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What Is The Best Japanese Temple To Visit? A Temple Tour In Japan

What Is The Best Japanese Temple To Visit? A Temple Tour In Japan

Mar 31, 2026

Last Updated on: Aug 31, 2026

The scent of that first Japanese temple I visited, full of damp cedar, ancient dust, and high-quality incense, immediately slowed my pulse.

The architecture felt magnetic, heavy with history that seemed to settle into your bones.

Furthermore, these temples aren’t just buildings.

They’ve stood for centuries, and are a part of Japan’s cultural fabric.

Moreover, the connection between nature and devotion isn’t just symbolic here, and it’s real.

Also, every temple holds stories passed down through generations.

A single stone path or carved gate can carry centuries of meaning. You don’t just walk past them. You feel their presence.

How Buddhism Shaped The Island And Each Japanese Temple

Buddhism started in India, the land I come from.

Then it moved through China and Korea before reaching Japan in the 6th century.

Now, the first official step came when King Seong of Baekje sent Sutras and a Buddha image to Emperor Kinmei.

1. The Rise Of Sects

Over time, new sects poured in from China, changing how Buddhism looked here.

Saicho brought the Tendai sect in 805.

Kukai, later called Kobo Daishi, founded the Shingon sect in 806.

Then, Zen arrived in 1191, and it shifted Japanese art, tea traditions, and samurai life.

Now, Buddhism shares space with Shinto, the local religion.

So, the two coexist side by side without conflict.

Though it’s not perfect, that’s how things work now.

The Architectural Layout Of A Japanese Temple

Once you enter a Japanese temple, you will find the main hall or Hondo. Furthermore, the table below explains the other key features of a Japanese temple.

Features of a Japanese Temple	Details
Pagodas	These have three to five stories. Furthermore, these are the repositories of the sacred relics.
Lecture Halls	Monks study and teach here.
Belfries	These house massive bronze bells that are rung during the New Year.
Cemeteries	Often located on the grounds, these emphasize the Buddhist focus on the afterlife and ancestors.

What Is The Best Japanese Temple?

I cannot pick a favorite when it comes to choosing the best Japanese temple. However, these are the ones I loved visiting.

1. Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), Kyoto

Kyoto is not just famous for its cherry blossom season. It also has the Golden Pavilion.

This is the “poster child” of Kyoto, and for good reason.

Two levels of this Zen temple have a covering of gold leaf.

Seeing its glittering reflection in the “Mirror Pond” is one of those travel moments that actually lives up to the hype.

It was originally built as a retirement villa for a Shogun, which is why it has a slightly “king-of-the-hill” air.

2. Todai-ji Temple, Nara

A visit to the Todai-Ji Temple is one of the best things to do in Nara.

Standing in front of the great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) makes you feel incredibly small.

The structure was once the largest wooden building ever built, and even now, at two-thirds its original size, it still stands with quiet power.

Inside, a 16-meter-tall bronze Buddha dominates the space, and it was cast in 752.

3. Senso-Ji Temple, Tokyo

As Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji pulses with color and movement.

Daytime visits pull you into a sea of people.

After dark, though, the scene shifts entirely.

Vermilion walls glow warmly under lanterns, the air settles, and the five-story pagoda rises softly against the sky. That night view became my favorite moment in four days in Japan.

4. Sanbutsu-Ji Temple, Misasa

Here is a temple for the daring ones.

To get a glimpse of the inner hall, Nageiredo, I had to do a really challenging hike up Mount Mitoku.

The hall can be seen right on the cliff’s face, supported on stilts over a dangerous drop.

Whenever I looked at it, I kept asking myself how 8th-century monks could have built it without falling off the mountain.

Besides, this “National Treasure” might even have to stand the comparison to a scene in an Indiana Jones movie.

5. Tenry-Ji Temple, Kyoto

This temple is right in the heart of the Arashiyama district and is also famous for its garden.

The landscaped grounds of the 14th century surround the central pond walkways.

It was cherry blossom season when I dropped by, and the view of the weeping cherry trees against the forested mountain is a picture I still take out whenever I am stressed.

6. Kongobu-Ji Temple, Koyasan

For a deeply immersive experience, head to Mount Koya.

Kongobu-ji, the main temple of Shingon Buddhism, houses the largest rock garden in Japan.

The granite rocks have been carefully arranged to depict dragons arising from a sea of clouds. It’s an excellent venue for peaceful meditation.

7. To-Ji Temple, Kyoto

While there are other things to see in To-ji, its five-story pagoda is the main draw.

At 57 meters high, it is not only the tallest in Japan but also a city landmark.

Plus, when it is lit up at night in spring, it appears like a golden light rising from amidst the cherry trees.

What Are The Best Offbeat Japanese Temples?

Aside from the well-known “Golden” and “Great Buddha” temples, there are also sites that allow you to connect more closely with nature and pilgrimage traditions.

It is at these places that I experienced the most “human” contacts, observing pilgrims dressed in white robes or witnessing monks conducting their daily rituals.

1. Daisho-In Temple, Miyajima

While most tourists to Miyajima are attracted by the floating torii gate, Daisho-in, situated at the base of Mount Misen, is the island’s true spirit.

The most memorable feature? The 500 Rakan figures. Each one has an entirely different face. So, some are laughing, some are grumpy, and some look like they’re whispering a secret.

2. Seiganto-Ji Temple, Nachisan

There is probably no other place on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage that has been as pictured as this one.

You have a vivid red pagoda in the front, and Nachi Falls is the highest waterfall in Japan, thundering down in the background.

It is a wonderful site where the noise of the water and the quietness of the temple together form an ideal spiritual harmony.

3. Zenko-Ji Temple, Nagano

The temple sits in Nagano, a town that grew around it.

This is where Japan first received a Buddhist statue.

Though the statue itself isn’t visible, you can walk into a pitch-black tunnel under the altar.

The goal? Try to touch the “Key to paradise. ” It’s creepy, but there’s something real about it. A genuine cultural moment.

4. Horyu-Ji Temple, Nara

Located just outside Nara, this site holds the oldest wooden buildings still standing.

These structures date back to 607. Standing in them feels like stepping into Japan’s earliest days. History lives in the wood and silence of the halls.

How To Visit A Japanese Temple Like A Local?

What Is The Best Japanese Temple To Visit? A Temple Tour In Japan

Visiting A Japanese temple is not just about seeing but also experiencing it.

One way to do this is through politeness, talking softly, and following a few simple etiquettes.

You will find a large incense burner (Jokoro) at the temple entrance.

A common practice is to fan yourself with the smoke, as it is said to have medicinal effects.

1. Getting In And Praying

You’ll most likely have to take off your shoes before going into a building (make sure you have stylish socks! ).

Once inside, you can go up to the altar, put a small coin in the donation box, and silently make a respectful gesture.

In contrast to a Shinto shrine, at a Buddhist temple, you shouldn’t clap.

Only a silent bow with hands in the prayer position is the right way to show reverence.

2. Taking Photos In A Japanese Temple

Generally, temples are okay with you taking photos in the outdoor areas.

However, you cannot take photos inside the main worship halls where the statues are.

Also, personally, I feel that when I put my camera away and spend five minutes just sitting on the tatami mats in silence, what I get is a more vivid “picture” than any photo could ever represent.

3. The Water Purification Ritual (Temizuya)

Before you pray, take a moment to cleanse your mind and body at the Temizuya or the stone water pavilion near the entrance.

Watching a local glide through this ritual can look intimidating, but it follows a simple, beautiful sequence using a single scoop of water.

Purify your left hand: Pick up the wooden ladle with your right hand, scoop up water, and pour a small amount over your left hand.

Purify your right hand: Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand.

Rinse your mouth: Switch the ladle back to your right hand. Pour a little water into your cupped left hand.

Then, use it to rinse your mouth softly, and spit out the water into the drainage trough beside the fountain.

Next, never back into the main pool. Do not drink directly from the ladle.

Clean the ladle: Tilt the ladle vertically so the remaining water runs down the handle, washing it clean for the next visitor. Place it face down.

4. The Temple Stamp (Goshuin) Tradition

If you want a physical memory of your journey that goes deeper than a digital photograph, look for the temple’s stamp office (Goshuinjo).

Before you start your trip, purchase a Goshuincho.

It is a specialized accordion-style book designed specifically for collecting sacred temple stamps.

For a small offering (usually 300 to 500 JPY), a monk or temple calligrapher will hand-ink a stunning, highly detailed page just for you.

They stamp the page in bright vermilion ink and write the temple’s name, the date of your visit, and a sacred Buddhist phrase in elegant, sweeping calligraphy.

It is a deeply respected tradition, transforming your travel itinerary into an authentic, personalized pilgrimage logbook.

Visiting Hours And Entry Fees At These Temples

With seven temples covered across three cities, it helps to have the practical details side by side rather than scattered through each write-up, especially since hours and fees vary more than you’d expect between them.

Temple	City	Typical Hours	Entry Fee
Kinkaku-ji	Kyoto	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM	500 JPY
Todai-ji	Nara	7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (seasonal)	800 JPY (Daibutsuden)
Senso-ji	Tokyo	Grounds open 24 hours The main hall is open from 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.	Free
Tenryu-ji	Kyoto	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM	500 JPY (garden) and 300 JPY for buildings
Kongobu-ji	Koyasan	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM	1,000 JPY
To-ji	Kyoto	9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (grounds later)	500-800 JPY (varies by season, pagoda access)

Fees and hours shift seasonally.

Also, several of these temples charge extra for special exhibitions or evening illuminations during cherry blossom and autumn foliage season.

So it is worth checking the specific week you’re traveling rather than relying on a fixed number.

Senso-ji is the one genuine exception on this list.

It is free and open around the clock, which is part of why its night-time atmosphere, mentioned above, is worth planning for specifically.

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

What Are The Things To Do In Mirissa? Unusual Activities You Must Not Miss Here

BY Sibashree May 11, 2026

How many places have you been to where you can see peacocks and the mischievous chipmunks everywhere you look? This is Mirissa for you! One of the quietest beach towns in Sri Lanka. Also, if surfing at Hiriketiya Beach was a lot of fun, you can plan a one-hour drive to Mirissa for whale watching. Mirissa has the turquoise Mirissa Beach, the Instagram-favorite coconut tree hill, the secret beach, the parrot rock, and many other natural attractions. Also, this quaint beach town is the ideal place to attend a cooking class, enjoy a happening nightlife, and indulge in a relaxing spa experience. Furthermore, whale watching and surfing with turtles are some of the most exciting things to do in Mirissa. And once you are done exploring Mirissa Beach, you can take a short tuk-tuk ride to Weligama Beach, which is a beginner-friendly surfing destination. Here is more about why I loved the Mirissa Beach and town. What Are The Things To Do In Mirissa? Mirissa was still an emerging destination when I last visited Sri Lanka. Then, it was a welcome break from surfing at Ahangama or Hiriketiya simply because it was less crowded. However, thanks to Instagram now and especially due to the popularity of Coconut Hill, it is not a hidden gem anymore. Nevertheless, don’t miss these activities when you are in Mirissa. 1. Spending A Relaxing Time At Mirissa Beach I am not a diver, but I saw a couple renting gear on the beach for diving and spotting turtles. I talked to them as they came out. It was nice talking to Liam and Saoirse. I am quoting what Saorise shared, “The water here is calm, and you just need to go down very little to find the turtles swimming. Next, we are going to try Weligma Beach.” Nevertheless, for me, Mirrissa Beach was impressive due to its laid-back charm. Like Delft Island in Jaffna, Mirrissa Beach also appeared to be an ideal destination for backpackers. It was sunset time, and as the sky started turning the darkest red, the cafes around the beach came to life. I took a stroll toward the Parrot Rock and climbed it to see how the Sun is going to sleep in the ocean. If you are not planning to see the sunset here, you can take a 40-minute tuk-tuk ride to Kudawella Beach. There, you will see the Hummanaya blowhole, the second-largest in the world. 2. Enjoying Solitude At Secret Beach Solitude! This is what I enjoyed at the Secret Beach. It is secluded and does complete justice to its name. Furthermore, this is a beautiful beach where the sea and the jungle blend. Also, this beach has shining golden sands, and the palm trees are so well aligned that they look symmetrical. In addition, I enjoyed sunbathing, swimming, and watching the sunset at Secret Beach. Now, comes to how I reached the Secret Beach from Mirissa Beach. I took a short tuk-tuk ride for 15 minutes from Mirissa Beach, and it cost me around LKR 300. From the spot, you will have to hike for around 200 meters to reach the beach. Also, no one talks about the cliff behind the Secret Beach. I had to just take a short walk, taking the left side path from the beach to reach the cliff. You can enjoy a 360-degree view of the ocean from the cliff top. 3. Whale Watching Visiting Mirissa Beach during sunset time was worth it. I returned the next morning for the whale-watching tour to start. The tour started at 6 AM, and it was a 4-hour tour. The cost was ₹1948 or around 6500 LKR. Early morning is the best time for whale spotting at Mirissa Beach, as the water starts getting choppy as the hours pass. Furthermore, November to April is the best time for blue whale spotting here, and March and April are the peak months. Also, on my tour, along with the blue whales, I also spotted humpback whales, turtles, and dolphins. 4. Watching Sunset From The Parrot Rock As I mentioned earlier, Parrot Rock offered the best sunset viewing point on Mirissa Beach. This rock island is just a 5-minute walk from the main beach. However, I had to wade through water to find the base of the staircase leading to the top of the Parrot Rock. During high tide, the water can be knee-deep. So, here you will need some local guidance regarding when to cross the water. So, be careful and carry a small bag and only the things you need if you want to climb up the Parrot Rock. 5. Exploring The Cocount Tree Hill Now, this Coconut Tree Hill is a rage on Instagram and somehow overhyped. However, the tangerine soil and the series of trees here look picturesque, and the views from here are amazing. Before I got to the top of the Coconut Hill, I enjoyed a swing ride just below. I visited it very early in the morning. The plan was to see the sunrise from the Coconut Tree Hill and then start the whale tour. Furthermore, the hike was easy, and it was almost a no-sweat climb. 6. Enjoying Sunset Drinks, Bites, And Beats Mirissa has a really cool nightlife. However, I found the cafes here a little overpriced. Instead, I found a place to relax and watch over the activities on the beach after sunset hours. After watching the sunset from the Parrot Rock, I was planning a return for the day, and then I found Petti Petti. It has an elevated infinity pool, which is magical. You can even relax sitting in the comfortable beanbags and sip the most refreshing cocktail. Petti Petti remains open from 8 AM to 10:30 PM every day. 7. Surfing At Weligama Beach Surfing at Mirissa Beach is not a pleasant experience. So, it is always better to take a bus ride for 15 minutes to Weligama Beach. With a sandy bottom and gentle waves, it is a beginner-friendly place for surfing. I surfed with the AMA Surf School there, and the cost was around ₹7000, and the surfing tour was for 1 hour and 15 minutes. 8. Enjoying The Cafe Vibe In Mirissa Mirrissa has some amazing cafes, but they are still overhyped if you compare them with the craze on Instagram. Nevertheless, I loved Aloha Coffee Gallery, which is very close to the Main Street of Merissa. I had a French Press coffee and toasts there. Also, I found many young professionals working there, and the Wi-Fi connection was pretty good. I found that the place was quite popular among youngsters and digital nomads. 9. Spotting The Turtles Now, many people tell you that Turtle Beach is the best place to spot turtles in Mirissa, and it’s a lie. When I reached it at around 10 AM, the beach was already crowded, and naturally, the water was murky. I could spot two turtles, but they looked stressed and in a hurry to hide. Then, a local told me about a place that was a walk of around 10 minutes west of the beach. There is a Roti shop nearby, in the name of DewMini Roti Shop. That was indeed a great place for seeing turtles, as there were no boats and only a few locals hanging around. Again, from there, I took a local bus to Polhena Beach, and the ticket price was ₹30. There, the reefs were shallow, and thus these reefs and the turtles were easily visible. 10. Visiting A Tortoise Hatchery I love turtles. So, when I got to know about the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, I decided to take a drive for 2 hours and visit it. This conservation center is, in fact, closer to Galle, and there, I saw Hawksbill turtles, Olive Ridley turtles, and loggerhead turtles. Many injured or disabled turtles stay in this conservation center, and you will even find baby turtles that are just 3-days old. The conservation center also has a program in which you can release the baby turtles into the ocean water. Behind the conservation center is a hatchery. There, all the eggs are kept buried for hatching. The conservation center buys these eggs from local fishermen who collect the eggs so that poachers do not take them or predators do not eat them. The conservation center remains open from 8:30 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee is LKR 1000.

Why Is Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka, Famous? Know About Bentota Beach, River Safari, And More

BY Sibashree Jul 7, 2026

With the One Love Reggae Festival returning to Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka is now preparing to be a vibrant cultural stage for music lovers from around the world. The event is slated from 7th to 9th August, and with a laid-back coastal atmosphere, will function as a major tourism catalyst for Bentota. Nevertheless, Bentota Beach has always been a popular, idyllic destination in Sri Lanka due to the calm waves of the Indian Ocean and soft golden sands. Furthermore, it is a gateway to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort. However, for me, the most striking thing about Bentota was the safari on the Bentota Ganga. With dramatic landscapes and surrealism awaiting you in every nook, this was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka. Also, very close to Colombo, just a 2-hour drive away, this beach stands out even if tourists show more interest in popular variations such as Tangalle Beach and Mirissa Beach. Here is more about why Bentota Beach is worth visiting and what the top attractions are. What Are The Things To Do In Bentota? The heavenly sunset views of Bentota Beach, the most anticipated boat safari on Bentota Ganga, and a relaxing experience in the Ayurveda Herbal and Spice Garden! Furthermore, if you want an adrenaline rush, you can take part in activities such as parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, and more! 1. Water Sports At Bentota Beach Bentota has many beaches, such as the Ventura Beach or the Moragalla Beach, where the ocean meets the Bentota Ganga River. However, together, they are known as the Bentota Beach, and together they look like a long stretch of fine white sand. A specific stretch of sand is parallel to Bentota Lagoon, which is more commonly called the Bentota Ganga. It is known as the Paradise Island, looking like a narrow and long peninsula stretching out into the ocean. Also, it is ideal for the following watersports. Windsurfing Waterskiing Diving Canoeing Snorkeling Fishing Moreover, centers such as Diyakawa Water Sports and Sunshine Water Sports Center help with the best gear, training, and guidance. 2. Visiting The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project I mentioned the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project when visiting Kalutara. However, it is way closer to Bentota, and it is situated at a distance of just 9 km. So, it is just a road journey of 9 km or 15 minutes south by road. It remains open from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and the ticket price is LKR 500 for locals and LKR 1000 for foreigners. It is a vital wildlife sanctuary on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Established in 1981, it aims to protect endangered sea turtles from extinction caused by poaching and habitat loss. The hatchery monitors local beaches to rescue vulnerable eggs. It buries them safely in protected sand nests until they hatch. Impressively, the project cares for all five sea turtle species that visit Sri Lanka. The Green Turtles Loggerhead Turtles Hawksbill Turtles Olive Ridley Turtles Leatherback Turtles. The sanctuary also rehabilitates turtles injured by fishing nets. However, for me, the most exciting experience in the sanctuary was releasing newborn hatchlings into the Indian Ocean at sunset. This hands-on experience funds the project while raising global awareness about marine conservation. Overall, it was a great experience learning about the marine ecosystem and how these adorable marine creatures play an important role in maintaining the balance. If you want to watch and study them further, Sri Lanka has many other destinations such as the Dalawella Beach, Dickwella Beach, and Mount Lavinia Beach. 3. The River Safari On Bentota Ganga While many people are more excited about the watersports, I visited Bentota for the water safari. It was late afternoon, and the Sun was getting mellower. Fortunately, the hotel I was staying in had the provision for booking a boat safari. The boat progressed through the jungle. Also, I could spot eagles flying high and some snakes in the water. I was looking for crocodiles, but this time, I did not find one. Moreover, the roots of the trees got entangled, and the roots created some eerie formations that looked straight out of Apocalypse. Having said that, the river safari was not just an opportunity to spot the wildlife. I also saw the traditional fishing techniques and prawn farming in the wetlands surrounded by mangrove forests. Another interesting stop was the Cinnamon Island. I spotted old and young men cutting sleek sticks of cinnamon. I bought a few bottles of cinnamon oil from them. It was a 1.5-hour safari, and it cost around LKR 2500. 4. Exploring The Bentota Market The Aluthgama town is around 3 km away from Bentota, and the Monday market here is amazing. I had a talk with Manjula, a college student and a local vendor who helps her mother, Hiruni. “People from different parts of the southwest coast come here. This is a market mostly dominated by women. So, I love being a part of the market. The vendors sell various products, including clothes, vegetables, groceries, and other knick-nacks. I also found the place to be a great spot for socializing. Women were interacting with each other when buying exotic fruits and fresh vegetables. Moreover, I collected some cinnamon sticks, spices, and clothes as souvenirs. 5. Enjoying The Benefit Of Herbal And Spice Treatment Bentota is famous for traditional Ayurveda and health treatment. The oils and massage solutions here have spices and local herbs. The medicines and solutions also have cardamom, cinnamon, seeds, fruits, bark, and leaves. So, if you want to enjoy the ultimate Sri Lankan spa experience, Bentota is the ideal place. The big hotels and resorts have spas offering traditional treatments and therapies. Furthermore, there are some specialized Ayurveda centers. Where To Stay In Bentota Beach? From budget guesthouse Hotel Hemadan to 5-star hotel Taj Bentota Resort, the accommodation options in Bentota are diverse. Furthermore, if you want an artistic and boutique experience, you can choose options such as Taj Bentota Resort and NH Bentota Ceysands. Based on the accommodation you choose, the cost of staying in Bentota will be between LKR 13000 and 60000 per night.

Is The Kandy To Ella Train Still Closed? Why I Loved The Journey During My Last Visit

BY Sibashree May 4, 2026

Yes, the Kandy to Ella Train is still closed. Even if you search for the Kandy to Ella trains on the Sri Lanka Railways website now, it will show, “The rail line from Kandy to Ella is still under repair. Please select Ambewela as your closest alternative departure station.” So, it means that the Sri Lankan Railways, especially the iconic Kandy to Ella train route, is still recovering from the destruction of Cyclone Ditwah in 2025. However, operation of the Ella Odyssey train has resumed from 7th January, 2026. Nevertheless, as everyone waits for the Kandy to Ella train route to be fully functional, here, I want to share my experience of an iconic train ride on this Kandy to Ella route. I will also share details about the Ella Odyssey Train, now running between Ambewela and Badulla. Kandy To Ella Train Journey: Quick Facts FactsDetailsRoute DistanceAround 120 KmBest ClassReserved Second ClassBest Time for the Train JourneyDecember to April The Most Beautiful Stretch Nanu Oya and EllaRail Route Built In1864 The Kandy To Ella Train Journey: Why Is It So Famous? The Kandy to Ella train service was started in the British period for the transportation of tea to the highlands. However, today, it is acknowledged as the most beautiful railway route in Sri Lanka. The best thing is that the scenes outside the train window do not remain static. From small villages to tea plantations, hills, and waterfalls, Furthermore, the train on this route passes at a slow pace, making the experience all the more immersive. So, a train journey on this route is one of the best things to do in Ella and, in fact, one of the top attractions in Sri Lanka. My Experience Of The Kandy To Ella Train Journey If you are traveling from Colombo to Kandy, you now have to take a bus. However, I visited before the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. So, I enjoyed my train journey from Colombo to Kandy. From the Kandy Lake to the iconic Temple Of The Tooth, the top attractions in Kandy make it the cultural epicenter of the country. After exploring Kandy, I took a train ride to Ella, and here is how I enjoyed the journey. 1. Train Journey Started From The Kandy Station Like the city itself, the Kandy Railway Station is also very pretty. It has a history dating back to the British era. Even today, behind its modern exterior, you will find a Victorian interior and platforms. So, once you enter the station, you will feel history and nostalgia becoming palpable in front of your eyes. The station is hot and humid, and the crowd may seem a little annoying. However, a glimpse of the iconic blue train of Sri Lanka will take all irritation away. 2. The Blue Train The train reached Kandy station, and the color of the Chinese diesel locomotive was turquoise blue. I boarded the third-class compartment and luckily got a seat. I already knew about the history of this rail route at the National Railway Museum, Kadugannawa. The train has been operating since the 1920s. However, passengers started traveling in these trains in the 1960s. Nevertheless, the train was jolting heavily, and it slowly left Kandy, making its way to the hill country. Cricket And More Coming from India, it was fun talking about cricket with the Sri Lankan locals in the train. As they showered their love for every cricketing legend, from Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, I also shared my adoration for Kumar Sangakkara and Sanath Jayasuriya. You know what the best thing about this train ride was? The train moved slowly. However, the wind coming through the windows got mixed with the voices of the locals singing. Overall, it was a feeling of freedom and excitement. The Vendors The Kandy to Ella train ride will be incomplete without having chai and hot wade. As the vendors get on board, the fragrance of hot wade and tea immediately makes you hungry. Also, as soon as the train leaves the Kandy station, you start enjoying the cool breeze. The View Ever-stretching tea plantations, misty mountains, and beautiful stations, I got to see everything throughout the train journey from Kandy to Ella. So, within a few hours, I got a glimpse of the local lives of Sri Lanka. I also understood why it is called one of the greatest train rides in the world. Continuing The Kandy To Ella Rail Route Journey: Toward The Nine Arch Bridge And Demodara Railway Loop Once I got down at Ella after a train ride from Kandy, I took a tuk-tuk to reach the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. The Nine Arch Bridge is a historic landmark for its role in World War I. The first train on the bridge passes at 9:30 AM, and the last train passes at 5:30 PM. Moreover, along with the Nine Arch Bridge, the Demodara Railway Loop is another attraction on this route. I had the most peaceful experience of train riding at the Demodara Railway Loop, as unlike the Kandy to Ella train, it was not crowded at all. The Kandy To Ella Train: Running Between Ambewela And Badulla Now Train $11015 runs between Ambewela and Badulla except Wednesdays. It departs the Ambewela station at 3 PM and reaches Badulla at 5:46 PM. You can buy a first-class ticket, and it costs ₹INR 1000. Furthermore, the train $11005 leaves the Ambewela Station at 9:30 AM and reaches Badulla at 12:16 PM. You can buy second-class and third-class train tickets. A third-class ticket costs ₹575 and a second-class ticket costs ₹770. Moreover, on Wednesdays, train #111043 departs Ambewela at 1:30 PM and reaches Badulla at 4:15 PM. The tickets for this train are expensive. The second-class ticket for this train is ₹2326 per adult. If you want to learn more about the trains running between Ambewela and Badulla, you can check out the information here.