1. Ella to Nuwara Eliya by Train
Duration
Travel time from Ella to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) is about 2 hours and 35 minutes. The train from Ella to Nuwara Eliya goes to Nanu Oya, approximately 10 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. You can take Tuks Tuks taxis and shuttle buses to reach Nuwara Eliya.
Departure, Arrival Points, and Timings
The train departs Ella railway station and reaches Nanu Oya, approximately 10 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya. There are typically ten trains daily from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. The first train departs from Ella to Nuwara Eliya at 06:39, and the last train leaves Ella for Nuwara Eliya at 21:19.
Fares
The fares usually range from 1,000 LKR to 5200 LKR depending on the type of seats and Train.
Seat Options and Classes
Various seat options and classes are available for the journey. Unreserved 2nd or 3rd-class tickets can be purchased until the train departs, and you do not have to book them in advance.
Reserved seats are available in first, second, or third class. First-class seats have A/C, but the windows do not open.
Second-class reserved seats offer window seats with openable windows, ideal for photography.
Third-class reserved seats are uncomfortable for longer journeys.
Viceroy II Luxury Train
The Viceroy II is a luxurious train option not available for booking via BookAway. It features air-conditioned carriages with posh interiors, soft seats, pleasant lighting, and Wi-Fi.
Fares
A Viceroy II ticket costs 5,100 LKR, slightly more than a first-class seat on Sri Lanka Railways.
Timings and Departure Points
The Viceroy II operates from Ella to Nuwara Eliya on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The train departs at 11:57 from Ella Railway Station in the city center and Arrives at 14:35 at Nanu Oya Railway Station, located 10 km west of Nuwara Eliya city center.
2. Ella to Nuwara Eliya by Bus
Another way to travel between Ella and Nuwara Eliya is by bus.
Local bus
Fares and Duration
The cheapest option is the local bus, which costs 70 LKR. The only direct buses available are ordinary with wooden seats, which may not be the most comfortable for the 3-hour journey.
Departure Points
The bus departs from Ella Bus Station and arrives in the city center at Nuwara Eliya Main Bus Station.
Tourist Bus
Fares and Duration
Traveling by tourist bus costs 3,610 LKR and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Operators and Departure and Arriving Points
Brown Tours operates buses for this route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Buses depart at 14:10 from 39 Passara Road, Ambagollapathana, in Ella city center and arrive at 16:55 at No. 01 Glenfall Road in Nuwara Eliya city center.
3. Ella to Nuwara Eliya by Taxi
Another option is to travel from Ella to Nuwara Eliya via taxi, with the most expensive option costing around 6,000 LKR. You can book taxis from operators who will provide the desired services and make your journey comfortable.