Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are three main lines:
South from Colombo
A scenic delight. Recently renovated, runs past Aluthgama and
Hikkaduwa to Galle and Matara.
East from Colombo
To the Hill Country, through Kandy, Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya) and
Ella to Badulla. A beautiful route, the portion from Haputale to Ella is one of the world's
most scenic train rides.
North from Colombo
Through Anuradhapura to Mannar and also to Jaffna on rebuilt and
renovated track. One branch reaches Trincomalee on the east coast, while another serves
Polonnaruwa and Batticaloa.
Other Lines
The Puttalam line runs along the coast north from Colombo, although rail
buses run between Chilaw and Puttalam. The Kelani Valley line winds 60km from Colombo
to Avissawella.
General Tips
Trains are often late. For long-distance trains, Sri Lankans sometimes measure the late-
ness in periods of the day: quarter of a day late, half a day late and so on.
Most stations have helpful information windows.
Classes
There are three classes on Sri Lankan trains:
1st class
Comes in three varieties: coaches, sleeping berths and observation saloons (with
large windows). The latter are used on the line east from Colombo and are the preferred
means of travelling this scenic line. Some have large rear-facing windows and vintage in-
teriors.
2nd class
Seats have padding and there are fans. On some trains (but not to Galle) these
seats can be reserved in advance.
3rd class
Seats have little padding and there are no reservations. The cars accommodate
as many as can squeeze in and conditions can be grim.
In addition private companies have begun running comfortable train cars, which are at-
tached to regular trains (routes include Colomboto Badulla, Elle, Kandy and Mathara, fares
average US$12). Although the 1st-class observation cars are more charming - and cheap-
er - these private cars offer air-con, snacks and may have seats available when regular
trains are already fully booked.
Private car operators:
