express. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Less Comfortable Alternative

Taking a bus from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya is a budget-friendly travel option, though the journey can be long and less comfortable.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah).
• Arrival Point: Nuwara Eliya Main Bus Stand.
• Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 400–600 LKR (~$1.20–$2 USD).
• Bus Types:
  • Express Bus (Faster, A/C, limited stops).
  • Ordinary Bus (Cheaper, more frequent stops).
• Bus Operators:
  • CTB (Government-run, budget option).
  • Private Bus Companies.
• Departure Frequency: Hourly departures throughout the day.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~400 LKR).
• Frequent departures available throughout the day.
• Direct service with no train transfers required.

Cons:

• Less comfortable than trains or taxis.
• Can get crowded during peak hours.
• Longer journey times due to frequent stops.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose an Express Bus with A/C. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Taxi or Private Car: The Fastest and Most Flexible Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya is the fastest and most convenient choice, especially for families and groups.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Colombo.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
• Duration: 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 18,000–25,000 LKR (~$55–$80 USD), depending on vehicle type.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers).
  • SUV or Van (Ideal for groups or families).
• Ride-Hailing Apps:
  • PickMe (Popular ride-hailing app in Sri Lanka).
  • Uber (Available in Colombo with reliable service).

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~4.5 hours via Hatton-Nuwara Eliya Road).
• Door-to-door service for added convenience.
• Ideal for families, groups, or travelers with luggage.

Cons:

• More expensive than buses or trains.
• Traffic delays are possible near Colombo.

Booking Tip:

For best rates, book your taxi in advance using our online search form or via PickMe for on-demand service.

Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

• Best Option for Scenic Travel: Podi Menike Express Train (~2nd Class for views).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Ordinary Bus (~400 LKR, 6+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~4.5 hours, 18,000+ LKR).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains and taxis sell out quickly during holiday seasons (April and December).
• Motion Sickness Alert: The mountain roads to Nuwara Eliya are winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.