Traveling from Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, to Nuwara Eliya — or from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy — is an adventure filled with stunning scenery and rich cultural encounters. Whether you choose the comfort of a taxi or the relaxed pace of a train, each route between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya offers its own special charm and unforgettable experiences.
Located amidst the picturesque hills and lush greenery, Kandy is the perfect starting point for your journey to Nuwara Eliya — often called “Little England” for its colonial charm and sprawling tea estates. Likewise, if you’re traveling from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy, you’ll be greeted by vibrant markets, sacred temples, and the tranquil Kandy Lake that lies at the heart of the city.
Embarking on the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya or Nuwara Eliya to Kandy train journey is one of the most scenic experiences in Sri Lanka, passing through mist-covered mountains, endless tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls. As you travel across the breathtaking central highlands, you’ll witness the island’s natural beauty and the warm, authentic charm of its people.
Before starting your adventure, it's crucial to review the train schedules to guarantee a seamless and stress-free journey. You can find schedules on the Department of Railway website or get them from the Kandy railway station. Trains usually have several departures throughout the day, giving travelers the flexibility to select a time that fits their schedule.
The Journey from Kandy to Nuwara eliya
Before starting your adventure, it's crucial to review the train schedules to guarantee a seamless and stress-free journey. You can find schedules on the Department of Railway website or get them from the Kandy railway station. Trains usually have several departures throughout the day, giving travelers the flexibility to select a time that fits their schedule.
First-Class Observation Compartment
For individuals looking for a top-tier experience in comfort and leisure, the first-class observation car represents the pinnacle of sophistication. Imagine yourself lounging in a luxurious seat, looking out through expansive windows that provide continuous views of the captivating scenery passing by. Immersed in the soothing ambiance of the train, you find yourself drifting into a peaceful state, accompanied by the harmonious blend of engine hum, carriage sway, and track clack. It's a place where time appears to slow down, allowing you to completely engage with the beauty of your environment.
Second class compartment
On the other hand, the second-class compartment provides a more personal and shared experience. Here, you'll be immersed in a community of diverse individuals, all eager to share their unique experiences and journeys. Engage in a chat with your fellow passengers, share travel advice, or just relax and enjoy the bond that forms between travelers as they explore Sri Lanka's hill country together. It's a platform where individuals form friendships, and mutual experiences create strong bonds.
Noteworthy moments during the journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya:
While traveling via the center of Sri Lanka's hillside, be sure to watch out for some of the most famous attractions along the way. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pidurutalagala mountain range, the highest mountain in Sri Lanka, and witness tea pickers scattered across the lush hillsides near famous tea plantations. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning Ramboda Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, as it cascades down the hillside in an exquisite display of nature's beauty.