The Ella Odyssey (Train No. 1007 from Colombo Fort to Badulla / Train No. 1008 return) is Sri Lanka's premier specialized tourist train, designed to give passengers the ultimate sightseeing experience through the central highlands.
What Makes the Ella Odyssey Unique?
Unlike regular passenger trains that rush through stations, the Ella Odyssey pauses for 2 to 10 minutes at the most photogenic viewpoints along the route, allowing passengers to step onto the platforms, capture photos, and soak in the mist-laden panoramas.
The 10 Iconic Scenic Photo Stops
The train makes dedicated photographic stops at:
- Horseshoe Bend Viewpoint: Dramatic curve overlooking verdant valleys.
- Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) View: Clear mountain vista on clear mornings.
- St. Clair's Falls Viewpoint: Known as the "Little Niagara of Sri Lanka" (3 min stop).
- Elgin Falls Lookout: 25-meter twin cascade nestled in pine forests.
- Summit Level Tunnel No. 18: The highest railway point in Sri Lanka near Pattipola (1,897m).
- Windy Corner (Idalgashinna): Knife-edge ridge with sheer cliff drops on both sides.
- Demodara Nine Arch Bridge: Iconic 10-minute stop on the world-famous colonial stone bridge.
- Demodara Loop: Unique 360-degree railway engineering loop.
Ticket Prices & Seat Classes
The Ella Odyssey features two passenger carriage classes:
- 1st Class Air-Conditioned: LKR 5,000 (~$16 USD) one-way with reclining upholstered seats and panoramic windows.
- 2nd Class Reserved: LKR 4,000 (~$13 USD) one-way with opening windows for unobstructed photography and cool highland breezes.
