Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is more than just a way to get from A to B; it’s an immersive experience that unfolds the country’s stunning landscapes in a way that no other mode of transport can. The railway network, a relic of the British colonial era, carves a path through misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and golden coastlines. Each journey offers a unique perspective on the island's beauty and is an unmissable part of any Sri Lankan adventure. To help you plan your scenic rail odyssey, we’ve put together this guide in collaboration with Travejar, highlighting seven of the most breathtaking train routes on the island.
The Hill Country: A Journey Through The Clouds
The train routes through Sri Lanka's central highlands are legendary, offering what is often described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The slow chug of the train allows you to truly soak in the dramatic scenery, with a cool breeze and the scent of tea leaves filling the air.
1. Kandy to Ella
This is, without a doubt, Sri Lanka's most famous and beloved train journey. The nearly seven-hour ride takes you through the heart of the hill country, winding its way through emerald-green tea estates, past cascading waterfalls, and over dizzying viaducts. The train often slows down, allowing you to hang out of the open doors (with care, of course!) and take in the panoramic views. The journey is a feast for the senses, with vendors hopping on and off at stations selling local snacks and tea.
2. Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) to Ella
If you don’t have time for the full Kandy-to-Ella journey, this shorter segment offers a concentrated dose of the main route’s magic. Starting from Nanu Oya, the station closest to the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, the train continues its scenic descent through breathtaking landscapes. You’ll pass through iconic spots like the Demodara Loop, an incredible feat of engineering where the track loops under itself, and the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning viaduct that has become a symbol of Sri Lankan train travel.
3. Ella to Badulla
This final stretch of the main line is often overlooked but is equally spectacular. The short journey from Ella to the final station, Badulla, is a must-do, especially for the chance to cross the Nine Arch Bridge from the train itself. This is a very popular spot, so trains are often crowded, but the views of the bridge and the lush valley below are well worth it. It's a great way to cap off the hill country experience.
Coastal Charms: A Ride Along The Sea
The railway lines on the southern and western coasts offer a completely different but equally beautiful perspective, with the tracks running so close to the ocean you can almost feel the sea spray.
4. Colombo to Galle
This train journey is a coastal dream. The route hugs the southwestern coastline, offering uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. You'll pass by golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and sleepy fishing villages. The train ride, which takes around 2.5 hours, is a serene and relaxing experience, a stark contrast to the bustle of Colombo. It's a great way to travel to the historic city of Galle, with its famous Dutch fort. Booking well-planned Sri Lanka tour packages often include this scenic journey to ensure you experience both the cultural and natural beauty of the island.
5. Bentota to Galle
For a shorter coastal ride with incredible scenery, the journey from Bentota to Galle is a fantastic option. This segment provides breathtaking views of the ocean, with the train passing by surfers catching waves and local fishermen going about their day. It’s a perfect way to travel between these two popular destinations and offers a memorable glimpse into Sri Lanka's vibrant coastal life.
Off The Beaten Path: Exploring The North
The train routes in Sri Lanka’s north offer a historical and cultural journey, showcasing a part of the country that is only recently becoming more accessible to tourists.
6. Anuradhapura to Jaffna
This route tells a powerful story of resilience and reconstruction. After being severed for decades due to the civil war, the northern line was fully restored and reopened in 2014. The journey from the ancient Buddhist city of Anuradhapura to the Tamil cultural hub of Jaffna is a fascinating one. The landscape gradually changes from the lush, green central regions to the drier, more arid plains of the north, with views of sprawling paddy fields, small villages, and the iconic Elephant Pass.
7. Colombo to Kandy
While the Kandy-to-Ella route steals the show, the journey from Colombo to Kandy is a scenic delight in its own right. As the train leaves the city, the landscape quickly transforms. The urban sprawl gives way to lush paddy fields, rubber estates, and eventually, the cool, misty hills of the central province. This journey is a great introduction to the country's varied geography and provides a sense of the dramatic climb into the highlands. It is the beginning of the most famous train route and a beautiful journey in its own right.
