🚨 Nanu Oya to Ella Train Ticket Scam – How Tourists Lose $95 Per Person

The Nanu Oya to Ella train ride is one of the most famous scenic journeys in the world. Stretching through Sri Lanka’s lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and stunning valleys, it’s a must-do for travelers.

Unfortunately, many tourists are falling victim to a train ticket booking scam, paying up to USD 95 per person for a ride that officially costs less than USD 10.

Nanu Oya to Ella Train
Nanu Oya to Ella Train

How the Nanu Oya to Ella Train Booking Scam Works

Many travelers search online for tickets and find third-party booking platforms — including well-known names like GetYourGuide.com. These sites often claim to offer guaranteed seat reservations, but here’s what really happens:

  • Overpriced tickets – charging $95 or more per person instead of the official low price.

  • No official ticket issued – many customers only receive a vague confirmation, or worse, nothing at all.

  • Last-minute alternative offers – some travelers are offered buses or vans instead of the actual train ride.

We personally experienced this: booked tickets, paid the inflated price, and never received a real Sri Lanka Railways ticket.

Why It Happens

Sri Lanka Railways only sells a limited number of reserved seats online, and they sell out quickly. Many third-party sellers can’t access these tickets legitimately, but they still take bookings, hoping to arrange something later — or simply keeping your money.

How to Book Nanu Oya to Ella Train Tickets Safely

✅ Use the official Sri Lanka Railways booking website:
🔗 https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/

Booking through the official site ensures:

  • Official pricing – usually under USD 10 depending on the class.

  • Guaranteed genuine tickets.

  • No middleman markups.

If Tickets Are Sold Out Online

If the official site is sold out, you can:

  • Buy tickets in person at any Sri Lankan train station.

  • Adjust your travel date or departure time.

  • Use a licensed Sri Lankan travel agent who buys directly from the railway.

Final Warning for Tourists

If you see USD 95 per person for a Sri Lanka train ticket, it’s a scam warning sign. Don’t lose your money — always check the official Sri Lanka Railways site first.

The Nanu Oya to Ella train journey is unforgettable — just make sure you book it the right way so your dream ride doesn’t turn into a costly mistake.

I can also create a short social media version with hashtags and eye-catching headlines so tourists scrolling Instagram, Facebook, or Reddit can see this warning before booking. That would help spread the word faster.