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Colombo, Colombo District to Ella, Badulla District from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Colombo, Sri Lanka
to
Ella, Sri Lanka

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

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$1 by trainBest price
133.8 kmDistance
2h 31m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Colombo to Ella 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  55m
Estimated price
$8-9
Recommended
Company
Sri Lanka Railways
Train
Average Duration
8h  29m
Estimated price
$1-3
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 133.8 km
Duration: 2h 31m

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
Company
Cinnamon Air, various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  31m
Estimated price
$545-1656
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Colombo to Ella

The journey from Colombo to Ella reveals a striking contrast between the bustling urban life of Sri Lanka's capital and the serene, lush landscapes of the hill country.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ella

Ella features charming neighborhoods rich in nature and culture.

Ella Town
• Central location with easy access to attractions.
• Bustling market scene filled with local goods.
Little Adam's Peak
• Scenic hikes with stunning panoramic views.
• Less crowded, perfect for peaceful exploration.
Nine Arches Bridge
• Iconic architectural marvel set in lush greenery.
• Great photo opportunities, especially at sunrise.

Best Times To Visit Ella's Attractions

Timing your visits to Ella's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Ella Rock
Early mornings offer cooler temperatures and fewer hikers on the trails.
Rawana Falls
Visit on weekdays for a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
Nine Arches Bridge
Late afternoons provide stunning light for photographs and less foot traffic.

Ella Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ella features a temperate climate, with cooler temperatures making it a refreshing escape from coastal heat. The best times to visit are from December to March, as clear skies and pleasant conditions enhance your exploration of this beautiful hill country.

Dining Recommendation in Ella

Try the traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry at the popular restaurant, The View Ella, where the charming ambiance and stunning mountain views elevate your dining experience. Unlike the vibrant street food scene in Colombo, Ella’s culinary offerings emphasize fresh, local ingredients and a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

Colombo - Ella operators

Explore transport companies operating between Colombo and Ella, 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 Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Ella

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$8-9
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/mtktwebslr/

Train from Fort Station to Elle

Average Duration
8h 29m
Estimated price
$1-3
Plane
Website
http://cinnamonair.com

Plane from Diyawanna Oya (DWO) to Hatton (NUF)

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$500-1600
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+94 763222239
Website
visitlankataxi.com

Other from Colombo to Ella

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
$100-120
Contact phone
+94117433433
Website
pickme.lk

Other from Colombo to Ella

Average Duration
3h 9m
Estimated price
$100-120
Contact phone
+94 11 25 88 588
Website
2588588.com

Other from Colombo to Ella

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

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

Traveling between Colombo and Ella 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 road trip from Colombo to Ella covering a distance of 199.6 km with an estimated duration of 3 hours and 9 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from various car hire options priced between $27 to $40 for the trip to Ella from Colombo.
Average price
$27 - $40
🚂 Experience a scenic train journey from Colombo to Ella. The direct train departs from Fort Station and arrives at Ella, taking approximately 8 hours and 29 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the Colombo to Ella train range from $1 to $3, offering an affordable and comfortable way to explore the beautiful landscapes and charming villages along the route. Sri Lanka Railways operates these train services daily for travelers to experience a memorable adventure from Colombo to Ella.
Departure Point
Fort Station
Arrival Point
Elle station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard, the Sri Lankan Railway provides catering services including snacks and beverages. If you're traveling First Class, meals can be pre-ordered, and you can enjoy complimentary refreshments. In lower classes, you can purchase local snacks and drinks from vendors who may board the train at stops.
• The train from Colombo to Ella offers a range of seating options. First Class provides air-conditioned compartments with larger windows, Business Class has comfortable seating with panoramic views, while Economy Class has standard seating that can be quite crowded but offers a more local experience. For the best views, consider booking First or Business Class.
• The main operators for the route from Colombo to Ella are Sri Lanka Railways and a few private operators offering different service levels. You can check schedules and book tickets through Sri Lanka Railways’ official website at railway.gov.lk and also through the official SLR mobile app.
🛫 Enjoy a quick and convenient flight from Diyawanna Oya Airport to Hatton Airport in just 30 minutes with Cinnamon Air.
Departure Point
Diyawanna Oya Airport
Arrival Point
Hatton Airport
🌿 The bus ride typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes, allowing travelers to enjoy the lush landscape and picturesque views on the way to Ella. 💵 Tickets for the bus between Colombo and Ella are affordable, ranging from $8 to $9. Travelers can hop on the bus at the Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal in Colombo and relax as they head towards the charming town of Ella.
Departure Point
Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Ella station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Colombo to Ella.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Colombo and Ella is 134 km by air, but the road distance is longer at 200 km. Traveling by train from Colombo to Ella takes approximately 8 hours and 41 minutes, while a combination of flying and taking a taxi can get you there in about 2 hours and 31 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes to reach Colombo from Ella by car, and taking a bus would take around 4 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Colombo to Ella is by train, which costs between $1 and $3 and takes approximately 8 hours and 41 minutes. However, if time is a consideration and cost is not a major concern, the quickest option is to fly and then take a taxi, which takes approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes but can cost between $550 and $1700.
When traveling from Colombo to Ella, the prices for a train ticket range from $1 to $3. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Ella to Colombo range from $7 to $9.
To get from Colombo to Ella without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 200 km and it takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes to drive from Colombo to Ella. The prices for car rental or hiring a taxi can vary, ranging from $27 to $40.
The most convenient way to travel from Colombo to Ella without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes and the ticket price ranges from $7 to $9. The bus route offers scenic views of the Sri Lankan countryside and is a popular choice among travelers.
Yes, there is a direct link between Colombo and Ella. You can take a train from Fort Station in Colombo to Ella, which departs four times a day and takes approximately 8 hours and 41 minutes. Another option is to take a bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Ella, which departs twice daily and takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Colombo and Ella typically takes around 30 minutes, as it is a relatively short distance. The cost of the flight would depend on the airline and the time of booking. However, on average, domestic flights in Sri Lanka are reasonably priced, ranging from around $50 to $100.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Ella. With over 934 hotels available, you will have a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Ella start at $48 per night.