You can easily book Kandy to Ella train tickets with us. We are Mahaweli Tours & Holidays, a leading tour agency in Sri Lanka. For booking and other details, call +94777 11153 or info@mahaweli.lk.

In this post, we have brought you all the essential information about the Kandy to Ella train journey and how to book the tickets. So, we request that you read this guide if you are planning to take this journey ahead.

An Introduction to the Kandy to Ella train journey

The Kandy to Ella train ride is considered one of the best train rides in the world. This train ride actually started in Colombo and ended up in Badulla. But the Kandy to Ella portion is considered the most popular and scenic. So, a large number of locals and international tourists express their high demand for this amazing train ride. This journey takes approximately seven hours to reach its final destination. Anyhow, this is a must-do thing for a tourist who loves sightseeing in Sri Lanka.

The History of the Up-Country Railway

The Sri Lankan railway started in the mid-19th century. During that period, the country was ruled by the British government. They started the Colombo to Badulla railway to transport coffee and tea from the up-country. Those crops were only planted in the hilly areas of the country and there was no better transport option to send them to Colombo without a train.

In the early days, this railway was used mainly for transporting goods. People were gradually able to use it as a better transport option after the 1960’s. Therefore, the train ride became popular. Nowadays, the Kandy-to-Ella train ride is mostly fully crowded and busiest at the weekends.

Colombo - Badulla Train Time Table

Every day, six trains start their journey from Badulla and finish off in Colombo. Again, six trains started from Colombo fort and finished up at the Badulla railway station. But Mahaweli Tours and Holidays only books tickets for four trains. Two trains start their journey from Badulla and the other two start from the Colombo Fort. Therefore, you should definitely note this before reserving Kandy to Ella train tickets with us.

Here is the Kandy to Ella Train Time Table.

Kandy to Ella Train Time Table

We book tickets for trains 1016 and 1006, and those trains start their journey from the Badulla Railway Station.

The No. 1016 train starts around 5.45am and reaches Ella around 7am. It reaches Nanu Oya around 9.15 and comes to Kandy around 1.15pm. It finished its journey after reaching Colombo at around 4 pm. The No. 1006 train begins its ride at around 8.30 am from Badulla. Then it gets to Ella around 9.45 a.m. and Nanuoya around 11.55 a.m. It then reaches Kandy around 3.55am and finally reaches Colombo around 7pm.

Again, we book tickets for trains 1005 and 1015, and those trains start their journey from the Colombo Fort.

The No 1005 train starts at 5.50am from the Colombo Fort Railway station. It reached Kandy around 8.45am. Then it reaches Nanu Oya around 12.40pm and finally reaches Ella around 3pm. The No 1015 train departs from the Colombo Fort at around 8.30 a.m.It reached Kandy around 11 a.m. Then it reaches Nanu Oya around 2.40pm and finally reaches Ella around 4.45pm.

We suggest that those four trains are the ideal ones to pick and enjoy the best journey. Anyhow, it doesn’t matter whether you are looking for Ella to Kandy or Kandy to Ella train tickets, we can reserve them for you.

Highlights of the Kandy to Ella Train Ride

Kandy to Nawalapitiya

Starting from Kandy, the train will first come to the Sarasavi Uyana railway station in Peradeniya. Until there, your train comes through Kandy city. Then the speed of the train will get much higher. You will pass many roads, towns, and bridges until the train comes to the Gampola Railway Station. From here, the urban environment is getting hidden, and you will see villages and the rural environment from here. Actually, from now on, you are going to be able to see the actual beauty of the upcountry railway. From here, you can observe beautiful mountains and tea plantations. Your train will cross the river Mahaweli a few times. Your train will come to the Nawalapitiya railway station after Gampola.

Nawalapitiya to Nanu Oya.

The train will come to the Galboda Railway Station after Nawalapitiya. Before arriving there, the train will pass through a few tunnels. From now on, you will be going through less populated areas, and suddenly you will enter a dense forest area with high forest cover. The elevation is now rising, and you will feel that the environment is also getting cooler. Then your train will come to the Watawala area. It is the area that receives the highest rainfall in Sri Lanka. Therefore, don’t wonder if you suddenly encounter rain in the Watawala area. After Rozella, the train will enter an area with large tea estates. It seems very scenic due to the well-maintained tea bushes. Until you reach the Nanu Oya, you can observe the beauty of those tea estates. In the Talawakale area, you can see two waterfalls called Saint-Clair waterfall and Devon Falls. Those two waterfalls are very attractive and nice to watch, and they add value to the trip.

Nanu Oya to Ella

Nanu Oya is another beautiful railway station where you should drop out if you go to Nuwara Eliya City. It’s not far to Nuwara Eliya from there. The elevation is still getting higher and you will now enter an area with a lot of forest and a lot of grassland. The Ambewela area is very popular for milk production in the country. Then you will enter the Pattipola Railway Station, which is considered the highest railway station in the country. The elevation of that point is 1881m above sea level. You will now feel much cooler than in other parts of the ride. After the Pattipola, you will come to the Idalgashinna by passing Ohiya Railway Station. You will pass many forest covered bridges before Idalgashinna. It feels like you are adventurous. Eljin Ella Waterfall is another beautiful waterfall that you can observe in these areas. The Nanu Oya to Idalgshinna part is comprised of a lot of forest and grassland. It is also another sparsely populated area.

Idalhashinna is another beautiful railway station with lovely surroundings. After that, you will enter the Haputale Railway Station. You can mostly see the mist in the Haputale area. Your train will cross pine tree forests in the Diyathalawa area. Then you will come to the Bandarawela railway station, and it’s not far to end your journey. After around 7 hours of the train journey, you will arrive at the final destination of Ella.

The main railway stations between Kandy and Ella

  • Sarasavi Uyana Railway Station (Peradeniya)
  • Gampola Railway Station.
  • Nawalapitiya Railway Station.
  • The Galboda Railway Station
  • Watawala Railway Station.
  • Hatton Railway Station
  • Talawakale Railway Station
  • Nanu Oya Railway Station
  • Ambewela Railway Station
  • Pattipola Railway Station.
  • Ohiya Railway Station
  • Idalgashinna Railway Station
  • Haputale Railway Station.
  • Bandarwela Railway Station

Places to Visit in Ella and the surrounding areas

  • Little Adam’s Peak
  • Nine Arch Bridge,
  • Ella Rock
  • Diyaluma Falls
  • Ravana Falls
  • Liptons Seat

Things to Consider Before Reserving Kandy to Ella Train Tickets

  • The train ride normally takes around 7 hours. But most of the time, it is delayed more than the expected time. Don’t worry if it takes about 9 hours. You should know that it can happen.
  • Kandy to Ella train tickets are selling fast. It is really difficult to book a ticket on the same travel day. Therefore, it is better to make the reservation online or pick a tour agency like us to book a ticket for you.
  • Normally, first class tickets are considered the best option to enjoy a train ride. But in the Kandy to Ella train ride, this happens on the opposite side. Second class or third class is the best option for enjoying the ride. You can open your windows and smell the fresh air. If you choose a first-class ticket, then you will miss this opportunity.
  • It is better if you can bring water and essential foods. But you can buy the essentials from the local vendors.
  • You can do the same train ride from Colombo. But it is tough and you will have to wait on the train for at least 10 hours. Therefore, choosing the Kandy to Ella part is the better option.
  • Try to pick a train that starts early. That will give you a 100% worthwhile experience for your journey. If the dark is covering your journey, then you will miss a lot of enjoyment.
  • Most of them will believe the right-hand side is the best option until you reach the Nanu Oya. From there, the left-hand side gives you better pictures until you reach Ella City.
  • Be careful when putting your hands, legs, and head out the windows or doors. Always think about your safety first.

 

Kandy to Ella Train Ticket Booking with Mahaweli Tours and Holidays.

As we mentioned earlier, you can easily book your Kandy to Ella train tickets with us by contacting our team with the above-mentioned mobile number. If it is troublesome to use it further, then we suggest you fill out the form and just send it to us. We will contact you in a very short period of time and help you with ticket reservations.

    Final Words

    A Kandy to Ella Train Ride is a must-do thing in Sri Lanka. So, we strongly believe this guide will give you all the essential details about this scenic train ride. If it is so, don’t forget to share this article among your friends who are waiting to take this journey or looking for Kandy to Ella Train Tickets.

    In this post, we are going to bring you the information to choose the best time to visit Ella, Sri Lanka. Before we move into the topic, let us give you some brief information about Ella.

     

    About Ella

    Ella is a small town in the Uva province of Sri Lanka. It is situated 216km (kilometers) away from Colombo. The distance between Kandy and Ella is 136km. You can either visit this beautiful city by train or by any kind of vehicle. Ella is a mountainous city with an elevation of 1041m.

    Ella City Tour

    The Kandy to Ella train trip is considered one of the best railway journeys in the world. It takes around seven hours and crosses greenish tea plantations, mountains, rivers, forests, and bridges. The view is absolutely amazing and you will never forget that memory. Ella is a tourist-based city where you can do many activities. You can do hiking, trekking, adventure activities, and waterfall watching in Ella. There are so many accommodation and other facilities available for visitors too.

    Places to visit in the Ella area:

     

    Climate of the Ella;

    Climate is an important factor that you should consider before going on any kind of trip or tour. If you are thinking about the best time to visit Ella, the given climate information will be important.

    The average annual rainfall of the Ella area is around 1750mm. The July to November time period is considered the rainy period for the area, while October is the wettest month. March is considered the driest month. But you can expect fewer rainy days in the January and February months.

    The average annual temperature of Ella is between 18 and 22 Celsius. January is the coldest month, while April is the warmest. Anyhow, Ella is a place where you can always expect a friendly temperature. The wind speed is much higher in the June, July, and August months. As well as that, March is the month with the highest sunshine hours.

     

    What is the best time to visit Ella?

    After considering the above climate information, we can suggest that January to March is the best time to visit Ella. However, climate is not a big issue when selecting the best time. But you can visit Ella throughout the year.

    If you have already decided on your best time to visit Ella, then you can plan your Ella City Tour with Mahaweli Tours & Holidays. Call 077 711 1553 or email info@mahaweli.lk for more information.

     

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    (Please visit our Mahaweli Pinterest Page for more pictures about Ella City)

    Introduction to Best Beaches in Negombo

    In this article, we are going to show you the best beaches in Negombo, Sri Lanka. Let us give you a quick overview of Sri Lanka and its beaches.

     

    Sri Lankan beaches

    Sri Lanka is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean with an area of 65,610 sq. km. The surrounding ocean has created many beautiful beaches all around the country. Most of those beaches are located in the southern and eastern parts of the island. But there are a few nice and beautiful beaches on the western and northern sides too. Arugambay, Unawatuna, Mirissa, Weligama, Bentota, Tangalle, and Nilaveli are a few of the popular beaches in Sri Lanka. You can choose one of those beaches according to your requirements for swimming, diving, surfing, kite surfing, camping, or any other activity. We recommend that you read the blog posts listed below in addition to this one.
    Beautiful Beaches in Sri Lanka
    The Best Places for Surfing in Sri Lanka

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    About Negombo

    Negombo is a well-known and economically important city in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is a coastal city which is situated 38km away from Colombo City. The city is 8 km away from the Katunayaka Airport. So, many tourists visit Negombo as their first destination in Sri Lanka.
    Negombo is a city with a population of over 100,000. The majority of the people are Sinhala Christians. But you can see some Tamils and Muslims out there. Negombo is a historical city with over 500 years of history. The area is very famous for fishing, though most of the people do it as their occupation. But the area is so full of beautiful places, with a few nice beaches. Here we are going to tell you about the best beaches in the Negombo area.

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    Negombo Best Beaches

    1) Browns Beach

    This is the most popular beach in Negombo. It is an unspoiled, private beach with golden sands. You can observe an amazing view of both the sunset and sunrise. The turquoise blue water and palm tree line add to the beauty of Browns Beach. The place is very famous among locals and foreigners alike. It is superb for kitesurfing, sailing, swimming, and windsurfing. Here, you can do mid-night swimming too.
    It is 4 km away from the Negombo bus stand, which is open 24 hours a day. You can see fishing boats in the sea, which brings another beautiful view to the visitors. There are also some shops and restaurants available for visitors.

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    2) Negombo Beach

    This beach is situated just close to the Browns beach. It is a cluster of a few beaches. This has a very long stretch where you can do a long walk. The golden sands with fairly fast winds always bring you nice feelings. Furthermore, this is usually not much more crowded than other beaches in Negombo. The palm tree lines generate a nice picture for a photographer. It is not suitable for swimming. But you can wait there and enjoy the sunbath while reading a book.
    Most of the locals come to negombo beach for kite surfing. Furthermore, it is suitable for beach volleyball and football. You can see many fishing boats on the beach. The front sea area is busy with many fishing boats. There are many luxury hotels and guest houses available near the beach.

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    Morawala Beach

    This is another best beach in Negombo with less popularity. But it is very popular among locals. It is situated in Pitiapana Village, 3km away from the Negombo bus stand. It’s an excellent location for swimming and relaxing. Evening is the perfect time to visit Morawala Beach. You can capture a nice picture of the sunset.
    Normally, this is less crowded. There is a large reef which reduces the speed of the waves. Therefore, anyone can bathe safely here. But you should remember to note that you shouldn’t cross the reef. You can also observe the Negombo Lagoon during this visit. We should say that Morawala is a must-visit and the best beach in Negombo which will cover this beautiful beach during our Negombo tour package.

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    Negombo’s weather

    Negombo is a coastal city with hot and humid weather. The annual temperature is around 27 °C. The temperature is getting lower when the sea breeze comes. Average annual rainfall is between 2000 and 2500mm. You can experience rain in all 12 months, while May, June, and July are the wet months. But January and February are the driest months.

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    Final Word on Best Beaches in Negombo

    Negombo is a popular city among local and international tourists. There are so many beautiful places to visit. Anyhow, the area is superb for beach vacations for anyone. There are a few beaches in the surrounding area. But we listed Browns Beach, Negombo Beach, and Morawala Beach as the best beaches in Negombo.

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    (Cover Image Credit: Ceylon Roamer)

    Udawattakele Sanctuary, or Royal Forest Park, is a wildlife sanctuary in Kandy city. You can observe this sanctuary behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic. It covers almost 104 ha (257 acres). Udawattakele was declared as a forest reserve in 1856 by the British government. Then it became a sanctuary in 1938. Today, travelers can enter this forest park, which can be described further as ‘ a nice place to trek in the Kandy area’.

    Udawattakele Royal Forest has a long history. It runs when the Kandyan Kingdom starts torment. It runs when the Kandyan Kingdom starts in the 14th century. In those days, this was a large forest area, which was considered a rainforest. Later, this was called the “Udawasala Watta during the Kandyan era. The British captured the Kandyan kingdom in 1815, and the forest area became destroyed because of the cutting of trees. However, today it is a conservation area that is a habitat for many wild plants and animals.

    You can see the canopy, sub-canopy, and underground forest covered here. The dense forest cover doesn’t allow sunlight to penetrate to the floor. Therefore, you can experience a very cool climate. As we mentioned earlier, you can observe many types of plants. Sources say that Udawattakele Sanctuary is home to 405 plant species, and almost 100 of them are endemic to Sri Lanka. Apart from that, it is home to 81 bird species and 21 snakes. The forest area is also a water source and it supplies essential water to the Kandy Lake.

    You need to buy a ticket to enter to the forest and it is open between 8am to 5pm.But you are not allowed to take plastics and polythene.  This is certainly a fabulous place to do a relaxing walk with fresh air. You can further experience a stunning view of the Kandy City from here. Giant Pus Wela is key attraction of the Udawattakele Sanctuary. Waterpond, Kodimale, Senkada Cave and Garrison Symmetry are the other major attraction of this forest.

    If you are a some one who like to visit this place, then you can contact us. This is also one of the place we will take our guest during our kandy travel package. If you love to visit other places in Kandy, then we suggest you check our kandy day tour package further.

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    (Udawatta Kele Image Source: I Love Kandy facebook page)

    Wilpattu Safari Tour is one of the best wildlife experiences to take in Sri Lanka. We are Mahaweli Tours & Holidays, a leading tour agency in Sri Lanka. We offer a wide range of tours for tourists. Our Wilpattu Safari Tour is specially designed for wildlife enthusiasts.

     

    An Introduction to Wilpattu Safari Tours

    Of the many extraordinary natural beauties that Sri Lanka holds, Wilpattu holds a special prominence. The specialty of this place is that it has ‘willus’, which means naturally sand-rimmed pools or basins which fill with rainwater. They are also called “Nature Lakes.”

    Our Wilpattu Safari Tour is specially designed to take you on a marvelous ride around this amazing nature safari, which will give you an experience you will never forget. You will be provided with a guide who is knowledgeable regarding local knowledge and good at English. If you need a language-specific guide, that can also be arranged upon special request. This Wilpattu Safari Tour is going to give you thrills and make you wonder how amazing nature really is.

     

    Wilpattu National Park: the amazing natural sanctuary for Safari Tour

    Wilpattu is one of the oldest and most protected of all national parks. It is located in the northwest part of Sri Lanka in the dry zone. It is governed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Historical folk stories say that the point Prince Vijaya landed in Sri Lanka was later upgraded to National Park status. In the ancient days, Sri Lanka was called “Thambapanni”, which means copper sand. Wilpattu has roads and certain areas that have contrasting red and copper-like soil, which brings out these folk stories to life. The park is full of life and diversity. You will not be disappointed. It is considered one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka because of its diversity.

    From the entrance of your Wilpattu Safari tour, it gives a very beautiful feeling where the shadowy roads lead to lush forests. It is completely surrounded by greenery, and the roads in between are the ones that make the whole experience a wonderful one. At one point, you will go through ‘willus’, which means the shallow water ponds that appear in the rainy season. You will then go under the trees’ shadows with a cold breeze. There is plenty of bird life and you will hear them singing throughout the day. It is never boring. Embrace the herds of elephants, leopards growling behind trees, bears and wild boars eyeing prey, and the singing of beautiful birds according to the breeze’s tune.

     

    Wilpattu Flora and Fauna

    Over 31 species of mammals have been found in Wilpattu, while a number of endemic plants and trees have been recorded too. Not only mammals, but birds, reptiles, and amphibians are found in Wilpattu. It is one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka with many special features. The ideal time to do wilpattu safari tour is between February and October.

    So, pack your backpack and get ready for this adventurous safari tour around one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. It is not to be missed. You will get the best wildlife experience in their natural habitat. If you are a nature lover, you will fall in love with Wilpattu the moment you enter. The scattered ‘willus’ – water ponds and red/copper sand – will amaze you. Come, capture, and cherish it!

     

    Wilpattu Safari Tours with Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

    Possible Starting/Pick-up Locations:

    Colombo, Negombo, Chillaw, Puttlam, Kalpitiya, Anuradhaura, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kurunega, Kandy, (You can let us know your exact location for us to check and confirm the possibility.)

    The Safari Tour will take approximately 3 12 hours on average.

    Tour Type: Our Safari Tour is a private tour. The vehicle and the guide/chauffeur guide are dedicated to you and your group. The safari tour will be done by an off-road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by a comfortable car, van, or mini coach.

     

    So, it’s time to choose your Wilpattu Safari Tour with us! For more details, call: +94777 111553 or email: info@mahaweli.lk .

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    (Cover Image Credit: OK Lanka Travels from Twitter) 

    Looking for a Mirissa Whale Watching Tour? If so, you are at the right place. As a leading tour agency in Sri Lanka, Mahaweli Tours & Holidays offers the best tours for you. The Mirissa Whale Watching Tour is an awesome experience for those who love marine wildlife.

     

    Introduction to Whale Watching Tour in Mirissa

    As an island, Sri Lanka is covered in beautiful blue waters from all four corners. Travelers come to this island mostly to enjoy the sea breeze, eat good food, and get a healthy tan. There are cities that are blessed with beautiful seashores. Mirissa is one of those places where you get the most refreshing experience of the ocean.

    Mirissa Whale Watching Tour is uniquely designed to take you or/ and your group to Mirissa because the place is for Whale watching. You will be accompanied by our excellent guides who are fluent in English and local knowledge. Everything you need to know about the tour, the city, and the country will be informed by our professional guides. Language specific guides can be arranged on special request too.

     

    A little about the majestic city – Mirissa

    Mirissa is situated in the Southern-most part of the island. Southern shores are the most beautiful ones that Sri Lanka owns. It is a small town in Matara District, and it is known for beautiful beaches and nightlife for tourists. It is a place to enjoy a fresh coconut, breathe in the fresh air and forget all your sorrows. You will get to know how beautiful and rich the nature is, even before you get there. It is a popular tourist destination and also very famous for Whale watching. This is one of the reasons why many come to enjoy the fresh breeze while watching these mighty aquatic creatures do their sport.

     

     

    Whale Watching in Mirissa

    One of the main reasons why people go to Mirissa is to watch the Whales. Between October to May is the ideal time for visiting. Deep down in the ocean, the area is blessed with many species of Whales such as Blue Whales, Bryde’s Whale, Pilot Whale and Dolphins. Starting from Mirissa harbor, the whole thing is a striking adventure. For everyone who is into adventure, nature, and animal kingdom, this is a must-go. Whale watching in Mirissa will give you an experience of a lifetime. The beautiful and mighty sea creatures will pop up from the waters and show-off with their amazing dances and jumps. It is one of the main treasures of Mirissa and people love to enjoy clean and fresh air while watching the dancers of the ocean.

    Whale watching has become an adventurous, yet one of the most thrilling experiences tourists get up to date. So do not miss out on this amazing experience when you come to Sri Lanka. This tour is particularly designed to give you a memorable experience in this beautiful paradise. Come and take them all in so you can cherish later! Make sure to take as many pictures as you can. This is a must-see in this small island. We will be providing professionals to guide you throughout and you will not miss a thing.

     

     

    Mirissa Whale Watching Tour by Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

    Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations :
    Mirissa, Unawatuna, Matara, Tangalle, Galle, Dickwella, Benthota, Hikkaduwa, Udawalawa, (You can let us know your exact location for us to check and confirm the possibility)

    Duration :  We have to be at the starting point by 6.15 am. And it will take around 04 hours to complete the tour. We will be doing the tour using small ships and boats guided and handled by experienced staff.  All the required safety precautions are taken as per the regulations.

    Tour Type : Our Mirissa Whale Watching Tour is a private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. Safari tour will be done by an off-road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach

     

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    Read More: Whale and Dolphing Watching in Trincomalee

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    (Mirissa Cover Image Credit: Asitha Kalinga from Twitter)

    Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations :
    Udawalawa, Ella, Tangalle, Mirissa,Galle, Unawatuna, Arugambay, Badulla, Bandarawela, Thissamaharama  (You can let us know your exact location for us to check and confirm the possibility)

    Duration : Safari Tour will take around 3 ½ on average.

    Tour Type : A private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. Safari tour will be done by an off road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach

    Sri Lanka is an island compact with many natural blessings. It is amazing to see so many natural beauties on one soil. Tourists from all around the world come to Sri Lanka to see its magnificent wildlife, beautiful waterfalls, deep blue seas, and glorious mountains. This tour is arranged for you or/and your groups to experience the wildlife and nature in Udawalawe National Park. This safari tour is designed by us to give you a matchless experience of seeing wildlife in their element. We provide excellent guides who are thorough with the local knowledge and English Language. Other language specific guides can be arranged on special request. It is our great and genuine passion to serve you with the best of Sri Lanka’s beauty.

    A little bit about the Park

    Udawalawe National Park is located on Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces’ boundaries. The northern part of the park is crowned with a range of mighty mountains and it is a sight to see. The park is overlooking the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River and it gives a cooling sensation throughout the day. The park consisted of endless flora and fauna which are endemic and endangered, thus being protected and preserved by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. With lush forests and scattered ponds, the park is a home for many species in the animal kingdom.

    Flora and Fauna

    The whole premise is full of greenery that is endemic to Sri Lanka. You will come across many species of trees that are highly appraised by the locals. It also has many kinds of animals such as Asian Elephants, Peacocks, Crocodiles, and Elephants. If you are an animal lover, you will not be disappointed. The best part of the safari is seeing elephants with their families. You will see baby elephants hiding behind their mothers, elephants washing themselves in the scattered ponds and reptiles in their own zone.

    From the beginning of the safari, you will experience unpolluted, undisturbed fresh air because of the many trees that stand tall around the park. They cover the entire area and give a cooling atmosphere throughout. For all you travelers, this is one of the places you must visit to get the best of experiences with wildlife and nature. Truly, nature is incomparable to anything in the world. You will be amazed at the beauty and harmony between flora and fauna. Mother Nature is built in such a way, to accompany animals and trees together to work hand-in hand.

    One of the most loved wildlife sanctuaries in the entire island!

    With elephants wandering across, with peacocks dancing to the nature’s tune with their mighty feathers, leopards hopping and running in the wilderness, and trees covering them all with it breeze is a full treat! Ensure to capture as many moments as you can because Udawalae National Park is one of the most beloved places in the entire island. Safari-lovers come to get a full serving of nature and beauty at Udawalawe National Park.

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    (Cover Image Source: Kvn Poupi from Instagram)

    This particular train ride is from the capital to the city called Badulla. We have arranged to take you on this ride by providing an excellent guide to guide you through. If you require language specific guides, they can be arranged upon request. We will assure you that you get the best of experiences during this ride. This island has beautiful cities and villages that are in the midst of these rail roads. We will provide you with all the information and guidance necessary to take the best train at the best time. Keep reading to see and understand the amazing ride to one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

    This will give you a comprehensive idea about Sri Lanka’s railway system, the best time to go and the activities to do.

    The best way to get to Badulla…

    Train rides have generally become a tourist’s favorite because of many reasons. It is inexpensive and give a very cultural experience. It gives you a very cultural experience, helping you see all the beautiful sceneries that pass by. This train ride starts from the Colombo Railway Station to Kandy. It then takes an onward to Badulla. The way from the transit is utterly breathtaking!

    People’s favorite travel mode when they come to this island…

    The best thing about this ride is, you can relax on the way, sleep if you want to, sit and watch the beauty, go to the loo, take pictures, and eat the unlimited snacks sold by many sellers that get in. Take the chance of trying country’s unique spiced fruits called ‘Achcharu.’

    Railway system in Sri Lanka

    Initially during British colonization, they built a railway system from the inlands to Colombo for merchandising purposes. They built it to bring tea, coffee and other spices via train to Colombo to import. But today, all Sri Lanka’s major cities have a railway station and trains operate throughout the country. We can reserve the tickets for you on advance requests.

    There are separate classes of travel such as 1st Class Observation with reserved seats, unreserved 2nd class, and unreserved 3rd class. Either way, this is an interesting way of commuting in Sri Lanka, especially for tourists, to gain the maximum vision of nature. This extension to Badulla is called “Podi Manike” train.

    It has become an important mode of transportation used both by locals and foreigners alike. It is maintained by the authorities of the country, and unlike those days, trains have become a main public transport mode.

    The Bottom line: The way to Badulla will not disappoint you

    If you love nature and would like to experience one the most loved train rides in the world, make it on top of your to-do list when you come to visit this unbelievably blessed island. It is impossible to miss the rich and untouched nature of this beautiful island. So come with your cameras and bag packed!

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    (Cover Image of Kandy to Ella Train Ride Credit Goes to: @kelsddddd from IG)

    Introduction to the Temple of the Tooth Relic

    When you think of visiting a rich culture, Sri Lanka always pops into your head. A lot of tourists visit Sri Lanka because of its rich culture and history. This tiny island has so much history, with tales of kings, kingdoms, and temples. One of the most admired places in the whole world is the Temple of the Tooth Relic. In Sinhalese, it is called “Sri Dalanda Maligawa.” It has significant connections to the history of our country.

    When you visit Sri Lanka, Put this on top of your must-see list because it is indeed a must-see. Our excellent guides will take you through the temple complex to give you a clear idea of the historical value of the place. Come ready to receive an experience of a lifetime with us in this beautiful place. You will be given a guide who is thorough with local knowledge. If you require language specific guides, they can be provided as well.

    The history and architecture of the temple

    The importance of this temple is that it accommodates the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. The temple is situated in Kandy, where the royal palace was, during the reign of the Kandyan Kingdom. The tooth relic was preserved and protected in India and was brought to Sri Lanka by Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Dantha.

    The entrance of the temple has one of the main architectural symbols in the Kandyan Kingdom. It is called a Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone). It has the shape of a half-circle with many carvings that symbolize prosperity, peace, culture, and other religious figures. This is placed at the entrance below the staircase. The main gate is called ‘Mahawahalkada’ and it was once completely destroyed. But afterwards, it was renovated, along with its symbols and figures, that are similar to the original.

    The Tooth Relic

    The Tooth Relic is safely kept in a chamber called ‘Handun Kunama.” It is protected by seven caskets which are engraved with precious stones and gems. One of these caskets is used in the pageant, which happens once a year. These caskets have the shape of a‘stupa.’

    Why is this temple important?!

    Sri Lanka was originally a Buddhist country. Hence, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is utterly treasured and protected by the community. First of all, it is situated in one of the main cities in Sri Lanka. It was built in the times of the Kandyan Kingdom, and to this date, the temple has not lost its importance. It houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Devotees from all over the island come to worship at this temple because they believe it to be a sacred and holy place.

    Pay a visit to one of the important religious spots in the country

    Come and enjoy a matchless evening in the Temple of the Tooth Relic premises. See the devotees worship in reverence and honor towards their belief. It is indeed a sight to behold

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    (Cover Image Source: @fake_or_real_ from Instagram)

    Sinharaja Trekking is an absolutely awesome activity to do for nature lovers. It is a world famous rain forest situated in Sri Lanka. In this guide we will explain all the information about Sinharaja Forest and how you can plan a trek to Sinharaja with Mahaweli Tours and Holidays.

    Here’s what’s amazing about Sinharaja:

    Sinharaja is full of flora and fauna that are endemic to Sri Lanka. According to research, more than 60 percent of the forest’s trees are considered rare and endemic. How amazing is that? A lot of natural elements are hidden inside this forest. There are waterfalls, rainforest vegetation, streams, and canopies. It is situated in the south-west lowland of Sri Lanka and is surrounded by local villages.

    History and formation of the forest

    According to some old folklore, the territory was once royal, belonging to ancient kings during the colonial era.It also has a name called “Rajasinghe Forest.” Nonetheless, this rainforest is untouched by any alteration by humans. Trekking in this virgin rainforest, which is the last viable one in Sri Lanka, is truly an exquisite experience. The forest gets thicker with every step you take. Once the trekking starts, you will feel yourself detaching from your world and attaching yourself to nature with every step you take. Sinharaja still has many places where a single human foot has not yet stepped in. It is full of biodiversity.

    Calling out all nature lovers to join trekking at Sinharaja Rainforest

    If you are a nature lover who loves seeing the beautiful diversity, Sinharaja is the best place in Sri Lanka. When you start venturing into the forest, you will understand that the forest consists of only the sounds of nature. There is no human intervention whatsoever. It is beautiful to experience endless birds chirping and see snakes and reptiles in their truest element. You will even hear leaves falling off the trees because there is no other sound other than the dominating sound of nature. It is the truest dimension of natural beauty.

    There is no such thing as “the best time to go” to Sinharaja forest. But if you need to avoid the monsoon, then it is better to avoid February, March, May, and July. Depending on the amount of it you want to see, the time duration varies. There is a research center inside the forest. So for all you nature lovers and researchers, you have everything you need to know right inside the forest. We will take you on an unforgettable trekking session where you will get to see the endemic amphibians and birds of Sri Lanka. The Sinharaja Rainforest is one of its kind. So come with your backpack prepared to go trekking at this majestic site.

    Sinharaja Trekking with Mahaweli Tours

    Sinharaja is none other than the last sustainable rainforest on this small island. Trekking in a place as prestigious as this is a privilege. This tour is uniquely constructed and designed to give you an experience of the natural world at its best. We will provide you with a guide who will communicate with you effectively in English. If you require language-specific guides, they can be arranged upon request. This is a forest reserve that has been declared a World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. It is amazing to know that this tiny island has so many natural treasures, such as Sinharaja.

    Duration: Approximately 6 hours

    Inclusions: Snacks, Lunch, Bottled water, All Fees and Taxes

    Meeting Point: Mederipitiya Bus Station, Poddana, Mederipitiya Dombagoda Rd, Deniyaya

    End Point: The activity concludes at the meeting point.

    Pickup Details: Kindly send us a message or WhatsApp message with the name of your hotel. If your hotel is in close proximity to the Sinharaja Forest entrance gate, our guide will personally visit your hotel for the meetup.

     

    Additional Information:

    • Confirmation will be provided upon booking.
    • Please note that this tour/activity is not wheelchair accessible.
    • The location is conveniently located near public transportation.
    • Infants must be seated on laps during the tour.
    • Participants are recommended to have a moderate level of physical fitness.
    • This is a private tour/activity, exclusively for your group’s participation.

     

    Cancellation Policy

    A full refund will be provided if you cancel the experience at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled start time.

    • To receive a full refund, please ensure that you cancel your booking no later than 24 hours prior to the experience’s start time.
    • If you cancel within 24 hours of the experience’s start time, the amount paid will not be refunded.
    • Please note that any changes made to the booking within 24 hours of the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
    • All cut-off times are based on the local time of the experience.

     

    So, it’s your time to book your Sinharaja Trekking Tour with us. For more information, please contact +94777 111553 or info@mahaweli.lk

     

     

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    Read More About Safaris:

    Kumana National Park Safari

    (Sinharaja Rain Forest Cover Image by: Walk Through Sri Lanka)