Best Train Journeys in Sri Lanka: Breathtaking Routes You Can’t Miss

Travelling by train in Sri Lanka is one of the most scenic experiences in the world. Whether you’re winding through the misty hills of the tea country or hugging the coastline in the south, you’re in for one of the best train journeys in Sri Lanka.

If you’re not sure which train route will offer the most romantic scenery, or action-packed adventures, then let’s take you on a journey of a lifetime. As we break down the best routes that will leave you speechless, all while providing practical tips for booking and enjoying the ride.

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How to book your train journey in Sri Lanka

Once you have chosen a train route in Sri Lanka, or a few, you need to choose the right class to travel in and book your tickets.

We will walk you through each step of the way, so you can make an informed decisions.

How to purchase a ticket

You have 2 choices to purchase tickets.

You can purchase them online or at the train station.

In our experience, we would recommend purchasing tickets online and in advance, especially if you are travelling during peak season from December to April.

You can purchase tickets from 12Go. The website is easy to use; you can choose your dates and times of travel that’s convenient to you and pay securely online with a credit card.

The further in advance you book, the more availability and flexibility on the booking. Although you can book last minute, but there are no guarantees there will be any available tickets.

Any tickets you book online, you’ll need to collect the physical ticket at one of the main train stations in Sri Lanka. You’ll need to take your booking confirmation and passport.

Alternatively, you can purchase tickets on the day, but you’ll be wrestling with the locals and other tourist looking to get a last-minute ticket.

If you choose to purchase the tickets on the day, arrive early at least an hour before the scheduled train departure.

How to choose the right class and where to sit

When travelling via train, Sri Lanka has 3 class systems in place. First, second and thrid class.

When we travelled on the most popular and scenic train journeys in Sri Lanka, we opted to travel first class from Nuwara Eliya to Colombo.

It’s a 10-hour journey and we are grateful, that we travelled in first class.

While it was the most expensive option, it was by far the most comfortable.

In first class, you have a spacious and comfortable seat, air-conditioning and basic toilet facilities.

However, if you are on a tight budget then second and thrid class might be a better option.

Second class offers reserved and unreserved options. The reserved options, provides a little bit of luxury, with fans above and open window, that allow epic views. While second class unreserved, is like third class.

Now in third class, this is super basic. There is no air-conditioning and depending on the route and time of travel, you’ll likely be crammed into a carriage with little space and no guarantee of a seat.

We witness third class passengers from Kandy to Ella, being crammed into one carriage like sardines.

Now we don’t know about you, but for an 8-hour journey, not sure we could cope in third class.

The highlight of travelling via train, no matter which class you’re travelling, you do get to sit or stand in an open door and watch the beautiful, lush scenery rush by.

Top scenic train journeys in Sri Lanka you can’t miss

We have travelled by train a couple of times in Sri Lanka and it was an exciting experience.

One memory we have, is travelling down south to Kalutara on a train from Colombo, we were seated in third class, and the things that the locals travelled with were interesting.

Some travelled with lumps of metal, while others carried fishing nets with them. As you can imagine, what a smell that was in our carriage, but an experience and memory we will never forget.

But what was unforgettable was the views as we sat and stood in the door, looking out at the coastal views that went past.

If you are wanting to experience some of the best views and scenery while you travel, then these are our recommendations on the most scenic train journeys you simply can’t miss.

Kandy to Ella

If there is one train journey in Sri Lanka that you do, it must be the Kandy to Ella route.

It’s a slow 7-hour journey through lush green tea plantations, waterfalls, misty hills and thick jungle.

This is a romantic journey, through the heart of Sri Lanka and the best route for couples, budget travellers, backpackers and families.

It is a slow route and will take anything between 5-7 hours depending on which train you take.

While it is a long ride, it is worth it, so make sure you have plenty of water, snacks and supplies to keep you going.

You’ll take the train from either Kandy Railway Station or Ella Railway station, depending on where you want to start and finish.

You can also start in Colombo and finish in Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya), or vice versa if you want to do the whole journey, rather than split it up.

For this section of the journey, we would either recommend first or second class reserved.

You’ll have some level of comfort, with fans or air-con, comfortable seats and views from the window or door.

If you do choose second class unreserved or third class, be prepared to stand for the entire journey.

Book your tickets in advance through 12Go and at least 30 days in advance for the best availability.

Pro tip: some second and first class carriages have open doors, stand safely in them for incredible photo opportunities. Just be mindful of your belongings and always prioritise safety.

Colombo to Galle

If you’re dreaming of coastal views and sea-salt breezes, then taking the coastal route from Colombo to Galle is the perfect choice.

Take the unique route, clattering past palm-fringed beaches, local villages and small fishing villages, while watching the Indian Ocean waves lap against the sandy shores.

This is a more relaxed route and ideal for anyone looking for a day trip to Galle or spending a few days at one of many Sri Lankan stunning beaches.

The journey should be around 2-2.5 hours, depending on the train.

Start in Colombo Fort Railway Station to Galle Railway Station, or vice versa.

If you’re looking to stop at beach towns on your way south, then we would recommend Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Mirrisa.

We travelled in third class and while it wasn’t busy, we did get to share the train journey with fish nets and metal, but it was affordable and the ideal way to get down south from the capital.

Although second class unreserved is a balance with comfort and local atmosphere.

First class is limited and not always available on this route, although in our experience, it really isn’t necessary on such a short ride.

Pro tip: sit on the right-hand side of the train when travelling from Colombo to Galle for uninterrupted views of the ocean for most of the journey.

Sit on the left from Galle to Colombo.

Ella to Nuwara Eliya

Want to head into the hill country to visit some tea plantations? Then start the journey off with a kick, with this serene, scenic and beautiful journey.

The train from Ella to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Train Station), will sweep you off your feet, with rolling tea fields, dense pine forests and waterfalls.

This section from Kandy to Ella is the most scenic of routes in the country.

This is real slow travel at its finest, which is ideal if you’re visiting for 2 weeks or more.

This is the ideal route for romantic couples, solo travellers and backpackers, looking for an adventure.

The journey is about 3.5-4 hours, depending on the train and schedule.

You’ll start at either Ella or Nano Oya Railway Station and finish at either of the stations.

You have the option of first class, which is quiet, comfortable and air-conditioned. Or second and third class reserved or unreserved.

When we travelled by train from Nano Oya to Colombo, we purchased first class seats and, in our opinion, it was the most comfortable.

Ella to Badulla

This one is a little off the beaten path, but it is one of those wow moments on the rails.

This is an ultra-short ride compared to the other best train journeys we have previously mentioned, which makes this an ideal option if you just want to experience an epic journey, without spending hours on a train.

This is also ideal for families with children, offering them a snip into the scenic views along the way.

In this short 1-hour journey, you’ll be taken across Nine Arches Bridge to Badulla.

You’ll get a different perspective, which will leave your jaw on the floor.

You’ll start at either Ella Railway Station or Badulla Railway Station, or in reverse.

You’ll have a choice of seond and third class unreserved, but with such a short trip, there is generally enough space and likely more available seats.

When passing over Nine Arches Bridge, you’ll want to get a window or stand in the door for epic views.

Conclusion

Travelling by train in Sri Lanka isn’t about getting from point A to point B, it’s about soaking in the journey and witnessing the most beautiful and scenic views.

As you chug along the tracks, you’ll pass through lush tea country, charming villages, coastal views and so much more.

Don’t get stuck in a tourist van, with the air-conditioning pumping out, but take adventure by the reins and take on one of these epic train journeys in Sri Lanka, you won’t regret it.

So, where will you go first? Will it be the iconic ride from Kandy to Ella, or the coastal charm of Colombo to Galle? Perhaps the secret loops and tunnels from Ella to Badulla will capture your heart?

Whatever you choose, don’t pass it off, but immerse yourself in the experience. Plan your route, book your seats with 12Go and take advantage of the scenic rail travel that makes this island so incredible.

Sri Lanka’s trains offer an adventure you’ll never forget.

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