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Sri Lankan train travelling through a mountain railway
Sri Lanka Railways Guide

Sri Lanka
Train Timetable

Find train times, popular routes, ticket duration, train classes and scenic journeys across Sri Lanka.

  • Scenic
  • Schedules
  • Fares
  • Stations

Find Train Routes

Search and explore train routes across Sri Lanka.

Class

Why Travel by Train in Sri Lanka?

  • Scenic & beautiful routes
  • Affordable and comfortable
  • Experience local culture
  • Multiple class options
  • Convenient connections
  • Ideal for tourists & locals
Train crossing Sri Lanka's Nine Arch Bridge

Train Classes

1st Class

Air-conditioned compartments, more comfortable seating.

2nd Class

Reserved seating, fans available, popular among travellers.

3rd Class

Non-reserved seating, local experience, most affordable.

Learn more about classes

Popular Train Routes in Sri Lanka

Explore the most scenic and most travelled railway routes across Sri Lanka.

View all routes
Kandy to Ella train route

Kandy to Ella

Most Scenic
Travel Time
6 - 7 hrs
Class
1st / 2nd / 3rd
Fare
From LKR 1,000
View Timetable
Colombo to Galle train route

Colombo to Galle

Coastal Run
Travel Time
2.5 - 3 hrs
Class
2nd / 3rd
Fare
From LKR 180
View Timetable
Colombo to Kandy train route

Colombo to Kandy

Popular
Travel Time
2.5 - 3 hrs
Class
1st / 2nd / 3rd
Fare
From LKR 250
View Timetable
Colombo to Anuradhapura train route

Colombo to Anuradhapura

Cultural
Travel Time
4 - 5 hrs
Class
2nd / 3rd
Fare
From LKR 400
View Timetable

Popular Train Route Overview

Quick overview of popular train routes, travel times and ticket prices.

RouteDepartureArrivalTravel TimeDistanceFrom (LKR)Timetable
Colombo Fort to KandyColombo FortKandy2.5 - 3 hrs115 km500View
Kandy to EllaKandyElla6 - 7 hrs192 km1,000View
Colombo Fort to GalleColombo FortGalle2.5 - 3 hrs119 km500View
Colombo Fort to AnuradhapuraColombo FortAnuradhapura3.5 - 4.5 hrs205 km700View
Kandy to BadullaKandyBadulla5 - 6 hrs235 km900View

Travel times and fares are approximate and may change. Please check the latest timetable before your journey.

Latest Timetable Updates

  • Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura

    updated
    May 20, 2024

    Timetable updated for new schedule.

  • Kandy to Ella

    new
    May 18, 2024

    New timetable added.

  • Colombo Fort to Galle

    popular
    May 15, 2024

    High demand route.

Major Train Stations in Sri Lanka

View all stations

Colombo Fort

Main railway station in Colombo. Hub for most train routes.

Kandy

Central station for routes to hill country and Ella.

Galle

Southern railway hub with coastal connections.

Anuradhapura

Major station for northern and ancient city routes.

Badulla

Gateway to Ella and eastern highlands.

Train Travel Tips

  • Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early.
  • Carry your ticket and ID at all times.
  • Keep your belongings safe during travel.
  • Check the latest timetable before travelling.
  • Choose a window seat for the best views.
See all travel tips

Train vs Bus

Train
  • More scenic routes
  • Comfortable seating
  • Fixed timetable
  • Better for long distance
  • Relaxing travel experience
Bus
  • Faster on expressway
  • More frequent services
  • Flexible timings
  • Good for short distance
  • More affordable options

Scenic Train Journeys

  • Kandy to Ella scenic train journey

    Kandy to Ella

    One of the world's most beautiful train journeys.

  • Colombo to Galle scenic train journey

    Colombo to Galle

    Stunning coastal views along the way.

  • Kandy to Badulla scenic train journey

    Kandy to Badulla

    Majestic mountains and lush tea estates.

Explore scenic routes

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You can check Sri Lanka train times on this page, on the official Sri Lanka Railways website, or by asking at any station ticket counter. Times can change, so always confirm before you travel.

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