Kandy to Nuwaraeliya by Train Nuwaraeliya City Tour and Drop Ella

Discover the Beauty of Sri Lanka with the Kandy to Nuwaraeliya Train and City Tour

Trying to capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s lush highlands in a single day? This tour promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural stops, and charming towns, all wrapped into an approximately 12-hour adventure. It’s an excellent way for travelers to see some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

One feature we particularly love is the scenic train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya, which offers some of the most stunning views of tea plantations and misty mountains—truly a highlight for anyone who appreciates natural beauty. The tour also includes visits to quaint towns, historical sites like Seetha Amman Temple, and a relaxed walk through Nuwara Eliya’s pretty streets.

A possible consideration? The schedule is quite packed, so if you’re looking for a leisurely, unhurried day, you might find the timings a tad tight. However, for those eager to cover a lot in a single day, this itinerary hits many of the must-see spots efficiently. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka’s hill country, especially if they value scenic train journeys, cultural insights, and picturesque towns.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Train Ride: The journey between Kandy and Nanuoya offers panoramic views of tea plantations, misty mountains, and traditional villages.
• Cultural and Historical Sites: The visit to Seetha Amman Temple provides insight into local legends and Hindu devotion.
• Charming Town Exploration: Walking through Nuwara Eliya reveals colonial-style architecture, cozy cottages, and scenic streets.
• Flexible Sightseeing: Depending on timing, you’ll get a glimpse of Gregory Lake, the old Post Office, and local attractions.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a reserved train seat make logistics smoother.
• Value for Money: At $125, this tour packs in transportation, scenic experiences, and cultural stops, giving good overall value.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting in Kandy: The Early Morning Pickup

The day kicks off bright and early at 7:30 a.m., with pickup from your hotel, making it ideal for early risers eager to maximize time. If you’re not a breakfast person, bringing along a packed breakfast is recommended, as the tour doesn’t include a meal at this stage. The driver is friendly and punctual, and we appreciated the smooth transition from hotel to railway station around 8 a.m. This early start maximizes your day and helps beat some of the crowds.

The Scenic Train Journey: A Highlight in Every Sense

At around 8:30 a.m., you’ll board your reserved seat—either in second or third class—on the train to Nanuoya. The train ride is what many consider the real highlight of this tour. We loved the way the train clattered along narrow tracks with open windows, allowing us to take in the lush, rolling tea plantations stretching as far as the eye could see.

Traveling through misty hills and quaint villages, you’ll get a taste of Sri Lanka’s highland charm. The ride lasts about three hours, during which you can sit back and marvel at some of the most photographed regions in the country. Reviewers often mention the stunning views, with one noting that “the vistas are so breathtaking, it’s like being in a postcard.” The train’s slow pace and open windows also make it a fantastic opportunity for photos and simply soaking up the scenery.

Arriving in Nanuoya and Exploring Nuwara Eliya

At around 12:15 p.m., you’ll arrive at Nanuoya station, the gateway to Nuwara Eliya. Your guide will be waiting to whisk you into town, which is about a half-hour drive away. The winding road itself is worth noting—be prepared for some scenic twists and turns that reveal the town’s colonial-era architecture and lush gardens.

Once in Nuwara Eliya, you’ll have an hour to stroll through the town’s streets—an area often called “Little England” thanks to its British colonial buildings, cozy cottages, and manicured gardens. Many reviews appreciate this walk as a chance to see quaint villas, pretty mansions, and the general peaceful vibe of the town.

Lunch is then on your own, giving you the flexibility to pick a spot that suits your taste—whether it’s a local café or a sit-down restaurant. The time here feels just right to stretch your legs and soak in the atmosphere before heading to the next stops.

Visiting Gregory Lake and Other Highlights

After lunch, your guide will take you to Gregory Lake, a popular spot for both relaxing and enjoying outdoor activities. While the tour doesn’t include admission, most visitors find it worthwhile to see the lake’s scenic backdrop and perhaps partake in a walk along the promenade.

Next, a quick visit to the historic Post Office offers a nostalgic look into the colonial past, with the option to send postcards home—a charming souvenir and conversation starter.

The Cultural Touchpoint: Seetha Amman Temple

One of the unique stops is the Seetha Amman Temple, located about five kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. This temple holds significance for Hindus, as it’s linked to the legend of Sita from the Ramayana. Visitors often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the interesting stories associated with the site. It’s a free visit, and many say it’s worth a brief stop to learn about local beliefs and legends.

Final Stop in Ella and Return

The last part of the tour takes you to Ella, a vibrant mountain town famous for its relaxed vibe and scenic beauty. You’ll arrive around 5:30 p.m., just in time to enjoy a quick look around before the tour wraps up and you’re dropped off at your hotel.

Overall Logistics and Value

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort and ease, especially after a long train ride. The guide’s assistance and commentary are discreet but helpful, adding context to what you’re seeing.

At $125 per person, including the train tickets (reserved seats), transport, and guide service, this tour offers good value for those wanting to cover a lot without the stress of planning. Not included are entrance fees for some sites, food, and gratuities, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit additional attractions or dine at specific spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and town exploration in one day. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Sri Lanka but eager to see a variety of sights. If you love train journeys—especially ones that meander through lush landscapes—this tour hits the mark.

It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors who want an organized, hassle-free day that covers highlights without sacrificing authenticity. However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, unstructured day or want to explore each site at your own pace, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling way to experience Sri Lanka’s hill country in a single day. The highlight is undoubtedly the scenic train ride, providing breathtaking views that are hard to beat. The stops at Nuwara Eliya, Seetha Amman, and Ella add layers of cultural and natural richness, making this a well-rounded experience.

For travelers who value stunning vistas, cultural exposure, and comfort, this is a smart choice. The logistical ease of hotel pickup, reserved train seats, and guided sightseeing ensures a smooth day out. The price, while not the cheapest, reflects the value of seamless transportation, scenic views, and curated stops packed into one memorable journey.

While the itinerary is busy and some sites are brief, this tour captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s highland charm in a manageable, enjoyable format. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it offers a good balance of natural beauty, culture, and convenience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Kandy and drop-off at Ella, making logistics simple.

What should I bring for the train ride?
Bring a packed breakfast if needed, as breakfast isn’t included. Also, pack a camera, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the cool mountain air.

Are the train seats reserved?
Yes, your seats are reserved in either second or third class, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey.

Can I visit Gregory Lake and the Post Office?
Yes, these are included in the itinerary, but entry fees are not. Most visitors find these quick stops worthwhile for photographs and souvenirs.

How long is the train journey?
The train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya lasts about three hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes, but consider the physical demands of walking and the train ride. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day’s outing.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour combines comfort, natural beauty, and cultural highlights into a single day, making it a fantastic choice for those eager to see Sri Lanka’s hill country with minimal fuss.