Is the Kandy to Ella train running?

Not as one journey yet. Nanu Oya to Ella is running; Kandy to Nanu Oya is still under repair. The status box above has the latest.

Is first class worth it?

It’s cooler and quieter, but for photos choose second class reserved.

How far ahead should I book?

As soon as reservations open, usually 30 days before travel, especially in busy months.

A website is selling me a “Kandy to Ella” ticket. Is it valid?

Check the start station. Until the Kandy section reopens, no train runs that whole route.

The Kandy to Ella train in 2026: status, tickets and seats

How to do it in 2026

Kandy to Nanu Oya by road. Take a private car, a shared shuttle or a bus towards Nuwara Eliya; Nanu Oya station is a short ride from the town.
Nanu Oya to Ella by train, at 9:00 am or 2:30 pm. Book reserved seats as early as you can.
Arrive in Ella at about 11:30 am or 5:00 pm.

Which class?

Second class reserved is the photographers’ favourite: the windows open and your seat is guaranteed. First class is cooler and quieter, but its windows don’t open. Unreserved tickets are usually sold at the station on the day; on busy trains, expect to stand.

Which side to sit

From Nanu Oya to Ella both sides are good, but the left usually wins. When the Kandy section reopens, sit on the right from Kandy to Nanu Oya.

Stay safe

Doorway photos are popular, and people have fallen from moving trains. Keep a firm grip, stay inside through tunnels and on bends, and never lean out as another train passes.

FAQ

Is the Kandy to Ella train running?: Not as one journey yet. Nanu Oya to Ella is running; Kandy to Nanu Oya is still under repair. The status box above has the latest.
Is first class worth it?: It’s cooler and quieter, but for photos choose second class reserved.
How far ahead should I book?: As soon as reservations open, usually 30 days before travel, especially in busy months.
A website is selling me a “Kandy to Ella” ticket. Is it valid?: Check the start station. Until the Kandy section reopens, no train runs that whole route.

Arriving on the afternoon train?

The 5:00 pm arrival puts you in Ella just as the evening cools, a short walk from our table on Passara Road.

Book a table for tonight Get directions

AK at a glance

AK Ristoro is a family-run restaurant at 37 Ella–Passara Rd, Ella, Sri Lanka, about 500 m from the town centre. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options are marked on the menu. Book online. Prices in LKR plus a 10% service charge.

Cuisine: Italian (wood-fired pizza, pasta), Japanese (katsu, donburi, sushi rolls), Sri Lankan, tapas
Address: 37 Ella–Passara Rd, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka
Price: Mains LKR 2,300–3,350 · pizzas LKR 2,800–4,350 · + 10% service charge
Diets: Gluten-free options (GF), vegetarian (V), vegan (VG), dairy-free (DF) marked
Booking: Online at akristoro.com/reservations
Phone: +94 57 205 0676
Also: outdoor terrace with blankets