Scenic train Kandy to Ella - is ANY of it running in August?
It is the one thing my girlfriend will not drop. I keep seeing "starts at Ambewela now" and also "Nanu Oya-Badulla restarted 20 June". We have 26 Aug. What is the move: skip, or drive to a highland station and ride the pretty bit?
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2 Answers from travellers
Two facts. Nanu Oya-Badulla passenger service came back 20 June after they rebuilt the landslide bit. Through Kandy-Ella / Colombo-Ella is not back - Kandy-Nanu Oya still had work outstanding mid-year. So the photogenic upper section (Nanu Oya or Ambewela to Ella to Badulla) has been running. You reach the start by road.
We hired a car Kandy to Nanu Oya, 2-3 hours depending on slides, reserved 2nd class Nanu Oya to Ella. Still the waterfall-and-tea show. Worth it. Check that morning's trains, some Wednesdays get cancelled.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
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