Checked against the sources listed below on the date shown. Rules, fees and prices change, so confirm with the official source before you travel.
The train through the hill country, from Kandy past Nuwara Eliya to Ella and Badulla, is one of the world's great rail journeys: tea estates, waterfalls and the Nine Arches Bridge near Ella. Reserved seats sell out quickly in busy months, so it's worth knowing how booking works.
Quick answers
- When can I book? Online, up to 30 days before travel, on the official Sri Lanka Railways site.
- How many seats? Up to five per booking, with each passenger's passport number.
- Sold out? Unreserved second and third class tickets are sold at the station on the day; expect crowds and standing.
Choosing a class
| Class | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Observation saloon | Rear carriage with large windows; popular and limited, so book early. |
| First class | Reserved seats; on some trains air-conditioned with windows that don't open. |
| Second and third class (reserved) | Reserved seats with opening windows, the classic way to enjoy the views. |
| Second and third class (unreserved) | Bought at the station on the day; can be very crowded in peak season. |
How to book online
- Go to seatreservation.railway.gov.lk (Sri Lanka Railways' official site) and search your route and date.
- Choose your train and class, and enter each passenger's passport number.
- Pay by card or LANKAQR. A 5% convenience fee applies.
- Your e-ticket is emailed to you. A printed or digital copy is accepted; tickets can't be transferred.
Good to know
- Cancelling 7 days or more before departure refunds 75% of the ticket price; 2 to 7 days before, 50%; less than 48 hours, nothing.
- Children aged 3 and under travel free if they share a seat.
- Bookings close 2 hours before departure.
Tips for the best trip
- Sit on the right side going from Kandy towards Ella for many of the best valley views (and the left side on the way back).
- Plan for delays. Hill-country trains often run late; don't book a tight onward connection.
- Stay inside the carriage while the train is moving. Hanging out of doors for photos is dangerous and people have been hurt.