Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka’s Hill Country: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella (Plus the Scenic Train)
Why the Hill Country belongs on your itinerary
Cooler climate: A refreshing break from the coast—expect 15–24°C most days, cooler at night.
Tea country scenery: Endless plantations, cloud forests, and waterfalls.
Iconic rail journey: The Kandy–Ella line is one of Asia’s most photogenic train rides.
Best time to go
Clearest months: January to April for blue skies and views.
Also good: Late August to September can open clear windows.
Rainier periods: October–November and May–June often bring showers; mornings can still be lovely.
Tip: Pack a light rain jacket year‑round and a warm layer for evenings (it can dip to 12–15°C in Nuwara Eliya).
How to ride the scenic Kandy–Ella train
Route: Kandy → Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya) → Haputale → Ella → Badulla.
Best seats for views: Kandy → Ella sit on the left; Ella → Kandy sit on the right.
Booking: Seats often sell out. Reserve in advance via official channels or through a local agent. If unreserved, board early for window spots.
Classes: 2nd/3rd class are classic with opening windows; some services have reserved seats and air‑conditioned carriages. Choose based on comfort vs. photo ops.
Safety: Keep limbs inside; avoid leaning from doors. Trains can be crowded—watch your bags.
Top things to do by destinationKandy (1–2 nights)
Temple of the Tooth Relic: Key cultural site; dress modestly.
Kandy Lake and viewpoint: Gentle evening stroll and city panorama.
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: Giant palms, orchids, and picnic lawns.
Cultural shows and crafts: Drumming, dance, batik, and wood carving.
Food tip: Try a simple rice-and-curry spread; spice levels can be adjusted.
Nuwara Eliya and around (1–2 nights)
Tea factory tours: See leaf to cup and taste fresh Ceylon tea. Popular estates sit between Nanu Oya and Nuwara Eliya town.
Horton Plains National Park: Hike to World’s End and Baker’s Falls; start by 6 am for clear views. Permit required.
Gregory Lake: Paddle boats, pony rides for kids, cool-evening walks.
Waterfalls drive: St. Clair’s and Devon Falls near Hatton; Ramboda Falls on the Nuwara Eliya road.
Packing: Warmer layers; nights can be chilly and breezy.
Ella and the Uva highlands (2–3 nights)
Little Adam’s Peak: Short, family-friendly hike with big views (sunrise or late afternoon).
Nine Arch Bridge: Time your visit for a passing train; avoid the tracks themselves and keep to paths.
Ella Rock: Longer hike—use a guide if unsure of the route.
Diyaluma or Ravana Falls: Diyaluma’s upper pools are stunning; go with a licensed guide for safety.
Tea and viewpoints: Plantation walks, zip lines, and picture‑perfect cafes overlooking the valley.
Add-on ideas from the Hill Country
Haputale/Horton Plains loop: Lipton’s Seat sunrise and quiet tea villages.
Udawalawe or Yala safari: Drive 2–4 hours from Ella/Nuwara Eliya; great for elephants, birds, and occasional leopards.
Train photography stops: Demodara loop near Ella is a classic.
3 sample mini-itineraries (plug-and-play)Option A: Classic 4 days (train focus)
Day 1: Arrive CMB → Kandy. Temple of the Tooth, lake walk, viewpoint at sunset.
Day 2: Train Kandy → Nanu Oya. Tea factory tour and Nuwara Eliya town evening.
Day 3: Horton Plains at dawn → transfer to Ella. Nine Arch Bridge at golden hour.
Day 4: Little Adam’s Peak → depart via road to CMB or down to the south coast.
Option B: 5 days with safari
Day 1: CMB → Kandy (culture and gardens).
Day 2: Train Kandy → Nanu Oya; tea and waterfalls.
Day 3: Nuwara Eliya → Ella; sunset viewpoints.
Day 4: Ella → Udawalawe for afternoon safari; overnight near the park.
Day 5: Return to CMB or continue to the south coast.
Option C: Family-friendly 4 days (fewer moves)
Day 1: CMB → Kandy. Easy city sights.
Day 2: Private car to Nuwara Eliya with waterfall stops; farm visit or lake boating.
Day 3: Short train hop Nanu Oya → Ella (reserved seats) and Little Adam’s Peak.
Day 4: Morning at leisure; drive to CMB or stay an extra night for a gentle tea walk.
Getting around and drive times
CMB → Kandy: 3–3.5 hours
Kandy → Nuwara Eliya (via Nuwara Eliya road): 3.5–4.5 hours by car; train 3–4.5 hours depending on service
Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) → Ella: 2.5–3.5 hours by train; 2.5–3 hours by road with scenic stops
Ella → Udawalawe: ~2.5–3 hours; Ella → Yala: ~3–4 hours
Tip: Roads are winding; a private driver-guide helps pace the day and adds flexibility for viewpoints and photos.
Where to stay (by vibe)
Heritage and city base (Kandy): Lakeside boutiques within 10–20 minutes of the Temple.
Tea bungalows (Nuwara Eliya/Hatton): Colonial-era houses amid plantations.
Valley-view stays (Ella/Haputale): Cliffside lodges with sunrise balconies.
Family picks: Rooms with heating or thick duvets, space for extra beds, and easy access to short hikes.
What to pack
Layers: Light fleece/sweater, breathable daywear, rain jacket.
Footwear: Grippy walking shoes; sandals for town.
Extras: Sunscreen (UV is strong at altitude), hat, insect repellent, reusable water bottle.
Rainy-season tip: Leech socks or salt for jungle hikes after heavy rain.
Responsible travel and safety
Trails and tracks: Stay off active rails; use marked paths and local guides for longer hikes.
Tea estates: Ask permission before entering working fields; don’t litter.
Wildlife: Keep distance at Horton Plains; no feeding.
Cultural sites: Shoulders and knees covered; remove hats in temples.
FAQ
Can I do the train in one day and see everything? The ride is the highlight—break it into two segments (Kandy → Nanu Oya and Nanu Oya → Ella) to enjoy tea tours and waterfalls en route.
Is the Hill Country good in summer (Jun–Aug)? Expect some showers, but many days open up—Ella and Haputale often get clearer breaks. Mornings are best for hikes.
Will kids enjoy it? Yes—short hikes, trains, waterfalls, and tea-factory chocolate/ice cream stops keep it fun.
Plan your Hill Country trip with Sri Lanka Holidays Tours Tell us your month, pace, and interests. We’ll secure train seats, time your Nine Arch visit with a passing train, book the right tea bungalows, and blend in a safari or south-coast beach finale—ideal for 3–5 day UAE getaways or as the heart of a longer Sri Lanka tour.