One of the most pleasant ways to explore Sri Lanka is by train.

Sri Lanka is a compact country, making train travel simple and straightforward. Just arrive at the station a few minutes before your departure, purchase a second-class ticket, and you’re ready to set off on your adventure!

Travel by Train Sri Lanka

The trains in Sri Lanka move at a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the scenery as you travel. Enjoy the stunning landscapes especially around mountainous areas near Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Hatton. The train rolls slowly through picturesque tea plantations, dense forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Ella Train – Best Views

Choosing the right seat on the train is crucial for the best experience. The carriages fill up quickly, and sitting on the wrong side may leave you gazing at a wall of cliffs instead of the magnificent deep valleys and bright blue skies. Engage with fellow travelers who have just arrived to learn which side offers the most picturesque views.

Trains in Sri Lanka are nearly always bustling with passengers, so if you aren’t quick to find a seat, you could be left standing. It’s common to see people hanging out of the doors and windows, demonstrating a level of familiarity with the route that adds a unique charm to the journey—though it’s advisable to be cautious while enjoying the ride.

I have yet to spot a train captain checking tickets, and there’s little differentiation between second-class and general seating aside from the seats themselves. Interestingly, the crowds can be similar in both classes. On one occasion, we ended up in general class, which surprisingly turned out to be more comfortable due to the space by the window.

Atmosphere on the Train in Sri Lanka

Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is an enjoyable and relaxed experience. Vendors walk through the aisles offering snacks and drinks, while conversations flow naturally among passengers as if it were a leisurely Sunday tea. The trains maintain a nostalgic charm, having remained relatively unchanged since the British colonial era. Stations are clean and quaint, featuring Victorian architecture that still utilizes traditional wooden tiles to communicate train schedules.

Tickets are conveniently sold at a single window, and each passenger receives a stub to present upon arrival. Conductors are often seen walking the platform, accompanied by a resident dog, while even the restrooms are kept remarkably tidy, with clear markings for ladies and gentlemen in second and general class.

Enjoy Riding Trains in Sri Lanka

We thoroughly enjoyed our train rides in Sri Lanka. Passengers were consistently helpful when navigating the journey and were eager to engage in conversation, asking us about our origins and our thoughts on Sri Lanka. These interactions enhanced our experience profoundly.

Some train services include an observation car at the back, providing a spacious and comfortable environment to soak in the stunning views without the crowds. It’s advisable to book these cars in advance to ensure you secure a spot.

Cost and Information for Sri Lankan Train Travel

• Train tickets in Sri Lanka are quite affordable, typically ranging from less than 100 Rs to up to 700 Rs for the observation car. With 112 RS equal to $1 USD, this means you can enjoy affordable travel, with the most expensive tickets costing under $7.
• Prices vary based on travel distance, but you won’t encounter costs that are prohibitive.
• Restrooms are available onboard, and they are maintained surprisingly well.

Therefore, if you find yourself heading to Sri Lanka, consider taking the train to explore the country. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying breathtaking views of a diverse landscape.