About the ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
When traveling the 58 kilometer (36 mile) distance between Ella and Nuwara Eliya, you’ll have 4 transportation options to choose from:
- Traveling on a bus that takes 4 hours to arrive in Nuwara Eliya
- Hopping on a first or a second-class train that takes 3 hours to arrive in Nuwara Eliya
- Traveling from Ella to Nuwara Eliya in a private minivan
- Driving from Ella to Nuwara Eliya with a private car
Which option you’ll choose depends mostly on your personal preferences. Traveling on a train is an extremely popular way to travel between Ella and Nuwara Eliya, and it’s definitely a scenic ride.
However, if you want a private ride, you can book a minivan or a private car. Even though private rides are usually a lot more expensive in other places, that’s not the case for this route. You can get a 6-passenger private minivan for $54, or a $44 private car for 2-3 passengers.
What to see when traveling from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
There’s a reason why trains are the most popular way to get from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. Your ride will take you through lush green scenery, and you’ll wish your ride lasted forever.
When it comes to other options you have available, buses, cars, and minivans will take the same route. Even though the train route is the most beautiful one, you’ll also be able to enjoy some mesmerizing views on the road.
How to get from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
Taking a bus
Hopping on a bus from Ella to Nuwara Eliya is a convenient way to make the journey between these two spots. Buses typically take a bit less than 4 hours to arrive in Nuwara Eliya.
When it comes to amenities, you’ll have A/C, a charger socket, reclining seats, and a shared TV. The buses don’t have toilets on board but will make frequent rest stops during your trip.
Taking a train
Hopping on a train between Ella and Nuwara Eliya is one of the most popular ways to travel between these two spots. There are two classes available to you, a first-class and a second-class train. The main differences between these two options are the seats and A/C.
The first-class train has A/C on board, and seats that are a bit larger, have armrests, and adjustable headrests. When it comes to other amenities, both options have toilets on board and food and drinks that you can purchase on the train.
A very important thing you have to keep in mind if you want to take the train is that you must order your ticket at least 31 days or more in advance. Train rides are very popular, and they tend to sell out very quickly.
You’ll receive a confirmation 30 days before your departure date. If it happens that there’s no seat available, you’ll receive a full refund. You can also choose to have your train tickets delivered to your hotel for an extra fee of $6.50. In order to get this, you’ll need to provide the hotel name, passenger name as per hotel booking, full address, hotel contact number, and check-in date.
Taking a private minivan
If you’re traveling with a group of up to 6 passengers, you can also book a private minivan ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. Compared to some other places, private rides on this route aren’t as expensive as you might expect. The total price for 6 passengers is $54.
Minivans have A/C and English speaking staff. When it comes to luggage policy, you can bring a 20 kg bag, plus 7 kg hand luggage per passenger. During your trip, the driver will make rest stops upon your request.
If you choose a private minivan ride, the driver will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, and you’ll be able to choose your departure time.
Taking a private car
For smaller groups of 2 to 3 passengers, there’s another option available. You can book a private car ride, and get to Nuwara Eliya in less than 2 hours. Cars have A/C and English speaking staff.
When it comes to luggage policy, you can bring a 20 kg bag, plus 7 kg hand luggage per passenger. During your trip, the driver will make rest stops upon your request.
Similar to traveling on a private minivan, you’ll have a chance to choose your departure time, as well as pick up and drop off locations.