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Travel. It’s probably the first word that connects us in the most pragmatic way in the 21st century. When the world around is getting busier and mechanized, travel allows us to spend time with ourselves. To be the honest version of ourselves and not what we are made to be.
If you ask me, travel is the new social.
This is also why I prefer train travels over other modes of travel. It feels more personal, connected and liberalized. When I was planning for my trip to Sri Lanka, I knew I had to experience a train journey.
During my research, it popped up that trains are extremely safe and reliable for commute within Sri Lanka. Of course, the network isn’t as vast as we have in India. But you will be covered for the most part during your stay in the island nation. But I didn’t know I will be in for an experience of a lifetime.
I had many train journeys during my trip but today’s essay will focus on the incredibly popular train ride from Colombo to Ella - The Ella Odyssey.
Ella Odyssey is a special blue color-themed train run by the Sri Lanka Railways. It was introduced in 2022 and runs from Colombo to Bandulla. The train is specifically designed for tourists and stops at major attractions between Kandy and Bandulla.
It is the most luxury train experience you can get in Sri Lanka, especially if you book the the AC First Class seat. The journey from Kandy to Ella is considered to be picturesque and serene. It gets better as it moves forward, ultimately reaching its zenith after Nuwara Elliya.
6000/- LKR for AC First Class
4000/- LKR for Second Class
3000/- LKR for Third Class
Pro Tip: Book either second class or first class tickets for the best experience. While the AC first class reservation guarantees you luxury and comfort, you can’t open the windows, which might be a mood-spoiler. You can open the gates though and enjoy the journey. (Exercise caution while you peek out to click pretty pictures).
The second class is a good option for those who are looking to enjoy the breathtaking views from their seats. Especially if you are travelling from Kandy to Ella which can be a 7-8 hr long journey.
Colombo Fort (Origin)
Kandy
Horsetail Waterfall
Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak)
St. Claire Waterfalls
Great Western
Nanu Oya
Elgin Falls
Summit Level, Pattipola (Highest point of Sri Lanka Railways)
Ohiya
Idalgashinna
Sulan Kapolla View Point
Haputalle
Kithal Ella Falls
Ella
Nine Arches Bridge (10 minute halt)
Demodara
Badulla (Destination)
The train runs from Colombo to Badulla on Thursdays and Saturdays and comes back to Colombo from Badulla on Friday and Sunday.
From Colombo Fort: 5:30 am
From Kandy: 8:13 am
From Nany Oya (Nuwara Elliya): 12:02 pm
As you must have figured by now, this train is very popular among the tourists. So, it was always advisable to book it in advance. And not wait till the last day.
The train reservation can be done online from the official website of Sri Lanka Railways. Please make sure to make the reservation trough the official website only and not get tempted by discounts and offers from other websites as it might be another scam.
Pro Tip: If you are travelling during the peak season (December-April), make the reservation 2-3 weeks in advance.
The train comes equipped with an automatic door system and an information screen which doesn’t just tell the next station but also the next landmark that it will be crossing. The compartments are clean and tidy, with ample leg room and comfortable seats.
It has been thoughtfully curated and runs at a comfortable pace allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views and immerse yourself into the changing landscapes. Announcements are made to inform passengers about the approaching landmarks. From Tea estates, dams and waterfalls - this ride will keep you captivated throughout.
Pro Tip: Since the train is focused extensively on the tourists, food and water are priced slightly higher than what you will find in other parts of Sri Lanka. Vegetarian food options are limited. I didn’t had much trouble since my journey was short (3 hrs approximately). But if you are taking the longer route (like travelling from Colombo or Kandy, it is advisable to carry water and snacks).
I decided to do this ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, which is almost a 3 hour journey. Nanu Oya is the nearest station to the hilly and picturesque town of Nuwara Elliya - also known as the The Little England. The train was surprisingly not very late (trains are quite delayed in Sri Lanka).
Just 10 minutes into the journey and there was a sudden rush of passengers (mostly tourists) on the entry gate. The phones were out and the content creator in everyone took over. There was hardly anyone who didn’t want to get clicked or click the pictures of the views at display. And rightly so. That’s what you are for in this ride.
But what surprised me was that the train manager took turns and assisted everyone in clicking the best possible pictures. He himself asked if anyone wanted a photo and obliged with a smile, even asking if the person was satisfied with the shot. This was the first sign of this journey being like no other I have ever done.
The first landmark came. Elgin Fall. After almost an hour into the journey. My eyes popped out at the unbelievable sight. The train passed through the deep valley with the waterfall shining bright amidst the green scenery. The weather was on our side too. It started drizzling midway through our journey.
Oh, the feeling of rain splashing on your face as the sound of train reverberates in the green lush plains for as long as your eyes can see. The ride is an invisible bridge between reality and fantasy.
Slowly, I find myself talking to other people on the train. There was this guy from New Zealand who happened to be a cricket fanatic like me. We talked about everything from Kane Williamson to Virat Kohli, to the dreaded 2019 World Cup Semi-Final and the 2021 WTC final between India and New Zealand. Nothing like a good enriching cricket conversation.
I also met a women who was traveling to Sri Lanka for the 6th time (I can totally understand why). I could not help but take a photo of her with her child enjoying the incredible views. (If you manage to read this blog, do ping me on my Instagram for the picture).
In addition to the dreamy landscapes and plunging waterfalls, this exchange of cultures and experiences is what makes this train ride one of its kind.
Absolutely.
If there is any way to define a journey, it has to be this. It was exhilarating talking to complete strangers and getting to know their stories and experiences. The vibe on the train never felt dull and you don’t realize how the time flies by.
As I de-boarded at Ella, I knew I will be coming back to do the ride again. You just can’t get enough of it.
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