A train journey in Sri Lanka is the ideal way to appreciate the island’s breathtaking nature, immerse oneself in a slice of its colonial railway history, and connect with its people and culture. Every aspect of the journey poignantly evokes the country’s colonial heritage. From the wooden black-and-white signboards and analogue clocks adorning the railway stations to the colonial officers’ suits, the entire experience feels like a scene from a bygone era.
Here are the Honeymoon Guide’s Best Sri Lankan Train Journeys to experience in 2025.
Note: Updated in 2025 with new Information on the recently launched “Special Calypso” and “Ella Odyssey” Trains that feature unique tourist point-and-shoot photo stops on the Up-Country Line.
Tickets: Air Conditioned First Class is LKR 5,000 Per person.
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 has added a special roundtrip train between Badulla and Bandarewela, which makes five photo stops along the way, including a 10-minute stop at the Demodara Station. This three-and-a-half-hour roundtrip train journey highlights the popular tourist photography spots along this short route for travellers to enjoy photography of the sites and scenery.
The Ella Odyssey train is a unique service between Colombo and Badulla. It includes extra photography stops at popular tourist viewpoints, such as Horsetail Waterfall, Adam’s Peak Viewpoint, Great Western Station, Idalgashinna Station, Elgin Waterfall Viewpoint, Haputale, Kithal Ella Waterfall, Nine Arches Bridge, and Ohiya Tunnel. The train departs from Colombo every Wednesday and Saturday at 5:30 a.m. and returns to Colombo every Thursday and Sunday, leaving Badulla at 9:15 a.m.
Note: Please check with the Railway Department, as dates and times are subject to change.
When journeying to Kandy, Ella and Badulla, choose seating on the left side for the Best Views. Choose seats on the train’s left, travelling towards Badulla for the most stunning vistas. This is where the tea plantations, waterfalls and valleys are in full view.
When travelling on the southern coastal line between Colombo to Galle, choose seating on the right side of the train for ocean views.
First Class: Enjoy air-conditioned comfort with reserved seating. This option usually includes reclining seats, ample luggage space, and expansive windows for optimal viewing. Early booking is usually best, as seats fill up quickly.
Second Class: Choose between reserved and unreserved seating. Book your tickets in advance (Second Class Reserved) for guaranteed seating. Unreserved tickets can be purchased at the station; however, a seat is not guaranteed.
Third Class: This is the most economical option. Tickets are purchased directly at the station.
Be bold and stand safely by the doorway for a different perspective and the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos. Just be ready to share the space with other eager sightseers and Instagrammers!
Choose the express train to complete your journey more quickly. However, if time allows, consider the more immersive experience of the slow train, particularly on the Up-country route from Kandy and beyond. You’ll stop at small village train stations and have the chance to interact with the locals.
Soak in the Slow Travel Vibe: Sri Lankan train journeys are all about savouring the journey and reaching your destination. Don’t worry if the train is late-this is typical.
The train journey is a great way to experience Sri Lankan life. To make it more enriching, smile, wave, and initiate conversations with fellow passengers, railway officers, and station masters.
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