One of the best ways to discover Sri Lanka is by train, which offers the spectacular views of the diverse landscapes, meet other travelers and sample local dishes. The train route between Kandy and Ella is familiar with most of travelers. However, Sri Lanka’s rail network has many great other offers. Therefore, we would like to introduce the following wonderful train journeys which can make you want to step aboard and travel to Sri Lanka soon.
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1. From Colombo to Galle
This train route is the best choice for travelers who want to discover both the city and the countryside. The journey train from Colombo to the city of Galle should not be missed. It departs from Sri Lanka’s capital city and rides along the coastal landscape as the Indian Ocean, which is a perfect experience for sea lovers.
If you sit on the right side of the train, you will catch a view of the ocean as the train leaves Colombo. If you are really into the beauty of the blue sea, you can get off the train in some beach towns there. For example, there is Moragalla, where you can snorkel among the coral reefs. Another option is Hikkaduwa, where you can surf the waves. The train from Colombo to Galle passes through the city, along the coast and then into the countryside close to the sea. The scenery is different from the hills of the countryside, but no less impressive. Along the way, try some local delicacies from the vendors waiting for the train passengers at the different stations.
If you want more comfortable seats or a tea service, you can take a private train. However, some travellers feel that taking a private train detracts from the charm of experiencing the Sri Lankan railways.
2. From Anuradhapura to Jaffna
The railway line to the far north of Sri Lanka used to plague on 13 June 1990. It was caused by the battles between southern Buddhists and Hindu Tamils during Sri Lanka’s civil war.
In 2014, the Yal Devi Express returned after almost 25 years. Today, riding from the ancient Buddhist city of Anuradhapura to Jaffna takes you 3.5 hours. At the same time, it will offer you a glimpse of a different Sri Lanka. The train will help you escape from the gleaming white dagobas (stupas) in Anuradhapura. Instead, you can see the multi-coloured kovils (temples) beginning to color the landscape. Moreover, the train leaves Sri Lanka’s large tourist crowds behind.
Upon the train approaches the Jaffna peninsula, the lakes and salt pans appear as the train crosses the Elephant Pass. Tall palm trees rise over a landscape that still bears the scars of war. At the end awaits Jaffna itself, there is a vibrant Hindu town. Jaffna is an easy point of departure to some of Sri Lanka’s most idyllic, unspoilt islands and beaches.
2. Traveling by train in Sri Lanka
Trains run to almost every corner of the island. Traveling through Sri Lanka by train is slightly more expensive than by bus. Nevertheless, it also offers more atmosphere and better views. On the website of Sri Lanka Railways, you can find much information about the different routes.
If you travel with a small budget, can choose to travel in third class. However, you will have to fight for a good place (on the floor) in the carriage. In the second class, you can sit on a more comfortable seat. First-class is equipped with air conditioning, which sounds appealing. However, It is disadvantageous that the windows and doors cannot be opened during the ride. In the second class, on the other hand, you can hang your head out of the window and enjoy the spectacular views even more.
You should make a reservation at the station before a few days to get a seat or a place to sleep in first or second class. If you want a seat in the “observation lounge”, it’s best to book several weeks in advance.
4. Applying for a Sri Lanka visa
In addition to buying the train tickets, travelers must also apply for a Sri Lanka visa before they can travel to this beautiful country. Sri Lanka officially resumes the arrival visa for foreign tourists after nearly 2 years from February 15. This move is expected to give a much-needed boost to the island nation’s tourism industry, a major forex earner, which has been badly hit by the coronavirus pandemic.
However, the facility would not be available for 9 passport holders of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Syria, Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Myanmar, Nepal and North Korea. In general, most UK and European citizens are eligible for the Sri Lanka visa. This so-called e-visa, which can be applied online, has a validity period of 30 days. The Sri Lanka visa validity period starts from the moment of arrival in Sri Lanka.
After 30 days, if you still can’t get enough experience on this island, you can extend their Sri Lanka visa once to a maximum of 90 days. To do so, travelers must visit the Immigration Services Center in Colombo.
