Kandy to Ella in 2026: Is the Train Running? Best Ways to Travel
The train from Kandy to Ella is one of the most famous rail journeys in the world, winding through tea estates, tunnels and misty hills. But the line was badly damaged by Cyclone Ditwah in late 2025, and in 2026 the full journey isn’t possible. Here’s what’s running and how to plan around it.
Is the Kandy to Ella train running?
Not all the way, as of October 2026. Several sections of the hill-country line are still being repaired:
- Nanu Oya to Ella and Badulla: running again since mid-2026. This is the most scenic part of the route.
- Kandy area to Nanu Oya: not a through service yet, with sections between Gampola, Nawalapitiya, Hatton and Nanu Oya still under repair.
- Colombo to Kandy: trains currently stop at Peradeniya, just outside Kandy.
Sections are reopening one at a time, so always check the latest Sri Lanka Railways information before you travel.
Best way to do the trip right now: road to Nanu Oya, then train to Ella
You can still enjoy the best views by combining a drive with the train:
- Kandy to Nanu Oya by road. A private car takes roughly 2.5–3 hours through tea country, with stops at waterfalls and tea factories if you like. Nanu Oya station is a few minutes from Nuwara Eliya.
- Nanu Oya to Ella by train. This section usually takes around 3 hours and passes Haputale, Idalgashinna and the Demodara loop area before reaching Ella.
Many drivers will drop you at Nanu Oya and take your big luggage on to your Ella hotel, so you can ride the train with just a day bag. Agree this in advance.
Find a driver in Kandy → Services in Nuwara Eliya →
Option 2: Drive all the way from Kandy to Ella
The road trip takes around 4–5 hours and is scenic in its own right. A private driver can stop at tea estates, Ramboda Falls and viewpoints on the way. It’s also the easiest option if you’re travelling with children or lots of luggage.
Rough cost: drivers usually quote per vehicle for this route. As a guide, expect a car to cost roughly the same as a long day hire, and more for vans. Compare a few quotes and check whether tolls, parking and stops are included.
Option 3: Bus
Buses run between Kandy and the hill country, often with a change in Nuwara Eliya, Bandarawela or Badulla. It’s the cheapest option but slow, crowded on winding roads and tricky with big bags.
Tips for the Nanu Oya to Ella train
- Book early. Reserved seats on the popular morning trains sell out in busy months. Book through Sri Lanka Railways’ official channels or a trusted agent.
- Sit on the right side heading to Ella. Many travellers find the views best on the right-hand side, though both sides have great scenery.
- Bring a layer. It’s cool in the hills, especially in the morning.
- Allow for delays. Trains in the hills are often late, so don’t plan tight connections.
Read our guides to Ella, Nuwara Eliya and Kandy for things to do and where to stay.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the train from Kandy to Ella in 2026?
Not as a through journey. As of October 2026, repairs after Cyclone Ditwah mean there’s no continuous train from Kandy to Ella. The Nanu Oya to Ella section is running, so most travellers drive to Nanu Oya and take the train from there.
How long is the drive from Kandy to Ella?
Around 4 to 5 hours by car, depending on stops and traffic. Kandy to Nanu Oya takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.
How long is the train from Nanu Oya to Ella?
Usually around 3 hours, but delays are common in the hills.
When will the full Kandy to Ella line reopen?
There’s no confirmed date. Sections are reopening one at a time, so check Sri Lanka Railways for the latest status before you travel.
