Kandy to Ella by Bus: The Amazing Scenic Ride (When the Train is Full)
You’ve seen the photos, read the blogs, and dreamt of the moment: leaning out of a blue train as it glides through a sea of green tea plantations on the way to Ella. But then, reality hits. Every reserved seat is sold out for weeks.
It’s a common story, and the disappointment is real. But what if we told you there’s another way? A journey that winds through the same breathtaking landscapes, is incredibly affordable, and always has a spot for you.
Welcome to the Kandy to Ella bus ride—the adventurer's alternative and one of the most underrated scenic journeys in Sri Lanka. This guide, updated for September 30, 2025, will show you how to do it.
The Kandy-Ella Train is Sold Out. Now What?
First, don't panic. The train's popularity, especially among tourists, means reserved tickets vanish months in advance. While you can try for unreserved tickets on the day, it often means standing for hours in a packed carriage.
The bus, however, is the go-to choice for locals and savvy travelers. It's a system built for everyone, departing frequently throughout the day. You won't miss out on the beauty of Sri Lanka's Hill Country; you'll simply experience it from a different, and arguably more panoramic, perspective.
Finding Your Bus: The Kandy Goods Shed Bus Station
Your journey begins at the Kandy Goods Shed Bus Station (sometimes called the "Main Bus Stand"). Conveniently, it's located just behind the Kandy Railway Station, making it easy to find if your initial plan was the train.
It’s a large, bustling, semi-open-air station. Here’s the most important tip:
You are looking for a bus heading to BADULLA.
Ella is a small town on the main road to the larger city of Badulla. Therefore, almost all buses destined for Badulla will stop in Ella. Look for the signs on the front of the buses; the route number is typically Route No. 99. If you’re unsure, just ask any driver or local "Badulla bus?" and they will point you in the right direction.
The Journey: What to Expect on the Road
Bus Type: Be prepared for an authentic local experience. The vast majority of buses on this route are "Normal" buses. This means no air conditioning, open windows for a natural breeze, 3x2 seating, and lively music. A rare AC bus may appear, but don't count on finding one.
Ticket Price: This is one of the best parts. As of late 2025, the entire 6-7 hour journey costs a bargain fare of around Rs. 800 - Rs. 1,000 (~$2.50 - $3.00 USD). You pay the conductor in cash after you board.
Travel Time: This is a marathon, not a sprint. The winding, mountainous roads mean the journey takes a full 6 to 7 hours. Settle in and prepare to be mesmerized by the view.
Is the Bus Journey as Scenic as the Train? An Honest Comparison
This is the big question, and the answer is yes—but differently.
The Train's View: The train tracks often cut through the middle of tea estates and valleys, giving you an intimate, close-up view of the tea pluckers and the landscape.
The Bus's View: The road often climbs higher up the mountainsides than the train tracks. This gives you vast, sweeping panoramic views looking down over the valleys, towns, and reservoirs. You get a grander sense of the scale of the Hill Country.
The verdict: It’s not better or worse, just a different perspective. The train offers a charming, close-up experience, while the bus provides a jaw-dropping, panoramic one.
Pro Tips for the Kandy to Ella Bus Ride
- Start Early: Catch a bus between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to ensure you arrive in Ella with daylight to spare and to get the best morning views.
- Sit on the Right Side: For the first few hours leaving Kandy, the most dramatic and expansive views of the mountains and valleys will be on the right-hand side of the bus.
- Grab a Good Seat: Arrive at the station 20-30 minutes before your intended departure to snag a window seat near the front of the bus for a less bumpy ride and clearer views.
- Pack Snacks and Water: While the bus will make one 20-minute rest stop for lunch and a restroom break (usually in Nuwara Eliya), it's a long journey. Having your own supplies is a great idea.
- Tell the Conductor Your Stop: When you pay for your ticket, clearly say "Ella." The conductor will then know where you're getting off and can give you a shout when you're approaching the town.
Conclusion: The Adventure You Didn't Know You Wanted
Missing out on the train from Kandy to Ella might feel like a setback, but it can lead you to a far more authentic and memorable adventure. The bus journey is a vibrant, stunningly beautiful, and incredibly affordable way to see the heart of Sri Lanka.
You won't just see the Hill Country; you'll experience it with the sounds, sights, and friendliness of local life all around you. So grab your bag, head to the Goods Shed station, and enjoy the ride.
For other routes and bus schedules across Sri Lanka, check out the resources at Nextbus.lk.