Let us help you with How to get from Nuwara Eliya to Ella.
While traveling to Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya and Ella, both the locations must be on your go-to list. This journey offers some of the most scenic views in Sri Lanka. Whether you prefer the convenience of a taxi, the affordability of a bus, or the charm of a train ride, you can choose the option that suits your needs.
This article is a detailed guide of the same. The distance between these two locations is 55 km.
Taxi
Are you someone who prefers comfort and flexibility? Why not think of taking a taxi from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, then? It will take about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, to complete this ride by a taxi. You will get to travel along winding mountain roads with beautiful scenery.
You can travel directly from your accommodation in Nuwara Eliya to your destination in Ella, without worrying about timetables or stops. Taxis offer the flexibility to stop at viewpoints or attractions along the way.
You can enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride if you are looking for a stress-free journey. Taxi fares vary depending on the type of vehicle and operator. On average, you can expect to pay between LKR 9,000 and LKR 12,000 for the one-way trip.
You can book a taxi in advance through your hotel or a reliable taxi service. There are various taxi-booking platforms in Sri Lanka with trusted and experienced services.
Bus
Taking a bus is the most affordable option to travel from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, though it requires a bit more time and effort compared to a taxi. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. Hence, you will need to transfer at Bandarawela or Badulla.
First, take a bus from Nuwara Eliya to either Bandarawela or Badulla. Buses are available frequently, and the journey to Bandarawela takes around 2 to 3 hours, costing about LKR 150 to LKR 300. Once you reach Bandarawela or Badulla, transfer to a bus heading towards Ella. The journey from Bandarawela to Ella is around 30 minutes and costs approximately LKR 50. If you travel from Badulla, the journey to Ella takes about an hour.
The advantages of choosing a bus include affordability, exploring the local life, and enjoying moments with the locals. But it also has some disadvantages. First of all, there is no direct route, and secondly, the bus is always crowded. You are now clear about making your choice.
Train
The train journey from Nuwara Eliya (via the Nanu Oya station) to Ella is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The train will take you through misty hills, lush tea plantations, and picturesque villages.
Nuwara Eliya does not have its own train station. The nearest station is Nanu Oya, which is around 8 km from the town. You can take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to Nanu Oya station, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
From Nanu Oya, board the train heading to Ella. The train ride takes around 3 to 4 hours and offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Traveling by train is affordable, comfortable, and offers the best views. You can also spot the Nine Arches Bridge.
Train tickets are quite affordable, with prices ranging from LKR 400 to LKR 1,500 depending on the class of service. But we would also like to tell you that trains can be crowded so book your tickets in advance. You might have to face the train delay depending on the situation.
There are daily trains from Nanu Oya to Ella, but the schedule can vary. It is best to check the Sri Lanka Railways website or inquire at your accommodation for up-to-date information. You can purchase the tickets at the station, but we suggest booking in advance during peak tourist season.
Conclusion
Now you know How to get from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. From comfort of a taxi, the affordability of a bus, and scenic views from the train, you can choose whatever you want. Each mode of transport offers something or the other. It completely depends on you what aligns with your choices. Some of you might prioritize comfort over the views, and some might prioritize saving money over flexibility. No matter what you decide, remember that the journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is going to be a wonderful one.
Contact Majentra Ella if you are looking for hotel in Ella.
