Scenic Train Journeys in Sri Lanka
A Breathtaking Experience
Sri Lanka’s scenic train journeys are among the most beautiful in the world, offering travelers an unforgettable ride through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, tropical forests, and coastal landscapes. These journeys provide a relaxing and immersive way to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
🌟 Must-Experience Train Rides in Sri Lanka
1. Kandy to Ella – The Most Scenic Train Ride in the World 🌄
🚆 Route: Kandy → Hatton → Nanu Oya → Haputale → Ella
⏳ Duration: ~6-7 hours
✔ Pass through: Rolling tea estates, misty mountains, waterfalls, and old railway bridges.
✔ Highlights:
The Nine Arches Bridge in Ella – A world-famous engineering marvel.
The Demerara Loop & Tunnel – A stunning curved railway section.
The Tea Country Views – Endless green hills covered with lush tea plantations.
✔ Best Seats: Left side for views from Kandy to Hatton, right side from Nanu Oya to Ella.
2. Colombo to Badulla – The Ultimate Highland Experience 🚞
🚆 Route: Colombo → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Badulla
⏳ Duration: ~10 hours
✔ Pass through: Paddy fields, tropical forests, highland villages, and waterfalls.
✔ Highlights:
The Kadugannawa Pass – A spectacular mountain pass near Kandy.
The St. Clair’s & Devon Waterfalls near Hatton.
The Watawala Tea Plantations – One of the highest in Sri Lanka.
✔ Best Seats: Right side from Colombo to Kandy, left side from Nuwara Eliya to Badulla.
3. Colombo to Galle – The Coastal Train Adventure 🌊
🚆 Route: Colombo → Mount Lavinia → Bentota → Hikkaduwa → Galle
⏳ Duration: ~2.5 hours
✔ Pass through: Golden beaches, coconut groves, and seaside villages.
✔ Highlights:
Panoramic views of the Indian Ocean as the train runs right along the coastline.
Beautiful sunset views when traveling in the evening.
A chance to see local fishermen and coastal life.
✔ Best Seats: Right side for ocean views.
4. Anuradhapura to Jaffna – The Northern Railway Revival 🏯
🚆 Route: Anuradhapura → Vavuniya → Kilinochchi → Jaffna
⏳ Duration: ~4.5 hours
✔ Pass through: Dry zone forests, ancient ruins, and Tamil cultural landscapes.
✔ Highlights:
The restored Northern Railway Line connecting Sri Lanka’s north & south.
A mix of historical sites and local village life.
The Jaffna Peninsula – A unique region with Hindu temples and Tamil culture.
✔ Best Seats: Left side for scenic countryside views.
5. Puttalam to Trincomalee – The Off-the-Beaten-Path Railway 🚂
🚆 Route: Puttalam → Anuradhapura → Habarana → Trincomalee
⏳ Duration: ~5-6 hours
✔ Pass through: Jungles, national parks, and ancient cities.
✔ Highlights:
Wildlife spotting – Elephants, peacocks, and deer near Habarana.
Access to UNESCO sites – Sigiriya & Dambulla are nearby.
Trincomalee’s beautiful beaches at the end of the journey.
✔ Best Seats: Varies based on sunrise and sunset timings.
🎟️ Tips for the Best Train Journey Experience
🌍 Why You Should Experience Sri Lanka’s Train Journeys?
