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The prettiest train rides I've ever taken thus far were in Sri Lanka. 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 the many tunnels along the way.
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!
READ MORE ON SRI LANKA:
- Climbing Pidurangala Rock in Sri Lanka
- A Guide to Climbing Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka
- Exploring Anuradhapura: The Ancient Sacred City of Sri Lanka
TRAVEL RESOURCES:
- Verify visa requirements for Sri Lanka on the official website
- Book flights to Sri Lanka via Skyscanner
- Compare hotel prices in Sri Lanka on Booking.com & Agoda
- Check hostel prices on HostelWorld
- Reserve train tickets on Sri Lanka Railways official site or 12GoAsia
- Stay connected using an Airalo E-sim for Sri Lanka
- Search for tours & excursions in Sri Lanka
- Shop for affordable travel insurance with SafetyWing
- Save on conversion fees while traveling with Wise
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I’m the founder and creator of Life Untraveled. I quit my corporate job, sold everything I owned and have been traveling full-time since 2018. I hope to inspire you to travel differently on a budget.
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42 Responses
Katie
I too love taking trains when I travel! It is a great way to see what everyday life looks like for those living near the tracks. Lovely pictures!
Carol
I love, love, love all the greenery! Such a refreshing sight!
Neha Verma
I have heard so many good things about train rides in Sri Lanka. And your post just reconfirms how scenic it is, will definitely like to take one when I go there, particularly the one from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Polly Grice
That scenery is amazing! I hadn’t really thought of Sri Lanka as a particularly train-y nation but I love your pictures! I love travelling by train too – had a brilliant ride once in Cuba
WanguionTravel
The trains move through such beautiful scenery…..the photos are lovely….Looks like you had loads of fun…Sri Lanka is a must visit
Laryssa Gobets
Wow the tree with the orange buds or was that fruit or something looked amazing. It just stood out from the rest of the background great capture.
Alexandra
Wow, the pictures really are dreamy! The blue train against the greenery is absolutely gorgeous. I also love train rides, and I’m always so happy when it’s affordable! What was the price mark for Sri Lankan trains?
Lydia@Lifeuntraveled.com
If I remember correctly the price for the longest train ride (about 3 hours) was under $2 – very affordable!
KimmConn
WOW! What gorgeous scenery to ride the train through, and i love that you can hang out the window/door. I think my most beautiful train ride was through austria!
DanteHarker
I love Sri Lanka, such an amazing country. I think the food is my favourite around the world. The trains make it so easy to travel around too and super fun 🙂 great read 🙂
Natalie Tanner
That dog on the train platform – if you cropped it – right out of a postcard! Love!! I had no idea that the train went so slow. How interesting. I have a feeling it would take some time to get used to the pace. We are so used to a hurried pace…would love to slow down and enjoy the scenery. We love trains, too. Everyone gets to relax and enjoy the view!