Bandaranaike International Airport is the main international gateway for travellers arriving in Sri Lanka. Flights to Colombo are available from major Indian cities such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Kochi, depending on current schedules.
From the airport, Nuwara Eliya is roughly 160–180 km by road. A private taxi or pre-booked transfer can take around 5–6 hours, depending on traffic and mountain-road conditions.
For families or travellers carrying luggage, a private transfer is usually the most comfortable option. You can also break the journey by staying in Kandy.
Nuwara Eliya does not have a railway station. Nanu Oya Railway Station, around 8 km from Nuwara Eliya town, is the nearest major rail connection.
You can take a train from Colombo or Kandy towards Nanu Oya and then continue by taxi, tuk-tuk or bus. The train journey through Sri Lanka's central highlands is itself an experience, with views of tea plantations, valleys and mountain landscapes.
If you enjoy scenic travel and are not in a hurry, this is one of the better ways to experience the highlands.
Buses connect Nuwara Eliya with Colombo, Kandy, Nanu Oya and other towns. They are generally a more economical option, although the journey can take longer because of traffic and frequent stops.
For first-time Indian visitors, a Colombo Airport ? private transfer is the simplest option, while train to Nanu Oya ? road transfer is a good choice for travellers who want a scenic journey.
Before planning your route, you can read our Nuwara Eliya destination guide for a broader understanding of the town, climate, culture, food and travel experience.