The prettiest train rides I've ever taken thus far were in Sri Lank. Traveling by train is one of my favorite modes of transportation (far surpassing planes). Train travel allows me to have unique experiences with locals I otherwise wouldn't meet. In a country like Sri Lanka where locals are super friendly, it wasn't rare to strike up a conversation since many Sri Lankans speak English. Sometimes I was even offered snacks: a mandarine or a samosa.
Continue reading to see why taking one of these train rides is a must while visiting Sri Lanka!
I took two of the prettiest train rides in Sri Lanka: one from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Station) and the other from Dalhousie (Hatton Station) to Ella. Both rides offered equally stunning landscapes. The slow trains passed through sleepy villages covered in a dramatic mist. At times, the trains snaked along rivers and crossed deep, verdant valleys. It was the rainy season which meant tea plantations were in full bloom.
The more modern, blue trains in Sri Lanka are comfortable enough. These are the inter-city trains (not to be confused with the dilapidated inner-city trains). Passengers have a choice of soft seats or hard seats. The soft seats are in First Class and are padded and recline. Each passenger has their own individual seat complete with plugs, a tray and ample leg room. It's important to note that First Class is the only one with air conditioning.
The hard seat sections (2nd and 3rd Class) are exactly what they claim to be. No individual seats here; passengers share hard benches which sit 2 or 3 at a time. Dusty fans whirl overhead offering just enough breeze to appease the heat. I suggest trying out both classes to give you a good idea of train traveling in Sri Lanka. If you know the ride will be short-ish, then pick a hard seat (it offers a much more convivial ride). For longer rides, First Class is a no-brainer. Trust me, you'll appreciate the air conditioning and your butt will thank you for the padded seat.
To be honest, ticket prices are really inexpensive allowing even budget-minded travelers to regal in First Class. The prettiest train rides I mentioned before aren't very long. I found 2nd and 3rd Class seats to be more than adequate for these two short rides of just a few hours each.
The most fun part about riding on trains in Sri Lanka is that they move at incredibly low speed. This allows passengers to safely sit or stand on the stairs of the open doorways to enjoy the incredible views and to take photos. Just make sure to tuck yourself in before passing through a narrow tunnel (of which there are many). A lot of travelers choose to hire a private driver to tour around Sri Lanka but, do yourself a favor, and take at least one of these train rides. You won't regret it!
I'm sure you won't need much convincing after seeing these photos.
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40 Responses
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[…] Peak is located in the small foothill town of Nallathanniya. I had taken the train from Hatton to get to Dalhousie; from there the only options were to take a bus or a tuk-tuk to get […]
Bistra Yakimova
Looks like riding the train in Sri Lanka is the top experience! I would love to do the same ride one day! Thank you for the inspiration!
Erin
Looks so beautiful! The only trains I frequent are from New Jersey to New York City… not nearly as picture-esque!
Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
Haha…..no tea plantations on that route! 😉
Tabassum Ahmed
I have always wanted to visit Sri Lanka, mostly because it is where my favorite architect has done most of his works. But more I learn about this country, more magical this seems. If train journeys are this picturesque, I wonder what the country has in store to see. I just want to pack my bags and GO!
Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
Sri Lanka has so much more to offer from beaches to jungles – I’m sure you would love it! Who’s your favorite architect?
Sandy & Vyjay
Train travel is a great way to get to know the locals and their culture. We have just been on a flying visit to Colombo and would love to get to Sri Lanka to spend some leisurely time. I have heard about some of the spectacular and scenic train journeys in Sri Lanka.
Coleman Concierge
I absolutely love trains, I remember growing up riding the ski-train from Denver to Winter Park, good times! Sounds like I need to jump on a train when I visit Sri Lanka!
Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
Taking the train through the tea plantations in Sri Lanka is a must! 🙂
Cat Lin
wow the train ride took you through many beautiful parts of the country! I’d love to experience this when i visit! Thanks for sharing 🙂
MARIA JESUS
OMG! If that’s the view you have when riding Sri Lanka’s trains, then I’d love to live there haha! Thanks for sharing this amazing experience! 🙂 Now it’s on my pending list!
Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
Haha……Sri Lanka is a beautiful country! I hope you go one day! 🙂