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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.
"We had an excellent and memorable trip and all credits to Cyril. In-depth knowledge about the places, roads and history and culture. From the airport assistance - Food, accommodation provided and the vehicle was excellent. Very matured and patient, We being on safe hands. Thanks for making it a memorable experience for all of us. " Aubry De Souza and group from Dubai
"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
"Excellent tour guide Cyril is a great tour guide and is very knowledgeable. He made our entire trip super comfortable. His vehicles are clean and well maintained. He is also very flexible if changes are needed. Definitely recommend!" Berenice Coelho
"We had a trip planned with Cyril just when international travel closed down due to Covid. Cyril was great in planning a trip with me that had a great deal of flexibility and tailored to visit the places we wanted to seeUnfortunately we were unable to take the trip. Cyril's response to that was great, he dealt with everything for us in terms of cancellationsHe has kept in touch with us since then and has already contacted me with a revised plan for our trip to Sri Lanka. Which we will book with h..." Brian O: Keefe - Perth - Australia
"Hi Mr.Cyril, Hope you and family and grandchild are doing fine. Hope to come to Sri Lanka again. We really enjoyed our trip especially with your special help and guidance. We will definitely contact you if at all we wish to visit Sri Lanka again. Thanks & Best Regards Mr. & Mrs.Pillai Singapore 29/7/11 " Mr & Mrs.Pillai from Singapore
"Thank you Cyril for making our Christmas holiday fun so smoothly and easy. We loved Sri Lanka and look forward to retuning again. Cyril, your knowledge and service was outstanding and it was so refreshing to have such a very highlevel of service. We will be sure to recomond your service and travel agency to our friends. Please feel free to use us as a reference, you can use my email or phone number to clients." Bruce Larson & family from USA
"11th April 2014 01 week tour around Sri Lanka A fantastic week was had by all with Cyril, exploring Kandy, Nuwaraeliya and Bentota. Your meaningful insights & excellent explanations of the Sri Lanka’s culture, nature and traditions were invaluable. Your smile and charm helped is feel related and comfortable. Not getting stressed once. With your guidance & tips, the holiday flew by with only one problem: it was very short! Your comprehensive list of talents ranges from findin..." Ian Price and family from UK
"We are glad to meet Cyril. He is very kind and patient, very professional in his work. He have lot of knowledge about history of the places and the things that happened in Sri Lanka. He knows all the roads and places very well. Very friendly and stand on time. The tour he recommended us and places were excellent. He replied immediately for mails which we send. He was flexible when we asked him to stop in different places and to change our program. He speaks very good English and explanations..." Ruty Ben Haim from Isarel
"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
"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
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