8 Scenic Train Rides in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the country of green valleys, foggy mountains and sandy beaches, which are better viewed through the window of a slow-paced train. Be it the stone bridges in the mountains or the turquoise coastline, all the rides are front row seats to the natural beauty of the island. When you are compiling your Sri Lanka travel plan, these are some of the most iconic train journeys that should be given pride of place due to their breathtaking scenery and these journeys also offer you a local experience.

Sri Lanka train travel is not merely a way to travel between two destinations, rather it is the journey in its own right as it is a cultural experience. The rhythm of the tracks, the waving locals and open-door carriages make the experience nostalgic and exciting at the same time. These eight scenic rides take you through the heart of Sri Lanka, through the sun-kissed south and even into the central highlands, which are the most beautiful and authentic parts of Sri Lanka.

Here are eight scenic train rides in Sri Lanka.

1. Kandy to Ella

The train ride between Kandy and Ella is sometimes referred to as the most scenic train journey in Sri Lanka and it is so due to a reason. It runs through emerald and pine forests, as well as hills and tea plantations. The trip lasts approximately 67 hours, yet every single moment is worth. People like to travel in an open doorway, feeling the fresh air and enjoying the scenic views.

2. Colombo to Galle

This is a leisurely ride along the Sri Lankan southwest coast by train. The song is along the coastline with unending views of palm trees, fishing towns and breaking waves. The ride is a delightful experience to observe the life of the island and is the best mode of transport to the beach lovers or the people visiting the colonial fort town of Galle.

3. Nanu Oya to Haputale

The train ride between Nanu Oya and Haputale is a relaxing experience in the mists of the forests and the beauty of the hill country. The train ascends to a higher altitude with cooler air, and passes through tea plantations, and quiet villages, and lush green sceneries. The town of Haputale is located on a cliff and it offers a panoramic view of the valley. It is ideal to people who love quietness, fresh air of the mountains and a relaxed life.

4. Anuradhapura to Jaffna

This is the northern route, which shows another side of Sri Lanka. The train passes out of ancient ruins into drier plains, open farmland and culturally rich towns. It is an excellent opportunity to visit the north and find out its resilience and diversity as it has been out of the tourist trail during several years. The trip is relaxing, the landscape varies slightly and the end point, Jaffna, is full of temples, food and history that makes you feel like you really experience the life of the north in Sri Lanka.

5. Ella to Demodara

It is a short ride but it is known by one memorable feature, the Nine Arches Bridge. The train winds its way carefully across this work of colonial art, back-dropped by the dense jungle and the misty atmosphere. It also has a unique Demodara Loop, with the track under itself. The little magic train ride is an absolute necessity to anyone visiting Ella, which brings together engineering magic and the beauty of nature in a span of a few kilometers.

6. Colombo to Badulla

This long trip is a combination of a number of picturesque routes into a single one. It runs through prominent towns such as Nuwara Eliya, Bandarawela, and Ella. The sceneries vary between urban landscape, tea plantations, and mountains, which allows the travelers to have a taste of everything that Sri Lanka can offer. This route includes multiple tunnels, bridges, and local stops, making it an epic rail adventure. It is perfect to those who have time to kill and interest to read.

7. Polonnaruwa to Batticaloa

This hidden gem road will lead you through the ancient cities to calm coastlines. The train begins its journey close to the UNESCO-inscribed ruins of Polonnaruwa and passes through rice fields, villages and lagoons towards the east to Batticaloa. It is a peaceful and unpopulated trip, which is good when you want to see the heritage and natural beauty of the eastern part of Sri Lanka.

8. Matara to Colombo

This is a picturesque as well as a restful journey down the southern coast. It is a scenic and inexpensive trip that goes through beach towns, coconut groves, and oceanfront areas. You will have a glimpse of the everyday life-fishermen working, children waving at tracksides and vendors jumping on the train with local snacks.

Conclusion

The train journeys in Sri Lanka are not just about transportation, but an experience that is beautiful, simple and soulful. Traveling on the coastline or through the mountain mist, the route speaks its own tale. To those who want a slower and more scenic ride, these are the rides that offer a very special experience of the island.

In the event that you are making up your ideal Sri Lanka travel plan, you ought to incorporate one or more of the following memorable rail journeys. They do not only bridge destinations, but they bridge wonder that lingers long after you are off the trip.