{"id":25582,"date":"2025-04-04T13:41:38","date_gmt":"2025-04-04T12:41:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/?p=25582"},"modified":"2025-04-17T12:42:57","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T11:42:57","slug":"ella-odyssey-train-sri-lanka","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/ella-odyssey-train-sri-lanka\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Ride the Ella Odyssey Train"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row full_width=&#8221;stretch_row_content&#8221;][vc_column][vc_single_image image=&#8221;10007&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/6&#8243;][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"683\" data-end=\"981\">You\u2019ve probably seen the pictures: tea-covered hills, waterfalls tumbling past the windows, <span data-teams=\"true\">and a charming little train chugging across<\/span> the Nine Arches Bridge like something out of a Wes Anderson film. Welcome to the Ella Odyssey \u2013 Sri Lanka\u2019s newest contender for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri_lanka\/exp\/the-ella-odyssey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">world\u2019s most scenic rail ride<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"983\" data-end=\"1256\">But it\u2019s not just about the views (though, fair warning, they are ridiculous). This isn\u2019t a standalone bucket-list activity. It\u2019s the sort of experience that works best when it fits effortlessly into your wider trip \u2013 the highlight between hill towns, not the headline act.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;50px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"654\" data-end=\"681\"><strong data-start=\"660\" data-end=\"681\">Table of Contents<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul data-start=\"1118\" data-end=\"1789\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1118\" data-end=\"1186\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1186\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#what-is-the-ella-odyssey-train\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1186\">What is the Ella Odyssey Train?<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1187\" data-end=\"1246\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1189\" data-end=\"1246\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#highlights-along-the-route\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1189\" data-end=\"1246\">Highlights Along the Route<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1247\" data-end=\"1329\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1249\" data-end=\"1329\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#train-schedule--best-sections-to-ride\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1249\" data-end=\"1329\">Train Schedule &amp; Best Sections to Ride<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1387\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1332\" data-end=\"1387\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#practical-tips-for-riding\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1332\" data-end=\"1387\">Practical Tips for Riding<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1455\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1455\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#ella-odyssey-vs-standard-train\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1455\">Ella Odyssey vs Standard Train<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1456\" data-end=\"1523\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1458\" data-end=\"1523\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#how-to-include-it-in-your-trip\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1458\" data-end=\"1523\">How to Include it in Your Trip<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1524\" data-end=\"1571\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1526\" data-end=\"1571\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#walk-the-pekoe-trail\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1526\" data-end=\"1571\">Walk the Pekoe Trail<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1644\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1574\" data-end=\"1644\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#sri-lanka-train--walking-holiday\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1574\" data-end=\"1644\">Sri Lanka Train + Walking Holiday<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1645\" data-end=\"1691\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1647\" data-end=\"1691\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#is-it-right-for-you\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1647\" data-end=\"1691\">Is It Right for You?<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1692\" data-end=\"1753\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1753\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#faqs-about-the-ella-odyssey\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1753\">FAQs About the Ella Odyssey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"1754\" data-end=\"1789\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1756\" data-end=\"1789\"><a class=\"\" href=\"#final-thoughts\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"1756\" data-end=\"1789\">Final Thoughts<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;50px&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;22243&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;what-is-the-ella-odyssey-train&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"1844\" data-end=\"1878\">What is the Ella Odyssey Train?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"1880\" data-end=\"2190\"><strong data-start=\"1880\" data-end=\"2042\">The Ella Odyssey is a special tourist train in Sri Lanka that runs from Colombo to Badulla, passing through the country&#8217;s most beautiful Hill Country scenery.<\/strong> It\u2019s slow (intentionally), comfortable (mostly), and built for travellers who care more about what\u2019s outside the window than what\u2019s in the minibar.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2192\" data-end=\"2381\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2192\" data-end=\"2233\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2194\" data-end=\"2233\">Launched in 2022 by Sri Lankan Railways<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2234\" data-end=\"2307\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2236\" data-end=\"2307\">Follows the famous Colombo\u2013Badulla line, but stops at iconic viewpoints<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2308\" data-end=\"2381\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2310\" data-end=\"2381\">Tourist-friendly seating, bigger windows, and a bit more breathing room<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2383\" data-end=\"2479\">It\u2019s not exactly luxury, but it\u2019s a world away from jostling elbows on a crowded commuter train.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;highlights-along-the-route&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"2486\" data-end=\"2515\">Highlights Along the Route<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2517\" data-end=\"2675\"><strong data-start=\"2517\" data-end=\"2584\">The Ella Odyssey route covers Sri Lanka\u2019s greatest scenic hits.<\/strong> It\u2019s a greatest-hits album of railway views, all stitched into a single, meandering track.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"2677\" data-end=\"2704\">Key highlights include:<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"2705\" data-end=\"3021\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2705\" data-end=\"2792\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2792\"><strong data-start=\"2707\" data-end=\"2729\">Nine Arches Bridge<\/strong> \u2013 that iconic viaduct moment (yes, the train stops for photos)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2793\" data-end=\"2873\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2795\" data-end=\"2873\"><strong data-start=\"2795\" data-end=\"2812\">Demodara Loop<\/strong> \u2013 a railway oddity where the track doubles back under itself<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2874\" data-end=\"2949\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2876\" data-end=\"2949\"><strong data-start=\"2876\" data-end=\"2895\">Tea Plantations<\/strong> \u2013 from Nanu Oya onwards, it\u2019s green on green on green<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"2950\" data-end=\"3021\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"2952\" data-end=\"3021\"><strong data-start=\"2952\" data-end=\"2966\">Waterfalls<\/strong> \u2013 appearing suddenly and dramatically beside the train<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3023\" data-end=\"3138\">There\u2019s no need to hang out the door like a contortionist just to get a good shot.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;22291&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;train-schedule&#8211;best-sections-to-ride&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"3145\" data-end=\"3186\">Train Schedule &amp; Best Sections to Ride<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3188\" data-end=\"3324\"><strong data-start=\"3188\" data-end=\"3289\">The train runs from Colombo to Badulla (5:30am \u2013 ~4pm), but you don\u2019t have to do the whole thing.<\/strong> In fact, we wouldn\u2019t recommend it.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3326\" data-end=\"3597\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3326\" data-end=\"3434\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3328\" data-end=\"3434\"><strong data-start=\"3328\" data-end=\"3351\">Best boarding point<\/strong>: <strong data-start=\"3353\" data-end=\"3379\">Kandy (approx. 8:30am)<\/strong> \u2013 you get the best views without the groggy 4am start.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3435\" data-end=\"3518\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3437\" data-end=\"3518\"><strong data-start=\"3437\" data-end=\"3455\">Best direction<\/strong>: Eastbound (Colombo \u2192 Badulla) for good light and fewer crowds<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"3519\" data-end=\"3597\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3521\" data-end=\"3597\"><strong data-start=\"3521\" data-end=\"3535\">Sweet spot<\/strong>: Kandy to Ella \u2013 includes the most dramatic scenery and stops<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3599\" data-end=\"3740\">The full ride is long, and while it&#8217;s scenic, there&#8217;s a point where the tea hills start to blur. Shorter, curated sections are the way to go.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3744\" data-end=\"3912\">Want to include the Ella Odyssey without the crack-of-dawn chaos? <strong><a class=\"cursor-pointer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri-lanka\/holidays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"3813\" data-end=\"3912\">Let\u2019s plan a holiday that works for you<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;practical-tips-for-riding&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3947\">Practical Tips for Riding<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"3949\" data-end=\"4077\">This is one of those experiences that feels effortless <em data-start=\"4004\" data-end=\"4008\">if<\/em> it\u2019s planned well. A few smart decisions make a world of difference.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"4079\" data-end=\"4116\">Which class should you choose?<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4117\" data-end=\"4403\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4117\" data-end=\"4260\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4119\" data-end=\"4260\">We recommend <strong data-start=\"4132\" data-end=\"4148\">second class<\/strong>. The windows open, letting in fresh air and photo ops. It\u2019s more immersive and just the right level of comfort.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4261\" data-end=\"4403\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4403\"><strong data-start=\"4263\" data-end=\"4278\">First class<\/strong> has air-con and allocated seats, but the sealed windows mean you miss the smells, sounds, and breeze \u2013 all part of the ride.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"4405\" data-end=\"4425\">What to pack:<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"4426\" data-end=\"4669\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4426\" data-end=\"4478\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4428\" data-end=\"4478\">Light jacket or scarf \u2013 it gets chilly at altitude<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4479\" data-end=\"4526\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4481\" data-end=\"4526\">SPF \u2013 UV rays still sneak through the windows<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4550\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4529\" data-end=\"4550\">Reusable water bottle<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4551\" data-end=\"4613\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4553\" data-end=\"4613\">Snacks (there are sellers, but the selection\u2019s hit-and-miss)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4614\" data-end=\"4637\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4616\" data-end=\"4637\">Power bank and camera<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"4638\" data-end=\"4669\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4640\" data-end=\"4669\">Headphones and hand sanitiser<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"4671\" data-end=\"4773\">You don\u2019t need hiking boots or a picnic basket, but a little prep makes the experience all the richer.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_single_image image=&#8221;11412&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;ella-odyssey-vs-standard-train&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"4780\" data-end=\"4813\">Ella Odyssey vs Standard Train<\/h2>\n<div class=\"overflow-x-auto contain-inline-size\">\n<div class=\"pcrstb-wrap\"><table data-start=\"4815\" data-end=\"5189\">\n<thead data-start=\"4815\" data-end=\"4858\">\n<tr data-start=\"4815\" data-end=\"4858\">\n<th data-start=\"4815\" data-end=\"4825\">Feature<\/th>\n<th data-start=\"4825\" data-end=\"4840\">Ella Odyssey<\/th>\n<th data-start=\"4840\" data-end=\"4858\">Standard Train<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody data-start=\"4903\" data-end=\"5189\">\n<tr data-start=\"4903\" data-end=\"4979\">\n<td>Scenic Stops<\/td>\n<td>\u2705 Yes \u2013 photo breaks at top spots<\/td>\n<td>\u274c No \u2013 passes through<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"4980\" data-end=\"5058\">\n<td>Comfort<\/td>\n<td>\u2705 Tourist-focused carriages<\/td>\n<td>\u274c Often packed and no reservations<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"5059\" data-end=\"5132\">\n<td>Atmosphere<\/td>\n<td>\u2705 Curated, slower, spacious<\/td>\n<td>\u2705 Local, chaotic, charming<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr data-start=\"5133\" data-end=\"5189\">\n<td>Schedule<\/td>\n<td>\u274c Fixed days only<\/td>\n<td>\u2705 Runs more regularly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5191\" data-end=\"5545\">In 2023, we sent Adrian Bridge from <em data-start=\"5229\" data-end=\"5244\">The Telegraph<\/em> to see if it lived up to the hype. He called it <em data-start=\"5295\" data-end=\"5331\">\u201ca wonderfully curated experience\u201d<\/em>, and came back with the kind of photos that make your phone jealous. <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.telegraph.co.uk\/travel\/destinations\/asia\/sri-lanka\/sri-lanka-has-new-contender-worlds-scenic-rail-journey\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"5401\" data-end=\"5544\">Read his article here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;how-to-include-it-in-your-trip&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"5552\" data-end=\"5585\">How to Include it in Your Trip<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5587\" data-end=\"5833\"><strong data-start=\"5587\" data-end=\"5668\">The Ella Odyssey is best experienced as part of a wider, tailor-made holiday.<\/strong> Think: a couple of days in a tea bungalow, a scenic train segment, and a guide waiting at the next station so you don\u2019t have to lug your suitcase down the platform.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"\" data-start=\"5835\" data-end=\"5858\">Great combinations:<\/h3>\n<ul data-start=\"5859\" data-end=\"6049\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5859\" data-end=\"5913\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5861\" data-end=\"5913\"><strong data-start=\"5861\" data-end=\"5871\">Hatton<\/strong> \u2013 for scenic tea estates and tranquillity<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5914\" data-end=\"5963\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5916\" data-end=\"5963\"><strong data-start=\"5916\" data-end=\"5932\">Nuwara Eliya<\/strong> \u2013 old-world charm and cool air<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5964\" data-end=\"6049\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5966\" data-end=\"6049\"><strong data-start=\"5966\" data-end=\"5989\">Ella or Bandarawela<\/strong> \u2013 perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the views<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6051\" data-end=\"6252\"><strong data-start=\"6051\" data-end=\"6072\">Itinerary snippet<\/strong>:<br data-start=\"6073\" data-end=\"6076\" \/>Guests might spend two nights near Hatton, ride the Ella Odyssey from Nanu Oya to Ella, then be whisked away by their chauffeur-guide to a family-run hotel tucked in the hills.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6256\" data-end=\"6372\"><strong><a class=\"cursor-pointer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri_lanka\/laid-back\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"6256\" data-end=\"6372\">Discover more laid-back holidays in Sri Lanka<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;walk-the-pekoe-trail&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"5106\" data-end=\"5129\">Walk the Pekoe Trail<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5131\" data-end=\"5345\"><strong data-start=\"5131\" data-end=\"5199\">Want to go deeper than the train tracks? Add in the Pekoe Trail.<\/strong> This new long-distance walking route passes through the same scenery you see from the Ella Odyssey \u2014 but on foot, it\u2019s a different kind of magic.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5347\" data-end=\"5548\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5347\" data-end=\"5462\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5349\" data-end=\"5462\"><strong data-start=\"5349\" data-end=\"5380\">Route 16 (Ella to Demodara)<\/strong> \u2013 walk through tea fields, village paths and across the Nine Arches Bridge itself<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5463\" data-end=\"5548\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5465\" data-end=\"5548\"><strong data-start=\"5465\" data-end=\"5490\">Route 6 (near Hatton)<\/strong> \u2013 quieter, nature-filled, and perfect from Camellia Hills<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5550\" data-end=\"5636\">Adding a day or two on the trail lets you connect with the landscape at a slower pace.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5638\" data-end=\"5757\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgrup.com\/blog\/pekoe-trail-ultimate-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"5641\" data-end=\"5757\">Read our Ultimate Guide to the Pekoe Trail<\/a><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;24846&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;sri-lanka-train&#8211;walking-holiday&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"5764\" data-end=\"5800\">Sri Lanka Train + Walking Holiday<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5802\" data-end=\"5949\"><strong data-start=\"5802\" data-end=\"5881\">Want to combine tea estates, heritage hotels, epic trains and quiet trails?<\/strong> Try our <strong data-start=\"5890\" data-end=\"5940\">Slow Travel, Tea &amp; Trains with Teardrop Hotels<\/strong> holiday.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"5951\" data-end=\"6175\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"5951\" data-end=\"6012\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"5953\" data-end=\"6012\">Train journeys along the coast and through the Hill Country<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6013\" data-end=\"6069\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6015\" data-end=\"6069\">Beautiful stays at Nine Skies, Camellia Hills and more<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6070\" data-end=\"6103\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6072\" data-end=\"6103\">Guided hikes on the Pekoe Trail<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6104\" data-end=\"6175\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6106\" data-end=\"6175\">Visits to Galle Fort, Geoffrey Bawa\u2019s gardens, waterfalls, and beyond<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6177\" data-end=\"6300\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri_lanka\/itinerary\/slow-travel-with-teardrop-hotels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"6180\" data-end=\"6300\">Explore the full itinerary<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6304\" data-end=\"6394\"><strong data-start=\"6308\" data-end=\"6325\">Special offer<\/strong>: Speak to a specialist to save up to \u00a31,800 per person on this trip.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6396\" data-end=\"6501\">This is Sri Lanka the way it should be: slowly, thoughtfully, and with plenty of time to savour the view.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=&#8221;25072&#8243; img_size=&#8221;full&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;is-it-right-for-you&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"6379\" data-end=\"6402\">Is It Right for You?<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6404\" data-end=\"6427\">\u2705 <strong data-start=\"6406\" data-end=\"6427\">Go for it if you\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6428\" data-end=\"6590\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6428\" data-end=\"6476\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6430\" data-end=\"6476\">Love big views, small details, and slow travel<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6477\" data-end=\"6541\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6479\" data-end=\"6541\">Travel with teens or older kids who\u2019ll remember the experience<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6542\" data-end=\"6590\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6544\" data-end=\"6590\">Appreciate the value of a peaceful, scenic day<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6592\" data-end=\"6613\">\u274c <strong data-start=\"6594\" data-end=\"6613\">Skip it if you\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6614\" data-end=\"6756\">\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6614\" data-end=\"6658\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6616\" data-end=\"6658\">Have a packed schedule with no wiggle room<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6659\" data-end=\"6699\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6661\" data-end=\"6699\">Expect five-star service on every step<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-start=\"6700\" data-end=\"6756\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6702\" data-end=\"6756\">Hate the idea of trains running (slightly) behind time<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_toggle title=&#8221;FAQs About the Ella Odyssey&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;faqs-about-the-ella-odyssey&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6795\" data-end=\"6963\"><strong data-start=\"6795\" data-end=\"6849\">How do I book the Ella Odyssey train in Sri Lanka?<\/strong><br data-start=\"6849\" data-end=\"6852\" \/>Tickets can\u2019t be reliably booked online. Experience Travel Group will include them in your tailor-made holiday.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"6965\" data-end=\"7156\"><strong data-start=\"6965\" data-end=\"7007\">Is second class or first class better?<\/strong><br data-start=\"7007\" data-end=\"7010\" \/>Second class is usually the better choice \u2013 the windows open, and the experience is more immersive. First class is air-conditioned but sealed off.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"7158\" data-end=\"7335\"><strong data-start=\"7158\" data-end=\"7212\">When is the best section to ride the Ella Odyssey?<\/strong><br data-start=\"7212\" data-end=\"7215\" \/>The stretch from <strong data-start=\"7232\" data-end=\"7249\">Kandy to Ella<\/strong> is the most scenic and includes highlights like Nine Arches Bridge and Demodara Loop.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"7337\" data-end=\"7474\"><strong data-start=\"7337\" data-end=\"7379\">Does the Ella Odyssey train run daily?<\/strong><br data-start=\"7379\" data-end=\"7382\" \/>No \u2013 it usually runs <strong data-start=\"7403\" data-end=\"7427\">once or twice a week<\/strong>, so you\u2019ll need to plan your trip accordingly.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"7476\" data-end=\"7600\"><strong data-start=\"7476\" data-end=\"7516\">Can I just buy a ticket and show up?<\/strong><br data-start=\"7516\" data-end=\"7519\" \/>Not really. It\u2019s best to plan ahead and include it as part of your wider holiday.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_toggle][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_id=&#8221;final-thoughts&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"\" data-start=\"7607\" data-end=\"7624\">Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"7626\" data-end=\"7841\">The Ella Odyssey isn\u2019t something you slot in last-minute. But if it fits into your trip, it adds a whole new layer of magic \u2014 a gentle, scenic, thoroughly Sri Lankan experience that feels both curated and authentic.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"7845\" data-end=\"8014\">Curious how to weave the Ella Odyssey into your Sri Lanka holiday?<br data-start=\"7918\" data-end=\"7921\" \/><strong><a class=\"cursor-pointer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri-lanka\/holidays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-start=\"7923\" data-end=\"8014\">We\u2019ll help you do it seamlessly<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=&#8221;15px&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">CURIOUS ABOUT SRI LANKA?<\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Head to our website for more ideas and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri_lanka\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">information about travelling to Sri Lanka<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">You can browse our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/sri_lanka\/holidays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">luxury holiday ideas to Sri Lanka<\/a> or get in touch on  <span class=\"InfinityNumber clickable \">020 7924 7133<\/span>\r\n \t.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Alternatively, fill out an online enquiry form to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/make-enq\">start your journey<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/6&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover how to ride the Ella Odyssey train in Sri Lanka \u2013 the best route, highlights, tips, and how to make it part of a tailor-made holiday.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":86,"featured_media":25616,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[15,1427],"tags":[1363,71,34,1399],"coauthors":[1447],"class_list":["post-25582","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sri-lanka","category-travel-inspiration","tag-landscape","tag-tips-and-tricks","tag-trains","tag-ideas"],"aioseo_notices":[],"views":4148,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25582","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/86"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25582"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25582\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25616"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25582"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25582"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25582"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=25582"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}