Ella is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, with attractions like the Nine Arches Bridge, Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, and the Ravana Ella Falls and Cave. Located approximately 200 km from Colombo, one of the best ways to travel to Ella is by train, and while the journey by rail from Colombo is quite long, exceeding 10 hours, it is one of the most picturesque as well. 

With the re-launch of the Ella Odyssey in August 2022, making the journey to Ella by train became even more convenient. The Sri Lanka Railways launched the intercity express train as a tourist-oriented operation, and the train goes as far as Badulla. 

According to a statement issued by the Mass Media Ministry announcing the relaunch of the service, during its journey to and from Badulla, the train stops at several tourist attractions, giving passengers the opportunity to take in and of course photograph the breathtaking sights along the way. 

While the train makes limited stops, the Sri Lanka Railway Forum stated that Ella Odyssey stops at 21 stations at most, as well as 10 tourist attractions. This includes the Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) view, St. Clair’s Falls view, Elgin Falls view, Summit Level, No. 18 Tunnel, Sulan Kapolla view, Kithal Ella waterfall view, and the Nine Arches Bridge.

The Daily Morning photojournalist Pradeep Dambarage recently made the journey from Colombo to Ella and back, and captured the beauty this train journey has to offer. The sights captured leave no doubt as to why Ella, as well as the Ella Odyssey, attract both local and foreign tourists. From cool weather, multiple attractions, breathtaking views, and a bustling town, Ella by train, especially aboard the Ella Odyssey, is a journey worth making.

PHOTOS PRADEEP DAMBARAGE