The scenic train rides in Sri Lanka, especially the Kandy Ella Train route (or more often from Nuwara Eliya to Ella) have gained legendary status among travelers. Presumably your Instagram feed is flooded with stunning images of rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and vibrant blue carriages. But beyond the amazing scenery, what’s the real story behind these train rides? How to book train tickets in Sri Lanka in advance? From ticket scams to safety concerns, here’s everything you need to know before hopping on board.
Train Journey in Sri Lanka
The Hype About Kandy Ella Train Route
The Kandy to Ella route is the million dollar shot and the most sought after train ride of Sri Lanka’s train network. While the train journey from Kandy to Ella (or Nanu Oya to Ella) offers without doubt an unforgettable ride through lush green hills, the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, and charming villages, the truth be told, you can find similar vibes on other routes that are way less crowded and a lot easier to manage.
The Ticketing Chaos & Black Market Scams
Securing a train ticket for the popular Kandy-Ella route is easier said than done. Due to high demand, tickets sell out quickly, leaving many travelers stuck dealing with the black market trap.
How does the ticket scam work?
Theoretically and officially, you can book train tickets in Sri Lanka exactly 30 days before the desired departure date and time through the official website of Sri Lanka Railways. For instance, if the scheduled train departure time is 10:00 am, the tickets would be available at exactly 10:00 am 30 days prior to the departure date. Yet, within the same minute or even seconds, all tickets disappear, just like that.
The thing is, insiders and third-party agents buy up large numbers of tickets, only to resell them at inflated prices later on, with second class Kandy Ella train tickets starting at 25 EUR (instead of about 2-3 EUR). As a travel agent ourselves, we do have contacts to get train tickets anytime at these inflated rates, yet still we would urge you not to support black market to stop this nonsense. By road the views are also amazing and the experience of train ride is more peaceful on other routes, and no less scenic.
If you fail to secure the regular train tickets online, you can alternatively try the Calypso Special Tourist Train, which takes in the best sections of the Nanu Oya-Ella route and also stops for 10 minutes on the Nine Arch Bridge for photo ops.
Be aware that this special train too would be extremely crowded. Depending on your itinerary, you could try different routes. For example, recently we just showed up at the train station 30 minutes before departure and got second class train tickets for Hatton-Colombo route for about 2.20 EUR.
Should you need any help with securing tickets for your Sri Lanka train ride experience, simply drop us a message via E-Mail or WhatsApp.
Safety Concerns: Tragic Accidents & Risks of Train Ride
Sri Lanka’s trains are usually pretty safe, but a recent tragic incident highlights the need for caution. The sad case involving a Russian tourist who fell from the ‘Podi Menike’ train while attempting to snap a selfie by an open door is a clear reminder that getting that perfect picture isn’t worth putting yourself in danger.
To stay safe:
✅ Avoid leaning out of open doors or windows
✅ Stay alert in crowded compartments
✅ Prioritize safety over social media photos
Pro Tips for a Smooth Train Journey in Sri Lanka
🚆 Book Early – Use Sri Lanka Railways Official Website to secure your ticket in advance.
🚆 Avoid the Black Market – If a ticket seems overpriced, it’s a scam. Stick to authorized vendors and seek alternative routes.
🚆 Travel Light – Second and third-class carriages can get packed, so keep your luggage minimal.
🚆 Engage with Locals – The best stories come from the people you meet along the way.
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka’s train rides may live up to the hype—if you know what to expect. By staying informed and taking precautions, you can enjoy one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world without falling victim to scams or safety risks.
Ready to experience a train journey in Sri Lanka for yourself? Check out our awesome Sri Lanka itineraries and get in touch with us to craft a journey beyond your dreams!🚂🌿
