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Best way to get from Kandy to Ella by train?

Travel & Transportation Kandy
Sophie MartinFranceNewcomer
We are planning to take the famous train from Kandy to Ella next week. Should we book reserved seats in advance or just buy tickets at the station? Which side of the train has the best views? Any tips on which departure time to choose would be great.

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Book 2nd or 3rd class reserved seats online (railway e-ticketing) up to 30 days ahead - they sell out fast in season. If you can't get a reservation, unreserved 2nd class tickets are sold on the day. Sit on the RIGHT side leaving Kandy for the best valley views. The 8:47 morning train is the most scenic in good light.
Kasun JayasingheSri LankaExplorerLocal Contributor

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Tip: some travellers start at Nanu Oya (near Nuwara Eliya) instead - it cuts 3-4 hours but keeps the best part of the views.
Tharushi BandaraSri LankaExplorerLocal Contributor

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The 3rd class unreserved carriages are where the open doors are - great for photos, but hold on tight! The journey takes about 7 hours, so bring snacks.
Saman KumaraSri LankaNewcomerLocal Contributor

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I did this last month. Reserved seats were sold out, so I took unreserved 2nd class from Kandy - got a seat after Nanu Oya. Totally worth it.
Priya NairIndiaNewcomer

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