How To Get From Colombo Airport To Ella

Here is how to get from Colombo airport to Ella.

Traveling from Colombo Airport to Ella is a scenic journey through Sri Lanka’s beautiful landscapes. The distance is approximately 230 km, and you can choose between three main options: taxi, bus, or train. Each mode of transport offers a unique experience, varying in time, cost, and comfort.

Go through this article to decide which travel option you should choose for the best journey from Colombo airport to Ella.

Colombo Airport to Ella by Taxi

Taking a taxi from Colombo Airport to Ella is the most convenient and time-efficient option. You will require around 5-6 hours to reach Ella from Colombo Airport. Though the timing also depends on the traffic and conditions of the roads.

A private taxi charges LKR 18,000-25,000 for this route. The cost depends on the type of vehicle you choose. You can also choose a sharing taxi so that you need not pay much. One of the benefits of hiring a taxi is its door-to-door service. After a tiring flight, you only need to sit and relax in the taxi while reaching Ella.

You can hire a taxi from the airport taxi counters or book a private one. These taxis can be booked on various taxi booking platforms available online. Choosing a taxi can be a great option if you are carrying a lot of luggage. You also get to reach your destination sooner.

You can pre-book your taxi through the online platforms to avoid last-minute hassle. This way, you are sure of your next move and also ready for the journey accordingly.

Contact companies like Sri Lanka Tour Guides or Ceylon Empire Travels for more information on taxi.

Colombo Airport to Ella by Bus

For budget-conscious travellers, buses provide an economical way to travel from Colombo Airport to Ella. But a bus takes around 8-10 hours to finish this ride. You will not find direct buses between Colombo airport and Ella.

Therefore, your first task will be to reach Colombo Fort bus station via a shuttle bus or a taxi. From Colombo Fort, take a bus heading to Badulla or Bandarawela, which are close to Ella. Get down at Ella or arrange further transport from nearby towns.

You can also board bus 99/314 towards Meegahakiwula from Colombo Fort and reach Kumbalwela Junction. From here, Ella is just an hour ride, so you will have to wait for another bus or hire a taxi.

Another option is to take an express bus from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Ella. The cost of this journey will range up to LKR 1500. There are AC/non-AC buses. The fare of these buses depends on the facilities provided.

If you want an affordable option and spending a lot of time traveling is fine with you, then a bus is a good choice.

Colombo Airport to Ella by Train

The train journey to Ella is a breathtaking experience, often considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This journey requires 9–10 hours. You will need to travel from the airport to Colombo Fort train station (30-45 minutes) to catch the train.

Daily trains depart from Colombo Fort to Ella. The most popular trains are the Podi Menike and UdarataMenike, offering morning and afternoon departures. Bookings for observation carriages or reserved seats should be made well in advance, as tickets sell out quickly.

Reserved seats in first-class observation cars cost LKR 1500-2000. Second and third-class tickets cost LKR 300-600. The train winds through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and picturesque villages, providing you with stunning views.

The train journey is often very relaxing, and the scenic views provide a different sense of calm. The only drawback is that you need to book your train tickets in advance, as this route is often crowded. You cannot rely on the last minute to purchase tickets.

Each mode of transportation from Colombo Airport to Ella caters to different traveller needs. If you are aiming for a speedy yet comfortable journey, choose a taxi. Opt for a bus if you are on a budget and willing to spend more time in transit.

If you are tired after the flight or want to reach Ella really quick, then choosing a taxi is what we suggest. You can take short breaks during your ride for refreshments.

Take the train for an unforgettable scenic experience that’s as much about the journey as the destination. Plan ahead, book your tickets early, and enjoy your journey to the charming hill town of Ella!