How to book the Kandy-Ella train?

Get your seats online through the official Sri Lanka Railways e-ticket website, no later than 30 days before your departure date. Demand is exceptionally high, so you really need to log in at the exact moment the booking window starts; otherwise, first-class or second-class reserved tickets will likely be gone.

Another option is to purchase tickets via a local travel agent, though that may include a premium convenience fee. Unreserved third-class tickets are always on sale for the day of departure at the station ticket counter, but be ready to stand in tightly packed carriages for much of the scenic ride.