Train Ride through the Central Hills |

I am blessed to live on an island that is filled with scenic beauty where I can experience all the aspects of nature. What do you want? A relaxed evening in the sea, a wildlife adventure, exploring mountains, enjoying the sight of dolphins or corals, experiencing the footprints of ancient history or the beauty of the hill country. Despite corrupt politicians and the recent economic crisis, Sri Lanka has always been a great tourist destination.

So, if you ever decide to visit Sri Lanka never forget to experience this epic train ride from Kandy/ Hatton to Bandarawela. You will see the most beautiful sceneries on the island that are completely worth your time!

Kandy Railway station to Bandarawela Railway station

From Kandy to Bandarawela it's around 150Km, nearly a 5hr ride. You can take the night mail too.

The journey is through mountain ranges, giant tea estates, vegetable plantations, the scenery of waterfalls, and tunnels too. When I am going there it's drizzling. Can't express the feeling in words here. The breeze touching me and the greenery vision can take me to another dimension.

St. Clair's Falls

First you will go through the Balana – Kadugannawa tunnel and just after Hatton, you will enter the 562m long Poolbank Tunnel. This is the longest tunnel and it's curved in the middle, so you can't see the two ends. Then you will see the world's best tea plantations in small hills.

Through the journey from Kandy to Bandarwela, you will pass, famous railway stations like Gampola, Watawala, Hatton, NanuOya, Ambewela, St. Clair, Kotagala, Ambewela, Thalwakale, Ohiya, Idalagashinna, Haputhale, Diyatalwa, etc. The stations are made in an attractive manner and maintained nicely. Pattipola is the highest point of the sea level.

From section to section, the scenary varies from variety of range. A huge forest reserve can be seen in Idalgashinna area. And there you can see 13 tunnels within just 5km, known as Lizard’s Spine’. And if you continue the journey to Badulla, you will go on a bridge which connects two mountains known as nine arch.

This is one of the best experiences I had in my life. Never forget to have it if you ever visit Sri Lanka!!

Until the next time!

Thank You!
Best Regards!