How to book train tickets from Colombo to Ella online.
2 Answers from travellers
To book train tickets from Colombo to Ella online, you must use the official Sri Lanka Railways website at seatreservation.railway.gov.lk. Tickets for reserved first class and second class seats open exactly 30 days before the date of travel at 10 AM local Sri Lanka time. Because this is one of the most famous train journeys in the world, tickets sell out within minutes. You must create an account beforehand, be logged in, and refresh the page right at 10 AM. If you miss the online tickets, you can still buy unreserved third class tickets at the station on the day of travel.
If the direct Colombo to Ella tickets are completely sold out online, try booking the journey in two separate segments. Look for tickets from Colombo to Kandy, and then a separate ticket from Kandy to Ella. The Kandy to Ella section is the most scenic part anyway.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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