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The train journey from Nuwara Eliya (via Nanu Oya station) to Ella is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. This unforgettable experience takes travelers through Sri Lanka’s breathtaking hill country, offering a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty that cannot be experienced by road.
As the train slowly winds through the mountains, passengers are treated to panoramic views of rolling tea plantations, mist-covered hills, cascading waterfalls, and charming rural villages. The journey passes through numerous tunnels and across scenic bridges, creating a constantly changing landscape that is both relaxing and visually stunning. The cool climate and fresh mountain air further enhance the experience, making it a highlight of any Sri Lanka itinerary.
What Makes This Journey Special
This train ride is more than just transportation—it is a truly immersive experience. The open doorways and large windows allow travelers to fully enjoy the scenery, making it ideal for photography and relaxation. One of the most iconic sections is near Nine Arch Bridge, where the train curves through lush greenery, offering one of the most photographed views in Sri Lanka.
Duration & Distance
Important Travel Update
Please note that due to previous damage to the railway track caused by a natural disaster, train services on this route are currently operating from Ambewela Railway Station instead of Nanu Oya. Transfers can be easily arranged from Nuwara Eliya to Ambewela, which is approximately a 30–40-minute drive.
Classes & Seating Options
For most international travelers, 2nd class reserved seating is recommended for the best balance between comfort and experience.
Best Time to Travel
This journey can be enjoyed throughout the year, with the clearest views typically between December and April. Morning and mid-day departures are ideal for the best lighting and scenery.
Travel Tips
Experience Highlight
Often described as a once-in-a-lifetime journey, this train ride perfectly combines scenic beauty, local culture, and a relaxed travel pace. It remains one of the most memorable experiences in Sri Lanka, especially for nature lovers and photographers exploring the hill country.
" Hi Cyril We have had a fabulous holiday driven and guided by Cyril from CYRIL TOURS. Hotel recommendations were perfect and knowledge supertb. We would happy to introduce CYRIL TOURS to our frieinds and relatives. Thank you for the photos you are taken and send to us, they are a great reminder of our amazing experience in Sri Lanka. We had a truly memorable time and we are grateful to you for all your knowledge and guidance throughout our trip, it would not have been..." Mr. Richard & Mrs. Bridget Simson and family from
"Traveled in April 2013 with Cyril . Family with three young children. Cyril match the trip plan problem on his part. Familiar with every corner of this beautiful island and we have managed to produce a great 17 days. Prices respect as well - we tested three competing proposals and was the cheapest. The fact that he was working independently and not through an agency that collects coupon trips generally significantly reduces the price of the package. A modern and spacious vehicle (van with seven ..." Maozd
"CyrilWe are now back at home after the lovely time with you in Sri Lanka, andvisiting Hong Kong.Thank you for driving for us while we were in Sri Lanka.In particular, we appreciated - your smooth, calm and efficient driving through varied traffic conditions - your calmness when things did not go quite as expected - your being available at all times of day - I'm remembering our late arrival at the airport, and our late departure - your information about all sorts of ..." Cliff Hooker and Jean from Australia
"We had a great time on last 10 days in on our honeymoon in beautiful Sri Lanka. Thank you very much for the stories, the explanations, driving, tips, care and always with a smile. Big thanks for you Cyril. We had an amazing honeymoon in this beautiful island! and you are the best guide and friend that we could have here!!! We will sure tell our friends and family about the trip and you!!! We will stay in touch and may be one day meet you again. Oded & Carol Israel 10 Oct 2014" Naim & Coral Fisher from Israel
"Dear Cyril, Thank you very much for wonderful holiday. Your attention to detail and care of your clients is extraordinary. We certainly hope to cross paths again and we will recommonding you to all of our friends and to family too. Many thanks again. Paul nad Machelle Brisbane, Australia. Visited during 10/10/2012 - 26/10/2012" Mr. Paul and Mrs. Machelle from Australia
"Cyril was an excellent guide and gave us a very good insight into the history and cultures of Sri Lanka. He was always polite, helpful and prompt. His driving was always calm and controlled - unlike some of the other vehicles we saw!!! We would recommend him to others traveling to Sri Lanka. WH - UK - January 2011" Wilson Harland
"Thank you Cyril for caring us and giving a very enjoyable tour to all of our family while we are on holiday in Sri Lanka. Definitely we will recommend you to our friends and relatives. Hitendra Molleti and family" Hitendra Molleti
"Dear Cyril, We would like to thank youthat you have arrange ourholiday which we have enjoyed so much, that we can call them the best holiday we have ever had. You are avery helpful guide- because you know about your beautiful country very much. We also appriciate your advices that you gave us during our two weeks long journey and your perfect trip arrangement we have enjoyed every single day. All the best to you and your family. Hope to see you again. Martha & Jarda 08 No..." Martha & Jaroslav Jirout
"Dear Cyril, We want to thank you so much for making our trip so unforgetable and delightful. We received your name from our friends lives in Geneva who travelled with you in January 2009 and they gave you such a high recommendation that we decided to conbtact you for our two weeks trip this year. Although we have been to Sri Lanka a few times already. We have never found such an excellent driver and guide. It has been a great pleasure to visit Colombo with you and then to Koggala for two day tr..." Mr.Gabor Kato & Mrs.Ann Kato
"We had a fantastic holiday in Sri Lanka, thanks Cyril Tours, Our driver, Amiila, was brilliant and nothing was too much trouble for him. The places we visited were really interesting and we saw some lovely scenery.I would definitely recommend your company to other people. Emma - UK 2010 December " Emma Patterson
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