The hill-country road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is one of the best short drives in Sri Lanka. Here is how to get there, and what each option is like.
The private car is the easiest way from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. Our sedan starts at LKR 17,000, the drive is about 90 km, and the trip takes 2.5 to 3 hours without long stops. Allow 3.5 to 4 hours if you stop at Ramboda Falls and a tea factory. See the Kandy to Nuwara Eliya route page for the full details.
Some travellers take the train to Nanu Oya and then a car or bus up to Nuwara Eliya. Nanu Oya is the station for the town. The train side of this trip has been disrupted in 2026, so check the current status before you plan around it.
If you do go by train, our Kandy to Nanu Oya page covers the car leg. The Nanu Oya station guide explains the last stretch.
Buses leave Kandy regularly for Nuwara Eliya. The route page notes buses every 30 to 45 minutes from the Goods Shed Bus Station in Kandy. They are cheap, but they are crowded, they stop often and the trip takes 3 to 4 hours. A bus can work well if you are not carrying much and you have time to spare.
Our sedan for Kandy to Nuwara Eliya starts at LKR 17,000. The road is the A5 highway, which is paved and well kept. It has many bends and some steep sections in the hills, so a slow, steady drive suits it better than a rush.
The price covers the car, the driver and the air-conditioned ride. Photo stops at Ramboda Falls are free on our trips. Tea factory visits are optional, and you choose the one you want.
If you are four or more, or you have big luggage, ask about a van. Van prices are quoted on WhatsApp for each trip, so we do not publish one here.
You can read about van hire on the van hire page.
Ramboda Falls is the main photo stop. The falls are visible from the road, and there is a viewing spot with a small cafe. Tea estates line much of the road, and a tea factory visit is a good way to see how the leaves are processed.
Hakgala Botanical Garden sits about 10 km south of Nuwara Eliya, at about 1,745 metres. It is known for its rose garden and fern collection. Visit it on the way in or the next morning.
About 90 km. The drive takes 2.5 to 3 hours without long stops. Allow 3.5 to 4 hours with photo stops.
Our sedan starts at LKR 17,000. Ask on WhatsApp for a quote that matches your date and stops.
Yes, if you are not in a hurry and do not have much luggage. Buses run often but they are crowded and take 3 to 4 hours.
Yes. A tea factory visit is optional. Tell us which one you want when you book.
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LKR 18k or under Mid fare Longer ride Ask on WhatsApp
September 2026 guide rates, per vehicle. Fuel, tolls, and parking are included. The shape is a fare map, not a driving chart. Prefer the list?
The A5 climbs through tea country with long views on the way up.
A free photo stop that is visible from the road.
Factory visits are optional. Pick the one you want.
Nuwara Eliya is cool even on a sunny day.