Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
you organise it through these guys. Cars can generally be hired, with a driver and petrol,
for approximately Rs 6500 per day.
Some guesthouses advertise day trips to all three Cultural Triangle destinations (Sigir-
iya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa), but this is an exhausting itinerary for both driver
and passengers, and one that encourages manic driving. An overnight stay in
Anuradhapura, Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa is a saner and safer option.
25 DS Senanayake St)
is one of a number of car-hire and tour companies. They charge
US$50 per day for a car and driver.
TRAIN
Kandy is a major railway station. Tickets can be bought and reserved up to 10 days in ad-
vance at the station (open 5.30am to 6.30pm). Tickets reserved in advance cost a set Rs
600 in second class.
Seats are very popular in the 1st-class observation saloon on the Badulla-bound train.
This train originates in Colombo and after Kandy stops in Hatton (near Adam's Peak),
Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya), Haputale, Ella and a number of other Hill Country stations.
Observation-class tickets cost a set Rs 1000 for anywhere between Kandy and Nanu Oya
and Rs 1250 for any of the stations east of there.
If you are unable to reserve a seat at the ticket window, enquire with the stationmaster,
who can sometimes release further seating for tourists.
Trains run to the following (prices are for unreserved tickets):
Badulla
2nd/3rd class Rs 270/145
Bandarawela
2nd/3rd class Rs 230/125
Colombo
2nd/3rd class Rs 190/105
Ella
2nd/3rd class Rs 240/130
Haputale
2nd/3rd class Rs 210/115
Hatton
2nd/3rd class Rs 110/65
Nanu Oya
(for Nuwara Eliya) 2nd/3rd class Rs 160/90
Getting Around
BUS
