Launching August 16, 2025, the Sri Lanka Department of Railways will introduce the Ella Weekend Express – a premium train service running Colombo Fort ↔ Badulla on weekends. It’s designed to meet rising demand from local and international tourists seeking comfort and stunning views en route to Sri Lanka’s hill country
Schedule at a Glance
| Segment | Departure | Arrival | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo → Badulla | Saturdays 05:30 AM | Afternoon | 350 seats |
| Badulla → Colombo | Sundays 09:00 PM | Late night | 350 seats |
This carefully timed weekend rotation provides a full-day outbound journey and a relaxed return—perfect for a getaway
Scenic Highlights Along the Hill Country Route
Traveling along Sri Lanka’s iconic Main Line (290 km from Colombo Fort to Badulla), passengers will be treated to enchanting sights: tea terraces, plunging waterfalls, misty valleys, and colonial-era towns, particularly between Nanu Oya and Ella—widely regarded as the most breathtaking stretch of railway in Asia.
Passengers can expect views of:
- The famed Nine Arches Bridge
- The engineering wonder of the Damodara Loop (track looping under itself)
- St Clair, Elgin, Horsetail waterfalls and even vistas of Adam’s Peak along the journey
Unlike traditional trains, this luxury service will pause briefly at prime photography points to let travelers capture the moment.
What Sets the Ella Weekend Express Apart
- Tourist‑focused design: Reserved seating across classes (likely including air‑conditioned first class and spacious second class). Total seating capacity of around 350 suggests a boutique atmosphere.
- Dedicated weekend service: Operates only on Saturdays and Sundays—crafted for short leisure trips on a fixed schedule, unlike daily commuter trains.
- Optimized timing: Early morning Saturday departures enable full daylight coverage of scenic views; late Sunday night return accommodates flexible trip planning.
Compared to the Ella Odyssey tourist train (running Thurs/Sat outbound, Fri/Sun return) and the daily Udarata Menike/Podi Menike services, the Ella Weekend Express provides a more exclusive, premium, and practical weekend option for leisure travelers
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Book early: Tickets will likely sell fast. Advance reservations—especially for second or first class—are highly recommended.
- Choose second class for the experience: Open windows, fresh air, and immersive scenic views.
- Pack appropriately: Sunglasses, sun‑cream, light jacket, camera/power bank, water bottle, and snacks enhance comfort of the long journey Experience Travel+1Adelaide Now+1.
- Know the scenic stops: Nine Arches, waterfalls, Demodara loop—ideal for photography or a quick fresh‑air brake.
Why the Hill Country Has Global Appeal
Sri Lanka’s Main Line railway—stretching from the coastal capital into the misty highlands—is globally revered for its nostalgic charm and visual drama. Although the full Colombo–Badulla journey takes 10–12 hours, the golden stretch from Nanu Oya to Ella delivers unforgettable views faster and better lit, particularly when riding eastbound in the morning sun.
Friday evening: Travel to Colombo Fort or stay in the city.
Saturday 05:30 AM: Depart Colombo Fort on Ella Weekend Express → arrive Badulla mid‑afternoon.
Saturday/Sunday: Explore Ella, Nuwara Eliya, or tea‑estate retreats; join walks on the Pekoe Trail through lush tea fields.
Sunday 21:00 PM: Board return train to Colombo, arriving late for smooth next-day transitions.
Book Your Seat here – click here
