Sri Lanka
CAN SRI LANKA BE
TOURED BY RAILWAYS?
A guide to exploring Sri Lanka by Train
Touring Sri Lanka by train is convenient as it saves you from traffic congestion on the road, an added bonus is that it gives you a unique view of the beauty of our paradise isle!
Whether you are chugging along the sunny coast, or through sleepy villages, or passing waterfalls, a train journey in Sri Lanka can be a delightful experience, as you will have the opportunity to interact with locals and also meet fellow travelers.
Train fares differ according to the length of the journey and the seating class you opt to travel in. A majority of trains offer First, Second and Third class seating, and in most cases seating can be reserved ahead of time for selected classes.
If you wish to take a normal train, it is best to book tickets at the railway station in advance to ensure you receive a seat. You could also speak to your travel agent and they will be happy to make the necessary arrangements for you. A WEBSITE is available to reserve your train ticket however, it will be an online reservation only. Passengers need to collect their physical ticket from the mTicketing service enabled station.
Colombo to Kandy
Start – Colombo Fort; End – Kandy; Distance – approx. 80 miles/125km – Duration approx. 2hrs 30mins
Colombo to Galle
Start – Colombo Fort; End – Galle; Distance – approx. 75 miles/120km – Duration – approx. 1hr 40mins
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Start – Kandy; End – Nanu Oya Station,Nuwara Eliya; Distance – approx. 122 miles/196km – Duration – approx. 3-4hrs
Colombo to Ella [Recommended – Scenic Route]
Start – Colombo Fort Station; End – Ella Station; Distance – approx. 169 miles/272km – Duration – approx. 7-9hrs
Kandy to Ella
Start – Kandy; End – Ella Station; Distance – approx. 86 miles/140km – Duration – approx. 6-7hrs
Colombo to Anuradhapura
Start – Colombo Fort Station; End – Anuradhapura Station; Distance – approx. 128 miles/206km – Duration – approx. 3hrs 30mins
Tips for traveling by train in Sri Lanka
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- Take snacks and water
Trains have no food carriages, so it’s best you take your own snacks and beverages. Try and get snacks before you get to the station.
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- Travel light
All carriages have overhead luggage racks, which ideally fit backpacks and small suitcases. However, it is not a good idea to travel with more than one large bag.
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- Double-check the platform for your train
When you arrive at the main platform gate and enter upon showing your ticket, remember to inquire about the correct platform your train will leave from. Also be mindful, most platforms have two sides, make sure you are on the right one.
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- Be mindful of the open doors
Most carriages on Sri Lankan trains have open doors. The doors remain open throughout the journey. If you choose to wonder about the carriage, watch your step.
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- Have a light jacket on hand
Although a tropical country, depending on the time of year, the hill-country can get chilly. Taking a light jacket with you for the ride would be ideal for trips in to the highlands.