It would be better if you go there before 8:00 AM, so you can catch the 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM train. Then, you can expect to arrive in Kandy at around 1:00 PM.
For this Colombo-Kandy train route, you will have three classes to choose from – 1st, 2nd, and observation.
How much is the train ticket: I bought my ticket from the observation class costing to 250 LKR (it is actually the cheapest.)
But you can also book your ticket in advance–head to this site where you can buy it online.
NOTE: Another way to get to Kandy from Colombo is by bus or by private transfer. The latter will be considerably more expensive, though.
What I love about this train route is you’ll see a lot of scenic views during the day. And yes, travelers were never wrong when they said the train ride in Sri Lanka is one of best in the world!