Sri Lanka's railway system offers some of the world's most scenic journeys. This comprehensive guide covers all train routes, schedules, ticket prices, and how to book—including the latest service updates after the 2025 cyclone.
Important Service Update (2026)
Cyclone Dithwa Impact (November 2025):
The hill country Main Line (Colombo-Kandy-Ella-Badulla) suffered significant damage and is currently not operating between Kandy and Badulla. Repairs are ongoing with no confirmed reopening date.
Routes Currently Running:
- Colombo - Galle - Matara (Coastal Line) ✓
- Colombo - Vavuniya - Jaffna (Northern Line) ✓
- Colombo - Trincomalee/Batticaloa (Eastern Line) ✓
- Ambewella - Badulla (limited service) ✓
- Colombo - Puttalam/Chilaw ✓ (resumed Dec 2025)
Check updates: railway.gov.lk
Main Line: Colombo - Kandy - Badulla
The famous scenic route through tea country. When operational, these are the key trains:
Return Services (Badulla to Colombo)
Coastal Line: Colombo - Galle - Matara
Beautiful oceanside route with 20+ daily departures. Currently running normally.
Northern Line: Colombo - Jaffna
Eastern Line: Colombo - Trincomalee / Batticaloa
Ticket Prices By Class
Exchange rates: £1 ≈ LKR 360 | $1 ≈ LKR 295 | €1 ≈ LKR 320
How To Book Train Tickets
Online Booking
seatreservation.railway.gov.lk — Official Sri Lanka Railways booking site
- Book up to 30 days in advance
- Max 5 seats per transaction
- Accepts Visa, MasterCard, Amex
- E-ticket sent via email
12go.asia — International booking platform (recommended for tourists)
eservices.railway.gov.lk — Check schedules and availability
At Colombo Fort Station
Counter 1: Anuradhapura, Vavuniya, Talaimannar, Jaffna
Counters 2 & 8: Kandy, Hatton, Nanuoya, Ella, Badulla (hill country)
Counters 13 & 14: Galle, Matara (coastal)
Counter 17: Reserved seats, sleeper berths, intercity
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Cancellation And Refund Policy
Luggage Allowances
Children under 3 sharing a seat with an adult travel free (maximum one child per adult).
Essential Train Travel Tips
- Book early: 1st class and observation cars sell out 2-3 weeks ahead in peak season
- 2nd class is best: Open windows for photos and breeze on scenic routes
- Sit on the right: Kandy to Ella for best valley and tea estate views
- Unreserved always available: Even if online shows "sold out", 3rd class unreserved tickets sold at station on departure day
- Delays happen: Trains often run 30 mins to 2 hours late—don't plan tight connections
- Bring snacks: Vendors sell food but selection is limited
- Blue trains recommended: Podi Menike and Udarata Menike are modern Chinese-built trains with better comfort
Useful Links
Schedule Search: eservices.railway.gov.lk/schedule
Online Booking: seatreservation.railway.gov.lk
Smart Ticketing: pravesha.lk
Community Schedules: trainschedule.lk
Official Updates: railway.gov.lk
Conclusion
Sri Lanka's trains offer incredible value and unforgettable experiences. While the famous Kandy-Ella route is temporarily closed due to cyclone damage, the coastal and northern routes are running normally. Book in advance for reserved seats, but remember that unreserved 3rd class tickets are always available at the station. Check railway.gov.lk for the latest service updates before planning your journey.
