The best part about travelling around the country by train is that there is no traffic, and that’s a huge advantage in Sri Lanka. You can go almost anywhere without all the hustle and bustle of the main roads.

The most hectic part of these trips would probably be the train stations; vendors will try to get you to buy everything under the sun; from mango achcharu to colourful toy fans. Spend your money wisely, but don’t worry if you miss them at one station, because there will always be more at the next.

Communication might be difficult; as most locals either speak in Tamil or Sinhala, but some stations do have a window where English is spoken. 

The tickets are relatively cheap depending on which class you ride in. Some trains have extra cars attached to them which provide air conditioning, and even snacks for your journey. The regular cars don’t have such comforts, but they do enhance the rustic feeling of travelling in a train. 

There are 3 main rail lines in the country, and all of which have many stops at which you are free to get down and explore your surroundings.

The Coasts

The first one runs from the south of Colombo, past Aluthgama , Hikkaduwa, Galle, and Matara. On the way, you’ll pass some beaches; as these are all coastal towns; the perfect stop for anyone in the mood for some sun, sea, and sand. 

There is also an option of travelling straight from Galle to Kandy on an express train. Your view would gradually change from the salty beaches to one of the most cultuo cities in Sri Lanka.

To the North

The next one runs North from Colombo, and goes through Anuradhapura; where you can visit the Sri Maha Bodhi tree; a descendant of the tree that Lord Buddha received enlightenment under. It also passes through Mannar; which holds the Our Lady of Madhu church, known to have a statue of Madonna-and-child which was brought by the Catholics in 1670. It also goes through Jaffna; which is not only known for its beaches, but also for beholding one of holiest sites in the country for Buddhists and Hindus; the Nainativu island. This route is a testimony of Sri Lanka’s multi religious nature. 

The Hills

The tracks that lead east of Colombo run through the hill country; first through the cultural city of Kandy; where you can visit sites ranging from the sacred tooth relic to walking around the man-made Kandy lake. The next stop would be Nuwara Eliya; known for an abundance of tea plantations which you can admire either from your window seat, or by getting off and exploring them yourself. Then you will reach Ella; where you will get the chance to cross the famous Nine Arches bridge; a structure made out of nothing but rocks, brick, and cement. This also leads to Badulla; where you can visit the famous Dunhinda falls and enjoy the cool sprays of its waters.

The most scenic route is from Haputale to Ella. The tracks take you past acres of land covered in tea plantations, forest cover, and other greenery. The low temperature of the hill country is welcomed by anyone on this sunny island, and creates a calming atmosphere.

This is a great way to travel around the island as you can get all the views that the countryside has to offer without visiting those places individually. It’s safe to say that choosing to travel around the country by train would be the right track!