KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA, 4 BEST PLACES TO VISIT

The journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular. Not only does it draw a large number of foreign travellers, but it also captivates a large number of local travellers. The Sri Lanka trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of the best itineraries to enjoy the country’s natural beauty.

Table of Contents

• KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• WHY TRAVEL FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?
• ABOUT THE TRIP FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• KANDY
• NUWARA ELIYA
• THINGS TO DO IN NUWARA ELIYA
• THE MAP OF THE ROUTE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• WHAT ARE THE KEY ATTRACTIONS OF KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?
• WHICH IS BETTER KANDY OR NUWARA ELIYA?
  • KANDY:
  • NUWARA ELIYA:
  • WHICH IS BETTER DEPENDS ON YOUR INTEREST:
• DISCOVERY OF NUWARA ELIYA
• NUWARA ELIYA FOR BREATHTAKING SCENERY
• SCENIC CITY OF KANDY
• WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?
• HEALING CLIMATE & BREATHTAKING SCENERY IN NUWARA ELIYA
• 2 Days Kandy-Nuwara Eliya Train Tour
• WHAT TO SEE WHILE IN NUWARA ELIYA
• WHAT ARE THE 4 MAJOR STOPS ON THE TOUR FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?
• FEW OTHER INTERESTING PLACES TO VISIT ON THIS ROUTE
• HANUMAN TEMPLE
• HOW TO REACH HANUMAN TEMPLE
• TREK TO RAMBODA FALLS
• HOW TO REACH RAMBODA WATERFALL VIEW POINT
• TAKE A BATH AT RAMBODA WATERFALL
• WHAT ARE THE BEST TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FOR THE KANDY-NUWARA ELIYA TRIP?
• KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA BY CAR: A SCENIC JOURNEY THROUGH SRI LANKA’S HILL COUNTRY
• DISTANCE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• THE TRAVEL ROUTE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• TEH TRAVEL TIME FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA
• HILL COUNTRY RAIL TRIPS
• KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA BY TRAIN
• HOW TO BOOK SEATS ON KANDY NUWARA ELIYA TRAIN?
• WHEN SHOULD I RESERVE SEAT ON THE KANDY NUWARA ELIYA TRAIN?
• TRAVEL TIPS

KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

Kandy and Nuwara Eliya are both very popular holiday destinations in Sri Lanka. Both cities offer many important tourist attractions that capture travelers. The road trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is part of most tour itineraries intended for foreign travelers. Both cities are situated in the middle of the country. Kandy is a more cultural city with a large number of historical monuments, such as temples. Nuwara Eliya does not carry much importance as a cultural city, but natural beauty is prominent. Nuwara Eliya has a large number of natural attractions, such as Horton Plains National Park, Galway forest and dozens of cascading waterfalls.

WHY TRAVEL FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?

Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about why this route is so special:

• Breathtaking scenery of misty mountains and lush tea plantations
• Opportunity to experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides
• Transition from the cultural heart of Sri Lanka to its colonial-era hill station
• Chance to explore diverse landscapes and climates in a single trip

ABOUT THE TRIP FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

The trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is more than just a means of getting from one place to another – it’s a journey through the heart of Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country. Whether you choose the scenic train ride, the budget-friendly bus, or the comfort of a private car, each option offers its own unique perspective on this beautiful landscape.

As you wind your way through misty mountains and verdant tea plantations, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views. This journey is a reminder that sometimes, the path we take is just as important as the destination we’re heading towards.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy one of the most picturesque journeys Sri Lanka has to offer. Your adventure from the cultural capital to the heart of tea country awaits!

KANDY

Kandy is a prominent city in Sri Lanka’s Central Province. Kandy was the last capital of Sri Lanka during the reign of the Sri Lankan monarchy. Situated midst rolling hills on the Kandy plateau, the city harbors green-capped mountains, tropical forests and tea plantations. The capital of the Central Province, Kandy, serves as both an administrative and a religious center. One of the holiest sites of worship in the Buddhist world, the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), is located in Kandy. In 1988, UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site.

NUWARA ELIYA

Nuwara Eliya sits at a height of 1800 meters above sea level, atop the central mountain range. The name “Nuwara Eliya” denotes “city of light” or “city on the plain (table land)”. The city, which has beautiful scenery and a moderate climate, serves as the administrative center of the Nuwara Eliya District. Standing at 1,868 meters (6,128 feet) above sea level, it is considered Sri Lanka’s most significant tea-producing region. The tallest peak in Sri Lanka, Pidurutalagala, towers over the city. It is well known that Nuwara Eliya has the coolest climate in all of Sri Lanka.

Nuwara Eliya is a small hamlet that sits in a valley next to the highest point of the island, known as Pidiurutalagala, at 2520 metres above sea level. A network of craggy mountains and tea plantations encircles Nuwara Eliya. There are three access roads to the city, and a rail network runs through Nuwara Eliya amid crumbling rock faces. The access points are installed in the south, east, and northern directions of Nuwara Eliya. However, the British government initially built only the access road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and other roads came into being in the latter period. The immense natural beauty is the biggest draw to Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is part of most Sri Lanka tour packages such as 10 days Sri Lanka tour itinerary and the 7-day tour.

THINGS TO DO IN NUWARA ELIYA

Once you’ve arrived, here are some must-do activities:

1. Visit a tea factory and learn about the tea-making process
2. Explore Victoria Park, a beautiful English-style garden
3. Take a boat ride on Gregory Lake
4. Play a round of golf at the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club
5. Hike to World’s End in nearby Horton Plains National Park

THE MAP OF THE ROUTE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

WHAT ARE THE KEY ATTRACTIONS OF KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?

The journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular. Not only does it draw a large number of foreign travellers, but it also captivates a large number of local travellers. A Sri Lanka trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of the best itineraries to enjoy the country’s natural beauty. Travellers can look forward to having breathtaking scenery from the beginning to the end of their trip. Green-capped mountains, valleys, tea gardens, vegetable plots, waterfalls, streams, rivers, and patches of forest are the key attractions on this route. The natural beauty in the region is the biggest draw of this hill country trip, and travellers are well on their way to enjoying the awe-inspiringly beautiful scenery on this route.

WHICH IS BETTER KANDY OR NUWARA ELIYA?

Deciding whether Kandy or Nuwara Eliya is “better” largely depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in your Sri Lankan experience. Both cities offer unique attractions and experiences. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

KANDY:

1. Cultural significance: Ancient capital and home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic
2. Climate: Warmer, tropical climate
3. Attractions:

• Temple of the Tooth
• Royal Botanical Gardens
• Kandy Lake
• Cultural dance performances

1. Urban environment: Larger city with more amenities
2. Accessibility: Better connected to other parts of Sri Lanka

NUWARA ELIYA:

1. Natural beauty: Known as “Little England” for its colonial architecture and cool climate
2. Climate: Cool, often misty, reminiscent of the English countryside
3. Attractions:

• Tea plantations and factories
• Gregory Lake
• Victoria Park
• Horton Plains National Park (nearby)

1. Relaxation: Quieter, more laid-back atmosphere
2. Outdoor activities: Great for hiking and nature walks

WHICH IS BETTER DEPENDS ON YOUR INTEREST:

• If you’re more interested in Sri Lankan history, culture, and Buddhist traditions, Kandy might be preferable.
• If you’re looking for scenic beauty, cool climate, and tea experiences, Nuwara Eliya could be the better choice.
• Kandy is better for those who prefer a more urban environment with more dining and shopping options.
• Nuwara Eliya is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.

Many travellers visit both as part of their Sri Lanka itinerary, as they offer complementary experiences. If you have time, considering both destinations can give you a well-rounded experience of Sri Lanka’s diversity.

DISCOVERY OF NUWARA ELIYA

Until the beginning of the 18th century, Nuwara Eliya was incredibly hard to get to due to the unavailability of proper access roads from Kandy and other major cities, until the beginning of British rule in Sri Lanka. However, with the expansion of tea and coffee plantations in the mountains, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and other mountain resorts started to get the attention of colonial rulers because Ceylon tea was a major income earner for the British administration, and they encouraged the British planters to venture into the lucrative tea business.

Infrastructure had been a leading obstacle that kept wealthy planters away from investing in the tea industry. However, the British government tackled the problem while improving accessibility from Kandy to Nuwara. They built a road between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya while extending the rail from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. With the improved access to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy and other places in Sri Lanka, there had been a boost in the tea industry, which invariably increased the income of the British administration.

NUWARA ELIYA FOR BREATHTAKING SCENERY

Today, Nuwara Eliya is important not only because of the thriving tea industry but also because to the tourism industry. The city attracts millions of tourists every year, and the breathtaking mountains, valleys, and cascading waterfalls amidst the healing climate are a superb mixture for a soothing holiday. A large number of travellers venture from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya every day via the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya highway, which is the most popular and convenient road for people who start their journey from west coast cities such as Colombo.

Nuwara Eliya is a cosy and beautiful yet small city. The population in the city of Nuwara Eliya does not exceed 50,000. However, Nuwara Eliya is a busy town, and there are a lot of people in the city at any given time of the year. This is mainly due to the tourist traffic that it draws throughout the year. Enchanted, beautiful scenery is the main tourist attraction here. cascading waterfalls, green-capped mountains, and huge tea plantations with patches of forests make for eye-appealing scenery in the area.

SCENIC CITY OF KANDY

Kandy is set at merely 500 metres above sea level, which is a low altitude compared to Nuwara Eliya (1800 metres above sea level); therefore, the road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is very steep, and there are a large number of sharp curves along the way.

Even though there is a very good road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, the time taken to drive 75 kilometres between the two cities is between 2 and 3 hours. Keeping a moderate speed is very important on this track due to the sharp bends.

Sri Lanka 3-day tour with Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla golden temple Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?

While the journey is beautiful year-round, here are some considerations:

• December to April: Driest months, best for clear views
• May to August: Southwest monsoon, but rainfall is less in the hill country
• October to November: Inter-monsoon period, higher chance of rain

April is considered the best month of the year to travel to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy. Most flowering plants produce flowers in April, and therefore gardens in Nuwara Eliya become colourful and attractive. The dry season from November to April is the best time to go to the hilly country of Sri Lankan cities like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. During the rainy season (from April to October), the mountains come under heavy rain, making it cool and damp everywhere. During the rainy season, outdoor activities are limited, making visitors stay at the hotel.

Nuwara Eliya is attracting a large number of local travellers in April, May, and June, when the flowering plants in Nuwara Eliya start to bloom. Rows of trees and plants change colour and make bright, colourful scenery that makes up the landscape. This is the flowering season in Nuwara Eliya, and most flowering plants show up with their beautiful flowers. During the rest of the year, it is still possible to see many beautiful flowers, but not as many as during the flowering season.

HEALING CLIMATE & BREATHTAKING SCENERY IN NUWARA ELIYA

Nuwara Eliya is the most popular holiday destination in the mountains, it is very popular as a family holiday destination among the local families, and it can be crowded during the school holidays. You will encounter hordes of Sri Lankan tourists heading from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. The healing climate and breathtaking scenery help the city stand out from the mountain holiday resorts such as Bandarawela, Haputale, and Ella.

2 Days Kandy-Nuwara Eliya Train Tour

Visiting Kandy and Nuwara Eliya on a 1 day Sri Lanka trip can be a daunting task due to the long journey. If you start the trip from Colombo, this tour is available as a 2-day tour (Sri Lanka 2-day tour Colomb, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya) due to the distance to cover from Colombo to Kandy. Due to the long journey, you might end up without time to explore the tourist attractions if you restrict the trip to a Sri Lanka day trip from Colombo. Most Kandy trips with Nuwara Eliya are 2-day Sri Lanka trips, which is a perfect programme to visit important tourist places in the mountains such as the Tooth Relic temple, Peradeniya botanical garden, tea plantations, etc.

Usually, Nuwara Eliya and Kandy are two major tourist attractions on the island and are included in most Sri Lanka tour packages. Kandy is a cultural city with major tourist attractions like the Tooth Relic Temple and many other historical places. On the other hand, Nuwara Eliya is a leading eco-holiday destination with many natural tourist attractions such as Gregory Lake, patches of forests, tea plantations, Horton Plains, waterfalls, and many other attractions. Nuwara Eliya is strikingly different from Kandy.

Nuwara Eliya is a year-round holiday destination, but there can be heavy rains during the southwest monsoon, especially in July, August, September, and October, while the rainfall during the rest of the year is comparatively low.

Nuwara Eliya is in the wet zone of Sri Lanka and receives more than 5000 mm of yearly rainfall, which is one of the highest rainfalls on the island. As you step into Nuwara Eliya, you can see the endless green cover over the mountains and valleys, while well-maintained tea plantations look like a green carpet from the distance.

WHAT TO SEE WHILE IN NUWARA ELIYA

A road trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya lasts about 2 hours if you do it without any stops; however, it is very hard to make it without any stops due to the enchanting beauty of the mountains, valleys, tea gardens, and cascading waterfalls.

Whether you are a local or foreign traveller, it will not be possible to take your eyes away from the beautiful scenery; you are tempted to make frequent stops upon encountering beautiful landscapes on the drive and take some photos. All-natural beauty is the main reason most travelers make trips to Nuwara Eliya. If natural beauty is not something that you are fascinated with, it is better to forget the trip to Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is not a place for people who enjoy the rich culture and heritage of their holiday destination, nor is it a place with vibrant city life.

WHAT ARE THE 4 MAJOR STOPS ON THE TOUR FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA?

1. Hanuman Temple
2. Tea factory and Tea plantation
3. Ramboda falls
4. Royal Botanical garden

FEW OTHER INTERESTING PLACES TO VISIT ON THIS ROUTE

• Gregory Lake: A man-made lake in the heart of Nuwara Eliya
• Hakgala Botanical Garden: Home to a variety of exotic plants
• St. Clair’s Falls: Known as the “Little Niagara” of Sri Lanka

HANUMAN TEMPLE

Hanuman Temple is one of the important stops on the trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. Hanuman temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, and the temple is one of the most popular religious sites for Hindu pilgrims. The temple is situated a few kilometers down the road towards Nuwara Eliya from Ramboda Falls.

The temple is very popular among travellers from India who take part in Ramayana tours. The history of the temple goes back many thousand years and is closely connected to the Ramayana story. The Hanuman statue found in the temple is the biggest stone sculpture of Hanuman on the island, and it is 6 metres in height. The statue originated in Mahabalipuram, India, and was later brought to Sri Lanka.

Shivagilingam, who is the caretaker of Hanuman temple, representing the Chinmaya mission, said, “This temple is about 20 years old. This is the place where Hanuman landed when he arrived from India. Ravana kidnapped Seetha, the wife of Rama, so Hanuman travelled to Sri Lanka in search of her. According to Shivagilingam Chinmaya’s mission, he carries out many programmes that benefit the people in the region, such as educating people on their religions, customs, and traditions.

HOW TO REACH HANUMAN TEMPLE

The temple is located on a plateau at very high altitude. Because it is so steep, driving a vehicle on the road is dangerous. Your driver might ask you to take an uphill walk from the main road. If you are not very comfortable walking, you can hire a Tuk Tuk from the main road for a reasonable price. 

TREK TO RAMBODA FALLS

Ramboda Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island, and it is conveniently located near the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya main road. Apart from Ramboda Falls, there are a dozen other waterfalls in the area, and Ramboda is considered one of the best places to see waterfalls on the island. The waterfalls are visible throughout the year, and they make spectacular scenery, especially during the rainy season. The perennial waterways rising in catchment areas high in the mountains are what feed these waterfalls.

The Ramboda waterfall can be best viewed from the Ramboda Hotel. The visitors need to walk through the Ramboda Hotel to witness the waterfall. Mountains, tea plantations, and lush green vegetation all surround the waterfall. The waterfall starts from the highest mountain (Pidurutalagala) on the island and joins the Kotmale reservoir. The height of the waterfall is 109 metres.

HOW TO REACH RAMBODA WATERFALL VIEW POINT

Ask your driver to stop the vehicle at the Ramboda waterfall hotel, just after the Ramboda tunnel. Then take a downward walk to the hotel. After about 10 minutes of downhill walking, one can see the upper part of the Ramboda Falls. Continue walking through the hotel lobby area and restaurant. Just after the restaurant, visitors must walk through the hotel’s garden on a narrow path, which leads to the best view of the water fall.

TAKE A BATH AT RAMBODA WATERFALL

The Kandy-Nuwara Eliya main road divides the waterfall into two parts. The waterfall that cascades above the road is the upper part of the waterfall. The lower part of the waterfall refers to the portion that descends below the road.

There is a bathing pond near the upper part of the waterfall, but people say the water level can rise suddenly. Therefore, it is necessary to be vigilant while bathing here.

WHAT ARE THE BEST TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FOR THE KANDY-NUWARA ELIYA TRIP?

Mainly, there are two options to plan a trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, which are road transport and rail transport. Both options have advantages and disadvantages; however, the rail journey is considered to be the most rewarding. Because it gives you plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains, the scenery that you take through the window is simply breathtaking when the train slowly moves through the mountains, valleys, tea gardens, and patches of forests.

KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA BY CAR: A SCENIC JOURNEY THROUGH SRI LANKA’S HILL COUNTRY

The drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of the most picturesque road tours in Sri Lanka, offering travellers a chance to witness the stunning transformation of landscapes as you ascend from the cultural capital to the heart of tea country. This 76-kilometre (47-mile) journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, but with stops along the way, it can easily become a half-day adventure.

As you leave the bustling city of Kandy behind, the road begins to wind its way up into the hills. The air becomes noticeably cooler and crisper as you climb, and the vegetation changes from tropical to more temperate varieties. The route takes you through lush forests, charming villages, and eventually into the vast expanses of tea plantations that Sri Lanka is famous for.

One of the first notable stops along the way is the Ramboda Falls. Located about halfway between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, this impressive waterfall cascades down in two tiers, with a total height of about 109 metres (358 feet). There’s a viewing platform where you can stop to admire the falls and stretch your legs.

As you continue your journey, you’ll find yourself surrounded by endless green carpets of tea bushes. The tea plantations in this region are not just economically important but also stunningly beautiful. You’ll see tea pluckers in colorful saris dotting the hillsides, carefully selecting the tender leaves that will become Ceylon tea.

A visit to a tea factory is a must on this route. Many factories offer tours where you can learn about the tea-making process, from plucking to packaging. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste some of the world’s finest teas right at the source.

Another highlight of the journey is the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, located just before you reach Nuwara Eliya. These gardens, established in 1861, are home to a wide variety of plants, including roses, orchids, and many species native to Sri Lanka’s hill country.

As you approach Nuwara Eliya, you’ll notice the distinct change in architecture. Known as “Little England,” this charming town features many buildings in the British colonial style, a legacy of its past as a favorite retreat for British planters.

The drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya offers more than just beautiful scenery. It’s a journey through Sri Lanka’s history, from the ancient kingdom of Kandy to the colonial-era hill station of Nuwara Eliya. You’ll witness the country’s agricultural heritage in the tea plantations and experience the dramatic changes in climate and landscape that make Sri Lanka so diverse.

For the best experience, start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and have plenty of time for stops along the way. Bring warm clothing, as temperatures in Nuwara Eliya can be quite cool, especially in the evenings.

While the journey can be completed in a few hours, taking your time allows for a more immersive experience. Stop at viewpoints, interact with locals, and soak in the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is not just a means of getting from one place to another; it’s an integral part of the Sri Lankan highland experience, offering memories that will last long after your trip has ended.

DISTANCE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

The distance from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is approximately 76 kilometres (47 miles) by road. This journey typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and any stops made along the way.

The route follows the A5 highway, which winds through the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Here are some key points about the journey:

THE TRAVEL ROUTE FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

1. Road conditions: The road is generally well-maintained, but it’s winding and can be steep in places due to the mountainous terrain.
2. Elevation change: Kandy sits at an elevation of about 500 meters (1,640 feet) above sea level, while Nuwara Eliya is at approximately 1,868 meters (6,128 feet). This significant increase in elevation contributes to the journey time and the dramatic change in climate and scenery.
3. Scenic route: The drive is known for its beautiful landscapes, passing through tea plantations, waterfalls, and picturesque villages.
4. Potential stops: Many travelers choose to make stops along the way, which can extend the journey time. Popular stops include tea factories, the Ramboda Falls, and various viewpoints.
5. Weather considerations: As you ascend, the temperature drops noticeably. The weather can also change quickly in the mountains, sometimes affecting driving conditions.
6. Alternative routes: While the A5 is the most direct and commonly used route, there are alternative, more scenic routes that can be taken, though these typically increase the travel time.
7. Public transportation: For those not driving, there are buses and shared taxis that make this journey, though they may take longer than a private car.

TEH TRAVEL TIME FROM KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA

Remember that travel times can vary based on traffic, especially when leaving Kandy or entering Nuwara Eliya during peak hours. It’s always a good idea to allow extra time for the journey to accommodate any unexpected delays or scenic stops.

HILL COUNTRY RAIL TRIPS

Sri Lanka hill-country tour on the rail track from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya connects the two most scenic mountain resorts, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. This is the most scenic and popular rail track on the island. The Sri Lanka hill country rail trip is ranked as the 4th most scenic train trip in the world. During the train trip, the travellers reach high-altitude areas of Sri Lanka and travel up to 1888 metres above sea level. PattipOla is the highest railway station on this route, and it sits 1891 metres above sea level. Pattopila is the 66th railway station on this route from Colombo and tugged away 225km from Colombo.

KANDY TO NUWARA ELIYA BY TRAIN

The train trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is considered to be one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, and travellers love it. The time taken for the rail journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is about 4 hours, which is a major shortcoming of the train trip. On the other hand, the journey by car or bus would take around 2 hours from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya; however, it would not be as attractive as the train journey due to the lack of access to the beautiful scenery. However, the railway track does not end at either end. The railway track further runs up deep into the mountain from Nuwara Eliya. The railway track further goes westward from Kandy to Colombo.

The hill country train trip, better known as the “hill country blue train journey,” is very popular among foreign travellers. The hill country blue train runs a few times every day from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and vice versa. The hill country express train is much faster than the slow train; however, the express train stops only at selected train stations. If you plan your train trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, you should be careful when choosing the correct train for your trip that stops at the railway station where you would like to get off.

The upcountry rail journey is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the stunning scenery of Sri Lanka’s mountains. Traveling northward from Colombo, a 4 to 5-hour rail journey covers dozens of tunnels and many bridges as it rolls passing the green-capped mountains and valleys of high-altitude areas of Sri Lanka.

The train passes beautiful waterfalls, mountain meadows, pristine mountain lakes, and picture-perfect laid-back villages. The highlights of the journey include picturesque tea plantations.

Starting from Kandy, the upcountry train travels southward from Kandy through the fertile fields. After Gampola, it goes up into the mountains, where it crosses the many long tunnels. Passing through the magnificent, green-capped mountains at Ambewela Farm, the upcountry train chugs onward through Sri Lanka’s cloud forests. Finally, it reaches its destination at an elevation of 1800 metres above sea level.

Due to the time taken for the train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, what most travellers do is reduce the time spent on the train by curtailing the train journey while choosing the most scenic part of the train journey, and the rest of the journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is carried out by car.

HOW TO BOOK SEATS ON KANDY NUWARA ELIYA TRAIN?

Hill Country Train is one of the most crowded trains on the island, due to the large number of local travellers and foreign tourists. The train provides seats in three categories: first-class seats (observation compartment), second-class seats, and third-class seats. First-class and second-class seats can be reserved through advanced booking, which is the best way to guarantee that you get a seat. Due to the high demand, the seats are sold out well in advance on this route, and it is necessary to pre-book seats to guarantee that you have a seat and a hassle-free, comfortable journey.

Due to the ever-increasing demand for hill country train trips, the Sri Lanka Railway Department started a new, luxury train service from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella on March 5, 2022. The train was specially launched to serve foreign travellers who like to enjoy the hill country train trip. The new train will operate daily, leaving Kandy at 7 a.m. and reaching Demodara at 2.20 p.m. leaving Demodara at 3.40 p.m. and reaching Kandy at 9.45 p.m.

The train comes with a class S14 powerset and has 176 AC first-class seats and 144 second-class seats. The speciality of this service is that it will stop at 12 stations, including nine tourist attractions such as St. Clair Falls, Great Western Railway Station, Algin Waterfall, Pattipola, Idalgashinna, and Demodara Nine Arch Bridge. The train stops at the above-mentioned places for a few minutes for tourists to enjoy the scenery and capture photos and videos.

Serendipity Tours organises daily tours from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya and from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. These trips can be booked via our online booking system or by writing us an email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. We also help travellers book train seats.

WHEN SHOULD I RESERVE SEAT ON THE KANDY NUWARA ELIYA TRAIN?

The simple answer is at your earliest. The demand for seats on the route is very high and a Large number of foreign and local travellers use the train daily. Therefore, it would not be possible to book seats at the last moment. To guarantee the seats from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and vice versa, you should book seats at your earliest convenience. However, the seats can be booked only one month ahead of the scheduled date.

TRAVEL TIPS

1. Pack layers: The temperature can change dramatically as you ascend
2. Bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to it
3. Carry cash: ATMs can be limited outside of town centers
4. Respect the environment: Don’t litter and be mindful of wildlife
5. Try local cuisine: Sample some hill country specialties like warm soups and freshly baked goods