03/04/2017
Planning a trip from the bustling capital of Colombo to the serene, misty hills of Ella is a common quest for many travellers exploring the beautiful island of Sri Lanka. Whether you're seeking efficiency, comfort, or a truly scenic experience, understanding your transport options is key to a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide delves into the various ways to travel between these two distinct destinations, focusing on costs, travel times, and what you can expect from each mode of transport.
Taxi from Colombo to Ella: Speed and Convenience
For those prioritising speed, directness, and comfort, a taxi remains one of the most popular choices for travelling from Colombo to Ella. It offers the flexibility to depart at your leisure, make stops as you wish, and provides a private, door-to-door service that can be invaluable after a long flight or if you're travelling with luggage.
How Much Does a Taxi Cost?
The cost of a taxi from Colombo to Ella can vary significantly depending on how you book and the service provider. For instance, booking your taxi through a dedicated travel platform like BookAway might set you back approximately 31,000 LKR (around $100 USD). This price typically covers a comfortable vehicle and a professional driver, often with the convenience of pre-arranged pick-up.
Alternatively, if you opt for ride-hailing services such as Uber, you might find the fares to be considerably lower. An Uber journey from Colombo to Ella could cost around 16,000 LKR (approximately $53 USD). It's important to note that Uber fares can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and vehicle availability, so the actual price might be slightly cheaper or more expensive than this estimate. While Uber can offer a more budget-friendly option, ensure you confirm the fare before commencing your journey to avoid any surprises. Reputable local taxi services also offer competitive rates, often requiring a direct negotiation or a fixed price agreed upon booking.
How Long Does the Car Journey Take?
The fastest route by car from Colombo to Ella is generally via the southern expressway. This modern highway bypasses much of the slower, winding roads, significantly cutting down travel time. On average, a car journey from Colombo to Ella will take approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. This duration can be influenced by traffic conditions, especially when departing from Colombo, and any stops you might wish to make along the way for refreshments or scenic views.
The journey itself spans roughly 200 kilometres to the east of Colombo. As you travel, you'll witness a fascinating transition in landscape, from the coastal plains and urban sprawl of the capital to the lush greenery, sprawling tea plantations, and dramatic mountainous terrain that characterises the central highlands where Ella is nestled. Opting for a taxi allows you to fully immerse yourself in these changing vistas from the comfort of your seat, or even request brief stops for photo opportunities at particularly picturesque spots.
Ella: A Hill Country Gem
Nestled at an elevation of about 1040 meters above sea level, Ella is a small yet incredibly beautiful town that has rapidly grown into a must-visit destination for travellers in Sri Lanka. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including towering waterfalls, verdant tea estates, and challenging hiking trails. From the iconic Nine Arches Bridge to the panoramic views from Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, Ella offers a plethora of activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Its relaxed atmosphere and abundance of charming guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants make it an ideal spot for unwinding after your journey.
The Ella Odyssey Train: A Scenic Alternative
While a taxi offers directness, for those with more time and a desire for an unparalleled scenic experience, the Ella Odyssey special train presents an enchanting alternative. This train journey is widely regarded as one of the best in all of Asia, offering breathtaking views and a unique insight into Sri Lanka's picturesque hill country.
Journeying to Kandy First
To embark on the Ella Odyssey, you would first need to travel from Colombo to Kandy. The car journey to Kandy typically takes about 3 hours. Kandy itself is a significant cultural hub, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and is well worth exploring before continuing your journey to Ella.
About the Ella Odyssey Train
Launched in March 2022, the Ella Odyssey is a train service specifically dedicated to tourism, designed to provide visitors with a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka's hill country. This 7-hour train journey, departing from Kandy, is an experience in itself, offering comfort and stunning views throughout.
Inside the Train
The Ella Odyssey is designed with traveller comfort in mind. It features 176 first-class seats in an air-conditioned cabin, ensuring a cool and pleasant journey even on warm days. Additionally, there are 144 second-class seats, offering a more traditional and often equally enjoyable experience. A highlight of the train is its dedicated restaurant car, which serves buffet meals and provides seating for up to 70 people, making it a great spot for socialising and enjoying a meal amidst the incredible scenery.
Schedule, Route, and Destinations
The Ella Odyssey operates daily, departing from Kandy railway station at 7:00 am. It reaches its final stop, Demodara, at 2:20 pm. For the return journey, it departs from Demodara at 3:40 pm, bringing passengers back to Kandy by 9:45 pm. This schedule allows for a full day of scenic travel and exploration.
What makes the Ella Odyssey truly unique are its strategic stops at various popular tourist attractions and stations along the way. These brief pauses, ranging from two to thirty minutes, allow passengers to hop off, capture stunning photographs, and get a quick glimpse of Sri Lanka's natural beauty before re-boarding. Key stops include:
- Peradeniya Station
- Geli Oya Station
- Nawalapitiya Station
- Horse Tail Waterfall (2 minutes)
- Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) view (2 minutes)
- Hatton Station
- St. Claire’s Waterfall view (2 minutes)
- Great Western Station
- Nanu Oya Station
- Elgin Falls View (2 minutes)
- Pattipola Station
- Summit Level (2 minutes)
- No. 18 Tunnel (3 minutes)
- Ohiya Station
- Idalgashinna Station (30 minutes – a longer stop for stretching your legs)
- Sulan Kapolla View (3 minutes)
- Haputale Station
- Kithal Ella Waterfall View (3 minutes)
- Ella Station (the primary destination for many)
- Nine Arches Bridge (10 minutes – a highlight for many, allowing time for photos)
- Demodara Station
The journey itself is an invitation to indulge in the scenic wonders of Sri Lanka’s hill country. From either window, you'll be treated to equally ecstatic views of lush greenery, expansive tea estates, majestic mountainous vistas, and cascading waterfalls. The train cuts through the landscape, offering a comfortable and luxurious way to experience the island's natural splendour.
Booking Your Ella Odyssey Ticket
Given the popularity of this luxury train service, it is highly advisable to book your seats in advance to avoid disappointment. This is particularly crucial if you have a tight schedule during your stay in Sri Lanka, as finding seats from Kandy to Ella at short notice can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons. E-ticketing services are available, allowing passengers to conveniently book online. Planning ahead ensures you secure your spot on this incredible journey.
Choosing Your Journey: Taxi vs. Train
Deciding between a taxi and the Ella Odyssey train largely depends on your travel priorities. Here's a comparative look to help you make an informed decision:
| Feature | Taxi (Colombo to Ella) | Ella Odyssey Train (Kandy to Ella) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Travel Time | 4.5 - 5 hours | ~3 hours (Colombo-Kandy) + 7 hours (Kandy-Ella) = ~10 hours |
| Cost (Approx.) | 16,000 - 31,000 LKR ($53 - $100) | Depends on Kandy journey + train ticket (generally less than taxi if starting from Colombo) |
| Convenience | Door-to-door, flexible departure, direct route | Requires travel to Kandy first, fixed schedule |
| Experience | Private, comfortable, can stop anywhere, direct views from car | Scenic, social, unique stops, iconic journey, less direct |
| Luggage | Ample space, easy handling | Can be challenging with large luggage, especially during boarding/alighting |
If time is of the essence and you prefer a seamless, private transfer, a taxi is undoubtedly the superior choice. It gets you directly to Ella with minimal fuss. However, if you're looking for an immersive cultural and scenic experience, and don't mind the longer travel time that includes a prior journey to Kandy, the Ella Odyssey train offers an unforgettable adventure that many consider a highlight of their Sri Lankan trip. It's a journey that prioritises the experience over mere transit, allowing you to truly soak in the beauty of the highlands.
Practical Tips for Your Journey
- Book in Advance: Whether it's a taxi or train, especially during peak season, pre-booking is highly recommended to secure your preferred option and avoid last-minute stress.
- Comfort is Key: For the car journey, consider a comfortable vehicle, especially if you get motion sickness on winding roads. For the train, first-class offers air conditioning and more space.
- Snacks and Drinks: While the Ella Odyssey has a restaurant, it's always wise to carry some snacks and water for both journeys.
- Photography: The views are incredible! Ensure your camera or phone is charged and ready to capture the breathtaking landscapes, especially on the train journey.
- Currency: Have some local currency (LKR) for smaller purchases or tips, although major services will accept card payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ella worth visiting?
Absolutely! Ella has become increasingly popular for a reason. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere. Activities like hiking Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, visiting the Nine Arches Bridge, experiencing waterfalls, and even zip-lining make it a captivating destination for all types of travellers.
Can I get a taxi directly from Colombo airport to Ella?
Yes, many taxi services offer direct transfers from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Ella. The cost might be slightly higher than from Colombo city centre due to the additional distance, but it offers ultimate convenience for arrivals.
Is it safe to travel by taxi in Sri Lanka?
Generally, yes. It is safe to travel by taxi in Sri Lanka, especially with reputable companies or well-known ride-hailing apps. Always ensure the driver is licensed and the vehicle is in good condition. Agree on the fare beforehand if not using a metered service.
What's the best time of year to visit Ella?
The best time to visit Ella is typically from December to March, during the dry season. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant for hiking and exploring. However, the hill country can be visited year-round, with occasional showers outside of the main dry season adding to the lushness of the landscape.
Are there other ways to get from Colombo to Ella besides taxi and train?
While taxis and the train are the most popular and recommended options, it is possible to travel by bus, which is the cheapest but also the longest and least comfortable option. Public buses often involve multiple changes and can be very crowded. Some shared van services might also be available but are less common for direct long-distance routes like Colombo to Ella.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for the efficiency and comfort of a direct taxi from Colombo to Ella or choose to embark on the epic, scenic adventure of the Ella Odyssey train (via Kandy), your journey to this enchanting hill country town is sure to be memorable. Each mode of transport offers a distinct experience, catering to different preferences and budgets. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to one of Sri Lanka's most captivating destinations. Ella beckons with its stunning vistas and array of activities, making the journey there an integral part of the adventure.
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