Unforgettable train journeys across Sri Lanka

If you enjoy train travel, then Sri Lanka will be an ideal destination for you! Train journeys in Sri Lanka are an extraordinary experience and a great adventure, as this small island in the Indian Ocean offers some of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

It is filled with unforgettable moments and picturesque views. Through the window, you can admire cities and villages nestled among emerald green tea plantations or dense tropical forests.

The steam locomotives that once transported tea and spices have largely been forgotten. They have been replaced by colorful diesel locomotives, traversing the picturesque island. So, if you want to experience the real magic of traveling around Sri Lanka, make sure to embark on at least one of these unforgettable train routes.

How to book the tickets

At the railway station

You need to head to the Reservation Office. It can be easily found, is marked with appropriate signs or informational boards. Once there, you’ll fill out a reservation form. If you need assistance, the staff will be happy to help you and provide all the necessary information, as well as guide you to the ticket collection point.

Online,  through the official website

Booking online does not include the ticket; it must be collected at a station serviced by the mTicketing service. To make a reservation and collect your ticket, you will need to provide your passport number. Please note that with online reservation, there is no option to choose a specific seat on the train, as they are allocated automatically based on availability. Here’s the official website link where you can reserve your tickets.

Booking through agents

There are many options available online for booking tickets of various classes through agents. However, they may be more expensive and require personal collection.

Types of the train tickets in Sri Lanka

First-class tickets

To secure a good spot on the train, make sure to reserve your first-class tickets at least 30 days in advance. With limited seating available in first-class compartments, failing to book early might leave you without a seat. First-class travel in Sri Lanka offers air-conditioned compartments and comfortable seating.

Second-class tickets

The second-class compartments are semi-luxurious, providing comfortable seating, although they are equipped with fans instead of air conditioning.

Third-class tickets

These are economy tickets. In this section of the train, there are the most seats, and you can open the windows to enjoy fresh air. Despite the lack of comforts, this form of travel is a kind of adventure.

The best time to go for a train journey in Sri Lanka

The best time for a train trip is in the morning. At this time, there are fewer tourists, ensuring you a comfortable journey, peace, and the pleasant coolness of the morning. If possible, avoid weekends and holidays when many people employed in big cities travel back home, causing trains to be crowded.

Tips for traveling by train in Sri Lanka

Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is both an adventure and a challenge. Before embarking on your journey, it’s worth considering what experiences you want to gain from it. Therefore, before planning your route, it’s important to think about your expectations and needs. Below are some practical tips and essential things to consider before starting your journey.

  • On the internet, you can find various information regarding train schedules. However, reliable timetables can be found at the railway station. You can also check the official website of Sri Lanka Railway or download the app. Keep in mind that the website only presents selected departure times and may not always show the exact number of minutes.
  • Trains in Sri Lanka are known for frequent delays, but this is not a rule. Sometimes they arrive on time or even a few minutes early.
  • Second and third class tickets are always available, with no seat reservations and no passenger limits. Therefore, there is a risk of a very crowded train on the platform. These tickets can only be purchased at the station, approximately 15 minutes before the train departure.However, if you plan to travel by train in the middle of the day or intend to travel long distances with luggage, I recommend purchasing reserved seats.
  • You can’t buy food on the train. During the train journey from Kandy to Ella, local vendors hop on at each station. You can hear them as they walk between carriages with baskets full of spicy deep-fried snacks, salty peanuts, or fresh fruits. Ensure you have some cash on hand.

How to take beautiful photos during the journey

The historic railway of Sri Lanka conquered Instagram long ago, including famous photos taken with the train’s doors open. Below you will find a few tips on how to take such a photo and capture the unique atmosphere.

Choose an early train

To capture the perfect light and the mysterious mist, it’s worth heading out as early as possible. Unfortunately, train schedules in Sri Lanka are often not very accurate, so be prepared for possible delays.

Choose the right side of the train and scenery

Remember that the train also passes through less scenic landscapes, so take your photo when the right moment arises.

Wait until the train slows down

For most of the journey, the train moves slowly, providing an excellent opportunity to take a unique photo. Of course, it requires some courage and skill, but the result is worth it.

Be careful

Although leaning out of the train is commonly practiced, it can be dangerous as the carriages pass alongside rocky cliffs, through dense trees, and over steep canyons.

The most unforgettable train journeys in Sri Lanka

Kandy – Ella

The railway journey from Kandy to Ella is considered the most scenic route in Sri Lanka, with many claiming it to be one of the most beautiful in the world. You’ll witness lush green tea plantations, mountains, viaducts, valleys, and dense jungles. You can also observe locals and sample spicy snacks sold by vendors who board at each stop. I’ve written a dedicated article about this memorable journey. Be sure to follow the link below for a wealth of helpful tips to enhance your adventure:The train journey from Ella to Kandy – the most wonderful rail journey in the world

Duration of the journey: 9-10 hours

Ella – Badulla

One of the most well-known routes is the journey between the popular mountain town of Ella and the end station in Badulla, as the train passes over the famous 9 Arch Bridge. This majestic structure dates back to the colonial era when Sri Lanka was under British rule. The bridge towers 24 meters above the lush valley below. Its unique charm makes it an incredibly attractive destination on the island that you simply must see. 

The train stops in charming, picturesque towns along the way to Badulla, one of the oldest cities on the island. While Badulla might appear as just another provincial town today, it offers a captivating experience for those seeking to explore the authentic essence of Sri Lanka.

Consider taking a walk around Badulla to observe local life and get to know the regional culture. Another option is to take a tuk-tuk ride to the nearby Dunhinda Falls waterfall, renowned for its breathtaking beauty.

If Your time is limited, I suggest getting off the train halfway at Hali Ela and returning to Ella by tuk-tuk.

Duration of the journey: approximately 1 hour

Colombo – Badulla

The journey from Colombo to Badulla is a long and extraordinary expedition.It begins in the capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, and leads us through the picturesque landscapes of the island for 291 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll pass through tropical forests, admire scenic mountains, extensive tea plantations, waterfalls, all surrounded by lush vegetation.

On this route, we travel through 46 tunnels and pass by many vibrant towns. This journey transports us back in time to the era of British colonial rule and showcases impressive engineering achievements.

Many travelers see this route as one of the top experiences in Sri Lanka. It’s a must to truly appreciate the beauty and richness of the country.

Duration of the journey: approximately 10-11 hours

Demodara – Kandy

If the long and demanding journey from Colombo to Badulla seems too much, you can opt for a shorter yet equally fascinating route. You skip its first and last sections, focusing on the most beautiful stretch between Demodara and Kandy, the second largest city in Sri Lanka and its cultural capital.

Certainly, you’ll cross the iconic 9 Arched Bridge, passing through jungles, pine forests, towering mountains, deep valleys, sprawling tea plantations, and charming villages along the way. You can read more about this epic place here: Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka – how to make it an unforgettable experience

Duration of the journey: approximately 7 hours

Colombo – Kandy

This route was established in 1860 to transport coffee and tea from Colombo to the coast. It served the economic purposes of the British Empire. The three-hour journey from the official capital to the spiritual capital traverses hilly terrain, rice fields, dense forests, and picturesque villages.

Some connections on this route allow for further travel to Badulla, but it’s worth stopping in Kandy to visit the Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth. The journey from the hot plains to the hills provides a refreshing break in the cool air.

Duration of the journey: 2.5-3 hours

Colombo – Galle

This journey takes you through urban and rural scenery. Starting in the capital of Sri Lanka, it follows the coastline of the Indian Ocean, with its waters lapping at the railway tracks, allowing you to enjoy the sea breeze. You can also try local snacks along the way.

The railroad follows the southern coastline, offering views of Galle Face Green, the largest urban park in the capital. You can disembark in seaside towns like Moragalla (at Hettimulla station), known for diving among coral reefs, or Hikkaduwa, where you can surf and enjoy smoothies at beachside cafes.

As you approach Galle, you’ll see traditional stilt fishermen holding wooden poles. Upon reaching Galle, be sure to visit Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1558, fortified by the Dutch in 1649, and later taken over by the British in 1796.

Duration of the journey: 2.5-3.5 hours

Anuradhapura – Jaffna

The train journey from Anuradhapura to Jaffna is a route full of history. Due to the civil war between the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) and the government controlled by the Sinhalese, the railway line was not operational from 1990 to 2014. After years of conflict, the route was reopened, enabling travel from the former capital of Sri Lanka to the significant Hindu colonial city.

Passengers on trains often include pilgrims and the faithful, as Jaffna is known for its numerous temples. Before boarding the train, be sure to visit the ruins of Anuradhapura, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded according to historical records in the 10th century BCE, this city is one of the oldest in the world. As you journey from the former Buddhist capital of Anuradhapura to Jaffna, you’ll experience a completely different side of Sri Lanka.

Duration of the journey: 3.5-4 hours

Ella – Nanu Oya

This journey takes you through the lush highlands of Sri Lanka and endless tea plantations. Nanu Oya is the closest railway station to Nuwara Eliya. It’s a historic British colonial town, now a popular getaway for locals and an excellent starting point for exploring numerous tea plantations and scenic attractions of the island, such as the Horton Plains area and Ramboda waterfall.

If you have extra time, I recommend taking a break during your trip and pausing in Haputale. This small trading town offers breathtaking views all the way to the southern coast. You can visit the most famous tea plantation in Sri Lanka there, founded by Sir Thomas Lipton in 1890.

Duration of the journey: 2.5-3 hours

In conclusion, taking the train in Sri Lanka isn’t just about moving from one place to another; it’s also a journey through time and space, revealing the richness of the landscapes, history, and culture of this fascinating country. From scenic highlands to lush tea plantations, to picturesque coastlines, each route offers unforgettable views and experiences.

Whether you’re traveling from Kandy to Ella, from Colombo to Badulla, or from Anuradhapura to Jaffna, each journey is unique and valuable.

Therefore, when planning your journey through Sri Lanka, don’t forget to include a train ride to discover the true soul of this magnificent country.

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Author picture

Welcome on my blog about traveling, active lifestyle and chasing all the crazy dreams. I have been on 6 continents and in more than 100 countries so far, but I still have so much to explore :)

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Author picture

Welcome on my blog about traveling, active lifestyle and chasing all the crazy dreams. I have been on 6 continents and in more than 100 countries so far, but I still have so much to explore :)

< read more >