The picturesque railways of Sri Lanka

Growing up in this island nation known as Sri Lanka, we gladly boast about how fast getting around the island is. Stretching across only 139 miles you’re a hop and skip away from the other side. However one of the best things about living in the Pearl of the Indian Ocean is just how quickly the landscape changes and how that diversity is our biggest advantage. If you like the beach a car ride of 3 hours would land you on some of the more beautiful beaches your eyes will ever see. Want to see some leopards well then lucky for you, the national parks hold the largest density of leopards in one area. Although as much as I love everything about this Island there is one aspect about it that beats everything else and that is Sri Lanka’s railways. They say beauty is in the eyes of the beholder but anyone who experiences a Sri Lankan rail journey will fall in love with it instantly. Having grown up in Sri Lanka and hearing stories from my Grand Father who worked in the Railway, naturally I grew up with a love and passion for trains. It is one of the simple pleasures of living here and others seem to think it is worth seeing too. If you need a reason to plan for your getaway to Sri Lanka here are some of the Pearl’s best railways to encourage you.

Colombo Fort Railway station is where all the fun begins. Built in 1877 this is main station in the city that is the central point for all trains to pass through. Once you get there it is full on confusion but some might say that’s exactly how you should start this exciting journey.

Colombo to Badulla

The Route from Colombo to Badulla is Sri Lanka’s hill country line and probably the most scenic there is (or maybe I’m just being slightly bias). Cutting through lush green tea estates, crossing the famous 9 arches bridge and chugging through pine forest, this blue Udarate Menike (Hill country Maiden) the name given to this train will take a special place in your heart. The train goes through many tunnels, crosses waterfalls and small hillside cities. To top it off if your are lucky you just might be able to sit on the footboard with your feet dangling off the side (scary? yes, worth it? Absolutely! Hold on though). Keep your camera on you, shield your ears and remember to inhale the mix of diesel, tea, frosty mountain air and black coffee from the vendors inside the train.

Colombo to Galle

Sri Lanka is pretty well known for its picture book beaches, but the journey on the coast by train is another experience itself. Sri Lanka is one of the few countries that have its railway almost parallel to the sea throughout the entire journey. Weaving through the level crossings of small towns and the view of the crystal blue sea on a sunny day you will probably need to wear a cap to shield your eyes from the sun. Galle is on the southern coast, which provides a stretch of fun activities from snorkeling, diving and even surfing. The coastal trains go much faster so whatever you are doing hold on tight and wave to a few passersby, they might wave back.

Anuradhapura to Jaffna

So we’ve covered the hills and the coast but your wkndtrp is not complete if you haven’t been on the Yala Devi. Anuradhapura is the ancient city of Sri Lanka rich in culture, history and heritage. Start your journey from here to the proud northern city of Jaffna on the tip of the island. After a civil war of 30 years Jaffna is now open to travellers. The landscape during this journey is different as it passes through flat land of vegetation, lakes and reservoirs, religious Temples and Kovils. It is much drier and hot so remember to keep hydrated

Tips while travelling

1. Always book your rail tickets in advance. If you rather take in the scenery and travel in peace you should book the first class or second-class carriages. The differences aren’t that much other than being able to travel comfortably. The third class is usually for anyone who gets in and gets a seat. On a crowed day there is a good chance you could be standing the entire way. You can book them online or get them directly from the station.

2.     Dress comfortably- Sri Lankan trains are open so it can get dusty, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. We recommend closed shoes for extra protection.

3.     Keep your belongings with you at all times- if you are in the pre booked carriages you are relatively safe but better be safe than sorry. Keep any expensive equipment with you and cash safely tucked away.

4.     Train journeys can be long so be prepared to spend a few hours on it. Keep hydrated and even pack snacks if needed.

5.     Be nice to the locals but not too nice- Sri Lankans are friendly but keep your distance when possible. Scammers are common so don’t be fooled.

6.     Get ready to feel the chug of the train long after you’ve got down- Your body will feel weird for a while after you get down, stretch your legs and get walking.

7.     Don’t keep your body out of the train- enjoy the scenery but keep your body inside the train at all times even if you are on the footboard. Wait until the train as stopped to take your photographs.

8.     Sit on the opposite direction the train is heading- if you really want to enjoy the view sit in the opposite direction.

 The railways of Sri Lanka are one of the many things that make it the ideal getaway. The country has so much to offer from the Temple of the Tooth a place of worship for the Buddhist, Adams Peak, safari parks and a range of natural attractions making your trip in Sri Lanka memorable. If that isn’t enough Sri Lanka offers world-class accommodation on the beach, hills and city, Fusion cuisine and cheap shopping. Just take a look at Sri Lanka in the city guides of the WKNDTRP app if you need any more convincing.