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Here are our recommendations for the best train journeys in 2024.
Note: Updated with Information on the Special Calypso and Ella Odyssey Trains with special tourist point stops.
Tickets: Air Conditioned First Class is LKR 5,000 Per person (Current as of June 2024)
Travel Time:10-11 Hours
Train Options (From Fort Railway Station): 5:55 am, 8:30 am, 9:45 am and the night mail at 8:30 pm
Since Mid 2024, the Railway Department operates a special roundtrip train that operates between Badulla – Bandarewela with 5 stops along the way including a 10-minute stop at Demodara Station. This 3-and-a-half-hour roundtrip train ride showcases the favourite tourist photography stops along this shorter route for travelers to engage in photography.
The Ella Odyssey train is a special train operating between Colombo to Badulla with extra time photography stops at popular tourist destination viewpoints such as Horsetail Waterfall, Adams Peak Viewpoint, Great Western Station, Idalgashinna Station, Elgin Waterfall Viewpoint, Haputhale, Kuthal Ella waterfall, Nine arches bridge and Ohiya Tunnel. The train departs every Wednesday and Saturday from Colombo at 5:30am and returns to Colombo every Thursday and Sunday leaving Badulla at 9:15am.
Note: Please check with Railway Department as dates and times are subject to change.
(When journeying to Kandy, Ella and Badulla) Left Side for the Best Views: For the most stunning vistas, choose seats on the left side of the train travelling towards Badulla. This is where the tea plantations, waterfalls and valleys are in full view.
(When journeying to Galle from Colombo) Sitting on the right side of the train will give you uninterrupted coastal views.
First Class: Indulge in air-conditioned comfort with reclining seats, ample luggage space, and expansive windows for optimal viewing. An early booking is usually best as seats fill up fast.
Second Class: Choose between reserved or unreserved seating. For guaranteed seating, book your tickets in advance (Second Class Reserved). Unreserved tickets can be purchased at the station: however, a seat is not guaranteed.
Third Class: The most economical option. Tickets are purchased at the station.
Don’t be afraid to stand safely by the doorway for a different perspective and a chance to capture breathtaking photos. Just be prepared to share the space with other eager sightseers and Instagrammers!
Opt for the express train to complete the journey faster. However, don’t discard the more immersive experience of the slow train if time permits, especially on the Up-country route from Kandy and beyond. You will stop at small village train stations and have an opportunity to mingle with the locals.
Soak in the Slow Travel Vibe: This train ride is about savouring the journey and reaching the destination slowly. Don’t fret if the train runs late-this is common in Sri Lanka.
The train journey is a great way to experience Sri Lankan life. Smile, wave, and initiate conversations with fellow passengers, railway officers, and station master’s for a more enriching experience.
All main railway stations have food outlets and refreshments. However, food vendors will be on board selling cool drinks, local street food snacks, and pastries. If you have dietary restrictions, pack some snacks, as the train vendors mainly offer spicy treats.
Hotline: +94114600111
Website: http://www.railway.gov.lk/web/index.php?lang=en for bookings: https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/mtktwebslr/
Email: gmr@railway.gov.lk
Railway Route Map of Sri Lanka: http://www.railway.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=162&Itemid=186&lang=en
