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Ella to Colombo from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Ella, Sri Lanka
to
Colombo, Sri Lanka

How to Get from Ella to Colombo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$1 by trainBest price
200 kmDistance
3h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ella to Colombo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Superline Travels
Bus
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$8-9
Recommended
Company
Sri Lanka Railways
Train
Average Duration
9h  4m
Estimated price
$1-3
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 200 km
Duration: 3h 9m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  9m
Estimated price
$27-40
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  9m
Estimated price
$100-120
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Traveling From Ella to Colombo

The journey from the serene hills of Ella, adorned with lush tea plantations, to the bustling urban landscape of Colombo, infused with vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, offers you a remarkable shift in scenery and atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Colombo

Colombo boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Fort
• Historic colonial architecture surrounds you.
• Offers lively dining and entertainment options.
Colpetty
• Known for its beachfront and vibrant cafes.
• Home to Colombo’s bustling street markets.
Bambalapitiya
• Features shopping malls and luxury hotels.
• Great for exploring local street food.

Best Times To Visit Colombo's Attractions

Understanding when to visit Colombo's attractions helps maximize your experience.

Gangaramaya Temple
Visit early in the morning for tranquility and fewer tourists.
Galle Face Green
Late afternoon offers cooler breezes and stunning sunset views.
Southern Coast Beaches
Weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere for relaxation and exploration.

Colombo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Colombo experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons; the best times to visit are during the dry months from December to March. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities and pack appropriately for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Colombo

You shouldn’t miss out on trying the spicy fish ambul thiyal at a local restaurant like Ministry of Crab, where the lively atmosphere and bold flavors reflect Colombo’s culinary vibrancy. This dish, featuring fresh local seafood and a rich array of spices, stands in stark contrast to the lighter, tea-based flavors you find in Ella, showcasing the diverse culinary scene of the city.

Ella - Colombo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Ella and Colombo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+94776942070
Website
https://superline.lk/

Bus from Ella to Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal

Average Duration
4h 46m
Estimated price
$8-9
Train
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/mtktwebslr/

Train from Elle to Fort Station

Average Duration
9h 4m
Estimated price
$1-3
Taxi
Contact phone
+94 77 078 9383
Website
http://ellabudgettaxi.com

Taxi from Ella to Colombo

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
$100-120
Contact phone
+94761 300 309
Website
http://ceylonellataxi.lk

Taxi from Ella to Colombo

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
$100-120

Ella to Colombo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Ella and Colombo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Ella to Colombo by car, spanning 124 miles of picturesque landscapes and charming villages, showcasing the essence of Sri Lanka's beauty. 💵 Experience affordable travel options ranging from $27 to $40 for a comfortable ride from Ella to Colombo, making it a budget-friendly choice for exploring the island nation. 🌆 Arrive in the bustling city of Colombo after a 3-hour and 9-minute drive, where the rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life await to mesmerize you with its unique charm and energy.
Average price
$27 - $40
🌿 As the train chugs along the tracks, passengers can relax and take in the stunning views of tea plantations, rolling hills, and small villages along the way. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes, providing a leisurely and immersive way to experience the countryside of Sri Lanka. 💵 With ticket prices ranging from $1 to $3, the train from Ella to Colombo offers an affordable and convenient travel option for those looking to explore the vibrant capital city of Colombo. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as you make your way from Ella to Colombo by train.
Departure Point
Elle station
Arrival Point
Fort Station
🚌 The journey from Ella to Colombo by bus is convenient and efficient, with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 4 hours and 46 minutes. 🚌 Travelers can enjoy the scenic route between Ella and Colombo while also saving money, as bus tickets typically range from $8 to $9 for this route.
Departure Point
Ella station
Arrival Point
Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Ella to Colombo.

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The distance between Ella and Colombo is approximately 133.6 km by road, which takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes by car. If you prefer to take a bus, it will take approximately 4 hours and 46 minutes to reach Colombo from Ella. Alternatively, you can also take a train which takes around 9 hours and 4 minutes. For a faster option, you can take a taxi and then fly, which takes around 2 hours and 38 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Ella to Colombo in Sri Lanka is by train, with tickets ranging from $1 to $3. However, this option is time-consuming as it takes approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes. For a more time-efficient option, taking a taxi and flying from Ella to Colombo is the quickest way, taking only 2 hours and 38 minutes. However, this option is significantly more expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $320 to $650.
The prices for a train ride from Ella to Colombo range from $1 to $3. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ride from Colombo to Ella vary from $7 to $9.
To get from Ella to Colombo without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private taxi. The driving distance between Ella and Colombo is approximately 199.6 km, which takes about 3 hours and 9 minutes. The cost of renting a car or hiring a taxi can vary between $27 to $40.
To travel from Ella to Colombo without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey usually takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $7 to $9.
Yes, there is a direct link between Ella and Colombo. Sri Lanka Railways operates a train service four times a day from Ella to Colombo, with a journey time of approximately 9 hours and 4 minutes. Additionally, Superline Travels operates a direct bus service from Ella to Colombo twice daily, with a travel time of around 4 hours and 46 minutes.
The flight duration between Ella and Colombo is typically around 45 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Colombo. With over 778 hotels available, you can find options to suit any budget or preference. Prices start at $40, offering affordable options for travelers.