Guide to Booking the Ella Odyssey Train & Colombo–Ella Train Journey!

πŸ“– Guide to Booking the Ella Odyssey Train & Colombo–Ella Train Journey! πŸš‚πŸŒ„

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable train ride through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, the Ella Odyssey is your ticket to a memorable adventure! Here’s everything you need to know:




🌿 About the Ella Odyssey

The Ella Odyssey is a special scenic train service running between Colombo Fort and Badulla, making brief stops at breathtaking viewpoints like Horsetail Waterfall, Nine Arches Bridge, and more.


🎟️ Ticket Prices

• First Class (A/C Reserved): LKR 5,000 (Colombo–Ella)
• Second Class (Reserved/Unreserved): LKR 4,000 (Colombo–Ella)
• Third Class (Unreserved): LKR 3,000 (Colombo–Ella)


πŸ›€️ Scenic Stops Highlights

Horsetail Waterfall | Sri Pada | St. Clair’s Waterfall | Elgin Falls | Nine Arches Bridge


πŸ—“️ Ella Odyssey Schedule

• Colombo to Badulla: Thursdays & Saturdays | 5:30 AM
• Badulla to Colombo: Fridays & Sundays | 8:00 AM

πŸ‘‰ All relevant details you should know time and the cost is here : https://traintimetable.lk/ella-odyssey-train-colombo-badulla/


πŸ“… How to Book Ella Odyssey Tickets

πŸ”Ή Online: Sri Lanka Railways Seat Reservation:
πŸ‘‰ https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/
πŸ”Ή mTicketing: Dial 365 (Mobitel) or 444 (Dialog)
πŸ”Ή In-Person: At stations like Colombo Fort, Kandy, Ella, Nanu Oya

πŸ’‘ Tips: Book at least 30 days ahead, especially for 1st and 2nd class seats during peak seasons!


First Class vs. Second Class

Many travelers, especially Europeans, prefer Second Class for the lively atmosphere, openable windows, and authentic experience. You can interact with locals, stretch your legs, and enjoy the fresh air.
• First Class offers A/C, rotatable seats, but sealed windows limit the immersive views.


πŸš‚ Other Scenic Train Journeys (Colombo–Ella)

Here’s a quick look at alternative train options if the Ella Odyssey is fully booked or you prefer a different experience:

πŸ”Έ Podi Menike – Early morning departure, scenic views
πŸ”Έ Udarata Menike – Later morning departure, comfortable reserved seating
πŸ”Έ Ravana Odyssey – A newer option for a luxurious and comfortable ride
πŸ”Έ Intercity Express – Faster journey with limited stops


πŸ“ Best Route & Seating Tips

• Most Scenic Stretch: Nanu Oya to Ella πŸŒ„
• Best Travel Direction: Kandy to Ella (for a gradual climb into the hills)
• Best Side to Sit: Right-hand side from Kandy to Ella, Left-hand side from Ella to Kandy


πŸ’° Price Summary for Colombo–Ella Scenic Trains

Class Price Range (LKR) Features
1st 1,300 – 9,000 A/C, reserved
2nd 900 – 1,800 Reserved/unreserved, open windows
3rd 440 – 900 Basic, unreserved

πŸ’¬ Pro Tip: Be cautious when near open doors and windows;


⚠️ Safety Tips for Your Train Journey

Always hold on when moving between train cars or standing near doorways.
Avoid leaning out of windows or standing on footboards.
When the train stops, step off carefully and watch your footing, especially on platforms.
Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid crowded compartments during busy times.
Follow instructions from railway staff and respect local customs.

check out this Safety: Video

• English : https://youtu.be/4jTLsBIlraU?si=eiQ_ii5vki2QRBsb
• Deutsch: https://youtu.be/nLCO0BrE240?si=gMvQjUFWZ_GcuLGm


πŸ“… Best Time to Travel

Between January–March for dry, clear weather. Morning trains offer the best daylight for scenic photography! But any time of the year is beautiful.


πŸ”— Ready to embark on Sri Lanka’s most beautiful train journey? Reserve your seat today and get set for a ride through rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages. πŸš†πŸŒΏ


πŸ”— Follow & connect with us:

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▶️ YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@VisitSriLanka-b1z4t
πŸ“ Blog : exploresrilankawithami.blogspot.com
πŸ’Ό LinkedIn : https://surl.lu/hyrelq


#ceylontaste #spiceupyourtrip #exploresrilankawithami #exploreceylonspicesbliss #sinhalalanguage #spices #ellaodyssey #srilankatrainjourney #scenictrainride #colombotoella #ellatrain #srilankatravel #ellaodysseybooking #traintravel #hillcountry #teaplantations #srilankatourism #nanuoyatoella #kandytoella #scenicviews #trainadventure #srilankarailways #ellajourney #traintips #traveltips #ellascenery

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