In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 205 kilometre distance from Colombo to Ella. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 3 ways to get from Colombo to Ella. You can choose between the train, bus, taxi. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $6. The fastest route is by taxi (5h 10m).
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5h 10m
$109
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6h 15m
$15
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8h 45m
$6
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The train route from Colombo to Ella is among the most picturesque rides in the world, especially the second half of the ride starting in Kandy. It should not be missed when visiting the Tea Country.
Sri Lanka Railways generally feature clean cabins with soft seats, comfortable enough for a 9-hour trip. Tickets are available on the day of your trip at the train station, with fares starting at 490 LKR for a 2nd class unreserved seat.
But because this is at least a trip that takes around 8h 45m - 10h 30m, we recommend that you book reserved seats online at least a month before your trip. Online tickets start at $6.
First-class seats are air-conditioned with ticket prices from 21.3 USD when booked online. Still, we prefer the open windows of second-class cabins, much better for sightseeing and photo-ops!
You can get a taxi from Colombo to Ella for if you book via BookAway.
Booking a taxi with Uber costs less at around 16,000 LKR, but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability.
If you want to do everything to find the cheapest rates, you can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo. These are widely available in Colombo, but may not be easy to find for longer journeys.
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Koh Tao is a premier diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand, widely known as one of the most affordable places in the world to obtain your PADI certification. Beyond diving, the island offers beautiful bays, pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, coral gardens, and abundant marine life.
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Carbon Footprint
This 205 km journey produces approximately 18 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
An exceptional homestay with stunning mountain views. You will feel right at home here with the friendly and welcoming staff. Bike and car rentals are available on-site and breakfast is included with your stay.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. You won’t want to check out of this homestay!
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