The Two Most Worthwhile Places to Visit from Kandy
Personally, I think Nuwara Eliya and Ella are the two most worthwhile places to visit in Sri Lanka—they’re absolutely stunning! There are plenty of buses from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, taking around three hours. Nuwara Eliya is a charming little mountain town with a unique character. The blend of architecture and scenery is so enchanting that it feels like stepping into a mini Switzerland . The iconic Pink Post Office is right in front of the bus station, making it hard to miss as soon as you step off the bus.😁 There aren’t many entertainment options here, but the scenery is breathtaking. Surrounded by small waterfalls and hilltops perfect for watching sunrises and sunsets, it’s ideal for those who love hiking or simply zoning out in nature (I fall into the latter category). I skipped places like Horton Plains, tea factories, and pastures—they just didn’t interest me. But Gregory Lake is so beautiful 🌊 that I could spend the whole day there, soaking up the warm sun, reading a book, and daydreaming. The scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella departs at 12:45. Second-class tickets cost 300 rupees, and third-class 165 rupees—though neither guarantees a seat 🚂. It’s recommended to sit on the left side of the train (facing the direction of travel). The first hour offers nice views from the right, but the next two hours shine from the left, with perfect spots to lean out and snap photos. In Ella, the main attraction is the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Mornings are best—trains pass around 9:40 and 10:00 (Sri Lankan trains are often delayed). The 9:40 train is great for panoramic shots from a distance, while the 10:00 one stops on the bridge for about 10 minutes, letting you climb aboard for photos 📸. For accommodation in Ella, stay in a mountain guesthouse or hotel, ideally with a balcony (usually around 130 RMB a night). You’ll be rewarded with stunning mountain night views 🌌. Attached are train and bus schedules from Ella to other destinations. If you’re traveling from Ella to Dickwella like me, take the bus marked in the yellow circle in Picture 11. Get off before Matara (the conductor will you). I waited for the 12 p.m. bus but it arrived just after 11 a.m.—maybe schedules change often or vary by company? Better to ask locals, as timetables here are often unreliable. The bus from Ella to Dickwella takes about 4 hours. Buses from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella to Dickwella wind through mountain roads, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take a pill beforehand 🚗💨. If I visit Sri Lanka again, I’ll definitely spend more time in Nuwara Eliya and Ella! #KandyTravel #TravelTheWorld #Kandy#Kandylove#Kandytime